Legal Paraprofessionals in Action: Arizona Law Hosts Third Annual LP Summit
Last month, the University of Arizona James E. Rogers College of Law hosted the third annual Legal Paraprofessional Summit, bringing together licensed and aspiring Legal Paraprofessionals (LP), attorneys, judges and other legal professionals for discussions on LPs in action with an emphasis on courtroom advocacy skills.
The conference welcomed a record 150 attendees both in person and online, and featured engaging discussions on AI and ethics challenges, courtroom decorum, and building a client’s case through the art of storytelling. Attendees had the opportunity to hear from industry experts, connect with peers, and gain insights into the future of the LP profession.
This year’s event welcomed notable speakers, including a keynote from Arizona Supreme Court Chief Justice Ann Scott Timmer, a presentation by newly appointed Justice Maria Elena Cruz (‘01) as well as closing remarks from Arizona Court of Appeals Judge Brian Furuya.
"This year's Summit was the most successful yet, with more attendees, more programming, and more opportunities for engagement," said Professor Keith Swisher, who directs the BA in Law and MLS Programs. "The growth of this event underscores the increasing impact of legal paraprofessionals in Arizona’s justice system. By bringing together LPs, prospective students, court administrators, attorneys, judges, and industry leaders, the conference creates a collaborative environment that helps strengthen the LP program and strengthen access to legal services. We look forward to continuing to expand the program and supporting LPs in their professional development.”
A new addition to this year’s summit included lunchtime tabling, where attendees connected with key organizations and resources to learn about legal aid volunteer opportunities for LPs. All four of Arizona’s legal aid organizations—Southern Arizona Legal Aid, Step Up to Justice, Community Legal Services, and Diné be’iiná Náhiiłna be Agha’diit’ahii (DNA)- People’s Legal Services—were present, providing LPs with valuable volunteer opportunities across the state.
"In addition to the current and prospective LPs who attended and participated in the conference, we owe special recognition and thanks to the highly supportive judicial participants, including Chief Justice Ann Scott Timmer, Justice Maria Elena Cruz, Judge Brian Y. Furuya, and the Certification and Licensing Division, to the Summit’s lead architect, Kristy Clairmont, and to the Summit’s chief reporter, Linus Kafka,” added Swisher.
LPs Expanding Access to Justice
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.