Not all is lost for the Limited License Legal Technician Program in Washington, thankfully. The above is a WA Supreme Court letter noticing plans to sunset the Limited License Legal Technician Program. Fortunately it’s a phase out plan that is not yet final, so there’s room to object to this before it’s effectuated.
Here’s the letter of dissent from Justice Madsen that very quickly followed (thank you, Justice Madsen!):
The loss of this program would be monumental, not just for the state of Washington, but for all other states working to advance access to justice initiatives. I’m hopeful the ABA steps in and offers feedback and support to keep this program up and running.
The Washington State Bar Association has updated information on their website to follow the progress through this potential transition. The LLLT Board has sought review of the Supreme Court decision, and is looking to offer guidance to LLLT candidates for the path forward.
WSBA has invited those interested in this initiative to submit comments to the Supreme Court about this decision. You can email the Supreme Court at supreme@courts.wa.gov and you can also see this information on the WSBA website at:
In case you’re wondering, below is a video about the LLLT program from the WA State Bar Association.
As we embark on the continued journey for equal access to justice, do your part and let your voice be heard. If you have any interest, whether personal or professional, in these initiatives intended to narrow the divide in our justice system I urge you to submit your feedback: supreme@courts.wa.gov
I have a deep passion for continued action to right our injustices and balance out our systems. Please see some other posts of mine (here and here and here) discussing licensing for non-attorney legal professionals, which I wholeheartedly believe is an effective pathway to help narrow the justice gap.
What do you think about licensing for non-lawyer legal advocates?
Do you think these initiatives will make an impact for the marginalized communities needing affordable, competent legal guidance?