Bench, bar mull overhaul of state court system
California’s judicial branch is moving closer to placing a constitutional amendment on the ballot that would make significant changes in the court system, including lengthening judges’ terms and changing the way the courts are funded.

State Bar board proposes dues increase — the first
since 1999
Bar dues will go up next year if the legislature approves a bill that will boost the fee for active members by $5 and inactive members by $85. Under AB 1529, authored by Dave Jones, D-Sacramento, California’s 42,000 inactive lawyers would see their fee go up 170 percent — from $50, where it has languished since 1985, to $135.

Three vie for State Bar presidency
Three third-year members of the State Bar Board of Governors, all committed to the twin goals of member services and protecting the public, are running for bar president.

Jury duty in the spotlight
The State Bar will publish a new consumer education pamphlet about jury service next month, outlining citizens’ responsibilities and explaining recent changes in California rules.

Legal services get a boost from higher IOLTA funds
California’s lowest-income residents can count on more access to legal services this year, thanks to a large boost in IOLTA funds.

Drexel

Drexel named chief trial counsel
The State Bar’s new chief prosecutor has a question: Why are hotline complaints against California attorneys on the decline?

Feedback sought on new civil jury instructions
The Advisory Committee on Civil Jury Instructions seeks assistance from California attorneys and judges regarding the state’s new civil jury instructions (CACI).

When You Become 18 is coming in May
When You Become 18: A Survival Guide for Teenagers will be published by the State Bar next month. A copy will be included in the California Bar Journal.

'Pathways to Justice' scheduled for June 2-4
Attorneys who work in the direct delivery of legal services to low- and moderate-income Californians are invited to attend the State Bar’s 2005 Spring Summit, Pathways to Justice, June 2-4 in San Francisco.

Online Exhibit Hall
The businesses and services listed here support the State Bar through various means, most notably as exhibitors at the State Bar's Annual Meeting. Visit them online or via phone to serve your individual needs.

Online Exhibit Hall
The businesses and services listed here support the State Bar through various means, most notably as exhibitors at the State Bar's Annual Meeting. Visit them online or via phone to serve your individual needs.