April 2007
FYI
American Bar Association (ABA) House of Delegates
Application deadline: May 15, 2007
The WSBA Board of Governors is accepting letters of interest and résumés from members interested in serving on the ABA House of Delegates representing the WSBA. Three positions, one of which is for a member under 35 years of age, will be available in August 2007. A written expression of interest and résumé are required for any incumbents seeking reappointment.
The control and administration of the ABA are vested in the House of Delegates, the policymaking body of the ABA. The House, composed of approximately 550 delegates, elects the ABA officers and board, and meets out of state twice a year. Delegate attendance is required. The WSBA's allowance is $800 per year per delegate. Terms are two years, and members may serve a maximum of three consecutive terms. Those serving on the ABA House of delegates must be ABA members in good standing throughout their terms. Submit a letter of interest and résumé to WSBA Bar Leaders Division, 1325 Fourth Ave., Ste. 600, Seattle, WA 98101-2539; or e-mail barleaders@wsba.org.
Commission on Judicial Conduct
Application deadline: May 15, 2007
The WSBA Board of Governors is seeking applicants interested in serving on the Commission on Judicial Conduct. Two positions are available: one as a member and one as an alternate.
The Commission reviews complaints of ethical misconduct against judicial officers, discusses the progress of investigations, and takes action to resolve complaints. The goal of the Commission is to maintain confidence and integrity in the judicial system by seeking to preserve both judicial independence and public accountability. The public interest requires a fair and reasonable process to address judicial misconduct or disability, separate from the judicial appeals system that allows individual litigants to appeal legal errors.
The Commission consists of 11 members who serve four-year terms — six nonlawyer citizens, three judges, and two lawyers. Each member has an alternate whose term coincides with their corresponding member's term. The lawyers must be admitted to practice in Washington and are appointed by the WSBA. Incumbents are eligible for reappointment, limited to two terms as an alternate member and two terms as a full member. Letters of interest and résumés are also required for incumbents seeking reappointment. The term for this alternate position will commence on June 17, 2007, and expire on June 16, 2011. Please submit a letter of interest and résumé to WSBA Bar Leaders Division, 1325 Fourth Ave., Ste. 600, Seattle, WA 98101-2539; or e-mail barleaders@wsba.org.
Further information about the Commission can be found at their website, www.cjc.state.wa.us, or by contacting them at 360-753-4585.
WSBA Presidential Search
The WSBA Board of Governors is seeking applicants for the position of WSBA president for 2008-2009. Pursuant to Article IV (A)(2) of the WSBA Bylaws, the primary place of business of candidates for president for 2008-2009 must be King County. The WSBA member selected to be president will have an opportunity to provide a significant contribution to the legal profession.
Applications for 2008-2009 WSBA president will be accepted through May 15, 2007, and should be limited to a current résumé, a concise application letter stating interest and qualifications, and no fewer than five or more than 10 references. The Board of Governors will consider endorsement letters received by May 18, 2007. Applications and endorsement letters should be sent to the WSBA Executive Director, 1325 Fourth Ave., Ste. 600, Seattle, WA 98101.
Direct contact with the Board of Governors is encouraged. All candidates will have an interview with the full Board of Governors in open session at the June 1 meeting. Following the interviews, the Board will select the president.
Although prior experience on the WSBA's Board of Governors may be helpful, there is no requirement that one must have been a member of the Board of Governors or had previous experience in Bar activities. The candidate must be willing to devote a substantial number of hours to WSBA affairs and be capable of being a positive representative for the legal profession.
The position is unpaid. Some expenses, such as WSBA-related travel, are reimbursed.
The commitment begins in June 2007 following selection. A one-year term as president-elect will begin at the Annual Business Meeting in September 2007. The president-elect is expected to attend the two-day board meetings held approximately every five to six weeks, as well as numerous subcommittee, section, regional, national, and local meetings. In September 2008, at the WSBA Annual Business Meeting, the president-elect will assume the position as president. During his or her service, the president-elect and president will also be required to meet with members of the Bar, the courts, the media, and public and legal interest groups, as well as be involved in the Bar's legislative activities. Appropriate time will need to be devoted to communication by letter, e-mail, and telephone in connection with these responsibilities.
The duties and responsibilities of the president are set forth in the WSBA Bylaws.
Seeking Questionnaires from Candidates for Judicial Appointments
Deadline: 5:00 p.m., May 11, 2007, for June 13, 2007, interview
The WSBA Judicial Recommendation Committee (JRC) is currently accepting questionnaires from attorneys and judges seeking consideration for appointment to fill potential Washington State Supreme Court and Court of Appeals vacancies. Interested individuals will be interviewed by the Committee on the dates listed above. The JRC's recommendations are reviewed by the WSBA Board of Governors and referred to Governor Gregoire for consideration when making judicial appointments. Materials must be received by the deadlines listed above at the WSBA office. To obtain a questionnaire, visit the WSBA website at www.wsba.org/lawyers/groups/judicial
recommendation or contact the WSBA at 206-727-8212 or 800-945-9722, ext. 8212, or barleaders@wsba.org.
WYLD President-Elect and Trustee Applications Sought
Young lawyers interested in serving on the WYLD Board of Trustees are invited to submit applications for the following positions: trustee, at-large; trustee, King County District; trustee, Snohomish County District; trustee, Southwest District; trustee, Spokane County District; and president-elect, Washington state. Applications must be received by 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, May 1, 2007. For detailed information and application instructions, please visit www.wsba.org/lawyers/groups/wyld/default.htm.
WSBA Leadership Institute Seeks Fellows for 2008
The WSBA seeks applicants for the 2008 WSBA Leadership Institute. The Leadership Institute recognizes that many lawyers, especially those from diverse backgrounds and other underrepresented groups, have not been traditionally recruited for leadership positions or made aware of opportunities for leadership training, skill development, and professional growth available through the WSBA. Ten to 12 attorneys, in practice for three to 10 years, will be carefully selected for the fourth year of the program. The program will take place January to August 2008.
The program is a collaborative, experiential, and individualized curriculum that includes eight professional-development seminars. WSBA Leadership Institute fellows will benefit from the latest trends in professional leadership development; exposure to the legislative and judicial systems; interaction with high-level state and local officials and judges; and opportunities to meet high-profile attorneys from the private and public sectors. The program requires a two-year commitment. Following the completion of the first year, fellows are expected to serve on a WSBA section or committee, or bar-related activity. Fellows will earn a minimum of 30 CLE credits, and the program is no charge to participants.
To be considered for the program, applicants must: (1) complete an application with cover letter, résumé, and three references; (2) be an active WSBA member; (3) have practiced law in a U.S. jurisdiction for three to 10 years, i.e., any attorney who has been admitted in a U.S. jurisdiction between January 1, 1998, to December 31, 2005, meets this criterion; (4) be nominated by his/her employer, or if self-employed, by another individual; and (5) provide evidence of interest in community and WSBA activities. Applications for the 2008 WSBA Leadership Institute will be available June 1, 2007. The deadline for applications for the 2008 Leadership Institute will be early September 2007. Application and nomination forms and instructions will be available on the WSBA website at www.wsba.org/lawyers/leadership_institute.htm. For further information, contact Camille Campbell at camillec@wsba.org or 206-239-2116.
Paula Littlewood Selected as New WSBA Executive Director
The Board of Governors is pleased to announce that after an extensive nationwide search, Paula Littlewood has been selected as the new WSBA executive director. She will begin her duties in May, upon the retirement of Executive Director Jan Michels. Paula, who has served as WSBA deputy executive director since September 2003, is known to many WSBA members and is eminently qualified for the position. WSBA President Ellen Conedera Dial said: "Paula has impressed us all with her deep commitment to the values and mission of the WSBA, to the interests and concerns of the WSBA staff, and to the future of the legal profession." Congratulations, Paula!
2007 License Fee Payment Deadline and Suspension Information
2007 License Fee Payment Deadline. If your payment is postmarked or delivered in person to the WSBA offices after April 2, 2007, a 50 percent penalty fee will be assessed.
Presuspension Notice. A presuspension notice was issued in mid-March to those members who had not paid their 2007 license fees. If you received a presuspension notice and have paid your license fees, you can confirm receipt by the WSBA 10 days after you sent your payment by checking online at http://pro.wsba.org or contacting the WSBA Service Center at 206-443-WSBA (9722), 800-945-WSBA (9722) or questions@wsba.org.
Important Note About Unpaid License Fees. If any portion of the license fee, penalty or assessment remains unpaid two months after WSBA issues a presuspension notice, the Supreme Court will enter an order suspending you from the practice of law in this state.
2007 License Fee Packets. Licensing packets were mailed in December 2006. The packet includes your license fee invoice, trust account declaration form and, if applicable, the MCLE certification form. If you have not received your licensing packet by now, please call the WSBA Service Center at 800-945-WSBA (9722) or 206-443-WSBA (9722), or e-mail questions@wsba.org to request a duplicate. Please note that it is your responsibility to pay your annual license fee, regardless of whether you receive the licensing packet. Active members must complete, sign and return a Trust Account Declaration and, if applicable, an MCLE certification form. There may be other forms included in the packet that you wish to complete and return, such as updating your contact information or reporting Pro Bono hours.
If You Are Mailing Your Forms and Payment. The return envelopes for your forms and payments have instructions on the reverse side for improvement in processing and ease of use. Please review them carefully before mailing your forms and payment. The white envelope should be used for returning your licensing form (A2) with a check payment. The blue envelope should be used for your licensing form when making a payment by credit card. Also use the blue envelope for mailing the Trust Account Declaration, MCLE certification form and any voluntary forms.
If You Are Paying Your Fees Online. To pay your fees online, go to our website http://www.wsba.org, click on the "For Lawyers" tab and select "Pay License Fee Online." Sign in with your WSBA Bar No. and password. Prompts will lead you through the process to pay your 2007 license fees by MasterCard or Visa. The system only allows payments for the full amount billed, e.g., no Keller deductions or status changes. Note that you do not need to return the A2 form if you pay online. If you are an active member, there are other forms in the packet that must be postmarked or delivered to the WSBA office by the due date. There are other voluntary forms in the packet that you may want to complete and return to the WSBA as well.
Trust Account Declaration. The Trust Account Declaration included in your licensing packet must be completed by all active members regardless of whether or not you have a trust account. Failure to file this form can result in disciplinary action.
WSBA Members on Active Military Duty. All requests for the Armed Forces Exemption (AFE) must have been postmarked or delivered to the Association offices on or before March 1. WSBA Bylaw II.E.1.b., providing for a fee exemption for eligible members of the Armed Forces, was amended in March 2006. Please contact the WSBA Service Center at 800-945-WSBA or 206-443-WSBA, or questions@wsba.org; or contact Kevin McKee at kevinm@wsba.org or 206-727-8243 for application information.
Contact Information. Please ensure that the WSBA has your correct contact information in its database. APR 13.b states address updates shall be provided to the WSBA within 10 days after the change. APR 13(c) provides as follows:
Electronic mail address: An attorney should advise the Washington State Bar Association of a current business electronic mail address if one exists. An attorney whose business electronic mail address changes should, within 10 days after the change, notify the Executive Director of the Washington State Bar Association, who shall forward changes weekly to the Office of the Clerk of the Supreme Court for entry into the state computer system. Use of electronic mail addresses for court notice, service and filing must comply with GR 30.
You can go to the online lawyer directory on the WSBA website at http://pro.wsba.org to check your listing. If your contact information has changed, please complete and return the Contact Information Change form included in the license packet. Forms should be returned to the address shown on the form or by fax to 206-727-8313, or e-mail the changes to questions@wsba.org.
More Information. Full explanations of license fees, forms, policies, and deadlines are on the WSBA website at www.wsba.org/lawyers/licensing/annuallicensing.htm. Also, the WSBA Service Center is available to assist you Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., at 800-945-WSBA (9722), 206-443-WSBA (9722) or by e-mail at questions@wsba.org.
MCLE Certification for Group 3 (2004-2006)
If you are an active WSBA member in MCLE Reporting Group 3 (2004-2006), you should have received your Continuing Legal Education Certification (C2/C3) forms in the license packet that was mailed in early December. The deadline for returning the C2/C3 form to the WSBA was February 1. Any C2/C3 forms delivered to the WSBA or postmarked after March 1 were assessed a late fee.
Members in Group 3 include active members who were admitted to the WSBA in 1984-1990 or in 1993, 1996, 1999, or 2002. Members admitted in 2005 are also in Group 3 but are not due to report until the end of 2009. Their first reporting period will be 2007-2009; however, any credits earned on or after the day of admittance to the WSBA may be counted for compliance.
The Continuing Legal Education Certification (C2/C3) form that you received in your license packet is a declaration that lists all the MCLE Board-approved courses that were in your MCLE online profile for the 2004-2006 reporting period as of mid-October 2006. If you took other courses after mid-October, you can add these to the back of the C2/C3 form. The C2/C3 form, not your online profile, is the official record of MCLE compliance. The original copy of the C2/C3 form must be returned to the WSBA to meet compliance requirements.
All MCLE Board-approved courses that you list on your C2/C3 form must have an Activity ID number. This number is listed in your online MCLE profile and is assigned at the time that the Form 1 for each course is input to the MCLE system.
If you have taken courses that have not yet been approved by the MCLE Board, please submit Form 1s for these courses immediately to ensure that they are approved before your C2/C3 is due. A "Certificate of Attendance" or other sponsor-provided certification will not be sufficient to receive course credit. If the sponsor has not received course accreditation from the Washington MCLE Board, you must submit a Form 1 application and full agenda for the course in order to receive credit. Because of high volumes from October through February, Form 1s submitted electronically (at http://pro.wsba.org) could take up to four weeks or more to process. Paper Form 1s may take up to six weeks or more to process. If you submit a paper Form 1, you will be notified by mail of its Activity ID number.
If you were not able to meet the credit requirement by December 31, 2006, and need more time to complete your credits, an automatic extension will be granted until May 1, 2007. There is no need to apply for it. However, a late fee will be assessed if you took any courses after December 31 that are needed for compliance or if your C2/C3 form is submitted late. If this is the first reporting period in which you will not meet MCLE compliance requirements, the late fee will be $150. The late fee increases by $300 for each consecutive reporting period you are late in meeting MCLE requirements.
If you have questions about the Form 1 process or MCLE compliance, please contact the WSBA Service Center at 800-945-WSBA (9722) or 206-443-WSBA (9722), or e-mail questions@wsba.org.
MCLE Certification for Active Members — Due Date for MCLE Reporting
WSBA members are divided into three MCLE reporting groups based on year of admission. (Newly admitted members are exempt. See "Newly Admitted Members" below.)
Group 1: Admitted through 1975, 1991, 1994, 1997, 2000, 2003, or 2006
Group 2: Admitted in 1976 through 1983, 1992, 1995, 1998, 2001, or 2004
Group 3: Admitted in 1984 through 1990, 1993, 1996, 1999, 2002, or 2005
Reporting Group Next Reporting Period Complete Credits by File C2 Form by
Group 3 2004-2006 December 31, 2006 February 1, 2007
Group 1 2005-2007 December 31, 2007 February 1, 2008
Group 2 2006-2008 December 31, 2008 February 1, 2009
Credit Requirements. The following credit requirements must be met by December 31 of the last year of an active member's reporting period:
• At least 45 total credits of MCLE Board-approved CLE activities must be taken, which need to include a minimum of 30 live credits and six ethics credits. The courses must meet the requirements of APR 11, but they do not need to be taken in Washington state. Many courses are offered around the world which meet the requirements of APR 11. "Live" courses include classroom instruction, live webcasts (not pre-recorded webcasts), and teleconferences. "Ethics" courses, and segments of larger courses, must meet the requirements of APR 11 Regulation 101(n) or (o) to be considered for ethics credit.
• Pre-recorded self-study (A/V) courses cannot be more than five years old, except MCLE Board-approved "skills-based" courses. Pre-recorded self-study courses include the traditional audio-visual (A/V) media of video tapes and cassette tapes. They also include archived webcasts, DVDs, compact discs, and other media with a soundtrack of the MCLE Board-approved course presentation. Written materials should be included with these courses and reviewed prior to claiming credit. In addition, written materials must be purchased by each member, where required by the sponsor, prior to claiming credit.
• Six pro bono credits can be earned per year. Two of these credits are for approved annual training, which must be taken prior to being able to earn credit for the pro bono work. Four pro bono credits may be earned each year if at least four hours of pro bono work were provided through a qualified legal services provider.
Carry-over CLE Credits. Carry-over credits from the previous reporting period may be used to meet the requirements of the current reporting period. If your current reporting period credits total exceeds 45, you may carry over a maximum combined total of 15 credits to your next reporting period. Only two ethics credits and five A/V credits may be carried over.
C2/C3 Reporting Requirement. All active members due to report are required to file a Continuing Legal Education Certification (C2/C3) form listing all CLE courses taken for credit compliance. The deadline for filing your C2/C3 form is February 1 of the year following the end of your reporting period. Note:
• Your online roster is not a substitute for filing the C2/C3 form.
• The C2/C3 form is a declaration and must be signed and dated, and the city and state where signed must be identified.
• C2/C3 forms are included in the license packets sent in early December to all members due to report (Group 3 members this year).
• All CLE courses listed on member rosters as of October 2006 are printed on the back of the C2 form. If you took more CLE courses after October 1, and if they appear on your online roster and you do not want to hand-write them on the back of the C2 form, you may print a copy of your roster and attach it to your C2/C3 form. State on your C2/C3 form that the attached online roster printout is a true and correct statement of the CLE courses taken for credit compliance.
• You must verify that the credit hours listed on the C2/C3 and on your online profile correctly reflect the hours actually attended for each CLE. You can edit credits online by clicking on the "edit" link next to each course. You can correct credits on the C2/C3 manually.
• The C2/C3 form should be filed by February 1, even if all the credits needed for compliance have not been completed.
MCLE Late Fees. All active members who have not completed their credits by December 31 of the last year of their reporting period, or who submit their C2/C3 reporting forms after March 1 of the following year (the end of the grace period after the February 1 deadline), must pay a late fee. The late fee for the first reporting period of noncompliance is $150 and increases by $300 for each consecutive three-year reporting period of noncompliance.
Newly Admitted Members. If you are a newly admitted member, you are exempt from reporting CLE credits for the year of your admission and the following calendar year. If you were admitted in 2005, you will not report for this reporting period (2004-2006) even though you are in Group 3. You will first report at the end of the 2007-2009 reporting period. When you report at the end of your first reporting period, you may claim all CLE credits earned on or after your date of admission to the WSBA.
MCLE Comity. If you are an active member of the WSBA and your primary office for the practice of law is in Oregon, Idaho, or Utah, you may meet your Washington mandatory CLE requirements by providing proof of current MCLE compliance from the Oregon, Idaho, or Utah state bar. Only a Certificate of MCLE Compliance from your primary state bar, not a "Certificate of Good Standing," sent with your WSBA C2/C3 form, will satisfy your MCLE requirements in Washington.
MCLE System — Course Listing and Member Profiles. You can use the online MCLE system to: review courses taken and credits earned; apply for course approval; apply for writing credit, pro bono credit, or prep-time credit; and search for approved courses being offered. To use the MCLE system, go to the WSBA website at www.wsba.org and click on "MCLE Website" in the upper left corner. On the next screen, click on the "Member" tab, then select "Member Login." The online instructions lead you through the process of creating a confidential password and using the system. Online help is available. If you have any questions about using the MCLE system or about the MCLE compliance requirements, see the online FAQs at www.wsba.org/lawyers/licensing/faq-mcle.htm, call the WSBA Service Center at 800-945-WSBA (9722) or 206-443-WSBA (9722), or e-mail questions@wsba.org.
New APR 11 Regulation 104(e) Requirements for In-House CLEs. Starting with the 2005-2007 reporting period, you are limited to a total of 15 credits of private-law-firm CLEs and 15 credits of corporate-legal-department CLEs in each reporting period, regardless of who the private legal sponsor was. There are no limits on the number of credits you may earn at CLEs sponsored by government agencies. These limitations are the result of amendments to APR 11 Regulation 104(e) adopted by the Supreme Court that went into effect on November 8, 2005.
MCLE Compliance Report (C4/C5) in 2007 License Packets
All active members who are not due to report MCLE compliance at the end of this year, including new admittees, received a report (the C4/C5 form) in their 2007 licensing packets. Each member's report lists all credits reported to the WSBA for the member's current reporting period as of mid-October 2006. APR 11.6(a)(3) requires that the WSBA provide an annual report to each active member regarding the credits and courses posted to their MCLE online rosters. This report will help non-reporting active members to better track their credits as well as to ensure correct reporting and compliance at the end of their reporting period.
If you received the C4/C5 form in your 2007 license packet, it is for your information only. No action needs to be taken unless you want corrections to be made.
If you want to make corrections to your WSBA MCLE roster, go to http://pro.wsba.org. Click on the "Member" tab, and then on "Member Login." The online instructions will lead you through the process of creating a confidential password and beginning to use the system. Online help is available. You may also contact the WSBA Service Center to have corrections made and/or to request an MCLE system instruction booklet at 800-945-WSBA (9722) or 206-443-WSBA (9722), or questions@wsba.org.
APR 11 Review Project — Input Invited
The MCLE Board is undertaking a project to review all the rules and regulations that govern mandatory legal education in the State of Washington (APR 11) to update and clarify them. A comprehensive review of APR 11 was last done in 1997-1999 with new rules and regulations being adopted by the Supreme Court in 2000. All members, sponsors, and other stakeholders were invited to give input to this process in February 2007 by responding to an online survey to give feedback on significant MCLE issues. You may also send input to be considered by the Board to the MCLE Board executive secretary, Kathy Todd, at kathyt@wsba.org.
Updates to the APR 11 revision process will be posted on link from the "Mandatory CLE Board" page on the WSBA website at www.wsba.org/lawyers/groups/mcle.
Online, On-Demand CLEs from WSBA-CLE
Want CLE credits without having to stir from your office? WSBA-CLE now offers 200 online courses in 20 practice areas, including ethics. Most are one-hour segments, providing 1.0 CLE A/V credit each, so you can purchase exactly the amount of credits you need. From your computer, you get audio and text from a course originally presented live. Once you purchase a course, you have three months to listen to it. Go to www.wsbacle.org/ondemand to browse the offerings.
Coming Soon — 2007 WSBA-CLE Publications Catalog
WSBA members, watch your mailboxes this month for delivery of the 2007 Publications Catalog — your convenient guide to outstanding products and services from WSBA-CLE, the leader in innovative legal education.™ Save your catalog as a reference for ordering premier deskbooks, recorded seminars, coursebooks, and more — online, or by phone, fax, or mail. Need another one? Call the WSBA Service Center at 800-945-WSBA (9722) or 206-443-WSBA (9722).
Use Your MCLE Homepage to Find Approved CLEs
From your MCLE homepage, you can now find approved live activities that fit your schedule and are in a location that is convenient for you. You can also find live webcasts and teleconferences in which to participate.
To use this feature, go to the WSBA website at www.wsba.org and click on "MCLE Web Site" in the upper left corner. On the next screen, click on the "Member" tab, then select "Member Login." The online instructions lead you through the process of creating a confidential password and using the system. After you log in, you are at your MCLE homepage.
On your homepage, there is a box in the center with a heading banner "MCLE." Inside that box is a link that says "Search for approved upcoming CLE courses." Clicking this link brings you to a "Search Approved Activities" box. Enter the city and state in which you would like to find a CLE course. At the bottom of the box there are date fields called "Start Between … And." The dates default to the next 60 days. You can change the date in each field to any other date. To find a live webcast, input "Webcast" in the city field and change the state field to "Any." To find a teleconference, input "Teleconference" in the city field and change the state field to "Any." To find courses being given by a particular sponsor, type the sponsor's name in the "Sponsor" field.
If you have any questions about using the MCLE system, online help is available. You can also call the WSBA Service Center at 800-945-WSBA (9722) or 206-443-WSBA (9722), or e-mail questions@wsba.org.
2007 WSBA Awards Nominations Sought
Each year, members of the WSBA are asked to identify those who deserve the legal profession's recognition and appreciation. Nominations are sought for the following awards:
Award of Merit. First given in 1957, this is the WSBA's highest honor. The Award of Merit is most often given for long-term service to the Bar and/or the public, although it has also been presented in recognition of a single, extraordinary contribution or project. It is awarded to individuals only — both lawyers and nonlawyers.
Professionalism Award. This honor is awarded to a member of the WSBA who exemplifies the spirit of professionalism in the practice of law. "Professionalism" is defined as the pursuit of a learned profession in the spirit of service to the public and in the sharing of values with other members of the profession.
Angelo Petruss Award for Lawyers in Public Service. Named in honor of the late Angelo R. Petruss, a senior assistant attorney general who passed away during his term of service on the WSBA Board of Governors, this award is given to a lawyer in government service who has made a significant contribution to the legal profession, the justice system, and the public.
Outstanding Judge Award. This award is presented for outstanding service to the bench and for special contribution to the legal profession at any level of the court.
Pro Bono Award. This award is presented to a lawyer, nonlawyer, law firm, or local bar association for outstanding efforts in providing pro bono services. This award is based on cumulative efforts, as opposed to a lawyer's or group's pro bono hours or financial contribution.
Courageous Award. This award is presented to a lawyer who has displayed exceptional courage in the face of adversity, thus bringing credit to the legal profession.
Excellence in Diversity Award. This award is made to a lawyer, law firm, or law-related group that has made a significant contribution to diversity in the legal profession's employment of ethnic minorities, women, persons with disabilities, and other persons of diversity.
Outstanding Elected Official Award. This award is presented to an elected official for outstanding service, with special contributions to the legal profession. It is awarded to an individual who has demonstrated a commitment to justice beyond the usual call of duty.
Lifetime Service Award. This is a special award given for a lifetime of service to the WSBA and the public. It is given only when there is someone especially deserving of this recognition.
President's Award. The President's Award is given annually in recognition of special accomplishment or service to the WSBA during the term of the current president.
Excellence in Legal Journalism Award. This award recognizes that describing the context, facts, and players involved in the legal system with fairness and sensitivity requires intelligence, knowledge, dedication, and skill. This award is given to the journalist and his/her organization that has set the standard for relevance, clarity, accuracy, and understanding in reporting.
Community Service Award. This award was created in 2006. Lawyers are known for giving generously of their time and talents in service to their communities. This award recognizes exceptional non-law-related volunteer work and community service.
Award presentation: It is important to note that presentation of any WSBA award is made only when there is a truly deserving recipient. Some years, no award is given in some categories. Awards are limited to one recipient per category, except when a group of individuals earned the award together.
Nomination submissions: If you know an individual who fits the criteria set forth above, please visit www.wsba.org/barleadershomepage.htm, and complete and submit the nomination form. Self-nominations will not be accepted. Please note that the completed nomination form must accompany each nomination in order to be considered. The deadline for Pro Bono Award nominations was March 31, 2007. The deadline for all other nominations is April 30, 2007. Please send nominations to: Washington State Bar Association, Attn: Annual Awards, 1325 Fourth Ave., Ste. 600, Seattle, WA 98101; Fax: 206-727-8319;
E-mail: denec@wsba.org.
The awards will be presented at the WSBA Annual Awards Dinner in Seattle on September 20, 2007, with the following exceptions: The Pro Bono Award will be presented at the Access to Justice Conference in Wenatchee on June 2, and the Outstanding Judge Award will be presented at the Fall Judicial Conference.
Kitsap County Bar Association Announces New Officers and Trustees
The Kitsap County Bar Association has installed its new officers and trustees for 2007. The new officers and trustees are Edward E. Wolfe, president; Alyse R. Collins, vice-president; Paul Fjelstad, secretary; Steven Olsen, treasurer; Jeffrey J. Jahns, trustee and 2006 president; Roy A. H. Rainey, trustee; Ryan Witt, trustee; and Stephen T. King, trustee.
Contract Lawyer Meeting
The WSBA Law Office Management Assistance Program (LOMAP) hosts a meeting of contract lawyers the second Tuesday of every month at the WSBA office. The next meeting is April 10 from noon to 1:30. Bring your lunch — coffee is provided — and network with other contract lawyers. For more information, contact Julie Salmon at 206-733-5914, 800-945-9722 ext. 5914, or juliesa@wsba.org. Please note the WSBA's new address: 1325 Fourth Ave., Ste. 600, Seattle.
2007 Fee Dispute Mediation Training Seminar
The WSBA ADR Committee is happy to announce the 2007 Fee Arbitration Training Seminar, to be held at the WSBA offices in downtown Seattle, on Thursday, May 24, 2007, from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. This year's program will focus on the WSBA's Fee Arbitration Program and will include demonstrations of key parts of the process. Admission for the seminar is free; however, seating is limited as seats will be reserved for WSBA Fee Arbitration and Mediation panel members. Open registration will be on a first-come, first-served basis. For more information or to register, contact Natalie Cain, ADR program coordinator, at 206-733-5923, 800-945-9722, ext. 5923, or nataliec@wsba.org.
LAP Solution of the Month: Job Satisfaction
Sometimes it's tempting to reduce your stress by over-doing alcohol, prescription drugs, food, sex, gambling — even work. These methods usually provide short-term relief and long-term pain, essentially giving you another problem to cope with down the road. Learn to reduce your stress without creating more problems. If you need a hand, call the Lawyers Assistance Program at 206-727-8268 or 800-945- 9722, ext. 8268.
Casemaker Access
Casemaker is a powerful online research library provided free to WSBA members. To access Casemaker, go to the WSBA website at www.wsba.org and click on the Casemaker logo on the right sidebar. Click on the Casemaker button to begin. For help using Casemaker, contact Julie Salmon at 206-733-5914 or juliesa@wsba.org, or the WSBA Service Center at 800-945-WSBA (9722) or 206-443-WSBA (9722).
Computer Clinic
The WSBA offers a hands-on computer clinic for members wanting to learn more about what Microsoft Office programs such as Outlook, PowerPoint, Excel, and Word, as well as Adobe Acrobat, can do for a lawyer. Are you a total beginner? No problem. The clinic teaches helpful tips you can use immediately. Computers are provided, and seating is limited to 15 members. There is no charge, and no CLE credits are offered. The next clinic will be held on April 9 from 10 a.m. to noon at the WSBA office. For more information, contact Julie Salmon at 206-733-5914, 800-945- 9722, ext. 5914, or juliesa@wsba.org. Please note the WSBA's new address: 1325 Fourth Ave., Ste. 600, Seattle.
Problem Getting a Client to Pay?
Dispute with another lawyer or an expert witness? The WSBA offers two programs to aid in the resolution of disputes involving lawyers. These programs serve both members and the public. The Fee Arbitration Program focuses on fee disputes between a lawyer and his or her client. To participate, both parties must agree to be bound by the arbitrator's decision. The Mediation Program provides a venue for parties to work together to resolve any dispute involving a lawyer, including those between a lawyer and a client, a lawyer and another lawyer, and a lawyer and another professional. Either party to a dispute may initiate fee arbitration or mediation. Both programs are nondisciplinary, voluntary, and confidential. For more information, visit the WSBA website at www.wsba.org/lawyers/services/adr.htm or call the ADR coordinator at 206-733-5923 or 800-945-9722, ext. 5923.
Facing an Ethical Dilemma?
The WSBA Ethics Line can help members analyze a situation involving their own prospective conduct, apply the proper rules, and reach an ethically sound decision. Calls made to the Ethics Line are confidential, and most calls are returned within one business day. Any advice given is intended for the education of the inquirer and does not represent an official position of the WSBA. Call the Ethics Line at 206-727-8284 or 800-945-9722, ext. 8284.
Search WSBA Ethics Opinions Online
Formal and informal WSBA ethics opinions are available online at http://pro/wsba.org/io/search.asp, or from a link on the WSBA homepage, www.wsba.org. You can search opinions by number, year issued, ethical rule, subject matter, or keyword. Ethics opinions are issued by the WSBA to assist members in interpreting their ethical obligations in specific circumstances. The opinions are the result of study and analysis in response to requests from WSBA members. For assistance, call the Ethics Line at 206-727-8284 or 800-945-9722, ext. 8284.
Job Seekers Discussion Group
Looking for a job or making a transition? Join us at the Job Seekers Discussion Group the second Wednesday of each month from noon to 1:30 p.m. The next meeting is April 11 at the WSBA office. The group discusses where to look for jobs, how to use your network of contacts, strategies for résumés and cover letters, and how to keep yourself organized and motivated. Exchange information and ideas with other lawyers looking to make a change. Come as you are — no need to RSVP. Bring your business cards and practice networking skills. For more information, call 206-727-8268, 800-945-9722, ext. 8268, or e-mail rebeccan@wsba.org. Please note the WSBA's new address: 1325 Fourth Ave., Ste. 600, Seattle.
Speakers Available
The WSBA Lawyers Assistance Program offers speakers for engagements at county, minority, or specialty bar associations, or other law-related organizations. Topics include stress management, life/work balance, and recognizing and handling problem-personality clients. Contact Jennifer Favell, Ph.D., at 206-727-8267 or 800-945-9722, ext. 8267.
Help for Judges
The WSBA Judges Assistance Program provides confidential assistance to judges experiencing personal or professional difficulties. Telephone or in-person sessions are available on a sliding-scale basis. For more information, call the program coordinator at 206-727-8268 or 800-945-9722, ext. 8268.
LOMAP and Ethics on the Road: The 2007 Traveling Seminars
Plan to attend in Vancouver on May 1, Aberdeen on May 2, or Olympia on May 3. Registration is $89, and each seminar has been approved for four ethics CLE credits. For more information, contact Julie Salmon at 206-733-5914, 800-945- 9722, ext. 5914, or juliesa@wsba.org, or visit www.wsba.org/lawyers/services/lomapontheroad.htm.
Upcoming Board of Governors Meetings
April 13-14, Kelso • June 1, Wenatchee • July 27-28, Quincy
With the exception of the executive session, Board of Governors meetings are open, and all WSBA members are welcome to attend. RSVPs are appreciated but not required. Contact Donna Sato at 206-727-8244, 800-945-9722, ext. 8244, or donnas@wsba.org. The complete Board of Governors meeting schedule is available on the WSBA website at www.wsba.org/info/bog/schedule.htm.
Usury Rate
The average coupon equivalent yield from the first auction of 26-week treasury bills in March 2007 was 5.06 percent. The maximum allowable usury rate for April is 12 percent. Information from January 1987 to date is on the WSBA website at www.wsba.org/media/publications/barnews/usury.htm.
