Bill > LD1650

This bill amends Maine state law to require the Maine Commission on Public Defense Services to develop and implement a compensation system for paralegals working on indigent legal services at the prevailing average market rate for paralegal labor. Specifically, the bill adds a new provision to the existing legal code that mandates the commission create a payment structure for paralegals who assist in providing legal representation to individuals who cannot afford their own attorneys. Indigent legal services are critical for ensuring that low-income individuals have access to legal representation, and this bill aims to support the paralegals who play a crucial role in delivering these services by ensuring they are paid fairly based on current market rates. The change will help attract and retain qualified paralegals in public defense work and potentially improve the quality and efficiency of legal services for economically disadvantaged clients.

Justice

https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/display_ps.asp?LD=1650&snum=132