Legal Research & Writing Portfolio

About This Portfolio

I am a second-year Paralegal Studies student with an interest in estate planning, probate law, civil litigation, and legal research.

I created this portfolio to share some of the work I have completed throughout my studies, along with independent research and articles I have written.

As I continue my education and gain more experience in the legal field, I plan to expand this portfolio to reflect what I have learned and the skills I have developed.

Legal Research & Case Analysis

One of the things I have enjoyed most about studying law is learning how to research legal questions and understand how courts reach their decisions.

Through my coursework, I have examined judicial opinions, researched legal issues, and applied legal rules to different situations.

Some of the areas I have studied include:

• Iowa probate and estate administration
• Civil litigation and procedure
• Evidence and admissibility
• Legal ethics and professional responsibility
• Legal research and writing

I plan to include selected case briefs, research memoranda, and other academic projects in this section.

Legal Document Preparation

Throughout my paralegal studies, I have gained experience preparing different types of legal documents.

Some of my academic projects have involved drafting motions, proposed orders, attorney fee agreements, and other documents commonly used in civil litigation.

I have also completed discovery review assignments involving the examination of documents, identification of relevant information, and consideration of potential privilege issues.

These assignments have helped me better understand the importance of accuracy, organization, and attention to detail in legal work.

Published Legal Writing

Since January 2025, I have written about estate planning, probate, and related legal questions through Wills, Trusts, and What Comes Next. The site includes 96 weekly articles and 21 monthly recaps.

My goal has always been to explain legal topics in a way that is easier to understand without overlooking the details that make them important.

Some of my published articles include:

• What Is an Estate Plan Supposed to Do?
• What Does a Will Actually Control?
• What Happens If You Die Without a Will in Iowa?
• What Happens During Probate?
• What Does an Executor Actually Do?

I intend to continue publishing articles regularly and exploring different topics relating to estate planning and probate law.

Professional Development

In addition to my education, I have been working to gain practical experience and become more involved in the legal profession.

I have earned my Iowa Notary Public commission, along with Intermediate Certifications in Westlaw and LexisNexis.

I am also a member of the Iowa Paralegal Association and a student member of NALA.

These experiences have given me opportunities to continue learning outside the classroom and better understand the legal profession.

Looking Ahead

As I continue my education, I want this portfolio to grow alongside my experience.

I plan to add more writing samples, legal research projects, and case analyses as I complete them.

Ultimately, I hope this portfolio will show not only the work I have completed, but also how my understanding of the law continues to develop.