Amy was born and raised in Reading, MA. She grew up with her mother, father, brother and sister. Amy earned her Bachelors Degree in Paralegal Studies from Roger Williams University, located in Bristol, RI. When the paralegal isn't working, she enjoys reading, working out and collecting antiques. Amy said she enjoys collecting furnishings and glassware antiques. She roots for the New England Patriots.
Amy's Successful Business and Tips for Legal Staff Members
When asked if she has a most memorable education experience, Amy replied, “Graduating! It has been 27 years since I graduated from college, nothing more memorable sticks out!”
The businesswoman discussed the best part about her job. “Working for myself! Second best thing is helping those that can't afford an attorney.”
Amy gave her opinion about the legal field in Washington. “The State of Washington has finally decided to ‘legalize' what a paralegal that doesn't work under an attorney, can do and not do. We will be called Limited Legal Technicians and be able to help people without running into problems with the ‘unauthorized practice of law.' I for one am very happy about this.”
Since Amy has twenty-eight years experience as a legal staff member, many readers may want to know what her advice is for students who are contemplating becoming a paralegal. She claimed, “I love what I do. Being a paralegal is the best job that anyone can do. It might not pay as much as they tell you in school, unless you work in Los Angeles or New York. But it is the best job anyone can have.”
Where does Amy see herself in five years? The businesswoman asserted, “I will still be the owner of Do It Yourself Documents, but will be adding more affiliate companies to the business and have more employees to take over the day to day business within the stores.” Amy continued to say that she plans on franchising her business in Washington, but she noted that it's an expensive proposition.
If Amy wasn't a legal staff member, what would she be doing? The candid paralegal said, “I have no idea, since age 16 (and now having just turned 50) this all I have ever wanted to do. Although if I had my druthers, I would love to own a bookstore!”
So why is Amy motivated everyday to do her job? She stated, “Empowering people to be able to handle uncomplicated matters without the need for an attorney.”
Amy's Mentor, a Rewarding Position, Goals and Final Thoughts
Does Amy have a mentor? Is she a mentor? Amy said, “When I started working for the law firm in my hometown at age 16, one of the attorneys had a paralegal, Maureen Babcock, she was the reason I decided to become a paralegal. I believe I am a mentor to one of my employees. She works for me part-time and started her own paralegal business, I believe in part because of my ownership in Do It Yourself Documents.”
When asked why does she find her position rewarding, Amy explained, “Because I like helping people that can't afford an attorney. I help people move through the system easier.”
Is there a downside to her position? Amy acknowledged, “Working 73 hours a week. Every week.”
Does Amy have goals? She simply stated, “Franchising.”
Anything else you'd like to tell people about yourself? “Being an independent, self employed paralegal is great, but a lot of work, wouldn't give it up for the world!”
*** Amy Wishart is not an attorney and can't give legal advice.***
