In regards to the summaries I provided discussing Washington state's concept of LLLT's and Utah's concept of paralegal practitioners, analyze the topics. Would either (or both) of these concepts provide relief to an overburdened criminal defense office such as the Miami Dade Public Defender? Why or why not? Explain your impressions on how these new legal roles may (or may not) be useful in a criminal defense setting.

SUMMARIES:

The limited licensed legal technician in Washington is able to advise and assists those going through divorce, child custody and other family law matters. They are able to consult and advise, complete and file necessary court documents, assist pro se clients at certain types of hearings. As well as help with court scheduling and support clients in navigating the legal system. This specific license would help the Public Defender's office because they would have someone that is able to advise clients, assist at hearings, and support clients while navigating the legal system. While it's not much, I think it would take some of the burden off the public defenders. That extra time could be spent in court, defending their clients like they are supposed to do.

The licensed paralegal practitioner in Utah is able to enter contractual relationships with natural persons, interview clients, assist clients with completing forms as well as obtaining the documents needed to support those forms. They may review documents, inform, counsel, assist and advocate for clients, explain the court orders to the client. However, they may not appear in court. Similar to the LLLT in Washington, this would remove some of the load from the PD's, which would give them more time to focus on court appearances. Having someone that is able to handle important documents and discuss them with the client would make a big difference.

In regards to the summaries I provided discussing Washington state's concept of LLLT's and Utah's concept of paralegal practitioners, analyze the topics. Would either (or both) of these concepts provide relief to an overburdened criminal defense office such as the Miami Dade Public Defender? Why or why not? Explain your impressions on how these new legal roles may (or may not) be useful in a criminal defense setting.