H.B. No. 1528 aims to establish a regulatory framework for legal paraprofessionals in Texas by introducing licensing requirements and disciplinary measures. The bill amends various sections of the Government Code, including the addition of "AND LEGAL PARAPROFESSIONALS" to the headings of Subtitle G and Chapter 82, and creates a new Subchapter E-3 focused on "LEGAL PARAPROFESSIONAL DISCIPLINE." It outlines the disciplinary jurisdiction of the supreme court and the Commission for Lawyer Discipline over licensed paraprofessionals, as well as the establishment of rules of professional conduct applicable to them.
Additionally, the bill introduces a new Subchapter E under Chapter 82, detailing the licensing process for legal paraprofessionals. It specifies eligibility requirements, including age, education, and moral character, and mandates that applicants pass an examination administered by the Board of Law Examiners. The bill allows licensed legal paraprofessionals to represent clients in certain civil matters without attorney supervision, provided they meet specific conditions, such as obtaining client consent and providing necessary disclosures. The Texas Supreme Court is tasked with adopting rules to implement these provisions, with the act set to take effect on September 1, 2025.
Statutes affected: Introduced: ()