Workgroup invites comments on ABA’s role in Bar admission requirements
The Florida Supreme Court’s Workgroup on the Role of the American Bar Association in Bar Admission Requirements is accepting comment from the public to help it in its work.
The workgroup has held an initial meeting and now reminds interested parties they may provide input. Material for consideration by the workgroup may be sent to [email protected].
“Brevity and direct relevance are appreciated,” according to a statement from the workgroup.
Formed in March, the workgroup’s charges include:
- Examining the court’s existing rules as they relate to the ABA’s role in accrediting law schools and the requirements for admission to The Florida Bar.
- Studying related requirements in Florida, other state, and federal laws, rules, and regulations.
- Evaluating the pros and cons of Florida’s regulatory status quo as it relates to the ABA’s role in the requirements for admission to the Bar.
- Presenting to the court any possible alternatives that might merit the court’s consideration, including alternatives that would end the rules’ reliance on the ABA.
A report is to be submitted to the Supreme Court by September 30.
The workgroup was directed to focus its study on the goals of promoting excellence in Florida’s legal profession; not hindering law schools from providing high-quality, cost-effective, and innovative legal education, in a nondiscriminatory setting; and protecting the public and meeting Floridians’ need for legal services.
Members of the workgroup are:
- Adam M. Foslid, Attorney at Law, Miami
- Erin O’Hara O’Connor, Dean, Florida State University College of Law
- Ricky L. Polston, Attorney at Law, Tallahassee
- John M. Stewart, Attorney at Law, Melbourne
- John F. Stinneford, Professor of Law, University of Florida Levin College of Law
- Judge Allen C. Winsor, U.S. Northern District of Florida
More information about the workgroup is available on the Supreme Court’s website, www.supremecourt.flcourts.gov.
