March 2001

Access to Justice

WSBA Emeritus Training Programs in La Conner and Vancouver

Regional Emeritus training programs are being planned in conjunction with two access to justice conferences. The Northwest Washington Access to Justice Conference will be held at Maple Hall in LaConner on Saturday, April 28 and will involve Clallam, Island, Jefferson, San Juan, Skagit, Snohomish and Whatcom counties. The Southwest Washington Access to Justice Conference will be held at the Heathman Lodge in Vancouver on Friday, May 4 and Saturday, May 5 and will involve Clark, Cowlitz, Grays Harbor, Lewis, Mason, Thurston and Wahkiakum counties. These regional training programs offer an excellent opportunity for potential volunteers to meet members of the legal services provider network and learn about the many volunteer opportunities in their communities. The conferences will also feature substantive law workshops relevant to lawyers providing pro bono legal services for low-income residents of Washington.

In September 1998, the Washington Supreme Court approved the adoption of APR 8(e), which creates a limited license status of Emeritus for attorneys otherwise retired from the practice of law. The goal of this rule is to encourage pro bono participation by highly skilled and experienced attorneys and judges who wish to make a contribution in the wake of dramatically reduced funding for legal services programs. Emeritus member participation will foster the development of new and creative ways to enhance and support the delivery of legal services (e.g., serving as part-time volunteer staff; supervising law students and volunteers; developing and teaching continuing legal education programs; referring cases to pro bono attorneys; providing advice, brief service and direct representation; and serving on volunteer boards).

To qualify for Emeritus status, you must be in good standing as a lawyer and meet minimum active practice requirements (five of the 10 years preceding application for Washington lawyers, 10 of 15 years for non-Washington lawyers). Washington lawyers will pay the annual inactive membership fee of $100.

Emeritus members are exempt from mandatory continuing legal education requirements, however, completion of the training program is required before assuming Emeritus status. Attorneys attending the training will receive a conference registration discount. For more information, contact Sharlene Steele at 206-727-8262 or sharlene@wsba.org. 

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