tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35133431400917033632010-04-20T03:38:52.755-04:00Notary Public & Legal Support Network BlogThis blog is for members of our Network. It's a place where relevant questions will be answered by the Network founder and/or the "primaries". Also, it's a place where topics concerning the Network will be discussed. --- Members: Be sure to login. There may be more information available. ---Korey -Founder-http://www.blogger.com/profile/00925372355067878884noreply@blogger.comBlogger27125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3513343140091703363.post-23709478073482684002009-11-20T19:29:00.006-05:002009-11-20T19:40:40.167-05:00Online Forum for Notaries, Process Servers, Constables<span style="font-family:arial;">We are experimenting with a few programs and have added a forum (bulletin board) which is open to any network member, or any member of the public. <strong>Notaries Public, Constables and Process Servers are encouraged to register and contribute to the online forum</strong>. It's free to register. Click on the image below to visit the forum.</span><a href="http://www.ips-notary.com/forum"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 363px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 139px; CURSOR: hand" border="0" alt="" src="http://www.ips-notary.com/img/advertise-Forum.JPG" /></a> <p><span style="font-family:arial;">This forum was created on November 19, 2009. Therefore, it may take a few months before it becomes a popular place for the above-mentioned professionals to network. You can help make it become "active" by contributing information. Registration is free! So be sure to sign up.</span><br /></p><span style="font-family:arial;"></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Regards,</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Korey</span><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3513343140091703363-2370947807348268400?l=www.ips-notary.com%2FNetwork-Blog.html' alt='' /></div>Korey -Founder-http://www.blogger.com/profile/00925372355067878884noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3513343140091703363.post-53666263968328696822009-04-30T11:59:00.007-04:002009-04-30T12:13:01.301-04:00Convicted Felons acting as Process Servers<span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><em><span style="color:#990000;"><span style="color:#990000;">A NON-MEMBER OF THE NETWORK ASKS:</span> </span></em></strong>You declined to accept me as a [Process Server] member of your network because I was convicted of a felony three years ago. Why can't I serve as a Process Server?<br /><br /><br /><strong><em><span style="color:#660000;"><span style="color:#990000;">ANSWER:</span> </span></em></strong>A Process Server is someone, authorized by law and court rules, who serves various types of legal process usually issued by a court of law, or an official authorized by court authority to issue process on behalf of the court (i.e.: justice of the peace, notary public).<br /><br />In accordance with the law, a Process Server has to be a person of high standing and character. In fact, in Massachusetts, an experienced person can be appointed as a <em>Special Process Server</em> under a "4(c) Motion" {Mass.R.Civ.P. 4(c) }. A "4(c) Motion" is a litigants written request (motion) to appoint a special process server for service of process in a specific case. The person asking (motioning) the court to appoint a special process server is swearing, under penalties of perjury, that the person he/she wants appointed to serve process is (1) credible, (2) honest, and (3) of high standing and character. Obviously if a person has been convicted of a felony less then 10 years ago, that person is presumed to be dishonest and non-credible in a court of law.<br /><br />Can a covicted felon become a police officer or constable? The answer is no!<br /><br />Hypothetically, lets say a convicted felon is going around pretending to be a credible process server. The "wannabe process server" hides the fact that he is a convict from lawyers and members of the public and serves court process. Then, in one case, the opposing party(ies) investigates the case against him/her. They decide to check every aspect, including the technicalities involved with service of process. (Attorneys for litigants check nearly 95% of the time)</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">They obtain the paperwork that was legally served and look up the process server's name. Next, they do a simple background check on the process server by looking through old court records. Shockingly, they learn that the process server is a convicted felon who has been incarcerated in the past. Additionally, they learn that the person who served them has an extensive criminal record. What do you think is going to happen?<br /><br />The opposing party(ies) would motion the court and contest service of process. Who do you think will win? The convict who is impersonating a credible court process server? Or the opposing party?<br /><br />There have been cases where judges have permanently banned a person from acting as a process server. In fact, go here to review one such case:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.ips-notary.com/2009/04/ag-obtains-judgment-against-process.html"><span style="font-family:times new roman;font-size:85%;">http://www.ips-notary.com/2009/04/ag-obtains-judgment-against-process.html</span></a><span style="font-family:times new roman;font-size:85%;"><br /></span><br /><br /><br /><strong><em><span style="color:#990000;">IN CONCLUSION,</span></em></strong> if you are a convict, don't go around pretending to be a credible process server. One day your credibility will be questioned and your convict status will be exposed! You'll find yourself in a lot of hot water civilly, as well as criminally!<br /><br /><span style="color:#ffffff;">.</span></span><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3513343140091703363-5366626396832869682?l=www.ips-notary.com%2FNetwork-Blog.html' alt='' /></div>Korey -Founder-http://www.blogger.com/profile/00925372355067878884noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3513343140091703363.post-71370658453837189672009-04-12T11:49:00.008-04:002009-04-12T12:06:08.689-04:00Cops v. Process Servers, Constables, Deputy Sheriffs<p align="left"><span style="font-family:arial;">As a process server and provider of court services, I’ve encountered the police on several occasions. I’ve encountered "city cops", "state cops" and "little town cops". The demeanor of the police has taught me a lot, as I am about to explain in this blog.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"></span><br /><strong><em><span style="font-family:arial;color:#006600;">"CITY COPS" DEMEANOR TOWARDS PROCESS SERVERS AND/OR THOSE INDIVIDUALS WHO PROVIDE SERVICES THAT ARE SIMILAR TO LAW ENFORCEMENT DUTIES:</span></em></strong><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">I have been serving court paperwork in Massachusetts for nearly seven years [2002 – present]. Many times I had to serve process in a city with the assistance of "city cops". Each time the police officer who stands by to keep the peace is helpful, patient and more then willing to protect and serve. They never question my services and actually understand the role of a "process server". </span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">"City cops" don’t seem intimidated or act ignorant towards other career fields that are closely related to law enforcement. I’m sure there are a few "city cops" out there who feel that they are the only ones who can ‘do what they do’; however, I’m sure they eventually learn throughout their law enforcement career that they’re not the only ones. </span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">I believe that "city cops" have the proper legal education and know the role each legal professional plays in criminal law, as well as civil law.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"></span><br /><strong><em><span style="font-family:arial;color:#006600;">"STATE COPS" DEMEANOR TOWARDS PROCESS SERVERS AND/OR THOSE INDIVIDUALS WHO PROVIDE SERVICES THAT ARE SIMILAR TO LAW ENFORCEMENT DUTIES:</span></em></strong><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Every State Trooper, hereinafter, "state cop", that I have encountered while engaging in court services [not just process serving] has been respectful. They’ve asked questions about my duties, but have accepted the answers given to them. "State cops" have always treated me, and other process servers that I know of, with respect.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">"State cops", like "city cops", have a lot on their agenda and don’t concern themselves with petty bullshit. A "state cop" obviously has a legal education and/or the experience to comprehend the fact that there are others like them who work in the criminal justice/legal fields who aren’t necessarily "police officers".</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><em><span style="color:#006600;">"LITTLE TOWN COPS" DEMEANOR TOWARDS PROCESS SERVERS AND/OR THOSE INDIVIDUALS WHO PROVIDE SERVICES THAT ARE SIMILAR TO LAW ENFOCEMENT DUTIES:</span></em></strong> </span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">The demeanor of "little town cops" is different then that of "city cops" and "state cops". When I encounter a "little town cop", he/she is usually uncooperative, rude and sarcastic – especially when the "little town cop" is accompanied by another "townie".</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">From what I experienced during my seven years of service to the judicial system, the "little town cop" acts like I am "stepping on his toes" and/or hindering his/her authority.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">They never understand my duties as a process server and automatically assume I’m impersonating a police officer. The "little town cop" and his partner[s] make sarcastic comments to one another over the radio and in-person and literally harass the process server. [Been there, experienced that!]</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">"Little town cops" don’t accept the fact that there are other people out there who provide the same services as law enforcement officials. They believe that a person has to be a cop in order to (1) serve court process; (2) make arrests; and (3) enforce the law.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">"Little town cops" lack the legal education necessary to comprehend the roles of other legal professionals who are only doing their jobs.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">"Little town cops" assume that everyone wearing a badge is a police officer. And, if you’re wearing a badge and aren’t a police officer, you must be a "whacker" and must be trying to convince the public that you are a police officer even though your badge and credentials clearly state that you are a process server.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Even though every piece of credential I carry (picture ID & badge) reads "process server", and not "police officer", "little town cops" automatically assume that I am impersonating a police officer. I’m not kidding!</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">"Little town cops" act like they feel threatened by Sheriffs, Constables and Process Servers. In fact, "townies" refer to them as "whackers" or "police wannabes".</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">In reality, however, most deputy sheriffs, constables and/or process servers are happy doing the job that they do. Nearly every deputy sheriff, constable or process server I’ve dealt with NEVER acts rude and childish when dealing with "little town cops". We don't poke fun at them and make sarcastic comments about their wannabe Robo Cop attitude. We don't minimize their roles in the criminal justice/legal fields. >>>>> So, why should they be rude and sarcastic to us?</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">They should do a case study on this topic. It would be interesting to read! I would like to know if "little town cops" have:</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">(1): Jurisdictional issues;<br />(2): Ego issues;<br />(3): Are insecure about their career outlook in small towns;<br />(4): Have frequent "power trips", etc.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">I’m seriously thinking about writing a field guide for all the process servers of my network that will explain to them what they should do if they encounter a "little town cop".<br /><br /><br /><strong><em><span style="color:#006600;">CONCLUSION:</span></em></strong> </span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">I seriously believe that we should all work together and hold no animosity towards other legal professionals who do the same job. By working together, we can all easily perform our jobs. Furthermore, we all play a vital part in the pursuit of justice. For example:</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><em></em></strong></span></p><p align="left"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><em>~ Process Servers</em></strong> [includes deputy sheriffs and constables] are needed by law. Why? Because no case can commence without service of process. Without process servers, no court would have proper jurisdiction.</span></p><p align="left"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><em>~ Police Officers</em></strong> are needed to protect and serve. Why? Because without them, no one is safe.</span></p><p align="left"> </p><p align="center"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="color:#990000;">We should all do our jobs and do them with sincerity and integrity.</span> </span></strong></p><strong><span style="font-size:130%;"><div align="center"><br /></div></span></strong><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3513343140091703363-7137065845383718967?l=www.ips-notary.com%2FNetwork-Blog.html' alt='' /></div>Korey -Founder-http://www.blogger.com/profile/00925372355067878884noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3513343140091703363.post-88281957446707368742009-04-05T08:41:00.004-04:002009-04-05T08:54:09.733-04:00AG Obtains Judgment Against Process Server<div align="left"><span style="font-size:85%;">March 10, 2009 - For Immediate Press Release</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#990000;"><strong></strong></span></div><div align="left"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#990000;"><strong>Attorney General Martha Coakley Obtains Judgment Against Process Server for Violating Massachusetts Consumer Protection Law<br /></strong></span><br /><span style="color:#330099;">Company and its Sole Officer Permanently Prohibited From Acting as Process Servers; Ordered to Pay Civil Penalties and Legal Fees</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;"><strong>BOSTON</strong> - Attorney General Martha Coakley’s Office has obtained a judgment in Suffolk Superior Court against Boston-based process server Stokes & Levin, Inc. and its sole officer and director, Darren Stokes, both of whom engaged in a pattern of falsifying service of legal papers and filing those documents with state and federal courts. Judge Bruce Henry of the Suffolk Superior Court has issued a court order permanently prohibiting both Stokes & Levin and Mr. Stokes from acting as process servers or otherwise serving legal papers. Additionally, the court ordered the payment of $10,000 in civil penalties for violations of the Massachusetts Consumer Protection Law and $9,542.40 for the costs of investigation and attorneys’ fees.<br /><br />“Our office has sought to put an end to Stokes & Levin’s practice of falsifying court filings to reflect service of legal documents that never occurred,” said Attorney General Coakley. “Massachusetts businesses and individuals must be able to rely on the integrity of the judicial system. Legal process servers play an integral role in that system, and the fraudulent actions of Stokes & Levin not only undermines it, but also poses a risk of harm to individuals and entities that is unacceptable.”<br /><br />The court found that Stokes & Levin and Mr. Stokes engaged in unfair and deceptive conduct in connection with their legal process service activities, all in violation of the Massachusetts Consumer Protection Law. The court further found that Stokes & Levin and Mr. Stokes knowingly falsified service of legal process and made affirmative misrepresentations to the courts. In addition to being prohibited as acting as process servers, Stokes & Levin and Mr. Stokes are barred from advertising legal process services, accepting money for serving legal papers, and forming another legal process business.<br /><br />The Attorney General’s Office filed a lawsuit in October 2008 alleging that Stokes & Levin, Inc. represented to courts that it had served legal documents on the intended recipients, when in fact; Stokes & Levin had not served the documents at all. These actions left individuals exposed to potential liability in cases of which they may not even have been aware.<br /><br />This matter was handled by Assistant Attorneys General Scott Schafer, Division Chief, and Elizabeth Koenig, both of Attorney General Coakley’s Consumer Protection Division, with assistance from Kristen Metzger of the Investigations Division. </span></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3513343140091703363-8828195744670736874?l=www.ips-notary.com%2FNetwork-Blog.html' alt='' /></div>Korey -Founder-http://www.blogger.com/profile/00925372355067878884noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3513343140091703363.post-5942360672720461372008-06-21T14:46:00.003-04:002008-06-21T14:51:13.380-04:00Other Network LinksThe following webpages won't be included in the links section of each webpage; however, they are active pages:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.ips-notary.com/massachusetts-process-server.html">http://www.IPS-Notary.com/massachusetts-process-server.html</a> <a href="http://www.ips-notary.com/massachusetts-process-server.html"></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.ips-notary.com/massachusetts-divorce-subpoena.html">http://www.IPS-Notary.com/massachusetts-divorce-subpoena.html</a><br /><br />Also, we have several other pages on the Internet that advertise our Network, including, but not limited to:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.geocities.com/mass_notary/MA-Subpoena.html">http://www.geocities.com/mass_notary/MA-Subpoena.html</a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.geocities.com/massachusetts_process_server/">http://www.geocities.com/massachusetts_process_server/</a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.ma-network.org/">http://www.ma-network.org/</a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.ma-process-server.com/">http://www.ma-process-server.com/</a><br /><br />Each of the above-mentioned pages are in the process of being updated. Be sure to check the URL's often and if you have any suggestions, please contact me.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3513343140091703363-594236067272046137?l=www.ips-notary.com%2FNetwork-Blog.html' alt='' /></div>Korey -Founder-http://www.blogger.com/profile/00925372355067878884noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3513343140091703363.post-87000052650092272312008-05-31T14:34:00.001-04:002008-05-31T14:37:20.141-04:00Constable Charged in Court Disruption<span style="font-family:times new roman;"><strong>LEOMINSTER </strong>— A Fitchburg constable pleaded not guilty yesterday to charges of disrupting a court proceeding and disorderly conduct. The accusations stem from an alleged outburst at Housing Court in February.</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Lorie A. Spaulding, 40, appeared in court as a litigant on Feb. 7. According to court records, she is a constable, responsible for serving legal papers such as divorce and eviction notices.</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Ms. Spaulding was in Housing Court in Fitchburg and became disruptive after receiving an “unfavorable disposition” in a case in which she was a party, according to a report by Court Officer Robert V. Taylor. When the court began hearing a second case in which Ms. Spaulding was involved, she repeatedly interrupted Judge Diane Horan and was ordered to be taken into custody for being in contempt of court, Mr. Taylor wrote.</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Ms. Spaulding refused to comply with the officer’s orders and tried to flee the courtroom, he said, ultimately being handcuffed on the ground. She was not injured, according to the report by Mr. Taylor.</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"><span style="font-family:times new roman;">The case is being heard in Leominster District Court to avoid a conflict of interest in Fitchburg, Judge John J. Curran ruled.</span> </span><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3513343140091703363-8700005265009227231?l=www.ips-notary.com%2FNetwork-Blog.html' alt='' /></div>Troy, "Primary" Memberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15653189897291358695noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3513343140091703363.post-13752829425041438092008-05-30T15:04:00.002-04:002008-05-30T15:09:45.853-04:00MA Police Officers can be forced to take lie detector testThe SJC ruled that a person who serves as a Police Officer in Massachusetts can be forced to take a lie detector test if the officer is being investigated for misconduct.<br /><br />I completely agree with this law. If a police officer is performing his or her duties correctly, then why would they refuse to take a lie detector test? It will allow the public to have more faith and confidence in the police that serve and protect us.<br /><br />No more false allegations or cases by those very few corrupt police officers out there in Massachusetts! Thank you SJC!<br /><br />More on this topic later...............<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3513343140091703363-1375282942504143809?l=www.ips-notary.com%2FNetwork-Blog.html' alt='' /></div>Korey -Founder-http://www.blogger.com/profile/00925372355067878884noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3513343140091703363.post-4907799801360885062008-05-26T20:52:00.001-04:002008-05-26T20:55:07.178-04:00Duty To Preserve Evidence<span style="font-family:times new roman;">A party to litigation, or to litigation that is reasonably foreseeable, has a duty to preserve evidence in its possession or control that may be relevant. If a party destroys evidence in its custody or control it can be subject to sanctions that range from an assessment of costs and fees, to suppression of evidence, an adverse jury instruction, or even outright dismissal of the case.</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">The Superior Court recently ruled on a case in which a plaintiff alleged that a malfunctioning refrigerator, which was later destroyed by a nonparty, caused a fire. In that case, the Superior Court reiterated the general rule that, in Massachusetts, a nonparty has no duty to preserve evidence. See Quincy <em>Mut. Ins. Co. v. W.C. Wood Co.,</em> Middlesex Superior Court, Civil Action No. 0402346 (June 6, 2007) (Gershengorn, J.). However, an exception to this rule is when a party to the litigation imposes an obligation on the nonparty to retain the evidence. </span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Specifically, if a party to a litigation wants a nonparty to retain certain evidence, the party must either issue a subpoena to the nonparty requesting the evidence or enter into a contract with the nonparty to maintain the evidence.</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;"><br />Although the case at issue involved product liability (the refrigerator), the court’s holding arguably applies to all evidence. Thus, not only does it apply to products, but it could apply to documents such as contracts, invoices, advertisements, e-mails, or any other evidence that would be relevant to the case.</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;"><br />As a result, if you are a party to a litigation, or even reasonably believe you will be a party to a litigation, and you know a nonparty has evidence that you will need to prove or defend the case, you or your attorney must take affirmative actions to ensure the nonparty has a duty to preserve the evidence. </span><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3513343140091703363-490779980136088506?l=www.ips-notary.com%2FNetwork-Blog.html' alt='' /></div>Korey -Founder-http://www.blogger.com/profile/00925372355067878884noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3513343140091703363.post-84719666922230333202008-05-19T10:33:00.005-04:002008-05-19T10:50:42.108-04:00Thank you Constables...<span style="font-family:arial;">Thank you to all those who assisted our Network in apprehending the judgment debtors who had outstanding CAPIAS warrants with us. I'm proud to announce that out of the 13 people we were searching for, only three couldn't be located. All others were served and brought before the Court where the warrants were issued.<br /><br />Thank you to the Constables and other officers authorized to serve civil process. You all worked quickly and professionally. Your service to the Massachusetts Notary Public & Legal Support Network is greatly appreciated. </span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">I would also like to thank Ashley for stepping up and taking over for me in organizing and controlling this campaign. As you all know, an unprovoked situation happened with me and a family member on May 10th. On May 12th I had to be in Court and the whole ordeal screwed up my week. ---- Luckily, I won at Court! :-D --- Thank you so much Ashley!<br /><br />Thanks,<br />Korey</span><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3513343140091703363-8471966692223033320?l=www.ips-notary.com%2FNetwork-Blog.html' alt='' /></div>Korey -Founder-http://www.blogger.com/profile/00925372355067878884noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3513343140091703363.post-22058714940837958112008-05-10T10:25:00.004-04:002008-05-10T12:10:10.909-04:00Capias Enforcement Week<span style="font-family:georgia;">To all Civil Enforcement Officers of this Network:</span><br /><span style="font-family:georgia;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:georgia;">The Massachusetts Notary Public & Legal Support Network will attempt to serve most of the oustanding capias warrants we have on file this week in the following cities/towns:</span><br /><br /><ul><li><span style="font-family:georgia;">Leominster</span></li><li><span style="font-family:georgia;">Fitchburg</span></li><li><span style="font-family:georgia;">Groton</span></li><li><span style="font-family:georgia;">Lunenburg</span></li><li><span style="font-family:georgia;">Ayer</span></li><li><span style="font-family:georgia;">Lancaster</span></li></ul><p><span style="font-family:georgia;">So, if you're a Constable, deputy sheriff, or other authorized Civil Enforcement Officer of this Network, please login and go to the Capias Warrant section of our members area to get the names of those we need to serve.</span></p><p><span style="font-family:georgia;">We need two people to cover each of the locations above. <span style="color:#990000;">Ayer, Fitchburg, and Lancaster are covered</span> because we already have two C.E.O.'s who will search for the subjects. Therefore we only need to cover Leominster, Groton, and Lunenburg.</span></p><p><span style="font-family:georgia;">Please search dilligently. If you encounter problems, don't be a hero, call the police and have them assist you.</span></p><p><span style="font-family:georgia;">If you can't locate someone you should ask around especially in the small Towns where everybody knows everyone else.</span></p><p><span style="font-family:georgia;"><span style="color:#990000;">We will attempt service starting Monday May 12 thru Friday May 16th.</span> </span><span style="font-family:georgia;">For more information either <a href="mailto:Ashley@IPS-Notary.com">contact me </a>or call Korey at (978) 877-2536.</span></p><p><span style="font-family:georgia;">Thanks,<br />Ashley</span></p><p align="center">P.S.: For those who don't already know, we have a new website dedicated to advertising our subpoena services and process server services. Go here to view it<br /><a href="http://www.ma-process-server.com/">http://www.ma-process-server.com/</a></p><p align="center"></p><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3513343140091703363-2205871494083795811?l=www.ips-notary.com%2FNetwork-Blog.html' alt='' /></div>~Ashley~http://www.blogger.com/profile/00153538049346235603noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3513343140091703363.post-81245046503983978782008-04-20T10:23:00.003-04:002008-04-25T10:54:38.240-04:00Be Careful Before Reporting a Case Settled to the Court<span style="font-family:times new roman;">Before a case is reported settled to the court, it is important to be sure that both the clients and the attorneys are aware of all terms that will ultimately be a part of the settlement agreement. In <em>Basis Technology Corp. v. Amazon.com</em>, Inc., 71 Mass. App. Ct. 29 (2008), the Appeals Court affirmed the lower court’s decision to enforce a settlement agreement that consisted of an e-mail exchange between counsel on the third day of a trial. Specifically, in <em>Basis Technology Corp.,</em> the parties reported the case settled to the court based on an e-mail exchange between counsel that outlined the terms of the settlement, but </span><a name="Verdatum"><strong><span style="font-family:times new roman;">contemplated</span></strong></a><span style="font-family:times new roman;"> drafting an actual settlement agreement. Consequently, the trial court ended the trial and issued a dismissal nisi order. Despite the e-mail and the report of settlement, the parties were unable to agree on a written settlement agreement, and the court ultimately enforced the settlement as initially agreed in the e-mail.<br /><br />In its decision, the court found that the mere fact that the parties needed to memorialize the settlement terms did not make the settlement incomplete and did not support an argument that the parties had not agreed on the essential business terms of the settlement. Thus, the <em>Basis Technology</em> court stood by a decision it made twenty years earlier when it stated that “if the parties have agreed upon all material terms, it may be inferred that the purpose of a final document which the parties agree to execute is to serve as a polished memorandum of an already binding contract.” <em>Goren v. Royal Invs., Inc.,</em> 25 Mass. App. Ct. 137, 140 (1987).<br /><br />A large factor in the court’s enforcement of the settlement agreement is that the parties had reported the matter settled to the court. As has been noted in several cases, enforcing settlement agreements that have been orally relayed to the court protects the integrity of the judicial process as well as the parties themselves. It allows courts to dismiss juries, clean up their dockets and prepare for the next case. It also allows parties to rely on the results of negotiations that they have had in coming to a settlement conclusion.</span><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3513343140091703363-8124504650398397878?l=www.ips-notary.com%2FNetwork-Blog.html' alt='' /></div>Korey -Founder-http://www.blogger.com/profile/00925372355067878884noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3513343140091703363.post-26963084392096858662008-04-19T11:15:00.002-04:002008-04-25T10:55:17.149-04:00SJC: Online messages can be grounds for sex charges in MA<span style="font-family:times new roman;">In a ruling that should be a warning to all online predators, the state's highest court has ruled that a person can be charged with enticing a minor simply by sending online messages over the Internet.<br /><br />Lawyers for Richard Disler had argued that his September 2005 conviction in Essex County for child enticement should be overturned because the online instant messages he exchanged with an undercover police officer posing as a 14-year-old girl were merely words.<br /><br />Disler's lawyers argued the law requires the suspect do more such as travel to a rendezvous.<br /><br />But the state Supreme Judicial Court disagreed, noting that a person can be charged with enticement, if he or she uses "words, gestures or other means" with criminal intent to induce a minor.<br /><br />The court ruled there is nothing in the language of the law that indicates there must be an overt act.<br /><br />The court also rejected other arguments claiming his free speech was violated and that this was entrapment because the girl didn't exist.<br /><br />Disler was sentenced to three years probation with conditions that he have no unsupervised contact with children under 16 and register as a sex offender.</span><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3513343140091703363-2696308439209685866?l=www.ips-notary.com%2FNetwork-Blog.html' alt='' /></div>Korey -Founder-http://www.blogger.com/profile/00925372355067878884noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3513343140091703363.post-30103089424099924962008-03-24T10:59:00.002-04:002008-03-24T11:47:06.303-04:00Police Departments – Internal Affairs<span style="font-family:arial;font-size:85%;">My Network works with a few organizations that exist to deter police misconduct. One of the best known organizations is the Police Complaint Center (PCC).<br /><br />A former client of ours asks, <em>“I have been the victim of police harassment in my town of xxxxxx. Every time I complain, the internal affairs department says my case has no merit! What can I do?”</em><br /><br />In small towns, an internal affairs department usually consists of one to three police officers who supposedly investigate complaints of police brutality/misconduct. They’re a waste of time and taxpayer money!<br /><br />Although the so called “Internal Affairs Department” has concluded that you weren’t harassed [or the victim of police brutality] does not mean you are legally prevented from bringing a cause of action against the police officer and/or the police department in a court of law.<br /><br />The IA report will be brought up as evidence against your lawsuit; however, you can easily persuade a jury that the IA report has been “sugarcoated” in favor of the police officer. ---- This is why the IA reports are useless! -----<br /><br />For example, let’s say a guest of yours falls through a weak floor that you knew was unsafe and that you intended to fix. Since you own the home, the party who got hurt sues you for their pain and suffering and medical bills. Your friend, who also lives with you on the property, investigates the matter and writes you a letter saying that the injury sustained by the plaintiff [person suing you] was not the direct result of your negligence and/or the poor condition of your property. ---- Do you really believe this letter (a report) will help your case? Of course not!<br /><br />So, in conclusion, don’t let a sugarcoated IA report discourage you from filing civil or criminal charges against a police officer and/or police department.<br /><br />P.S.: I should add that you don’t need to be a police officer to file criminal charges against someone.</span><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3513343140091703363-3010308942409992496?l=www.ips-notary.com%2FNetwork-Blog.html' alt='' /></div>Korey -Founder-http://www.blogger.com/profile/00925372355067878884noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3513343140091703363.post-25287385329774842752008-03-09T22:17:00.005-04:002008-04-25T10:53:50.991-04:00Title 18 U.S.C. § 1501<span style="font-family:times new roman;">A Process Server of this Network asks, "<em>what protections do I have as a process server in Massachusetts, if any?</em> . . . <em>Lets say that I am pushed down a flight of stairs while serving a subpoena issued by a United States Court because a person was pissed that they got served. What laws, if any, in Massachusetts, would assist me in getting justice?"</em></span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;"><strong>Answer:</strong> It is a violation of Federal Law to assault and/or wound a Process Server. Since Federal Law trumps State Law, I will only write about the Federal. It does not matter if you're a constable, deputy sheriff, appointed by the court to serve process (special process server), or a disinterested process server. All that matters is the following:</span><br /><ol><li><span style="font-family:times new roman;">you are serving court related process for a United States Court (subpoenas, motions, etc.); AND</span></li><li><span style="font-family:times new roman;">you are authorized by law or court rules to serve the process; AND</span></li><li><span style="font-family:times new roman;">the person who assaulted you knows, or should know, that you are a process server (this is why most process servers carry a badge and/or a process server ID); AND</span></li><li><span style="font-family:times new roman;">while serving the process, you were the victim of an assault.</span></li></ol><p><span style="font-family:times new roman;">If the aforementioned elements exist, then the person who pushed you down a flight of stairs has violated Federal Law and can be punished under Title 18 U.S.C. § 1501 (text of law appears below).</span></p><p><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Additionally, the above cited Federal Law makes it a crime for a person to do the following:</span></p><ol><li><span style="font-family:times new roman;"><span style="color:#cc0000;">obstruct</span> a process server who is serving court related process; OR</span></li><li><span style="font-family:times new roman;"><span style="color:#cc0000;">resist </span>a process server who is serving court related process; OR</span></li><li><span style="font-family:times new roman;"><span style="color:#cc0000;">oppose</span> a process server who is serving court related process; OR</span></li><li><span style="font-family:times new roman;"><span style="color:#cc0000;">beat</span> a process server who is serving court related process; OR</span></li><li><span style="font-family:times new roman;"><span style="color:#cc0000;">wound</span> a process server who is serving court related process.</span></li></ol><p><span style="font-family:times new roman;">I should add that the law applies to anyone who obstructs, resists, wounds, opposes, assaults, beats, or wounds a process server. It does not have to be from the person who is the recipient of the document you are serving. For instance, lets say you are at an apartment complex and someone comes running up to you and punches you in the nose. That person has violated the Federal Law.</span></p><p><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Most process servers carry a badge or some form of process server identification. Not because we are trying to impersonate police officers, but because we want to make darn sure that an attacker [or one who resists, obstructs, etc.] had reason to know that we were acting in an official capacity. Case law regarding Title 18 U.S.C. § 1501 tells us that the attacker [or one who resists, obstructs, etc.] does not have to know that we are serving process. Rather, they only need to know that a person is there for official business. Having a badge or ID hanging out in plain view implies "official business".</span></p><p align="center"><span style="font-family:times new roman;">=================================================</span></p><div align="center"><strong><span style="color:#006600;">Title 18 U.S.C. § 1501 - Assault on Process Server</span></strong></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:times new roman;color:#cc0000;">Whoever knowingly and willfully obstructs, resists, or opposes any officer of the United States, or other person duly authorized, in serving, or attempting to serve or execute, any legal or judicial writ or process of any court of the United States, or United States magistrate judge; or<br /><br />Whoever assaults, beats, or wounds any officer or other person duly authorized, knowing him to be such officer, or other person so duly authorized, in serving or executing any such writ, rule, order, process, warrant, or other legal or judicial writ or process—<br /><br />Shall, except as otherwise provided by law, be fined under this title or imprisoned not more than one year, or both.</span></div><div align="center"></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:times new roman;">=================================================</span></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3513343140091703363-2528738532977484275?l=www.ips-notary.com%2FNetwork-Blog.html' alt='' /></div>Korey -Founder-http://www.blogger.com/profile/00925372355067878884noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3513343140091703363.post-2787630549613473752008-03-09T16:51:00.004-04:002008-03-09T17:05:05.263-04:00Specific Functions of a Paralegal<span style="font-family:times new roman;">I was asked to describe the paralegal services I provide in the simplest way possible. Here is my brief explanation as how I see and interpret my paralegal services:
<br />
<br /><strong><em>The simplest explanation:</em></strong>
<br />I, as a paralegal, am a disinterested third party who is credible, in the eyes of the court of law, who acts as a mediator when disputes arise between two or more parties.
<br />
<br /><strong><em>Detailed explanation:</em></strong></span><strong><em>
<br /></em></strong><span style="font-family:times new roman;">I, as a paralegal, am a disinterested third party who is credible, in the eyes of the court of law, who acts as a mediator when disputes arise between two or more parties. I am not an attorney, although the court recognizes me as a legal professional who has very similar obligations and duties as an attorney licensed to practice law.
<br /></strong>
<br />As a paralegal I hold many different responsibilities, including, but not limited too the following:
<br /></span><ul><li><span style="font-family:times new roman;"><strong><span style="color:#cc6600;">Investigator</span></strong> = I must ensure that the information given to me is accurate. Additionally, I must investigate every aspect of a case I am requested to service – if there are any holes, it is my job to fill them.
<br /><span style="color:#ffffff;">--------------</span></span></li><li><span style="font-family:times new roman;"><strong><span style="color:#cc6600;">Mediator</span></strong> = When disputes arise between two or more parties it is my job to get the parties to communicate. For instance, if property is confiscated by the police, and the owner of the property questions the police officers actions, it is my job to ensure that the police officer provides the property owner with (1) proof of confiscation and (2) I must ensure that the confiscation was justified by researching the law (i.e., general laws, federal laws, court rules, case law, etc.). My main objective, however, is to get the parties to communicate. Always remember, "<em>where communication fails, confusion follows!</em>"
<br /><span style="color:#ffffff;">-------------------</span></span></li><li><span style="font-family:times new roman;"><strong><span style="color:#cc6600;">Dispute Resolution</span></strong> = If there is a dispute, I must follow the law and reach a legal resolution.
<br /><span style="color:#ffffff;">----------------------</span></span></li><li><span style="font-family:times new roman;"><strong><span style="color:#cc6600;">Enforcer of the Law</span></strong> = If a crime has been committed, it is my ethical duty to inform the proper authorities. I may also have to bring criminals up on charges and provide the prosecutors with the evidence needed to prove a criminal case beyond a reasonable doubt.
<br /><span style="color:#ffffff;">--------------------------</span></span></li><li><span style="font-family:times new roman;"><strong><span style="color:#cc6600;">Evidence Technician</span></strong> = When it comes to civil cases, I may be the one who has to safeguard evidence for use at trial for a client.
<br /><span style="color:#ffffff;">------------------------</span></span></li><li><span style="font-family:times new roman;"><strong><span style="color:#cc6600;">Advocate</span></strong> = It is the paralegal who may have to represent a client before government agencies, police departments, board meetings, etc. Most government agencies, private organizations, the legal community, etc. all recognize Paralegals.
<br /><span style="color:#ffffff;">-------------------------</span></span></li><li><span style="font-family:times new roman;"><strong><span style="color:#cc6600;">Counselor</span></strong> = When people are victimized, or families break up, I will be the one who will hear the clients story(ies). It is I who will comfort the client/victim and reassure them that things will get better.
<br /><span style="color:#ffffff;">---------------------------</span></span></li><li><strong><span style="font-family:times new roman;"><span style="color:#009900;">THE LIST CONTINUES</span>………</span></strong></li></ul>
<br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Many people believe that a paralegal is like a legal secretary whose only job function is to draft documents for lawyers. If only this was true, my job would be easy! LOL Sometimes I am required to work with an attorney, other times I work independently.
<br />
<br />Keep in mind that the above only deals with my paralegal services. I am also a Public Officer and [Court] Process Server.
<br />
<br />I hope this answers your question.
<br />
<br />
<br />--- KOREY ---</span> </em>
<br />
<br />
<br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3513343140091703363-278763054961347375?l=www.ips-notary.com%2FNetwork-Blog.html' alt='' /></div>Korey -Founder-http://www.blogger.com/profile/00925372355067878884noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3513343140091703363.post-27800047370867443932008-02-25T16:20:00.006-05:002008-04-20T10:35:00.837-04:00Process Server Badge & ID<span style="font-size:85%;">If you're interested in purchasing a high-quality Process Server badge like the one shown below, please </span><a href="http://www.ips-notary.com/store.html"><span style="font-size:85%;color:#3366ff;">visit our online store</span></a><span style="font-size:85%;">. Please note that the online store is currently being edited and more products will be made available in the future.</span> <div><br /><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 526px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 249px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" height="222" alt="" src="http://www.ips-notary.com/img/bdg_info.bmp" border="0" /><br /><div></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:arial;font-size:85%;">Currently you can purchase the following products: </span></div><ul><li><span style="font-family:arial;font-size:85%;">Process Server ID cards (PVC card)</span></li><li><span style="font-family:arial;font-size:85%;">Process Server Badge (high quality)</span></li><li><span style="font-family:arial;font-size:85%;">Notary Public ID cards (PVC card)</span></li></ul><p><span style="font-family:arial;font-size:85%;">If you have any suggestions, please </span><a href="mailto:Korey@IPS-Notary.com"><span style="font-family:arial;font-size:85%;">send us an email</span></a><span style="font-family:arial;font-size:85%;">.</span></p><br /><p><span style="font-family:arial;font-size:85%;">Thanks,<br />Korey</span></p></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3513343140091703363-2780004737086744393?l=www.ips-notary.com%2FNetwork-Blog.html' alt='' /></div>Korey -Founder-http://www.blogger.com/profile/00925372355067878884noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3513343140091703363.post-61080675217201521512008-02-07T16:15:00.000-05:002008-02-07T16:27:19.300-05:00Notary Members Take Notice<span style="font-family:lucida grande;color:#cc0000;">Attention Members:</span><br /><span style="font-family:lucida grande;color:#cc0000;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:lucida grande;color:#cc0000;">Please excuse the delay in my post. I've been extremely busy lately and haven't had the time to blog. </span><br /><span style="font-family:lucida grande;color:#cc0000;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:lucida grande;color:#cc0000;">A motion was made by Troy a month or two ago about proposed changes concerning the notaries public of this Network. (Scroll down and read his proposal).</span><br /><span style="font-family:lucida grande;color:#cc0000;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:lucida grande;color:#cc0000;">Our members have voted to accept his policy change. Therefore, the old text reads (pg. 73 of the Massachusetts Notary Public & Legal Support Network's manual):</span><br /><span style="font-family:lucida grande;color:#cc0000;"></span><br /><em><span style="font-family:lucida grande;color:#cc0000;">"Any commissioned Massachusetts Notary Public may become a member of this Network once their status is confirmed by the Governor's Council. However, a Notary may be denied membership if their commission has any valid complaints on file with the Commonwealth. . . What constitutes a “valid” complaint will be at the discretion of the Founder. . ."</span></em><br /><span style="font-family:lucida grande;color:#cc0000;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:lucida grande;color:#cc0000;">and shall be changed to:</span><br /><span style="font-family:lucida grande;color:#cc0000;"></span><br /><em><span style="font-family:lucida grande;color:#cc0000;">"A commissioned Notary Public, pursuant to MGL c. 222 s. 1, is eligible for membership in this Network if the Notary works in the legal field and has at least 1.5 years of experience as a practicing Notary Public. Otherwise, for all other Notaries Public not working in the legal field, the Notary must demonstrate, to the satisfaction of the Founder, that he/she is in full compliance with Executive Order 455 (04-04). If the Founder determines that the Notary Public has demonstrated compliance, a Certificate of Membership shall be issued in accordance with our policy."</span></em><br /><em><span style="font-family:lucida grande;color:#cc0000;"></span></em><br /><span style="font-family:lucida grande;color:#cc0000;">The new policy became active on the 1st of February 2008. If you have any questions or concerns about the change, feel free to </span><a href="mailto:ashley@ips-notary.com"><span style="font-family:lucida grande;color:#cc0000;">email me directly</span></a><span style="font-family:lucida grande;color:#cc0000;">.</span><br /><span style="font-family:lucida grande;color:#cc0000;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:lucida grande;color:#cc0000;">Thanks,</span><br /><span style="font-family:lucida grande;color:#cc0000;">Ashley</span><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3513343140091703363-6108067521720152151?l=www.ips-notary.com%2FNetwork-Blog.html' alt='' /></div>~Ashley~http://www.blogger.com/profile/00153538049346235603noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3513343140091703363.post-47831114465332058252008-01-29T15:23:00.000-05:002008-02-01T13:11:01.759-05:00SOP on Federal PropertyI had to laugh today. One of my process servers had to serve a document at Shriver Job Corps. It was a simple demand letter that any disinterested person could serve. Regardless, my server went inside Job Corps and asked to see the people he was attempting to serve. One person was unavailable so he served it on an agent of Job Corps. The other person was the head of security. He handed the gentleman the paper and the security guard looked up and said to him, <em>"do you know you're on Federal property?"</em> The guard went on to spew some bullshit story about how he, as an officer on federal property, cannot be served.<br /><br />My server explained to him that it doesn't matter what type of property it is. So, once again, the guy said, <em>"do you know you're on Federal property?"</em> Irritated, my process server said in a sarcastic tone, <em>"do you know you're only a security guard! I don't care if this is holy ground and you're the Pope!"</em><br /><br />He served the paper and walked away and the guard told him he'll be hearing from the director of Job Corps.<br /><br />Some people crack me up! ........................... I guess you had to be there. :)<br /><br /><br /><span style="color:#6600cc;">UPDATE: Although the guard tried to intimidate my process server, and after spewing crap about how he can't be served, Job Corps called my client and agreed to comply with the demand letter I drafted and had served. What happened to the process being voidable because it was served on "<em>Federal property</em>"? ---- Jackass, pure jackass. -ROTFLMAO-</span><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3513343140091703363-4783111446533205825?l=www.ips-notary.com%2FNetwork-Blog.html' alt='' /></div>Korey -Founder-http://www.blogger.com/profile/00925372355067878884noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3513343140091703363.post-40808358728343825102008-01-27T14:56:00.000-05:002008-01-27T15:01:48.660-05:00MEMBERSHIP WITH THIS NETWORK<span style="font-family:georgia;">As of January 2008, membership in this <em><strong>Network will be by invitation only</strong></em>. This new policy will not affect current members, however.<br /><br />Furthermore, every affiliate must possess two year's of experience and must pass a C.O.R.I. check. Anyone who has ever been convicted of a felony, any drug related offenses (under 10 years old), domestic abuse, and/or any crimes directed towards a police officer, will not be eligible for membership.<br /><br />There are no fees or dues owed once you become a member. Any money owed to you for services will be paid by the client requesting the service (i.e., attorney).</span><br /><span style="font-family:georgia;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:georgia;">Why the policy change? This matter was voted on by the current (800) members throughout Massachusetts -- 428 members voted in favor of this motion, while the remaining 372 members voted against this motion.</span><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3513343140091703363-4080835872834382510?l=www.ips-notary.com%2FNetwork-Blog.html' alt='' /></div>Korey -Founder-http://www.blogger.com/profile/00925372355067878884noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3513343140091703363.post-75912877569528428012008-01-09T11:28:00.000-05:002008-01-09T12:16:51.519-05:00Proposed Policy Change<span style="font-family:arial;">I'm proposing a new policy that will target notary public members. If you agree, you’re encouraged to login and vote. Also, I suggest letting Korey know of your thoughts regarding my policy change because nothing can be changed without his authorization.<br /><br />Last year, out of 1,800 (rounded) notary service requests, 56 clients complained about the notaries we sent to them -- 2% of the complaints dealt with improper notarizations; 59% dealt with the notaries showing up later then the scheduled times; and 39% of the complaints dealt with the notaries lack of knowledge concerning their duties as a notary public.<br /><br />Although 56 complaints out of 1,800 notarizations is relatively low, I want to have our Network provide the best possible notary services. Therefore, my proposed policy change will be as follows:<br /><br />The Massachusetts Notary Public & Legal Support Network's policy on Notary Public members is as follows (pg. 73):<br /><br /></span><span style="font-family:arial;"><em>"Any commissioned Massachusetts Notary Public may become a member of this Network once their status is confirmed by the Governor's Council. However, a Notary may be denied membership if their commission has any valid complaints on file with the Commonwealth. . . What constitutes a “valid” complaint will be at the discretion of the Founder. . ."<br /></em><br />I would like to delete that paragraph and have it read:<br /><br /><em>"A commissioned Notary Public, pursuant to MGL c. 222 s. 1, is eligible for membership in this Network if the Notary works in the legal field and has at least 1.5 years of experience as a practicing Notary Public. Otherwise, for all other Notaries Public not working in the legal field, the Notary must demonstrate, to the satisfaction of the Founder, that he/she is in full compliance with Executive Order 455 (04-04). If the Founder determines that the Notary Public has demonstrated compliance, a Certificate of Membership shall be issued in accordance with our policy."</em></span><br /><em><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span></em><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">Please login and vote either to accept this new policy or to reject it. Voting will end on January 31, 2008.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">Thanks,</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">Troy</span><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3513343140091703363-7591287756952842801?l=www.ips-notary.com%2FNetwork-Blog.html' alt='' /></div>Troy, "Primary" Memberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15653189897291358695noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3513343140091703363.post-4487667226312590892007-12-20T12:54:00.000-05:002007-12-20T13:20:53.697-05:00Notice to Members<span style="font-family:times new roman;">Thank you to all the members who have donated money to various Massachusetts Police Departments. More than $10,000.00 has been donated thanks to your contributions (yes I know, our website editor put the wrong amount on our home page :-] ). Police Officer's, EMT's, Firefighter's, etc. all do a wonderful public service and deserve respect and recognition for their work. As a legal support network, it's our duty to give back to them.</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Our Network has done a great job this year. Can you believe that we have delegated over 9,500 service requests since Feb 2007 - Dec 2007? It's true! Login for more facts about our Network for this year.</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;"></span><br /><strong><span style="font-family:times new roman;color:#cc0000;">From December 21<span style="font-size:78%;">st</span> to January 7<span style="font-size:78%;">th</span> we will not be delegating any services. We're closed between the aforementioned dates.</span></strong><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Happy holidays to you all and I'll see you at our New Year's Eve party. Remember, you may invite your family and two friends. For more information about our New Year's Eve party, please login.</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;"></span><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3513343140091703363-448766722631259089?l=www.ips-notary.com%2FNetwork-Blog.html' alt='' /></div>Korey -Founder-http://www.blogger.com/profile/00925372355067878884noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3513343140091703363.post-9708141439945745372007-12-03T11:38:00.000-05:002007-12-03T11:54:18.847-05:00Judge went off the rails<a href="http://www.ips-notary.com/uploaded_images/judge-778145.jpg"><img style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; CURSOR: hand" height="214" alt="" src="http://www.ips-notary.com/uploaded_images/judge-778139.jpg" width="173" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-family:times new roman;">So last Tuesday, Judge Robert Restaino was removed from the bench because of a bit of an outburst. Back in 2005, Judge Restaino was hearing a domestic violence case when someone’s cell phone went off. And the judge simply </span><a href="http://news.lp.findlaw.com/ap/o/51/11-27-2007/9ee6000697d583f7.html"><span style="font-family:times new roman;">went off the rails</span></a><span style="font-family:times new roman;">:<br /></span><br /><div><div align="center"><em><span style="font-family:times new roman;"><strong>"Everyone is going to jail. Every single person is going to jail in this courtroom unless I get that instrument now. If anybody believes I’m kidding, ask some of the folks that have been here for a while. You are all going."</strong></span></em></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:times new roman;">And sure enough, when nobody fessed up, the judge had all 46 people taken into custody and tossed into the city jail. Most posted bail, but the fourteen who couldn’t were shackled and bussed off to the county jail.</span></div><div> </div><div><span style="font-family:times new roman;">It didn’t take long for word of this story to get out, and after the press started calling later in the afternoon, Judge Restaino ordered everyone released.</span></div><div> </div><div align="center"><strong><span style="font-family:times new roman;">---------------------------------------------</span></strong></div><div align="left"><span style="font-family:times new roman;"></span> </div><div align="left"><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Imagine that you're in court supporting a friend when suddenly you hear someone's cell phone ringing. You think to yourself, "<em>ooohhh, that persons gonna get yelled at</em>!". When suddenly, the judge orders you, and everyone else in the courtroom, into custody!</span></div><div align="left"> </div><div align="left"><span style="font-family:times new roman;">I don't know about the rest of you, but I would be pissed!</span></div></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3513343140091703363-970814143994574537?l=www.ips-notary.com%2FNetwork-Blog.html' alt='' /></div>Korey -Founder-http://www.blogger.com/profile/00925372355067878884noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3513343140091703363.post-65170300155081640872007-11-23T20:47:00.000-05:002007-11-25T10:01:51.881-05:00Approved distance learning schools<span style="font-family:arial;font-size:85%;">The following distance learning schools/colleges have been approved by our Network:</span><br /><br /><ul><li><a href="http://www.theparalegalinstitute.edu/"><strong><span style="font-family:arial;font-size:85%;">The Paralegal Institute</span></strong></a><span style="font-family:arial;font-size:85%;"> -- an accredited two year college that offers various paralegal and criminal justice related programs. One of the oldest and most respected paralegal schools in the country.</span></li><li><a href="http://www.woli.com/"><strong><span style="font-family:arial;font-size:85%;">Washington Online Learning Institute</span></strong></a><span style="font-family:arial;font-size:85%;"> -- This school is regionally accredited and offers many programs relating to paralegal studies. The only downfall about this school is that they're fairly new. For all we know, the school might go out of business in a year or two. (Note: "fairly new" in this context = under 10 years old).</span></li><li><a href="http://www.blackstone.edu/"><span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><strong>Blackstone Career Institute</strong> </span></span></a><span style="font-family:arial;font-size:85%;">-- This school is accredited and offers basically the same courses that The Paralegal Institute offers.</span></li><li><a href="http://www.nationalparalegal.edu/"><strong><span style="font-family:arial;font-size:85%;">National Paralegal College</span></strong></a><span style="font-family:arial;font-size:85%;"> -- This college offers basically the same courses that Blackstone Career Institute and The Paralegal Institute offers. The downfall about this school is that they're fairly new. </span></li></ul><p><span style="font-family:arial;font-size:85%;">Our Network attorney has verified that all of the schools are licensed by the State they operate in and are accredited by an agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).</span></p><p><span style="font-family:arial;font-size:85%;">The attorney highly recommends </span><a href="http://www.theparalegalinstitute.edu/"><span style="font-family:arial;font-size:85%;">The Paralegal Institute</span></a><span style="font-family:arial;font-size:85%;"> because they have a wonderful curriculum and have been specializing in legal careers since 1974. The Paralegal Institute is one of the oldest paralegal schools in the country.</span></p><p><span style="font-family:arial;font-size:85%;">If any member would like the attorney to review any other distance learning school, please log in and submit the schools information. Remember, according to the USDE and CHEA, national accreditation and regional accreditation are equal. Most of the information you read on the Internet about the <em>regional accreditation v. national accreditation</em> controversy is outdated.</span></p><p></p><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3513343140091703363-6517030015508164087?l=www.ips-notary.com%2FNetwork-Blog.html' alt='' /></div>Korey -Founder-http://www.blogger.com/profile/00925372355067878884noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3513343140091703363.post-5007891287012131342007-11-16T08:06:00.000-05:002007-11-16T11:08:49.513-05:00MA Seal on Constable Badges<a href="http://www.ips-notary.com/uploaded_images/conbadge2-716267.JPG"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 102px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 145px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" height="162" alt="" src="http://www.ips-notary.com/uploaded_images/conbadge2-716262.JPG" width="102" border="0" /></a><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Thanks to Lyle R. Hasley, a Constable for Mashpee, our Network has learned that a Constable's badge should not bear the Sigil of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts unless he/she is in regular employment as a Constable. Furthermore, a Constable may not use the seal of the Commonwealth on any business advertisement, according to MGL.<br /></span><div></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:times new roman;">The <a href="http://www.ips-notary.com/SOP.html">'Process Server'</a> page, which has a Constable badge as an image, will be edited shortly.</span></div><div><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Thanks again Constable Hasley for bringing this matter to our attention. To those that may need a Constable and/or a Notary Public in the Mashpee area, be sure to contact:</span></div><br /><div align="center"></div><br /><div align="center"><strong>Lyle R. Hasley<br /></strong><strong>508-360-6575</strong></div><br /><div align="left"></div><br /><div align="left"></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3513343140091703363-500789128701213134?l=www.ips-notary.com%2FNetwork-Blog.html' alt='' /></div>Korey -Founder-http://www.blogger.com/profile/00925372355067878884noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3513343140091703363.post-17790050271052105702007-11-15T08:56:00.000-05:002007-11-15T09:06:00.126-05:00Constitutional Rights? What's that?<strong>To hell with your supposed Constitutional rights - we need our money!</strong><br /><br /><a href="http://www.ips-notary.com/uploaded_images/parking-tickets-788585.jpg"><img style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" height="200" alt="" src="http://www.ips-notary.com/uploaded_images/parking-tickets-788583.jpg" width="236" border="0" /></a><br />Boston and Washington, D.C. <a href="http://www.thenewspaper.com/news/20/2061.asp">are pissed off</a> about the fact that folks are going to court to contest parking tickets, taking away revenue from the cities. I mean, why should citizens take advantage of their right to have their day in court?<br /><br />So D.C. is phasing out the right to challenge any parking citation. And in Boston and other Massachusetts cities, folks <em>“cannot challenge a $100 parking ticket in court without first paying a $275 court fee,”</em> a fee which <strong>is not refunded</strong> if they’re ultimately found innocent.<br /><br />Looks like Bush’s attempt to turn our country into a Constitution-free zone is contagious.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.thenewspaper.com/news/20/2061.asp">Visit the full article by clicking here.</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3513343140091703363-1779005027105210570?l=www.ips-notary.com%2FNetwork-Blog.html' alt='' /></div>Korey -Founder-http://www.blogger.com/profile/00925372355067878884noreply@blogger.com0