The State Bar of California has published its second digital annual report. The report was conceptualised following the significant changes in the legal industry brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, creating rapidly changing policy goals and public protection requirements.
Donna S. Hershkowitz, Interim Executive Director of the state bar had said “Despite the onset of the challenges brought on by the coronavirus, Californians deserve access to a legal system that serves them with integrity and fairness. The State Bar quickly adapted to ensure that our essential work protecting the public continued. The publication of this report is one of many initiatives we are undertaking to support our strategic goals of transparency, accountability, and proactive communication.”
The 2020 report highlights changes implemented by the State Bar to address the pandemic including:
- The establishment of a fully remote call centre to maintain service to the public.
- Shifting examinations to remote administration
- The creation of a new licensing programme for law graduates to start practice before passing the bar exam
- Transitioning the State Bar Court to remote proceedings
- Distributing $11.75 million through the Client Security Fund.