Group Methods in Training Paralegals for The Los Angeles City Attorney's Office

Abstract

Group methods have been used successfully in a program to train paralegals as hearing officers in misdemeanor matters for the city attorney of Los Angeles. During training, the future officers (1) defined and experimented with their new roles, (2) became more aware of the intra- and inter-personal levels of process during a hearing, (3) learned to listen carefully, hear accurately, and communicate clearly, and (4) acquired enough legal information to perform competently on the job. During the first six months after training, these officers were able to divert 7,965 cases from the courts. It is estimated that they will save the city at least $125,000 per year.