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August 6, 2026
Press Releases

Behind every successful case, every smoothly closed transaction, and every well-prepared filing, a paralegal is making it happen. National Paralegal Day is our opportunity to recognize the professionals who are essential to our legal teams, the ones who keep cases on track and support clients every step of the way.

This year, we asked several of our paralegals to reflect on their careers, the skills they rely on most, and what they want clients and the public to know about their work. Here is what they shared.

What drew you to a career as a paralegal, and what made McNees the right place to build that career?

Kelliann Bolash: I thought I wanted to become a lawyer, but after working as a legal assistant, I discovered I wanted to help in a different capacity. I earned my Paralegal Certificate while working full-time, and when I needed a new job, I found McNees. The attorneys and paralegals here were patient, kind, and always willing to help me grow.

Alisha Cromer: My aunt is a paralegal, and her love for her job inspired me to pursue a similar career. McNees offered my ideal work environment: supportive, collaborative, and embracing of individuality and work-life balance.

Bonnie Daminger: I always had a natural talent for writing and an interest in law, but knew I did not want to be an attorney. McNees is a well-respected firm that offers many opportunities for growth as a family law paralegal.

Susan Heberlig: After learning the trademark paralegal role at firms in Washington, D.C., and North Carolina, I moved back to Central Pennsylvania. McNees was the only nearby firm with a trademark practice, so I began knocking on the door. How happy I was to be hired 32 years ago! And what a fantastic bonus to find that it was a great place to work.

Julie Ann Lindsley: After graduating from college, I knew I wanted to work in law. I heard great things about McNees while pursuing my paralegal studies. From starting as a legal secretary to now being a paralegal, I have the privilege of working alongside great colleagues and becoming a better paralegal and person every day.

Lisa Miller: I was drawn to a career as a paralegal because I enjoy detail-oriented work, the legal environment, and helping others. When I joined McNees, the confidence and enthusiasm of my team reinforced my belief that I was joining the right organization

Terry Snyder: When I started, the paralegal profession was not yet fully established. I was lucky to have great attorneys who pushed me to do more. The group I work with at McNees respects my experience and gives me a seat at the table when discussing strategies, practices, and procedures.

What experiences have most shaped the way you support cases from behind the scenes?

Kelliann: I have learned the importance of being proactive rather than reactive. The most rewarding experience has been supporting clients through difficult moments. Knowing that careful preparation and compassion can help reduce their stress is meaningful.

Alisha: Positive feedback from clients has shaped how I support cases daily. Knowing I am attentive to their needs makes a difference.

Bonnie: Building relationships with both the attorneys and the clients. It matters.

Julie: Getting to know my clients personally helps me tailor each estate and trust administration to their specific needs and support them as efficiently as possible.

Lisa: Preparation, attention to detail, and proactive communication are essential. I try to solve problems before the attorneys even know there was one.

Terry: Mentorship is key. If you know why you are drafting a document or preparing a filing, it is much easier to anticipate your group’s needs.

What is one skill you rely on every day?

Kelliann: Communication. I am consistently in contact with attorneys, clients, court officials, and financial institutions. Clear communication is essential to getting our jobs done.

Alisha: I rely on numerous skills daily, but if I had to pick one, it would be problem-solving.

Bonnie: Communication.

Julie: Communication. Being effective in my communication with attorneys, paralegals, and clients ensures everyone’s needs are met.

Lisa: Organization.

Terry: Communication. Asking questions and confirming information are key to completing tasks and maintaining good working relationships.

How do you collaborate with the attorneys you support, and what do you wish more people understood about the paralegal role?

Kelliann: My role is to anticipate needs: tracking deadlines, preparing filings, and ensuring documents are accurate. I wish more people understood that paralegals do far more than administrative tasks. We serve as the operational backbone of a case.

Alisha: Each attorney has different preferences, so how I collaborate varies. I wish more people understood that there may be a dedicated paralegal working tirelessly behind the scenes.

Bonnie: I am involved in nearly every aspect of client matters in the Family Law Group. Paralegals are integral to keeping cases on track, and we are highly focused within our departments.

Julie: I collaborate by working alongside attorneys, asking questions, and observing their practice. Paralegals ensure that all the little details are taken care of and see each matter through to completion.

Lisa: I prioritize understanding each attorney’s preferences and case strategy. Paralegals are the operational backbone of a case. We connect all the pieces, from gathering records to preparing case materials.

Terry: Having set check-ins to discuss progress is a great way to collaborate. Paralegals can be much more helpful if kept in the loop on the overall project.

Why does National Paralegal Day matter to you?

Kelliann: Every successful case is supported by countless hours of preparation. Our work creates a strong foundation that allows attorneys to advocate effectively for their clients.

Alisha: National Paralegal Day recognizes the importance of our work. I want clients to know that our support and dedication help cases proceed smoothly and hopefully exceed their expectations.

Bonnie: Paralegals sometimes get lost in the shuffle. We are not attorneys, but we are not standard support staff either. Pro tip: If you are nice to paralegals, your case will always take priority.

Julie: National Paralegal Day makes me feel appreciated and lets me know that paralegals are valued in the legal field. I find great joy in serving my colleagues and clients alike.

Lisa: Paralegals work diligently behind the scenes: researching, organizing, drafting documents, and coordinating communications. A paralegal’s commitment and knowledge are essential to achieving successful outcomes.

Terry: The attorney knows the law, but the paralegal makes sure deadlines are met, filings are correctly submitted, and the case moves ahead smoothly. We are also a significant part of the firm’s public image.

At McNees, our paralegals are trusted professionals, problem solvers, and client advocates who bring dedication, skill, and heart to everything they do. We are proud to celebrate them today and every day.