The commission was established in 1996 to explore ways to improve access to civil justice for Californians living on low and moderate incomes. Over its 25 years while part of the State Bar, the commission was instrumental in establishing the $10 million Equal Access Fund for civil legal services to the indigent and worked closely with the Judicial Council to improve access to the courts. Effective October 1, 2019, the California Access to Justice Commission separated from the State Bar and is now an independent nonprofit benefit corporation. The State Bar and the commission will continue their partnership and work collaboratively on ensuring equal access to legal services for all Californians.