Industry Leaders

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 the 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 it borders UPL, the VBA directs the attorney to NACBA or one of the many bankruptcy experts we associate with.

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 bankruptcy experts; including seasoned bankruptcy attorneys who utilize the services of the VBA.

This year, NSVBA partnered with Morgan King Bankruptcy Academy and Max Gardner's Bankruptcy Boot Camp.

NSVBA offers a Beginners Training in Chapter 7 and Chapter 13. We plan to enhance our member benefits and training in 2011.

For now, 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

ATTORNEYS! VBA's enable you to handle more cases!

VBA's = Virtual Bankruptcy Assistants.

This is an opportunity for Consumer Bankruptcy Attorneys taking on additional casework and looking to grow their practice and cap their overhead.

NSVBA members are located in 14 States.

Here's what you can expect from an NSVBA Member:

* NSVBA members prepare Chapter 7 & 13 petitions from the Client Intake Interview through the Post Petition phase. Most are trained to prepare petitions in the Central District of California.

* VBA's work in various jurisdictions throughout the United States.

* Virtual Bankruptcy Assistants work directly under the supervision of the Consumer Bankruptcy Attorney.

* VBA's make it possible for you to handle more cases without hiring additional personnel and incurring additional "employee" exposure.

* NSVBA members are prepared with their own licensed bankruptcy software. Most; if not all, NSVBA members use Best Case Solutions.

* Members of the National Society of Virtual Bankruptcy Assistants, LLC are trained in Small Office/Home Office Security and Procedures and are fully committed, legitimate businesses.

* Virtual Bankruptcy Assistants provide an efficient service where you, the attorney does not pay for lost time due to unforeseen circumstances.

* NSVBA Members are regular attendees at the Annual NACBA Convention.

Take time now to find out how a VBA can enhance your bankruptcy practice.

Give us a call or drop us a line.

We look forward to working with you!

Vikki Watanabe and the
Members of the
National Society of Virtual Bankruptcy Assistants, LLC
www.nsvba.com
vikki@nsvba.com
866-678-8411

Meet the Members of NSVBA, LLC Part 2

Who are the members of the National Society of Virtual Bankruptcy Assistants, LLC?

Here is a list of our members state by state (in no particular order):

HAWAII - Alan Higa

OREGON - Julie Horton

WASHINGTON - Max Novikov

GEORGIA - Tonya S. Justice

NEW YORK - Trenton P. Hall

DELAWARE - Jessica Gingery

COLORADO -
Marshall F. Huwe
Michael Hastings

ARIZONA -
Judy LaBoda
Nancy Criswell

LOUISIANA -
Michelle Ackman
Melissa Henry

OHIO -
Jean Scott
Lewis T. Beman

TEXAS -
Bonnie Saunders
Natalyn Jeffries

ILLINOIS -
Vivian Little
Total Attorneys

FLORIDA -
Louise Hurwitz
Edgar Brackin
Jill T. Starr
Tashania Morris
Solomon Abercrombie
Suzanne Tart

CALIFORNIA -
Warrenetta Lane
Maria Griffin
Mardi Cusimano
Peggy Grangetto
Sherri Nash
Anita Holguin
Michele Bannister
Dianna Forsythe
Patricia Bailey
Dennis Kaczor
Barbara Buchler
Susan Guinn
Mayra Heredia
Terri Logan
Dee Medlin
Anna Baughman
Gary Ostad
Amy Underwood
Cindi Good
Valerie Clay
David Noel
Jeannie Lynch

We have Virtual Bankruptcy Assistants in 14 States. If your particular state is not listed; no problem! our members prepare petitions for all 50 states.

You can get more information about the NSVBA members by going to www.nsvba.com and Click on "All Member Profiles".

I will blog again about our members. There is so much more you need to know about this national, professional organization and its members and I am more than happy to share it with you.

Until next time!

Vikki Watanabe
President and the Members of the
National Society of Virtual Bankruptcy Assistants, LLC

info@nsvba.com
vikki@nsvba.com
866-678-8411 x 712
Torrance, CA 90504

NSVBA 2010 Seminar

2010 Advanced Chapter 7 Seminar

The NSVBA, LLC is a nationally recognized organization serving virtual and on-site Bankruptcy Assistants and Paralegals nationwide. NSVBA is offering a two-day Seminar for Advanced Consumer Bankruptcy Chapter 7 petition preparation. NSVBA membership is not required to attend. The materials covered in this seminar is not intended for the general public but for professional bankruptcy assistants looking to further develop or enhance their petition preparation skills. It is required that attendees have some experience in consumer Chapter 7 case work.

NSVBA is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice. NSVBA and its' members are individual independent contractors who serve licensed bankruptcy attorneys nationwide.

For more information about NSVBA, please visit www.nsvba.com

Registration is required, no walk ins allowed.

Dates/Times: THURSDAY 10/14 8:30 A.M. - 5:00 P.M. and

FRIDAY 10/15 8:30 A.M. - 5:00 P.M.

(2 15-minute breaks per day and 1.5 hour break for lunch per day)

Hotel Accommodations: A block of rooms have been held at the Clarion Hotel 888 E. Dominguez Street, Carson, CA 90746 (310) 715-6688. All attendees will receive the standard room at the group rate of $68.00 single/double occupancy. Reservations must be made directly with the hotel at. Make sure to request NSVBA GROUP CODE: G-NSVBA. The cut-off date for reservations is SEPTEMBER 13, 2010. Room rates available between 10/12/2010 and 10/17/2010.


Airport Information: LAX is 18 miles from Hotel
John Wayne Airport (Orange County) is 22 miles from Hotel


Transportation: Attendees are responsible for their own transportation.


Fee: NSVBA Member - $250.00/ non-member - $300.00 (materials and refreshments included, no group discounts available, meals not included)

Registration Deadline: Fee and registration form must be received by NSVBA no later than 5:00 P.M. on 9/13/2010.

Refund Policy: No refunds will be granted after 9/24/2010

Guest Speakers and Advanced Chapter 7 Training

If you're interested and would like a registration form or more information, email NSVBA at info@nsvba.com or vikki@nsvba.com

We look forward to seeing you in California!

Vikki Watanabe
President
National Society of Virtual Bankruptcy Assistants, LLC
www.nsvba.com
866-867-8411

NSVBA and King Bankruptcy Academy

NSVBA is proud to announce its affiliation with King Bankruptcy Academy. King Bankruptcy Academy has made the first 10 classes of its video course for Paralegal Training available.

Members of NSVBA may enroll with a 25% discount. NSVBA members pay only $459.00. And, the book, "King's Fundamentals of Consumer Bankruptcy Practice", is available to members of NSVBA for a 50% discount.

NSVBA has an exclusive arrangement with the Academy and is currently the only professional virtual bankruptcy assistant organization providing its members with these substantial tuition reductions.

For more information on becoming a member of NSVBA and receiving the King Bankruptcy Academy discount, follow the links provided below.

- Morgan King
Dean of King Bankrupty Academy
www.bankruptcyacademy.com

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

Meet the Members of NSVBA-Part 2

Who are the members of the National Society of Virtual Bankruptcy Assistants, LLC?

Here is a list of our members state by state (in no particular order):

HAWAII - Alan Higa

OREGON - Julie Horton

WASHINGTON - Max Novikov

WYOMING - Pamela Tiemann

GEORGIA - Tonya S. Justice

MICHIGAN - Esther Rumfelt

NEW YORK - Trenton P. Hall

DELAWARE - Jessica Gingery

COLORADO - Marshall F. Huwe
Michael Hastings

ARIZONA -
Judy LaBoda
Nancy Criswell

LOUISIANA -
Michelle Ackman
Melissa Henry

OHIO -
Jean Scott
Lewis T. Beman
Maureen Joyce

TEXAS -
Bonnie Saunders
Natalyn Jeffries
Suzie McKinzie

ILLINOIS -
Carlett Dudley
Yvette Thomas
Vivian Little
Total Attorneys

FLORIDA -
Mariella Brandtner
Louise Hurwitz
Edgar Brackin
Jill T. Starr
Tashania Morris
Solomon Abercrombie
Suzanne Tart

CALIFORNIA -
Warrenetta Lane
Maria Griffin
Mardi Cusimano
Peggy Grangetto
Sherri Nash
Anita Holguin
Michele Bannister
Dianna Forsythe
Patricia Bailey
Dennis Kaczor
Barbara Buchler
Susan Guinn
Mayra Heredia
Terri Logan
Dee Medlin
Bridget Pearson
Anna Baughman
Gary Ostad
Amy Underwood
Cindi Good
Valerie Clay
David Noel
Jeannie Lynch

We have Virtual Bankruptcy Assistants in 15 States. If your particular state is not listed; no problem! our members prepare petitions for all 50 states.

You can get more information about the NSVBA members by going to www.nsvba.com and Click on "All Member Profiles".

I will blog again about our members. There is so much more you need to know about this national, professional organization and its members and I am more than happy to share it with you.

Until next time!

Vikki Watanabe
President and the Members of the
National Society of Virtual Bankruptcy Assistants, LLC

info@nsvba.com
vikki@nsvba.com
866-678-8411 x 712
Torrance, CA 90504

Meet the Members of NSVBA, LLC

For awhile, I've been wanting to write a blog about the members of NSVBA, LLC.

As a matter of fact, you may have met a few members at the NACBA Conventions in Chicago, IL and San Francisco, CA and previously; the NACBA Fall Workshops at Hilton Head Island, SC and Tucson, AZ.

The members of the National Society of Virtual Bankruptcy Assistants, LLC are a diverse group of professionals.

They bring experience from various backgrounds.

NSVBA members run fully committed legitimate businesses. All have been trained to prepare Chapter 7 petitions.

Some have experience preparing Chapter 13 petitions.

Before the year is over, all NSVBA members will be trained on Chapter 13 petition preparation. NSVBA has planned Chapter 13 Training Webinars this summer.

So, who are the members of NSVBA? Most have been Virtual Bankruptcy Assistants for over 4 years, some even longer. Some are new to the VBA career and the Independent Contractor industry. But nonetheless experienced, professional and reliable.

Whether you contract with a new or seasoned VBA, you are contracting with a professional with a solid work ethic who will prepare your petitions in a timely manner.

I encourage you; the attorneys, to try the services of a VBA. I also encourage you to hire a new VBA.

You, the attorney, must discuss your current needs; communicate your assignment request and expected deadlines.

You must do this whether you work with a seasoned VBA or a new VBA. The process is the same. You must relate your current needs.

If, after working with a Virtual Bankruptcy Assistant, you decide it's not for you. Simply pay your outstanding invoices.

Virtual Bankruptcy Assistants are not for everyone. But, how will you know if you don't at first try? Who knows? You may end up saving a lot of time and money!

At first, the fee might seem a little steep. It really isn't when you take into account how much you're not paying.

1) You don't pay for additional users on your bankruptcy software because each VBA has their own licensed bankruptcy software.

2) You don't pay for lost time due to unforeseen circumstances,

3) vacation pay,

4) sick leave,

5) workers comp,

6) taxes,

7) office space,

8) office supplies, etc.

When a Virtual contracts to prepare your petitions. They prepare petitions from beginning to end. From the Client Intake Interview through the Post Petition Phase. They take on as much responsibility as you are comfortable giving them. Of course, the more they are allowed to do, the more cost effective for the attorney. After all, our goal is to provide a service wherein the attorney is saving time and money to grow their law firm.

Once the attorney has conducted the initial consultation and qualifies the Debtor for a Chapter 7 or 13; the file can be given to the VBA. The VBA will contact the attorney client at a time convenient to the Debtor's schedule so as not to disturb them at work. VBA's do not work traditional office hours which is a benefit for the Debtor as well as the Attorney.

Our members are well versed in UPL and only respond to general questions. Legal questions are always referred to the attorney.

NSVBA members carry their own Service Agreement and in order to begin work, the attorney must read, agree and sign the contract. Members of NSVBA are Independent Contractors (1099).

Payment is due when the VBA submits an invoice after the final petition is approved and ready for filing.

NSVBA members work specifically for Solo Practitioners who need a "Bankruptcy Specialist" on hand but cannot afford a full time staff. We're there when you need us.

NSVBA members work with medium to large law firms as well. VBA's step in to cover overload or during vacations, leave of absence and holidays. Our members work directly with the In-office Paralegal to prepare and maintain a smooth workflow.

For more information, visit our website and click on "All Member Profiles".

If you would like assistance in locating an NSVBA member,simply give me a call. I will help you locate a VBA to suit your needs.

Our members are ready to assist you. If you've been thinking about growing your law firm, now is the time.

Sincerely,

Vikki Watanabe
President and the Members of the
National Society of Virtual Bankruptcy Assistants, LLC
2100 C West Redondo Beach Blvd., #34
Torrance, CA 90504

866-678-8411 x712

www.nsvba.com
info@nsvba.com
vikki@nsvba.com

Max Gardner's Bankruptcy Boot Camp

National Society of Virtual Bankruptcy Assistants, LLC is proud to announce it's affiliation with Max Gardner's Bankruptcy Boot Camp.

Read on.....

Max Gardner is revolutionizing consumer bankruptcy practice with his Bankruptcy Litigation Model (BLM). The BLM is a system designed to successfully litigate claims against creditors, servicers and debt buyers through adversary proceedings in Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 cases. Attorneys practicing the BLM offer better protection for their clients while earning more revenue per case. Max currently has over 300 graduates and the list is growing fast because he added online training in addition to his in-person Boot Camp in North Carolina.

One of the biggest challenges for attorneys who want to implement the BLM is to find and train qualified assistants in the BLM method. Max champions the use virtual assistants (he uses 11) and even has a whole section of the boot camp dedicated to using VA's. Any VA who is trained in the BLM is in a great position to do work for a boot camp graduate. We will be posting a list of legal assistants so it will be easy for graduates to find you. We currently list all of the attorney graduates.

The regular price for a year of online training is $2,999 but legal assistants can sign up for $1,999. As an NSVBA member you qualify for an additional $500 discount so you can subscribe for only $1,499. Please visit www.maxbankruptybootcamp.com for much more information.

If you're not yet an NSVBA member and would like more information, see below.

Thank you,
Vikki Watanabe
President
National Society of Virtual Bankruptcy Assistants, LLC
www.nsvba.com
vikki@nsvba.com
866-678-8411 x712

LEWIS T. BEMAN-COLUMBUS, OH

LEWIS T. BEMAN-Columbus, OH

PROFESSIONAL INFORMATION
I bring to the table over 30 years as a professional, 25 of those as a research scientist in product development for a large, multinational pharmaceutical manufacturer. During my last 12 years with this company, my major responsibilities were in the area of project management as the developer and operator of a company intranet / database covering all product development projects at their Columbus, Ohio location. In my daily activities, I was continually involved in communication with people throughout the company in all major operations such as laboratories, regulatory affairs, operations, and upper management. I developed and presented a training program on sound project management practices and use of the information in the intranet site, for all involved employees, including the company president. I am very much a “people person” and enjoy developing or implementing a product or service that will meet short- or long term needs in their lives.

In 2007 my employer offered me early retirement as part of a major restructuring of personnel and payroll. During this time I had also developed an avid interest in legal work, and decided that my “next career” would be in legal services. In 2008 I obtained a post-baccalaureate certificate as a paralegal from Columbus State Community College, maintaining a 4.0 GPA throughout the program. It was invigorating to me to have returned to school and to “show my stuff” in classes with my mostly younger classmates. The material generally came easy to me, and often I found myself coaching other students in the context of small study groups. I was also a trustee in the Student Paralegal Association at Columbus State.

As I have already suggested, I am oriented to providing service that will make a difference for the betterment in people’s lives. My wife of 35 years and I determined that whatever new career I took up would not merely emphasize making money, but would also, maybe primarily, bring blessing to individuals that are in deep crisis. A natural for me is those who, perhaps through job loss, marital breakup, or serious health issues, need legal services to help them put their financial lives back together as in bankruptcy. Two paralegal internships with solo practitioners, advice from my academic advisor, plus a sense of calling, convinced me that this was my field. The opportunity to serve as a virtual bankruptcy assistant / paralegal enables me to meet a definite need providing attorneys with timely, accurate petitions for their clients. It also is a good fit for me due to personal health and family needs.

I have attained NAVBA certification after 6 months of training and practice preparing Chapter 7 petitions. I am fully engaged in the learning process, currently attending a 2-day workshop in marketing and Chapter 13 preparation, and planning to obtain ABJA certification later in 2010. As a paralegal, I am willing to offer services not only in the preparation of petitions, but also in client intake and follow-through up to petition filing, and preparation/support for the 341 meeting as the attorney has need. Service(s) to be provided will be determined for each attorney as he/she prefers to manage his/her cases.

My education consists of a Bachelor of Science in Zoology and a Master of Science in Food Science from the Ohio State University.

PERSONAL INFORMATION
I have been married for 35 years to the love of my life, have 3 married daughters, and 4 grandchildren, who, as they say, are more fun than children. My other passions are working with international ministries at our local church; and gardening, especially growing about 100 orchids for showing and selling.

ATTORNEYS:

You can contact Lewis at:
614-208-5490

You can also visit the NSVBA Exhibit Table at the NACBA Convention
April 29-May 2, 2010 and pick up Lewis' business card and a chance to
win a Raffle Prize submitted by Lewis.

Thank you Lewis.

National Society of Virtual Bankruptcy Assistants, LLC

Our first year.

I can't believe it.

We've had quite a year too!

But before I go on, I want to thank the members of NSVBA for their continued support.

This is a great group of professionals whose work is being recognized nationwide by a number of attorneys who work with them.

The members of NSVBA provide mentoring and support to their fellow members. Our most seasoned members have been preparing petitions since before BAPCPA of 2005. Most have been trained specifically under BAPCPA of 2005.

We have assisted new and seasoned attorneys run their law firms efficiently since 2005 and before.

This past year, we attended the NACBA 17th Annual Convention in Chicago, IL and the Fall Workshop in Tucson, AZ. As an Exhibitor at these events, the members of NSVBA give away fabulous Raffle Prizes to the attorneys in attendance.

If you're an attorney, why not stop by our Exhibit Table while you're in San Francisco April 29th through May 2nd?

If you're a Paralegal or Legal Support Staff attending the NACBA Convention, be sure to stop by as well for a chance to win a raffle prize. This year, NSVBA will have a seperate "fish bowl" for Legal Support staff.

The NSVBA website has undergone quite a few changes as well.

As part of the new membership benefits, NSVBA now offers a 5 Page website and Monthly Teleconferences. We continue to provide Topic Specific Webinars and Webinar Training in Petition Preparation. Another benefit is the Private GoogleGroup, VBANation. At VBANation, the members mentor each other in petition preparation.

Our members have also attended the Annual Conference and Training provided by the ABJA (Association of Bankruptcy Judicial Assistants). This year, the Conference will be held in New Orleans, LA.

Thank you to all the attorneys who utilize the services of a Virtual Bankruptcy Assistant. Our services provide support even when you have a full time staff. We step in to help during those crucial times such as leave of absence, vacations, etc.

For the solo practitioner, you have a staff when you need one without the overhead. It's a win-win. Even when you're ready to build your law firm with a full time staff, you know we're there to fill in if ever needed or continue to work with you as part of your full time staff.

If you would like to know more about NSVBA, drop me a line at info@nsvba.com for more information.

Thank you,

Vikki Watanabe
President
National Society of Virtual Bankruptcy Assistants, LLC
2100 C West Redondo Beach Blvd. #34
Torrance, CA 90504
866-678-8411

www.nsvba.com
vikki@nsvba.com
info@nsvba.com

Blackstone Paralegal School - Paralegal Course: Practical Bankruptcy Law

Blackstone Paralegal School - Paralegal Course: Practical Bankruptcy Law

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!