Study grant of continuing legal education credit to members of WV State Bar who serve in legislature and serve that body as per diem attorneys.
Impact
If enacted, HCR87 would require the Supreme Court of Appeals to review practices in other jurisdictions regarding the assignment of CLE credits for legislative service. The resolution aims to align West Virginia with other states that already recognize such service as worthy of educational credit. This could enhance the professional competencies of attorneys engaging in legislative duties, ensuring they are well-informed about state law development.
Summary
House Concurrent Resolution 87 (HCR87) proposes that the Supreme Court of Appeals of West Virginia study and potentially grant continuing legal education (CLE) credits to members of the West Virginia State Bar who serve as legislators and per diem attorneys. This resolution recognizes that these individuals gain unique insights into the legislative process and the development of law through their service, indicating that this experience should be acknowledged as valuable for their professional development.
Sentiment
The sentiment around HCR87 appears to support the integration of practical legislative experience into professional legal education. Proponents may view this as a significant step towards acknowledging the specialized knowledge that legislators and per diem attorneys acquire. There does not appear to be significant opposition referenced in the available discussions, suggesting a cooperative atmosphere in advancing the resolution's aims.
Contention
While there are no specific contentious points highlighted in the available text, it is important to consider potential concerns regarding the logistics of implementing CLE credits for legislative service. Questions could arise about how to standardize the evaluation of such experiences and address any disparities in credit assignment. Furthermore, ensuring that all attorneys have equal access to CLE opportunities could be a focal point of discussion upon further review by the Supreme Court.
Requests the Supreme Court of Louisiana to require attorneys to complete a one-hour course on the legislative process as a part of the annual continuing legal education requirement.
Urges the Louisiana Supreme Court to take appropriate action to allow full-time legislative staff attorneys to receive eight hours of continuing educaton credits each year.
State Bar: board of trustees: reports: complaints: attorneys’ annual license fees: California Lawyers Association: Legal Services Trust Fund Commission: expenditure of funds.