by Ann Streadbeck
Much has been happening with respect to the Legal Assistant Division ("LAD"). Current projects include the following:
Membership Directory
The Utah State Bar Legal Assistant Division Membership Directory for the 2000-2001 year has been completed and mailed to our membership. In addition to general LAD information, member names and contact information, practice areas have been included for each member to encourage networking among our membership. The LAD has a very diverse membership--LAD members work in nearly every area of law.
Utah State Bar Mid-Year and Annual Meetings
LAD members are encouraged to attend the Utah State Bar Mid-Year Meeting, to be held in St. George March 15-17, 2001, and the Utah State Bar Annual Meeting, to be held in Sun Valley July 4-7, 2001. Both events are great opportunities to take a vacation while obtaining necessary CLE credits.
At the Bar's Mid-Year Meeting, the LAD sponsors a full CLE track. Last year's LAD-sponsored sessions were well-attended by both legal assistants and attorneys. In addition, the LAD holds a luncheon for legal assistants one afternoon following CLE sessions. The luncheon is a wonderful opportunity to get to know other LAD members.
Unauthorized Practice of Law Committee
The Utah State Bar's Unauthorized Practice of Law Committee ("UPL"), chaired by Marsha Thomas, has invited LAD members to participate on the Committee. The Legal Assistant Division is assisting in a project which will disseminate information warning members of racial and ethnic minority communities of those conducting the unauthorized practice of law. The Committee is working to prepare and post flyers in public places and to place ads in ethnic newspapers. The ads and flyers will provide simple information in a variety of languages about the unauthorized practice of law, with the Multi-Cultural Legal Center ("MLC") as the contact and referral agency. The Committee is also seeking volunteer translators who can help victims report instances of the unauthorized practice of law.
In addition to the project discussed above, Utah Legal Services has requested that LAD members be made aware of volunteer opportunities at that agency. A variety of assistance is needed--from client intake, to research projects, to attorney assistance in areas from family law to bond hearings. LAD members interested in volunteering may contact Patrick Tan, Director of Pro Bono Services, at (801) 328-8891, extension 372.