University of Arizona Law to Host Third Annual Legal Paraprofessional Summit, Showcasing National Leadership in Expanding Access to Justice
The University of Arizona James E. Rogers College of Law is excited to announce the third annual Legal Paraprofessional Summit, set for February 7, 2025. This highly anticipated event brings together licensed and aspiring Legal Paraprofessionals (LP) for a day of enriching professional development and continuing legal education. Participants can earn up to five Continuing Legal Education (CLE) credits, including one ethics CLE credit, while engaging in important conversations about the evolving role of legal paraprofessionals in the justice system.
Now in its third year, the Summit has grown into the premier event for this new tier of legal professionals, drawing attendees from across the country who are eager to learn from Arizona's pioneering efforts to expand access to justice.
“We’re thrilled to see the continued growth of this summit and the impact it has on the legal paraprofessional community,” said Kristy Clairmont, professor of practice and event organizer. "This year’s focus is on legal paraprofessionals as advocates and volunteers, aiming to equip participants with the knowledge and tools to make a meaningful difference in the legal field while enhancing their advocacy skills and connecting with volunteer opportunities statewide."
This year’s summit will offer both in-person and virtual attendance options, providing flexibility for participants nationwide. The event will feature notable speakers, including Arizona Supreme Court Vice Chief Justice Ann Timmer and Arizona Court of Appeals Judges Maria Elena Cruz and Brian Furuya. With the theme “Legal Paraprofessionals in Action,” the summit will include breakout sessions on key topics such as evidence preparation and admission during trial, courtroom decorum, and building a client’s case through the art of storytelling. Attendees will also receive updates from the Administrative Office of the Courts, learn about legal aid volunteer opportunities for LPs, and hear firsthand experiences from legal paraprofessionals currently working in the field.
A New Tier of Legal Professional
In response to Arizona’s critical need to expand access to legal services, the Arizona Supreme Court introduced the Legal Paraprofessional role in 2021. A survey conducted by the ABA in Arizona revealed that over half of respondents face challenges accessing necessary legal assistance, with more than 75% of court cases involving at least one self-represented party. Compounding these challenges is Arizona’s lawyer-to-resident ratio, which remains one of the lowest in the country, at 2.1 lawyers per 1,000 residents.
To address these gaps, the University of Arizona Law has developed two pioneering educational pathways—available through the BA in Law and Master of Legal Studies programs—to help qualify individuals for LP licensure. These programs are accessible both online and in person, ensuring that future legal paraprofessionals can train from anywhere in the state.
Registration Information
Tickets are required for the summit, with early bird pricing of $50 available until January 11, 2025. A special discounted rate will be available for students during this period. After January, ticket prices will increase.