News Releases

State Bar’s Paraprofessional Program Working Group To Hold First Meeting

A newly established State Bar working group charged with developing recommendations for the creation of a paraprofessional licensure/certification program to increase access to legal services holds its first meeting on April 21. Meeting Agenda.

“We are excited to tackle this new initiative that will better our efforts to increase access to justice for all Californians through licensing paraprofessionals,” said Donna Hershkowitz, Interim Executive Director of the State Bar of California.

The working group, chaired by Chris Iglesias, State Bar Trustee and CEO of The Unity Council, will be responsible for developing specific recommendations that will include eligibility requirements to apply for the program, practice areas to be included in the program, and types of tasks by practice areas that paraprofessionals will be permitted to perform.

During its public first meeting, the working group will hear public comment, review previous efforts to explore a California paraprofessional program, and begin to brainstorm practice areas for consideration.

A final report and recommendations will be submitted to the Board of Trustees by July 31, 2021. In keeping with the State Bar’s Strategic Plan goals and objectives, each recommendation is expected to balance the dual goals of ensuring public protection and increasing access to legal services.

The working group will be comprised of 16 members representing various stakeholder groups that have subject matter expertise to support the study of a paraprofessional program. Roster.

Further information about the working group is available on the State Bar website. Fact Sheet.

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The State Bar of California's mission is to protect the public and includes the primary functions of licensing, regulation and discipline of attorneys; the advancement of the ethical and competent practice of law; and support of efforts for greater access to, and inclusion in, the legal system.