News & Updates

In the aftermath of severe hurricanes in the southeastern United States, it's crucial to ensure that justice remains accessible. IAALS’ Disaster Protocols are designed to keep the justice system functional, even in the face of overwhelming challenges.

IAALS has announced the executive committee and coordinating members of the Colorado Licensed Legal Paraprofessional (LLP) Committee as the recipients of the 2025 Rebuilding Justice Award. We're proud to recognize the achievements of the individuals who enabled LLPs to increase access to legal services for one of the largest segments of the justice gap.

There is a clear groundswell that we must do more than just laud democracy and the rule of law. While there is great importance in speaking to the value of these American institutions, there is a great necessity to do much more to uphold them.

Judges hold a uniquely powerful position within the justice system, making their leadership crucial for meaningful reform. To drive lasting change, we need leaders who not only address current challenges but also proactively design a system that anticipates and meets future needs.

IAALS has released a new report with results and recommendations on how legal regulation innovation can address the continued and urgent legal services gap faced by the majority of Americans today.

Community-based justice worker programs equip individuals in community organizations to offer legal services, helping to bridge the access to justice gap. I4J provides design options for these programs, focusing on regulatory reforms, training, service scope, and credentialing.

The IAALS Alli Gerkman Legal Visionary Award recognizes innovators who have made significant impacts early in their legal careers toward making the American legal system work better for everyone. The nomination window for the 2025 award is now open.

The Texas Supreme Court is expanding access to justice by approving programs that allow professionals who aren't attorneys to provide limited legal services to low-income individuals. These new rules, crucial for those struggling to afford legal help, are expected to take effect on December 1.

IAALS has launched a new project to understand and incorporate public perspectives on regulatory reform in the legal profession. This initiative provides states with essential tools and resources to engage the public—those most affected by legal reform—in these complex discussions.

Utah's regulatory sandbox might include a new participant: social workers from Utah State University’s Community Justice Advocate Program, which aims to help people dealing with consumer debt. Unlike many similar programs, USU’s would be operated with lawyers in a supporting role.

July is Disability Pride Month, emphasizing the importance of an inclusive justice system. By addressing physical and procedural barriers, we can ensure that everyone, regardless of ability, has equal access to justice.

Eduardo Gonzalez discusses what drives his passion for access to justice, overcoming systemic challenges in our civil justice system, and what it means to receive the Alli Gerkman Legal Visionary Award.

IAALS has released the results of an eight-state survey of 658 judges on judicial performance evaluation, providing key insights into judges' perspectives on the process. New national recommendations for JPE enhancements are coming later in 2024.

Justice Alito's recusal controversy highlights the urgent need for clear judicial recusal procedures. IAALS' recommendations strive to boost transparency, efficiency, and trust in our judiciary.

Around a third of American households live just above the poverty line, facing financial struggles yet ineligible for many social services such as free legal aid. Initiatives like the Above the Line Network aim to improve access to affordable legal assistance for these underserved communities.

Colorado's Licensed Legal Paraprofessionals are poised to bridge the affordability gap and ease state court burdens, providing essential legal support to those who can't afford attorneys.

IAALS is thrilled to welcome Ericka Byram and Courtney Petersen to our team as program associates. Their addition strengthens our ability to achieve our vision of a world where justice for all is a reality for everyone.

Eight U.S. states have adopted informal domestic relations trials to simplify divorce cases, especially for self-represented litigants. These trials streamline procedures, allow direct evidence submission, and enhance fairness, reducing court backlog and improving access to justice.

Last week, IAALS gathered with partners and friends for our 16th Annual Rebuilding Justice Award Dinner, celebrating the year’s awardees and everyone who works with us to jumpstart the groundbreaking and achievable solutions that will clear a path to justice for everyone.

As we celebrate Law Day 2024, themed "Voices of Democracy," we recognize the vital importance of open, honest, and civil discourse in addressing the challenges we face together. At IAALS, we engage in purposeful collaboration, listening, and research—jumpstarting the groundbreaking and achievable solutions that will clear a path to justice for everyone.