The structure of NALA permits the affiliation of organizations whose objects, aims, constitutions and bylaws are in harmony with the objects and aims of NALA. Through affiliating with NALA, state and local organizations receive the support and assistance of NALA in advancing the paralegal career within their geographic areas. Affiliated associations are provided a voice in the management of NALA through their election of a member of the NALA Board of Directors. Affiliated associations are also offered a voice in developing policies and positions of NALA not only through their representative on the NALA Board of Directors but through the annual meeting of NALA affiliated associations held during the national convention in July. NALA affiliated associations may present resolutions to the NALA membership for consideration during the annual membership meeting. Resolutions are adopted by the voting membership of NALA. Affiliates are represented in this body through their own NALA liaison and any other members who may also be voting members of NALA.

Affiliated associations receive

. . . Free access to NALA NET for information and case decisions affecting paralegals - the only on-line network dedicated to this profession

. . . Publications which offer assistance with organizational matters such as a leadership manual; guidelines on how to conduct seminars; bylaws and a description of this document. Affiliates are also entitled to receive free consultation from NALA's professional staff, representing over 40 years of experience in association management

. . . Publications which offer assistance to your members in analyzing and reviewing issues affecting our profession. This includes Facts & Findings, NALA's quarterly publication; the annual Career Chronicle; and the bi-annual National Utilization and Compensation Survey Report

. . . Special reports so that your association may inform your members immediately of any urgent or special actions having an immediate effect or requiring immediate announcement.

. . . Members of NALA affiliated associations who are not individual NALA members receive a waiver of the initiation fee should they decide to become NALA members - a savings of $15.

Student associations may also affiliate with NALA. Student associations receive all of the benefits of the affiliation program with the exception of voting privileges.

Materials and communications from NALA are furnished to affiliated associations through their presidents and NALA liaisons. These officers serve as the communications link between NALA and the affiliated association.

Fees


The annual fee to an association for affiliation in NALA is a flat rate of $225. The annual affiliation fee for student associations is a flat rate of $50. Attributes of the affiliated association program include:

Members of NALA affiliated associations are not required to become members of NALA, except the affiliated association's NALA Liaison. NALA believes membership in a national association is a choice best left to individual legal assistants.

Affiliation with NALA does not jeopardize the unique programs and philosophies of the affiliated association and its members.

During the July annual meeting, a 1/2 day is dedicated to an annual meeting of NALA affiliated associations, providing an opportunity for members to share their experiences and programs, successes and difficulties. Issues in association management are also discussed. The discussions and presentations have proven to be very helpful.