Darlene Minter
Darlene Minter is a highly experienced paralegal and bankruptcy processor with over four decades of expertise in Georgia family law, personal consumer bankruptcy, and estate administration. Beginning her career in 1980 as a legal secretary and paralegal for her father, the late Fred W. Minter, Darlene gained extensive knowledge in areas such as divorce, child custody, adoption, and bankruptcy law. Her hands-on experience in legal work laid the foundation for her to launch her own business, Darlene's Paralegal Services, Inc., in 2001, which she later rebranded as Darlene’s Virtual Services in 2011 to incorporate small business accounting and tax preparation services. I was also forced to change the name, due to the fact that it is illegal for Georgia paralegals to advertise legal services to the public. There are strict rules that paralegals must always work under the supervision of an attorney. Throughout her career, Darlene has been committed to building strong relationships with attorneys and clients, providing comprehensive support in legal and financial matters. She has served as the exclusive paralegal for Attorney Dennis J. Murphy, handling bankruptcy cases, electronic filing, and other legal assignments, while also managing bookkeeping, tax preparation, and accounting for a wide range of clients. Her dedication to precision and client support has earned her a reputation for reliability and expertise, making her a trusted partner for both legal professionals and individuals navigating complex financial or legal processes. In addition to her professional achievements, Darlene holds a Paralegal Certificate from American Institute For Paralegal Studies and a Bachelor’s degree in Urban Life-Social Work from Georgia State University. She is also a Certified Bankruptcy Assistant and a Georgia Notary Public. In 2022, Darlene earned her professional designation as an Enrolled Agent from Internal Revenue Services. This is the highest honor bestowed on tax professionals, by IRS, on individuals who pass their difficult, 3 part exam, on individuals and business tax law. To keep this designation, Darlene must complete a certain number of continuing education credits, every year. Outside of her work, Darlene shares her knowledge through posts offering practical advice on taxes, bookkeeping, and financial organization, reflecting her passion for helping clients achieve clarity and control in their personal and business finances. Her career reflects a rare combination of legal acumen, financial expertise, and a genuine commitment to serving others.
• Certified Bankruptcy Assistant
• Georgia State University- B.S.
• Certified Bankruptcy Assistant
• NATP
• Church music
What do you attribute your success to?
Knowledge of my field, having the right contacts, a willingness to work hard
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
My parents instilled a work ethic in me, when I was very young. I grew up in a family legal business, working with both my father and mother. My father was an attorney, for over 50 years, in the Metro Atlanta, Georgia area. My father gave me my first job, at age 15, in his law office. After a detour, as a student nurse for a year, then a caseworker in the local welfare department, for 6 years, I returned to the law office, full time, in 1980, then started my business in 2000. From my parents, I learned that you must spend a certain number of hours, working to earn a living. You can play, but only after you have completed your work. The biggest problem I see, in younger generations, is that many are not willing to work. They expect to get riches, but don’t want to work the hours necessary to get it.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
You must be prepared to work hard and long hours, when necessary, to meet many deadlines. It is important that you pay attention to details, that you enjoy serving others, and you are dedicated to your work.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in my work and personal life are integrity and my Christian faith, which guide every decision I make. I am inspired by the dedication of my parents and my father’s example in the legal field, and I express my creativity and service through music, choir, and knitting or crocheting gifts for those in need.