The 25-member commission of lawyers and judges, as well as academic, business, labor and community leaders, was established to explore ways to improve access to civil justice for Californians living on low and moderate incomes.

The commission was instrumental in establishing the $10 million Equal Access Fund for civil legal services to the indigent and works closely with the Judicial Council to improve access to the courts.

Members also serve on one or more subcommittees. The State Bar appoints 10 members to the commission, and the remaining 15 members are appointed by other statewide entities. The terms are two years, and members may serve two consecutive terms.

• Expected 2009-2010 vacancies: 3
• Approximate number of meetings per year: 6 (Two by conference call and
  four in-person and video conference between San Francisco and Los Angeles locations)
• 2009 Chair: The Honorable Steven Austin, Pittsburg
• Staff contact: Mary Lavery Flynn 415-538-2251

For additional information, go to:

• California Commission on Access to Justice (Brochure)
• Roster
• Access to Justice Resources

Deadline for 2010 applications: February 1, 2010

2010 terms begin: Conclusion of 2010 State Bar Annual Meeting (September 26, 2010).