Partner Jim McManis spoke at the Legal Professionals Incorporated (LPI) Quarterly Educational Conference on August 9, 2025, in San Jose, CA. Jim emphasized the importance of teamwork and underscored the value of legal support staff, noting that staff is an integral part of the legal team. The conference was hosted by the Santa Clara County Legal Professionals Association (SCCoLPA).
LPI serves all California legal professionals, including paralegals, legal assistants, legal secretaries, support staff, and lawyers. LPI’s conferences provide continuing legal education seminars and workshops, as well as networking opportunities, to its members.
“Jim McManis is a pillar of the San Jose legal community, and it is always a pleasure to hear him speak so passionately on the legal profession and the professional development of its key players, including legal support staff,” said Elise Dresser, Vice President of SCCoLPA and a legal assistant at McManis Faulkner. “His tremendous insight, gleaned over more than 50 years, is beneficial and influential to all who take it in, and I’m glad our participants got the opportunity to hear Jim speak.”
Dresser is a long-time active member of both LPI and SCCoLPA. In 2009, she earned her California Certified Legal Secretary (CCLS) certification, then served as CCLS Certifying Board Chair and Assistant Editor on LPI’s Publications Revision Committee. She is currently the State Parliamentarian for LPI. She is also a Past President of SCCoLPA, and is currently serving as its Vice President.