Confess, Correct, Continue: Handling Errors Professionally – Q2 2026 Facts & Findings
In the world of civil litigation, some errors are more detrimental than others. None of us wants to be defaulted, to miss an admission response deadline, or to file an untimely witness list. Experience in this field often means you or someone in your legal circle has already learned what not to do.
Over the years, I have seen staff shed real tears over postage stamps that were printed incorrectly. I have witnessed fellow paralegals accidentally spend $3,000 in an afternoon searching for case law. I was part of a team that endured a mistrial, then lost the second trial. I once scheduled a deposition for a local physician, but failed to hire a court reporter.
These things happen, or can happen, to anyone. We all make mistakes, but it is what you learn from your mistakes that shapes who you are as a paralegal. What you may not know is that many mistakes can be fixed. While I am in no way suggesting you test this statement, I am highly encouraging you to tell your supervisor immediately when a mistake is caught, take responsibility for your mistakes, and have compassion for those in the same position.
Once you notice an error, it is important to let your attorney know. Not only is your attorney ultimately responsible for your work, but they can often help in quick and efficient ways you might not know are available. The error response timeline in law is usually critical, especially when corrections and revisions need to be made. A simple conferral between two reasonable lawyers can resolve many errors.
Additionally, owning up to your faults can build trust. Trust is earned, remembered, and frequently rewarded within any office. Admitting your mistakes is noble. Who is going to get the promotion – the employee who creates chaos by diverting reprimand and leaving others to clean up their mess, or the transparent employee who helps to fix problems in a timely
manner?
Lastly, consider letting someone know about their mistake privately instead of publicly. That grace can go a long way in fostering trust. You can even help them resolve the situation. Compassion allows everyone to do better. Do not embarrass or insult someone you work with. Remember not to put anything in writing that you would not want to see attached to a motion.
I have been in the legal field for close to 30 years. While I do not have all the answers, I usually know where to find them. Despite being very busy with board commitments, I still make time for learning and rarely miss a free CLE. I make an effort to take the high road, admit to my mistakes, and inform my supervising attorney as soon as possible.
Over the past few years, it has been hard to keep up with rule changes here in Florida. Case management orders were part of COVID-19’s repercussions. Additionally, there have been significant shifts in litigation deadlines, discovery, and disclosures. With very few continuances granted under our new 18-month timeline, a paralegal’s job has become more stressful. My advice is to cut yourself some slack, stay focused, and do not be afraid to use those vacation days. Remember that, while no one is infallible, our failings are often fixable.
Katie Vitale Kimball, FRP, has been a Florida litigation paralegal for almost 30 years and has been in insurance defense with RumbergerKirk in Orlando since 2021. She is the President-elect of the Paralegal Section of the Orange County Bar Association. She and her husband live in Maitland, Florida, and enjoy various sporting events, theatre, and opera.
email: kkimball@rumberger.com
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