State Bar of Arizona Recruiting Non-Attorneys for Character and Fitness Committee

PHOENIX – Aug. 21, 2019 – Maintaining its mission of enhancing the legal profession by promoting the competency, ethics and professionalism of its members, the State Bar of Arizona is recruiting non-attorneys for the Arizona Supreme Court’s Committee on Character and Fitness. This Committee is responsible for the investigation and recommendation of applicants for admission to the practice of law in Arizona.

Before applying, individuals should be aware of the significant responsibilities that correspond with this professional volunteer activity. Committee members need the time, skill and patience to review confidential detailed reports of background investigations into financial, criminal, civil, employment, disciplinary and academic matters. Committee members review approximately 1,200 applications each year.

The Committee conducts at least one formal hearing monthly in Phoenix. Members are expected to participate in each formal hearing, and in one or more informal inquiry panels per month held in Phoenix or Tucson. Between file review and hearings/business meetings, members devote an average of about 25 hours per month to Committee responsibilities.

Applicants may be from anywhere within Arizona. Mileage is paid for any members residing outside Maricopa County, but there is no other compensation for service as a Committee member. Initial term is four years.

While the committee is not a small commitment, its work is an important part of ensuring that Arizona attorneys meet the standards required in the legal profession.

Applications are due by Sept. 4, 2019 and can be obtained by contacting Carrie Sherman at the State Bar of Arizona at 602.340.7201 or at Carrie.Sherman@staff.azbar.org. Interactive applications may also be downloaded from the Bar’s website azbar.org.

Interviews of selected candidates will occur in September.

 

About the State Bar

The State Bar of Arizona is a non-profit organization that operates under the supervision of the Arizona Supreme Court. The Bar regulates approximately 24,500 active attorneys in Arizona and provides education and development programs for the legal profession and the public. The Bar’s mission is to serve and protect the public with respect to the provision of legal services and access to justice.

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