An opportunity to serve the justice system is available for members of the public. Yesterday, the State Bar of Arizona issued the following press release about openings on the Character & Fitness Committee.

Here it is: 

Public Members Sought for Supreme Court Committee

PHOENIX – Aug. 1, 2011 – The State Bar of Arizona is supporting the Supreme Court of Arizona in its effort to recruit two public/non-attorney members for its Committee on Character and Fitness. Applications are available now.

This Committee is responsible for recommending applicants for admission to the practice of law in Arizona.  The Supreme Court then considers the recommendations and either grants or denies admission.  On a yearly basis, the Committee reviews and evaluates approximately 1,200 applications.

The Committee conducts at least one formal hearing monthly in either Phoenix or Tucson.  Members are expected to participate in each formal hearing, and in informal hearings held throughout the state on a voluntary participation basis.  In addition, membership requires independent review of applicant files amounting to approximately 25-40 hours per month.   

Expenses are paid for all meetings/hearings, but there is no other compensation for service as a Committee member.

Application forms to become a public member are due by Monday, Aug. 22, 2011, and can be obtained by contacting Nina Benham at the State Bar of Arizona at 602-340-7329 or at nina.benham@staff.azbar.org.  Interactive application forms may also be downloaded from the Bar’s web site at www.azbar.org.  Interviews of selected candidates will occur in September.