Featured VBA-Natalyn Jeffries- Humble, TX

PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND

Natalyn Jeffries knows what lawyers want. Having worked as a
secretary and paralegal in the legal industry for more than 25 years,
she is very knowledgeable about the processes of a law firm. Her
legal background began in Chicago in 1981 where she worked in a
corporate environment specializing in leveraged buyouts, securities
and venture capital. After she moved to Houston, TX in 1993, she
enrolled in paralegal school and received her paralegal certificate in
1995 with honors. She was hired on at Vinson & Elkins, L.L.P. as a
junior paralegal/secretary and worked in many areas of law including
litigation, real estate, tax, immigration, health, and intellectual
property to name a few. She has also worked as a software trainer,
mentor and document specialist for firms throughout the Houston, TX
metro area. 'I recognize the need for talented and efficient legal
assistants and no task is too great or small for me. You have to
believe in what you do in order to bring positive results'.

She is a very knowledgeable and dedicated legal assistant who takes
her responsibilities seriously and is committed to continuing
education. "Natalyn offers great results, is very personable and has
a high level of integrity." Recommendation via LinkedIn by Paul
Pryzant, Partner, Burleson Cooke, LLP.

PERSONAL BACKGROUNG

Natalyn enjoys interior design, travel and reading. She lives in
Humble, Texas with her husband and two dogs."


Thank you Natalyn!

ATTORNEYS: You can find Natalyn's contact information below.

Natalyn Jeffries
Six Elements Legal Support
www.selstexas.com
(281) 203-1474

NSVBA

I am writing this to inform everyone there has been a change in the NSVBA
organization.

I am moving NSVBA in a new direction for 2010.

With my vision for 2010, I will be simplifying NSVBA.

While Cathy Gutierrez continues to be a vital member of NSVBA, she has
made the decision to pursue other opportunities. As such, please
respect that Cathy no longer represents NSVBA as Vice President, but
continues her role as a contributing member.

Effective immediately, please direct any and all NSVBA questions to
me.

Look for Cathy's contributions on the NSVBA LinkedIn group.

I wish Cathy all the best in her future endeavors.

There will be a Webinar on Friday, December 4, 2009 at 6:00 P.M.
(PST). The Webinar will be recorded and posted on the NSVBA website.
NSVBA members, look for your invitation coming soon!

If you would like to participate in the NSVBA Webinars, please email me at vikki@nsvba.com for more information.


Vikki Watanabe
President
NSVBA-National Society of Virtual Bankruptcy Assistants, LLC
www.nsvba.com
866-678-8411

KASEY CLARK - HOUSTON, TX

KASEY CLARK

PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND

Kasey Clark has over 20 years of experience in the corporate and legal arenas. She has continued her education and is now a senior at Western Governor’s University and plans to graduate in the spring of 2010 with a Bachelors Degree in Business Management. In addition to working full time as a customer service representative and going to college full time, Kasey successfully completed her training from Victoria Ring receiving her certification in Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 Bankruptcy Law. Kasey has also recently received her second certification in Bankruptcy through NSVBA. Kasey is a dedicated and driven individual and will do whatever it takes to get the job done and achieve her goals.

Kasey has decided to put her education to good use by starting her own Virtual Bankruptcy Assistant business Kasey Clark Consulting located in Houston, Texas. She says, “It’s time to leave the corporate world and branch out on my own.” Kasey enjoys helping people and wants to apply her knowledge and expertise where she can make a difference in people’s lives.

PERSONAL BACKGROUND

In her off time, Kasey enjoys Genealogy and relaxing with her husband, son, and dog.

Kasey Clark
Kasey Clark Consulting
kaseyclarkconsulting.com
(877) 234-7642

ATTORNEYS: You can learn more about Kasey by visiting her website.

Thank you Kasey!

Featured VBA-Veronica Jones-Rockdale, TX

VERONICA JONES

Veronica Jones is a virtual paralegal who has chosen to specialize in bankruptcy law. She is the owner of Attorneys Virtual Paralegal which provides professional and personalized Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy petition preparation services to consumer bankruptcy attorneys. Veronica’s goal is to provide a cost effective, efficient method of decreasing her attorney clients’ workload and increasing that profit margin. She understands that filing bankruptcy is possibly one of the most stressful periods in anyone’s life, and her job is to help make it as smooth as it possibly can be.

Prior to starting her own virtual paralegal business, Veronica worked as a deputy clerk in a county governmental office where she was responsible for the family law and attorney general cases filed with the court. In addition, she has worked in criminal/family law offices as a legal assistant where she assisted in the drafting of discovery requests, motions, correspondence and any other legal pleadings that are were required. Seeking to acquire legal knowledge skills in a new and different area of law chose bankruptcy. Since that time, she has acquired training through 713training.com and recently passed the NSVBA certification exam. She is also a Certified Texas Process Server and Texas Notary Public.

Veronica graduated from Blinn College in Bryan, Texas with an Applied Associate Science degree in legal assistant. She is currently studying to sit for the National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA) certification exam in December 2009 to obtain her certified paralegal designation.

She is committed to providing consumer bankruptcy attorneys quality bankruptcy preparation services. Contact Veronica so she can begin providing you with quality service. You will be delighted with the results!

Personally, she and her husband are parents of one son. They are extremely proud of their son for his courage, commitment and service to his country as a corporal in the United States Marine Corps.


Thank you!

Veronica Jones
Attorneys Virtual Paralegal

ATTORNEYS-You can contact Veronica by going to her website. Once there, go to the Contact Us page.

Website: www.attorneysvirtualparalegal.com

E-mail: veronica@attorneysvirtualparalegal.com

Thank you Veronica!

FEATURED VBA-Cathy Gutierrez-Oceanside, CA

CATHY GUTIERREZ

Cathy Gutierrez is an independent paralegal with over 3 years of experience in bankruptcy petition preparation. She is the founder/web master of Priority Bankruptcy, a virtual bankruptcy assistant service that works under the direction of licensed debtor bankruptcy attorneys performing a variety of services. These services include Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy petition preparation, client intake interviews, and other services to aid the bankruptcy attorney. Prior to her current position, she worked in the financial services industry for 14 years. Cathy started out in the financial services industry as an Operations Clerk and within eight years earned a promotion to the title of Vice President at Citigroup. She has comprehensive experience in all aspects of employee management, to include recruitment, hiring, training, ongoing professional development, performance planning, performance evaluation, and employee recognition.

Cathy passed the AVBA, NSVBA and the ABJA certification exam. Her knowledge is from a combination of work experience (on-the-job training), and projected graduation from a recognized formalized, professionally instructed paralegal school.

She obtained her Associates Degree in Psychological and Social Services from Palomar College in San Marcos, CA in 2006. She is currently pursuing her B.S. in Paralegal Studies from Kaplan University in Chicago, IL.

Raised in Yonkers, New York, Cathy now lives with her husband, two grandchildren, and three dogs in Oceanside, CA.

BANKRUPTCY ATTORNEYS

Visit Cathy's website for more information:

http://www.prioritybankruptcy.com/

Once there, go to the "Contact Us" page

You can also meet Cathy at the upcoming NACBA Fall Workshop on November 6 and 7 in Tucson, AZ.

Cathy will be happy to talk to you personally about the benefits of working with a Virtual Bankruptcy Assistant.

Thank you Cathy!

Fall-A New Beginning

The Fall Season is quickly approaching. This year, Fall begins on September 22nd.

For the NSVBA, Fall is the beginning of a new season for Webinars and Live Seminars.

There are many events lined up for the organization and also for the Virtual Bankruptcy Assistant.

First, we have our first Fall Webinar on September 11th; followed by our Fall VBA Luncheon on September 19th in Southern California.

Soon after that, we will hold another Webinar on October 9th.

Then, and this is the exciting part, we're off to Tucson to the NACBA Fall Workshop.

NSVBA is a regular Exhibitor at the NACBA events.

We also attend other events throughout the year. But the NACBA events are the best!

December is right around the corner and our last Webinar of the year on December 4th.

I would love to tell you what we have planned for 2010, but you need to stay tuned or join our organization and be part of all that is going on.

If you are a Virtual Bankruptcy Assistant and would like information about becoming a member of NSVBA, drop me a line here or email me at vikki@nsvba.com

See you online!
Vikki

NSVBA
National Society of Virtual Bankruptcy Assistant
www.nsvba.com
866-678-8411

Featured VBA-Louise Hurwitz- Stuart, Florida

Louise Hurwitz, founder and owner of Accurate Bankruptcy Petitions, knows firsthand about the impact of the current mortgage and housing crisis. Louise worked as a mortgage loan processor and underwriter for ten years until American Home Mortgage declared bankruptcy in August 2007.

The "gift" of losing her job gave her the time to develop, train and form her own business. Working with bankruptcy attorneys and their clients is a perfect fit for her skills and abilities. As a loan processor she worked with every type of borrower, gave them insight into the process and gathered the documents required for a lending decision. She had authority to approve residential loans up to $1.5 million.

You will be impressed by Louise's attention to detail, ability to work effectively with your clients and her skill in analyzing client documentation.

Trained by the industry leader, www.713training.com she earned the designation Certified Virtual Bankruptcy Assistant. In her evaluation of the exam, Victoria Ring, founder of 713Training.com, wrote,

"We have found that you are very professional and have a caring and compassionate attitude toward others. You are also proficient in asking questions about areas you to not understand and you are interested in working until you get the information correct. Because of this, we would highly recommend you to other attorneys."

Louise is a licensed Florida Real Estate Salesperson and Florida Life, Health and Variable Annuity agent. Prior to entering the mortgage industry she worked as an Administrative Assistant to senior executives in finance, real estate investing and advertising.

She is an active member of Women of Note Chorus and Harmony Street Quartet and volunteers as a Big Sister for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Martin County.


Louise Hurwitz

Accurate Bankruptcy Petitions

www.go-accurate.com

louise@go-accurate.com

772-905-3580 (phone)

772-934-3501 (fax)

Cindi Good-Susanville, CA

The following article is by NSVBA member-Cindi Good on the advantages of working with a VBA. She also encourages VBA's to get out there and advertise their services!

Cindi's contact information can be found at the end of this article.

VIRTUAL BANKRUPTCY ASSISTANTS

As Virtual Bankruptcy Assistants, we are educated, highly trained professionals ready to assist Attorneys in preparing bankruptcy petitions for their clients. The problem we are posed with is, how do we encourage attorneys to use our services?

“…most businesses can and should go virtual. The company’s productivity goes way up, therefore saving them a tremendous amount of money each year. There is a learning curve and adjustment period, but it is well worth it for the company and employees to go virtual.” This is a quote from an associate who has worked for HP for over three decades, ten years virtually.

Sometimes attorneys are apprehensive of the unknown (as are all of us at times). They are uncomfortable with virtual, because they’ve been so busy with their practices over the years that virtual has passed them by. A VBA can assist with set up. This is the super-technology age, right?

Attorneys may see the flat fee and think it’s too expensive, so that tells me they don’t really understand how contracting a VBA saves them money, as they aren’t taking advantage of paying contractually, paying only for completed work. They will never have to pay a VBA for coffee breaks, time off for sick leave/maternity leave, vacations, etc.

Attorneys must be educated on the advantages of using VBAs instead of, or in addition to, their current staff.

Bottom line: We must give them reasons making it compelling for them to sign on for our services.

With the economy getting worse each month, and as attorneys cut staff, they may begin to see the value in contracting with a VBA. When they contract with a VBA, they don’t have to pay salaries, benefits, employments tax contributions, etc. They only pay a flat fee when the bankruptcy petition is completed.

So, how do we go about educating attorneys on what an advantage it is to contract with a VBA?

Continue to advertise on Craig’s List, where we speak to attorneys one-on-one. This is where our elevator speeches come in.

Go to a NACBA convention where, again, we speak to attorneys one-on-one. Again, our elevator speeches are key here.

Become members of various legal associations. Submit articles to post on their websites.

I recently spoke with a VBA regarding the possibility of having a representative at the NACBA convention (an attorney would be best) presenting the VBA industry, how it benefits his practice, giving different scenarios for sole practitioners through large law offices using the VBA.

Of course, there are the social websites: Twitter, Facebook, Linked-In, Plaxo, and others.

In conclusion, we must continue to work together, finding effective ways of giving attorneys that compelling reason to contract with Virtual Bankruptcy Assistants. I invite everyone to continue to use VBA Nation to post ideas. We must make the reasons so compelling that they’ll be biting at the bullet to use our services.

Cindi Good
Virtual Bankruptcy Assistant
Bankruptcy Pro Processor
Member National Society of Virtual Bankruptcy Assistants
www.NSVBA.com
www.BkProProcessor.com
Cindi@BkProProcessor.com
530-251-7635

JACQUELINE D'AUNNO-Port Saint Lucie, FL

PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND

Jacqueline D’Aunno is an independent paralegal with over 12 years of experience in the legal field. She is the owner of Premier Document Preparation Services, offering paralegal assistance to attorneys on a contract basis. She obtained her Associates Degree in Paralegal Studies from the Berkeley College of Business in West Paterson, New Jersey in 1996. Thereafter, she pursued her B.S. in English from Montclair State University in Montclair, New Jersey.

She has worked for lawyers in various areas of law, including construction law, civil litigation, personal injury, medical malpractice, patents and trademarks, worker’s compensation, criminal and insurance defense, family law, and social security disability. Most recently, Jacqueline became interested in learning more about bankruptcy law, and found the National Society of Virtual Bankruptcy Assistants. As she read about the organization, she became intrigued with learning how to become a Certified Virtual Bankruptcy Assistant, and expanding her legal knowledge skills. In May 2009, Jacqueline passed the NSVBA certification exam, and has since been focused on learning more about bankruptcy law, and how she can provide valuable services to bankruptcy attorneys.

To learn more about Jacqueline's services and credentials, please visit her website at:

www.premierdocprep.com and click on "About Us".

PERSONAL BACKGROUND

Jacqueline is the proud mom of a 17 month old baby girl named Bella, to whom she attributes most of her newfound motivation to succeed. When she is not working, she enjoys spending quality time with her husband and daughter. Jacqueline is also an avid fitness enthusiast, and enjoys running, swimming and cycling outdoors. One of her favorite quotes is from William Arthur Ward, “If you can imagine it, you can achieve it; if you can dream it, you can become it.” Jacqueline considers her independent paralegal services as being her life’s work, as she takes great pleasure in helping others.

ATTORNEYS

To contact Jacqueline, visit her website at:

www.premierdocprep.com

Once there, go to the "Contact Us" page.

Thank you Jacqueline!

NACBA Convention-May 29-31, 2009 Chicago, IL

The following article is by Jeannie Lynch, NSVBA Member and Participant at the recent NACBA Convention in Chicago, IL.

NACBA CONVENTION FEEDBACK

The May, 2009, NACBA Convention was exciting, encouraging and enlightening on many levels. There was huge interest in Virtual Bankruptcy Assistance and how the process works. At times we were facing three and four attorneys deep at the exhibitor table, excitedly detailing not only the benefits of utilizing a VBA but the benefits that flowed to each attorney who teams with a member of the National Society of Virtual Bankruptcy Assistants. (A neighboring exhibitor likened his experience to Marketing Boot Camp and I could not agree more!)

One common thread among those attorneys who could especially benefit from the services of a VBA -- those sole practitioners with limited assistance and those who physically input client information into petition software themselves -- is their hesitancy to give up control. These attorneys are “hands-on” with client information and have a hard time envisioning how they can possibly transfer that information to someone outside their office.

We explained to these attorneys that while letting go may be difficult at first, the rewards of adding a competent, skilled, professional team member cannot be overstated. Not the least of these rewards is giving back to the attorney his or her valuable time to spend in more profitable ways such as increasing his or her client base and otherwise building and fine tuning the practice for increased profitability.

Everyone knows what it’s like to have a professional, productive, efficient team member on board. They get their assignments, diligently apply themselves to their tasks and complete their projects -- mostly without flaw and always timely. They require little to no supervision and limited follow up. It’s like they’re not even there, yet the work flows smoothly, efficiently and impressively. This is what can be expected when teaming with an NSVBA affiliated Virtual Bankruptcy Assistant -- without a doubt, one of the best investments a sole practitioner Consumer Bankruptcy Attorney can make.

So, how does the attorney get the client information and documentation to us easily and securely? Faxing and email certainly make the list. Clients are computer savvy these days. Many conduct a great deal of their personal and professional business by computer, which makes easier the transfer of that information. Some VBA’s offer additional security options such as utilizing their own secure server or secure online file sharing programs by which files can be uploaded and downloaded with the click of a mouse, often allowing the dragging and dropping an entire folder of multiple files. These programs operate under an “ https” connection, meaning that the data transferred is encrypted so that it cannot be read by anyone except the recipient. The transfer of information between Attorney and VBA is neither difficult nor risky but, rather, user friendly and secure.

Post-convention follow up continues for me as I assume it does for my fellow attending VBA’s. The attorneys we had the pleasure of meeting were impressive and eager to learn about the possibilities for better representation of their clients and improved work flow and productivity. As we at NSVBA continue to provide them the avenue to seize these opportunities, our valuable reputation will grow.

The National Society of Virtual Bankruptcy Assistants is a highly professional and ethical organization whose primary goal is the success of each individual member through training, networking, and marketing. This goal not only serves to ensure the success of the group as a whole but also the attorneys we serve. I am proud to be a member.
Attending the conference was a personal and professional pleasure and I thank Vikki Watanabe and NSVBA for allowing me the opportunity.

Jeannie Lynch
Lynch Legal Support

Thank you again Jeannie!

Vikki

Featured VBA-BARBARA BROCK- Manchester,Missouri

For the next two weeks, our Featured VBA is Barbara Brock. Many of you recently met Barbara at the 17th Annual NACBA Convention.

If you're an attorney seeking the expertise of a VBA, look no further.

Barbara J. Brock

Professional Background:

Barbara is a Certified Bankruptcy Assistant whose 30+ year background includes experience as an Executive Assistant, Administrative Assistant, Data Analyst, and Business Owner. Barbara has diligently pursued education and research to advance her computer skills and knowledge of the various industries in which she worked. She is also a Missouri Notary Public.

Widowed in her early 30’s, Barbara decided to start her own business to allow her the opportunity to be available for her son. She orchestrated the approval and construction of a small building to house a grooming business and stained glass studio. This was her first taste of business ownership and the satisfaction that comes from providing quality services that she was responsible for. Along with this endeavor, she engaged in satisfying volunteer work. After six years as a single parent, in 1992, Barbara married her best friend. In 2001, a move to St. Louis necessitated her relinquishing her business.

In the past 8 years, she advanced her way in the medical records department of a major St. Louis hospital from a data entry position to the position of Data Analyst/Special Studies. In this capacity, she excelled in analyzing data to produce special reports and graphs for use by the Director of the department. Her eye for detail and tenacity for producing high-quality projects assisted the Director in presenting data which motivated action for improvement. Barbara’s reliability to complete projects on time, without supervision, was a pivotal factor in the decision to allow her to work in this position from her remote office. Barbara became an integral part of the Director’s team, multi-tasking to produce reports and graphs, presentations, policies and procedures, researching topics, and teaching others computer skills.

With a revived desire to pursue her own business, in 2006, her research into business opportunities uncovered the beginnings of the Virtual Bankruptcy Assistant industry. She took an avid interest in this field because of her own personal experience with nearly having to file bankruptcy at one point in her own life. Her determination and tenacity in working with creditors to get out of that difficult and stressful situation made her feel she would have special compassion and understanding for attorneys’ clients. She had also been intrigued by the legal profession having assisted friends with legal research both on-line and at the top-rated Washington University Law Library.

The decision made, she began the road of bankruptcy education and petition preparation training. Barbara is now a Certified Bankruptcy Assistant with the Association of Bankruptcy Judicial Assistants (ABJA) and a Certified Virtual Bankruptcy Assistant with the National Society of Virtual Bankruptcy Assistants (NSVBA). She continues her education through webinars, networking with seasoned VBA’s, bankruptcy publications, on-line research, and paralegal courses. The NSVBA has been a strong ally, providing Barbara with training and a close network of information from more experienced VBA’s. The NSVBA also presented her the opportunity to attend both the NACBA Fall Workshop in Hilton Head and, more recently, the NACBA Convention in Chicago. At both these venues, she thoroughly enjoyed the interaction with attorneys as she explained how a Virtual Bankruptcy Assistant would free up their time and take a tremendous workload off their shoulders, then seeing their excitement as they realized the value of this service. She is currently working with several attorneys to set up her VBA service for their law firms.

To learn more about Barbara’s services and credentials, please visit her website at: http://www.brbsolutionsllc.com/

Personal Background

On a personal note, what Barbara will tell you about herself is that she is a down-to-earth person who is interested in helping others. She enjoys being a professional assistant. She has been called tenacious by others, particularly her father-in-law, and admits that she demands of herself to give the best to others as she would expect to receive. Barbara prides herself as being dependable, honest, confidential, hardworking, and caring. She thrives on the challenge of working with numbers, details, and doing research.

On the lighter side, when she’s not working, Barbara takes pleasure in the time she spends with her husband, family, grandchildren, and friends. She loves to travel, but is always happy to be home. Several years ago, she undertook the challenge to begin learning Chinese and volunteers her time to help in an education work. Her other passions include cooking, photography, and stained glass.

The decision for Barbara to be self-employed has been greatly influenced by her desire to be able to choose time for these important facets of her life. That is why she strongly feels that the service she provides as a Virtual Bankruptcy Assistant is invaluable for those she works with so they, too, can have more time for what they consider to be most important to them.

ATTORNEYS:

To contact Barbara, visit her website at:
http://www.brbsolutionsllc.com/

Once there, go to the "Contact Us" page.

Thank you Barbara,

Vikki

Featured VBA-JEANNIE LYNCH, San Diego, California

The Featured VBA for the next two weeks is Jeannie Lynch.

If you are a Consumer Bankruptcy Attorney seeking the professional services of a Virtual Bankruptcy Assistant, you want to read Jeannie's autobiography.

If you are considering becoming a Virtual Bankruptcy Assistant, email me at vikki@nsvba.com, I will get back to you asap.

JEANNIE LYNCH

Professional Background

Jeannie is a certified paralegal whose 30+ year background includes over 20 years of hugely responsible in-house Senior Paralegal law firm experience, offsite contract work and nearly 10 years commercial real estate experience. She is also a licensed California Real Estate Salesperson and California Notary Public

Jeannie's professional career began in 1980 when she joined a small family law/civil litigation practice in Palm Springs, California. In 1982 the firm funded Jeannie's paralegal studies at Chapman University and upon certification in 1984 she transitioned to her own office with her own case load. In 1995, the owner of the firm became a Judge and the practice was closed. Jeannie was at that time recruited by a client commercial real estate broker and for the next 9 years she administered all contracts for the brokerage and spearheaded the firm's marketing department. In 2004, the attorney-who-became-judge made the decision to return to private practice and Jeannie was invited to and did rejoin the firm, once again assuming a hugely responsible case load.

In January 2008 Jeannie moved with her husband to the San Diego area and made the "quality of life" decision to establish a contract paralegal business from her home office, where she continues to work "virtually" for her previous law firm today. In researching contract paralegal opportunities for her new venture, it became clear to Jeannie that Consumer Bankruptcy was not only an area sorely in need of competent support but one that was particularly well suited to the virtual environment.

With her focus established, Jeannie sought out all education and training sources available and was soon certified as a Virtual Bankruptcy Assistant. Just six months into active marketing of her services, Jeannie now has contracts with six bankruptcy attorneys and is a Certified CM-ECF Filer in the California Southern District. A detailed description of her services can be found at: http://www.lynchlegalsupport.com/

Jeannie will be the first to tell you that she attributes much of her huge successes to her affiliation with the National Society of Virtual Bankruptcy Assistants. She actively participates in training, meetings and VBANation and is one of this year's VBA's attending the upcoming NACBA conference in Chicago.

Personal Background


When she's not working, you will find Jeannie with her husband Frederick and rescue cat Bones sailing San Diego Bay or on a "road trip" with the Jeep top down. All said, Jeannie recognizes that her rapidly expanding Virtual Bankruptcy Assistant business has made a significant contribution to justifying that "quality of life" decision she made a little more than a year ago.



Attorneys: You can read more about Jeannie by going to her website: http://www.lynchlegalsupport.com/

From there, you can contact her via the "Contact Us" page.

You can also meet Jeannie at the upcoming NACBA Convention in Chicago, IL. May 29-31, 2009.

Thank you Jeannie!

Vikki

Featured VBA-YVETTE THOMAS-Calumet City, IL

The Featured VBA (Virtual Bankruptcy Assistant), for the next two weeks is Yvette Thomas.

If you are a Consumer Bankruptcy Attorney considering the services of a Virtual Bankruptcy Assistant, read Yvette's autobiography. Although new to the VBA industry, Yvette has proven to be a quick study and will do her best to assist you in your bankruptcy petition preparation needs.

For those considering the career of a Virtual Bankruptcy Assistant and would like more information, please email me at vikki@nsvba.com I will get back to asap.

YVETTE THOMAS


Professional Information:
I have over 30 years experience in the medical field. The last 24 years I worked as a Certified Emergency Medical Technician at Cermak Health Services – Cook County Department of Corrections. In my 24 years at the Cook County Jail I have had a lot of direct contact with the Courts, Attorneys, and States Attorneys. After sometime I seriously started thinking about a career change. So I started researching opportunities in the legal field, for a home base business.

My education includes receiving my Certification at Daley College for my Emergency Medical Technician License in May of 1980.

In April of 2008, I discovered the Virtual Bankruptcy Assistant's through 713Training.com After weeks of research into this field, I took the first step and purchased all the training materials in May of 2008. I completed all the training materials, attended Webinars, Teleconferences, and (ECF) Electronic Case Filing. In July of 2008 I was introduced to Vikki Watanabe our AAVBA Executive Director; and currently NSVBA President, by another fellow VBA. With Vikki by my side, I joined the AAVBA, attended more Webinars, and Teleconferences. I studied & researched, studied & researched, studied & researched, and passed my VBA Certification in September of 2008. Since October of 2008 I have been setting up my marketing strategies, and marketing since January of 2009.

Personal Information:
Above all things God is first and foremost in my life. I love reading, because knowledge is power. I have a few words of wisdom that I live by including: "The greatest mistake you can make in life is to be continually fearful you will make one" by Elbert Hubbard. I believe that if people don't make mistakes in life, then they can never grow and advance in whatever they attempt to do. I also believe in the phrase "Give to the world the best you have, and the best will come back to you" by Ella Wheeler Wilcox. I feel that if people give 100% of what they are doing, then they will succeed. Another quote I really believe in is "When you get into a tight place and everything goes against you, till it seems as though you could not hold on a minute longer, never give up then, for that is just the place and time that the tide will turn" by Harriet Beecher Stowe. I believe that God intended every individual to succeed and that there are no limits to the possibilities one has in life. I teach others that nothing is impossible if you set your mind to it and achieve your goal.


Attorneys: You can read more about Yvette's services at her website:


http://www.713isyourpetitions.com/


From there, you can contact her via her "Contact Us" page.

Thank you Yvette,

Vikki

COMING SOON! Featured VBA's!

On April 27, 2009, I will once again start posting the "Featured VBA" here on VBATalk.blogspot.

During the time you are the Featured VBA (two weeks) I will link updates on Twitter. Many Consumer Bankruptcy Attorneys will see your bio through this link.

I started this earlier in the year, but certain things happened that I was unable to keep it up.

Well, I'm back and so are the VBA's.

If you are an NSVBA member and would like to be featured, simply submit your bio to vikki@nsvba.com

This is very good exposure for your VBA businesses. Once you are a Featured VBA, you can link the article on your website. Free advertising which will last forever. Can't beat that.

I hope you consider the impact this can have on your VBA business and you will submit your bio soon!

Wishing you wildly successful days!
Vikki

NSVBA
http://www.nsvba.com/

P.S.- Not sure what to write? Check out the previous "Featured VBA's" located here.

Future Events for NSVBA and the VBA

NSVBA offers service, support, networking and marketing to our members. But we can't do it alone. Each VBA must do their part to market and network their Independent Businesses.

Here are a few events which might be of interest to you, the VBA.

17th Annual NACBA Convention in Chicago, IL May 29, 30, 31
Although this event is not open to the public, NSVBA members are offered different options to be present at this event. Go to http://www.nsvba.com/ and Click on "Membership".

NALS-The association for legal professionals. This organization has regional groups throughout the United States. Here in CA, their Orange County group is very active, holding monthly dinner meetings. They also have a Convention coming up in Las Vegas in the month of June.

ABJA-Association of Bankruptcy Judicial Assistants-ABJA holds their conference once a year in the fall. This year, the Conference is being held in Baltimore, MD in October.

I encourage NSVBA members to reach out to other VA's and VBA's and find out what is going on in their immediate area. The only way you're going to meet people of the same mind and ideas, is to reach out and meet them.

Join Associations and Organizations which edify the legal professional.

Vikki

Accountability

When one claims the title of "Industry Leader", one takes on an enormous responsibility.

If you run an organization that includes members, you take on an extraordinary responsibility. Not only do you represent the "industry"; now, your members look to you to represent them. Hopefully, in the best possible light.

Needless to say, relationships become very important. Business and personal.

If the so-called "Industry Leader" behaves in a way that is not professional, everyone within their organization and associated with that "Industry Leader" suffers.

If the so-called "Industry Leader" makes the decision to advise, train, or otherwise encourage its members to extend themselves beyond the scope of their duties crossing that fine line of "UPL" once again, anyone associated with the Industry Leader and the organization suffers.

Not only that, they run the risk of losing their credibility within the industry and with their members.

My feeling is that Industry Leaders do not have the luxury of saying what they want without first considering how their words and actions could affect the industry they represent. One can say they are held to a higher standard.

If one decides they are to be the "Industry Leader", Making claims such as "the only organization that offers their type of service", "no one around is doing what they do"; that "Industry Leader" should carefully consider their actions.

Some will respond by saying, "what the Industry Leader says or does will not affect my Independent business".

If you are part of the organization or associated with an Industry Leader who advertises on the internet as the only game in town, like it or not, you are associated.

Virtual Bankruptcy Assistants, Virtual Paralegals, Freelance Bankruptcy Assistants, have worked very hard to get where they're at. Specifically, the members of the National Society of Virtual Bankruptcy Assistants, LLC.

They are ethical, responsible, and run legitimate businesses.

The members of NSVBA, LLC understand they do not run the attorneys law firm, they assist. When and if an attorney has a question about "bankruptcy law" and that slippery slope of UPL, the VBA directs the attorney to NACBA.

As a regular Exhibitor at the NACBA Conventions, National Society of Virtual Bankruptcy Assistants, LLC has always referred our new attorneys to NACBA and other experts in the bankruptcy industry.

We look forward to seeing you next year in Washington, D.C. at the Annual NACBA Convention!


Vikki Watanabe
President
National Society of Virtual Bankruptcy Assistants, LLC
www.nsvba.com

Back to work

It's been awhile since I've been able to post on my VBA Blog.

I hit a serious bump in the road which resulted in major surgery and a lengthy recuperation. I'm told full recovery is 6 months to 1 year. Which is fine with me.

I've been back to work since I arrived home from the hospital. It's excruciating for me to sit still even when I'm feeling lousy. Enough about me,.

Let's move on to other things of interest to VBA's and Consumer Bankruptcy Attorneys.

I'm so excited about the events coming up in May for the National Society of Virtual Bankruptcy Assistants.

We are going to the NACBA Convention in Chicago, IL. NACBA is the National Association of Consumer Bankruptcy Attorneys.

We have 5 NSVBA members working the NSVBA Exhibit Table. This is a great opportunity for NSVBA members to be part of the Convention to market their businesses directly to NACBA members and also market the NSVBA and it's membership. Additionally, every NSVBA member who does not attend the Convention is encouraged to send their marketing materials (business cards, brochures, etc) to be given out at the Convention. Also, the NSVBA members send a "Raffle Prize" to be given away during the Convention.

Once we return from Chicago, the schedule will be even more hectic. We have several training Webinars lined up. We also have "Live" Seminars lined up for those VBA's who need a more "hands on" type of training.

Soon after that, it will be time to get ready for the NACBA Fall Conference. Once again, we will offer the opportunity for NSVBA members to attend. In order for an NSVBA member to attend any NACBA event, they must pay a participation fee (anywhere between $300.00-$500.00 each). Also, each participant must attend the "Convention Webinars" prior to the event. They must also commit to work at the Exhibit Table the whole weekend.

Each participant is responsible for their own airline, hotel and meal expenses.

This year, we have several VBA's who have formed VBA Partnerships. In order for a partnership to attend the NACBA event, each "partner" must pay the full participation fee. If only one partner pays, only one partner attends.

NACBA events are not open to the public. This is a Consumer Bankruptcy Attorney Convention. Only attorneys, Sponsors and Exhibitors are allowed.

While at each Convention and Conference, NSVBA will hold a VBA "Post Convention" Luncheon. This year, on the last day of the Convention in Chicago, IL, the luncheon will be held on May 31, 2009 at 11:00 A.M. Location: TBD

We hope if you are in the Chicago area, you will come out and join us for lunch. NSVBA will pick up the tab for appetizers and drinks.

I will also begin what I started earlier this year. Our Featured VBA. I will post the next Featured VBA beginning on April 27, 2009.

If you are an NSVBA member and would like to submit your bio for the VBA Blog, please send them to vikki@nsvba.com

If you've been thinking about joining NSVBA, now would be the time. We have so many things planned and we would love to have you be part of all that is happening!

See you Online!
Vikki
President
NSVBA-National Society of Virtual Bankruptcy Assistants
http://www.nsvba.com/

Featured VBA-Sue Durkovich-Vista, CA

"Virtual" Assistant: A person who can multi-task jobs for different people in different locations without ever leaving home.

This type of work is becoming very popular for people who like flexible working hours and who do not enjoy being in traffic congestion for an extended period of time.

When I first heard about Virtual Bankruptcy Assistants, I felt this would be ideal to add to my notary business. I have been a California Notary Public for 15 years and the past six years added the job of loan closings which became popular for notaries. While I was working a full time job, I was doing closings in the evenings and on weekends. I soon found I could be busy more than full time so I left my job to build the notary business. The business was very lucrative for over a year, but then began to slow down. The bankruptcy assistant field was emerging and since I had worked as a paralegal in the 90's, I felt my legal background would be advantageous.

I found there was much more training and studying to do to be able to do this type of work and I spent many hours learning from a paralegal who had worked in the bankruptcy area for 20 years. She really knew the business and developed a wonderful training program with excellent materials. I also attended a few of her seminars.

Bankruptcy petition preparation can be done for any licensed attorney anywhere in the United States since bankruptcy is Federal law. I use Best Case software and I can do a petition for any jurisdiction. By using my services, I can save a law firm time and overhead expenses. The debtor meets with the attorney, is given Intake Forms to complete; the forms are returned to the attorney for review and then given to me to prepare. If information is missing or incomplete, I will prepare a list of questions for the debtor (with a copy to the attorney) and email the debtor. With the attorney's permission, I will continue to communicate with the debtor until the petition is complete. The attorney is always kept informed of the questions and/or conversations between the debtor and myself. I can communicate with the debtor at a time convenient for him (including evenings or weekends). However, I do understand I never give legal advice and if the debtor has a legal question, I will write it down and direct it to the attorney. In fact, when first talking with a client I make sure they know I am not an attorney and cannot give legal advice.

I invite you to visit my website: http://www.petitionsos.com/ or call me at 760-224-6507 if I can answer any questions.

Attorneys: You can contact Sue at her website listed above. Once there, go to the "Contact Us" page. There, you will find Sue's contact information.

I have personally known Sue for two years. Sue assisted me on my first petition preparation and has developed training material for the Virtual Bankruptcy Assistant and also for the Consumer Bankruptcy Attorney.

Thank you Sue for this great information and introduction to your services!

Vikki

New Beginnings

Looks like 2009 is going to be just a little different than I had originally planned.

For starters, I resigned as Executive Director of the American Association of Virtual Bankruptcy Assistants effective today, February 17, 2009.

This was not something I had not envisioned for myself or the organization.

But now that it's done, I need to move forward.

I know for many people, change is difficult. This might be difficult, I don't know. Only time will tell. One thing I know for sure. I made the right decision.

The VBA industry is fast becoming a popular career considering the economic climate.

For myself, I have always believed in this business and I knew, eventually, attorneys would see the benefit of hiring an Independent Contractor to prepare petitions. I also knew, that with a little convincing, the seasoned bankruptcy attorneys would eventually come around. Why not? It is a win win for everyone.

So now what? My heart and my passion to help people attain their goals in this industry is what drives me, so I'll continue going in that direction.

The new organization is the National Society of Virtual Bankruptcy Assistants. Although, I want to drop the virtual. Why you ask? Some of us work in an attorneys office one or two days a week. That's not virtual.

Myself, I pick up Client files from my local attorneys and bring them to my home office to prepare. From there on, the attorneys and I work virtually, electronically. Meaning our communication is via email, fax, phone or text.

In the coming months, I suspect there will be more and more organizations and associations forming and why not. There is more than enough room for anyone who wants to do this.

If anything, I encourage you.

Be creative.

Form your partnerships as many of you have already done.

Just promise me you'll stay true to yourself, honest, professional and never give anyone a reason to say anything but good things about you. If you do this, I've got your back all the way.

So here's to 2009 and the many changes it is obviously going to bring. I say, bring it on.

Stay encouraged,
Vikki

Featured Virtual Bankruptcy Assistant-Dee Medlin, Anderson, CA

The featured VBA (Virtual Bankruptcy Assistant), for the first two weeks of February is Dee Medlin.

If you're new to this blog, I am featuring AAVBA members in 2009. I will feature a new VBA every two weeks. Dee's biography will run through February 16th.
If you are a Consumer Bankruptcy Attorney considering the services of a Virtual Bankruptcy Assistant, read Dee Medlin's biography. I am confident you will find her to be a top notch professional.

For those considering the career of Virtual Bankruptcy Assistant and would like more information, please leave your request in the "Comments" section of this blog. I will get back to you asap.


DEE MEDLIN


Professional Information:

I bring over 30 years experience in the Tech Sector working for 2 Fortune 500 companies in various roles. I served as an Executive Assistant supporting the Vice Presidents for over 8 years and over 11 years experience in software development as a Software Engineer. I left the tech sector at the end of 2005 and moved to Sacramento, California in the Bay Area. I served one year at Stanford University as an HR Systems Analyst. I was ready for a career change and had already spent some time researching opportunities for home businesses.

In January of 2007, I discovered VBA's through 713Training.com After weeks of research into this field and encouragement from the wonderful man in my life, I took the step and purchased all the training materials in March. In April, I completed the training and attended a two-day seminar in Southern California. In June, I launched my website and received my VBA accreditation. In July, I landed my first attorney client and filed my first case in August. I averaged about 2 cases a month for the rest of the year. I continued marketing but was not getting the response or the revenue I was expecting. I took on a part-time job in January 2008 and continued marketing. I made the turn in July and quit the part-time job and now devote 100% to my business. I currently support 9 attorneys from CA, FL, OH, AZ, Y, NC, and WA.

Through the 713Training membership, I met Vikki Watanabe and we began to talk and share stories (and struggles) of what is required to be successful not only in this field but as an Independent Contractor. Vikki and I collaborated on introducing SKYPE to AAVBA members and we provided an informative Webinar on the subject. It was a great opportunity and my first venture in co-hosting a Webinar. I look forward to future project and opportunities with AAVBA and working with fellow members.


Personal Information:

We are an active and lively family with 4 grown kids. We love to camp, fish, golf, cook, eat and entertain. I also enjoy a good book and watching movies. My goal this year is to plant a vegetable garden. I can't wait to play in the dirt!



Attorneys: You can read more about Dee's services at her website.

Title 11 Virtual Assistant

http://www.t11va.com/

From there, you can contact her via her "Home" page.


On a personal note, Dee has been instrumental in the development of AAVBA. She extends herself giving of her time unselfishly. Dee has mentored many AAVBA members. I would not have been able to grow this organization to where it is without Dee and other AAVBA members who give their time to help others become successful.

Thank you Dee,

Vikki

Featured Virtual Bankruptcy Assistant-CINDI GOOD, Susanville, CA

I am very proud to introduce our second Featured Virtual Bankruptcy Assistant of 2009, Cindi Good.

If you've just joined this blog, I am featuring the American Association of Virtual Bankruptcy Assistant members in 2009. I will feature a new VBA every two weeks. Cindi's biography will run through the 31st of January.

If you are a Consumer Bankruptcy Attorney considering the services of a Virtual Bankruptcy Assistant, read Cindi Good's biography. You can reach Cindi directly through her contact information which is at the end of her biography.

For those considering the career of Virtual Bankruptcy Assistant and would like more information, please leave your request in the "Comments" section of this blog. I will get back to you as soon as possible.

CINDI GOOD

Professional Information:

I received my Legal Secretarial AA Degree and worked for the City of San Diego for several years. We moved to Northern California, and my husband and I owned and operated a business for 18 years. In 2002, I began working as an Escrow Assistant and also became a Notary Public; completing over 400 loan closings.

I had listened to a VBA website teleconference and heard an interview with Vikki Watanabe, our AAVBA Executive Director. I went to her website, read an article about her starting up the American Association of Virtual Bankruptcy Assistants. I signed up for future updates and became one of the first AAVBA members (member #7).

In February of 2008, Amanda (my daughter and business partner) and I received bankruptcy petition preparation training. In April of 2008; we launched our business, Bankruptcy Pro Processor (http://www.bankruptcyproprocessor.com/). It's wonderful working together! We love being able to figure out together how to handle each challenge as we prepare petitions. We have found that there is always something new to learn on each petition.

We currently assist two attorneys in California in preparing bankruptcy petitions...we are both hooked, we LOVE bankruptcy preparation! We are both planning on continuing our education in becoming Certified Paralegals, so that we may expand our assistance to attorneys.

Personal Information:

I love reading, sewing, scuba diving, and spending time with my family. My husband and I of 32+ years have four grown children (Brandon-Chemistry Teacher; Collin-Correctional Officer; Amanda-my Business Associate; and Megan-ICU Registered Nurse), and three exceptionally brilliant granchildren. Grandparenting is such a twitter-paited kind of love; it's so much fun being "grands"!".

Attorneys: You can read more about Cindi's services at her website:

BANKRUPTCY PRO PROCESSOR

http://www.bkproprocessor.com/

From there, you can contact her via her "Contact Us" page.

Thank you Cindi.

Vikki (aka Virginia)

Featured Virtual Bankruptcy Assistant-KIMBERLY RUSSO, Erie, PA

Today, January 5, 2009 begins with our first Featured VBA, Kimberly Russo.

If you are a Consumer Bankruptcy Attorney considering the services of a Virtual Bankruptcy Assistant, read Kimberly's Biography. Kimberly's contact information is at the end of the bio.

If you are considering becoming a Virtual Bankruptcy Assistant and would like more information, please leave your request in the "Comment" section of this Blog, I will get back to you as soon as possible.

KIMBERLY RUSSO

Professional Information:
I have been working as a paralegal mainly in the Bankruptcy field for the past 5 years, I initiated my training working directly for a Chapter 7 Panel Trustee for the Western District of Pennsylvania.

In conjunction with my day job, I am Virtual Bankruptcy Services, LLC. I currently assist 6 attorneys nationwide with their virtual bankruptcy needs.

My education includes receiving an ABA-approved Paralegal Certificate and Bachelors of Science in Elementary and Early Childhood Education from Gannon University.

My experience includes attendance at an Electronic Court Filing Seminar presented by the U.S. Bankruptcy Court, creation of "BAPCPA (Bankruptcy Abuse Prevention and Consumer Protection Act of 2005) Insights and Pitfalls" Seminar, attendance at multiple Chapter 13 Forums, attendance at Debtor Audits and Means Testing 2008 Seminar, creation of "How to Make the Chapter 7 Trustee Happy and Effectively Represent Your Clients" Seminar, ACCS Credit Counseling/Financial Management Seminar, Trustee Paralegal Training, Social Security Seminar, Mastery Certificate for Legal Research from Lexis-Nexis, attendance at a Real Estate Title Forms, Policies and Procedures Seminar and Accreditation for Virtual Bankruptcy Assistants.

Lastly, I have gained many years of valuable experience in many different areas of law including: Real Estate, Social Security, Estates and Personal Injury.

Personal Information:
In my spare time, I love to read fiction novels, listen to all different kinds of music and spend time as much time as I possibly can with my family. I have a beautiful family including my fiance Andre, and 6 birds (Junior, Indian Ringnecked Parakeet; Romeo, Meyer’s Parrot; Sweatpea, Albino Cockatiel; Buttercup; Dominant Yellowcheek Cockatiel; Squeaky, Great American White Parrotlet and the youngest Itty Bitty, Pearl Cockatiel)

Attorneys-You can read more about Kimberly's services at her website:

VIRTUAL BANKRUPTCY SERVICES, LLC
http://www.virtualbankruptcyservices.net/

From there, you can contact her via her "Contact Us" page

Thank you Kimberly,

Best Wishes for a great 2009!

Vikki (aka Virginia)

Featured VBA's of 2009

January 5-My first post of 2009.

This year, my blog will be dedicated to the men and women who are Virtual Bankruptcy Assistants.

All Featured Virtual Bankruptcy Assistants are AAVBA members. Their names and information can be found at www.aavba.org

When the Featured VBA's name appears on this blog, their contact information will appear in the article. This way, you can click on the link and go directly to their website. You will also be able to email them or call them.

AAVBA is not an employment agency and we do not guarantee work. Every individual who is a member of AAVBA market their own businesses. AAVBA provides service and support to the VBA and in doing so, we market to Consumer Bankruptcy Attorneys on behalf of our members.

We hope you'll visit this blog every two weeks beginning tomorrow, January 5th and running throughout the year to read about the Featured VBA. I'm sure you will find each person interesting, engaging, and professional.

Here's to a productive, successful 2009!

Vikki (aka Virginia)