Public members sought for law-related boards

The Washington State Bar Association seeks members of the public to serve on seven boards for terms beginning October 1, 2019. Board service provides an excellent opportunity to get an insider’s view on how the practice of law is regulated in Washington State. Applicants from outside the legal community are especially welcome; former or non-practicing attorneys are asked not to apply. Most appointments are for three-year terms. Click on the links below for detailed position descriptions.

·         The Character & Fitness Board conducts hearings to determine whether individuals have the moral character and fitness required to practice law. Hearings generally are held every month. 

·         The Client Protection Board reviews claims for reimbursement of financial loss caused by a WSBA member's dishonest actions or failure to account for client funds. The Board seeks applicants who can analyze large amounts of complex information.

·         The Council on Public Defense brings together representatives from the legal community, the courts and the public to address new and recurring challenges that impact the public defense system.

·         The Disciplinary Board plays a crucial role in WSBA's lawyer discipline process, reviewing investigatory reports and appeals. The Board seeks applicants who can analyze large amounts of complex information.

·         The Limited License Legal Technician Board develops policy, education, and practice areas for this new license, the first of its kind in the country. The Board is especially interested in applicants with a background or interest in public service and access to justice, as well as applicants from southeast or southwest Washington.

·         The Mandatory Continuing Legal Education Board is focused on the education requirements legal professionals in Washington state are required to complete throughout their careers. The Board is especially interested in applicants with a background in education.

·         The Practice of Law Board works to discover innovative ways to make legal resources and services more accessible to the public.

The WSBA values diversity and inclusion, and encourages people of color, women, LGBT people, people with disabilities, and members of other historically under-represented groups to apply for our committees, boards and panels. If you would like to be considered for any of these openings, complete the application by following the instructions posted here: www.wsba.org/publicvolunteers. Previous applicants should re-apply as applications expire after one year. Applications will be considered until all positions are filled; priority will be given to those that arrive by May 1, 2019. If you have questions about the application process, email barleaders@wsba.org or call Pam Inglesby at 206-727-8226.