Chattanooga Paralegal Association

STEPHEN P. PARISH
receives the 2009 Inauguray Judge W. Neil Thomas, III Paralegal Utilization Award
presented at the 2009 Law Day Luncheon
by SETPA
Southeast Tennessee Paralegals Association

The 2009 Inaugural

Judge W. Neil Thomas III Paralegal Utilization Award

The purpose of the Judge W. Neil Thomas III Paralegal Utilization Award is to recognize an attorney who has encouraged and promoted the paralegal profession through their commitment to the understanding of paralegal responsibilities and utilization, the delegation and oversight of substantive paralegal duties, and who sets an example of overall excellence in the legal profession. 

In selecting the recipient of this award, the Tennessee Paralegal Association, Southeastern Chapter (SETPA) considers attorneys who continually advance the paralegal profession by (i) designating work assignments that correspond to the paralegal’s knowledge, training and experience, (ii) recognizing the value of a paralegal and their contribution to the overall legal team, (iii) setting an example to other attorneys through usage of the paralegal’s proficiency, (iv) encouraging continuing legal education for the paralegal, and (v) unselfishly sharing their knowledge of professional responsibility, the law, and its various rules and procedures with paralegals. 

This inaugural award will be presented annually by SETPA and will be selected from nominations received from SETPA member paralegals and submitted to the SETPA Nomination Committee identifying the attorneys who fulfill these qualities.      

An attorney's greatness cannot be measured simply by how well he is known.  My nomination for the 2009 Judge W. Neil Thomas, III Paralegal Utilization Award is not for someone whose name is commonly in the public limelight, but rather for an attorney who quietly does his work behind the scenes in commercial real estate law.  His name is Stephen P. Parish, and he is without question one of the most exceptional attorneys in our area.

When I began working directly with Steve five years ago, I immediately recognized and appreciated his character, expertise, and mastery at effectively using his entire legal team, including my skills as a paralegal.  Right away he gave me quality assignments that challenged me to tackle new problems and issues, and as I have grown in ability, he has continued to increase the complexity of my projects.  However, he has never left me feeling abandoned to deal with everything completely on my own.  He carefully provides all necessary background information, and his gift for explaining details clearly and succinctly, without condescension or irritation, makes him one of the greatest mentors I have ever known.  Recognizing that I want to learn and expand my abilities, Steve takes his role as a teacher seriously.  He does not "put me in a box" but rather considers my potential and, with encouragement and instruction, challenges me to rise to the next level, thereby advancing my career and also improving our client services.  In addition, Steve supports continuing legal education and professional development activities, including my participation in paralegal associations and acceptance of speaking engagements, even though they might involve time away from the office. 

As a team, Steve and I have built an efficient and productive working relationship based on respect, trust and loyalty.  He keeps me informed about active cases, and I know that I can depend on him to take the lead in handling sticky issues, without placing blame on my shoulders.  This creates a loyalty which compels me to do whatever I can to make him look good in every situation.  Together, we are all about the business of attending to our clients' needs, and each of us is willing to take on whatever task may be necessary to do so.  For example, in the chaos of large real estate closings, Steve often offers to help with even menial tasks such as copying and sorting, when other attorneys may be tempted to feel like their part of the project is over.  He is never a dictator, but rather a true team leader.

Whenever I face challenges, Steve is always available to assist.  His door is open to discuss any issue, whether related to a client situation, an office policy or even a personal matter, and if he can take any steps to help, he never hesitates.  He willingly answers all questions and actively works to resolve problems.  As necessary, he will get down in the trenches and help with even the most routine task.  At the end of each day, he is always appreciative of my efforts, which encourages and inspires me to work even harder the next day.

Steve Parish is definitely one of the "good guys," and it is easy to see why other attorneys eagerly follow his leadership, both in client matters and in law firm administration.  Always the epitome of professionalism, Steve is also patient and tactful in every situation.  Most importantly, he strives to do the right thing, and his character can be summarized by the word "integrity."  I have the utmost respect for Steve Parish and trust that in every situation, he will discern the best course of action and strive for the highest and best outcome for everyone.  The trust and respect he gives to others make each paralegal and staff member who work with him know that he or she is truly a valued member of the team.  I am confident that I am a much better paralegal today due to the opportunity to work with and learn from Steve Parish, and he is the ideal candidate for this award.