Access to Justice

The State Bar of Arizona's Access to Justice Task Force presented its final report to the Board of Governors on August 20, 2004. Recognizing the need for greater access to justice in Arizona for low- and moderate-income households, the task force supported a two-tiered approach including a membership dues opt-out program and legislation that would increase the filing fee in civil cases.  The funds raised as a result of these increases would be used entirely to fund legal services.

The Task Force urged the State Bar of Arizona to demonstrate the Bar's commitment to ensuring that all Arizonans, regardless of economic status, can enjoy the promise of justice for all.

The Board of Governors approved the Task Force's recommendation and incorporated an opt-out Legal Services Contribution into the annual fee statement mailed to State Bar members.  The program has resulted in donations in excess of $1.2 million, all of which go to the Arizona Foundation for Legal Services & Education to assist in delivering legal services to Arizona's least advantaged.