IN REGARDS TO THE ARTICLE INCLUDED BELOW, What do you think about…

IN REGARDS TO THE ARTICLE INCLUDED BELOW, What do you think about…

IN REGARDS TO THE ARTICLE INCLUDED BELOW, What do you think about

Utah’s model of licensed paralegal practitioners in regard to UPL rules? Do you think that UPL rules will relax as states like Washington and Utah make strides in extending the permission of non-lawyers to assist clients? Is this a good idea…or should UPL rules be upheld strictly to protect the public?

ARTICLE:
First paralegal practitioners in Utah are expected to be licensed in 2019
By Debra Cassens Weiss
August 7, 2018, 9:04 am CDT.
The first paralegal practitioners in Utah are expected to be licensed in 2019, making the state the second to license nonlawyers to practice law.
New rules regulating paralegal practitioners are set to take effect Nov. 1, LawSites reports. They will allow law practice without a lawyer’s supervision in three areas, though courtroom appearances won’t be allowed, They are:

-Cases involving temporary separation, divorce, parentage, cohabitant abuse, civil stalking, custody and support, and name change.
-Cases involving forcible entry and detainer.
-Debt collection matters in which the dollar amount in issue does not exceed the statutory limit for small claims cases.Licensed paralegal practitioners will be allowed to help clients choose, fill out, file and complete service of legal forms; review and explain court orders or another party’s documents; advocate for a client in a mediation; and complete settlement agreements after a negotiation.
Classes for licensed paralegal practitioners will be taught at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah. The first licensing exams are expected to be held in the spring.
Washington was the first state to allow nonlawyer law practice.
Story updated on Aug. 9 to report that the classes will be taught at Utah Valley University.

What are your thoughts on Utah’s model of licensed paralegal practitioners in regard to UPL rules? Do you think that UPL rules will relax as states like Washington and Utah make strides in extending the permission of non-lawyers to assist clients? Is this a good idea…or should UPL rules be upheld strictly to protect the public?