Allied Legal Professionals

IAALS, the Institute for the Advancement of the American Legal System at the University of Denver, recently released its new report, Allied Legal Professionals: A National Framework for Program Growth. As part of their Allied Legal Professionals project, this report includes “multiple research-informed recommendations to help standardize a new tier of legal professionals across states, with the goal of increasing the options for accessible and affordable legal help for the public.”

“This June 2023 report summarizes the stakeholder discussions at our 2022 convening, including convergence on best practices for ALP programs, areas of divergence between program approaches, and lessons learned from existing programs. The heart of the report details the various components of state ALP programs and 18 high-level recommendations covering program title, practice areas, attorney supervision, in-court representation, education, testing requirements, and other areas. IAALS hopes this framework of national recommendations can serve as a guide for states considering, implementing, or refining ALP programs.”

Allied Legal Professionals: A National Framework for Program Growth, IAALS

One of the most striking things to me is how many voices are getting behind this initiative! For years I’ve dreamed of working as a paralegal in service to those most in need of legal resources. To see so many states assessing how to better enable access is like seeing my dreams come to life. These visions were what guided me on this path in the first place. The full circle nature of this career path has been nothing short of spectacular thus far. I can’t wait to see what’s next on my journey.

How do you look to use your voice in your occupation or profession?
Did you know that the average American household will have at least one incident or experience that will require engagement of legal services?
If the average cost of an attorney is anywhere from $150 – 500 an hour, how can the average American afford those necessary and often vital legal resources?

I’d love to hear your thoughts on the access to justice movement. Please leave a comment on the blog or send me an email at kelli@klrparalegal.com

Here’s the press release for the IAALS report.