September 1999

Raising the Bar – Planning for the Future

During the last year, we have endeavored to "Raise the Bar" and plan for the future of the WSBA. We sought member input in a variety of ways, including statewide Town Meetings and a written survey. The Long-Range Strategic Planning Committee developed a list of 234 issues, and from that list 11 strategic goals emerged. While these goals have not yet been approved by the Board of Governors, we are hopeful that they will be adopted at the September 10 meeting. The goals are listed below, in not any particular order of significance.

Strategic Goals with New Focus

1. The WSBA will continue to provide and improve services and benefits to members statewide in response to their needs and desires.

2. The WSBA will conduct a public legal education program to broaden public knowledge about the law and the role of lawyers within the legal system.

3. The WSBA will improve the professional development of new lawyers.

4. The WSBA will promote civility and professionalism in the practice of law.

5. The WSBA will address member concerns about external influences and market pressures that impact the delivery of legal and law-related services, such as the unlicensed practice of law and multidisciplinary practice.

Continuing Strategic Goals

6. The WSBA’s regulatory services will be responsible, accountable, timely and fair.

7. The WSBA will continue to support and provide leadership for programs and initiatives that benefit access to justice.

8. The WSBA will be a leader in using and promoting technology for the benefit of its members, the courts and the bar.

9. The WSBA will support the independence of the judiciary and appropriate court reform.

10. The WSBA will continue to promote diversity and equality in the courts, the legal profession and the bar.

11. The WSBA will be fiscally responsible.

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