Submitted by Whatcom Community College
Whatcom Community College paralegal studies program coordinator Nancy Ivarinen has been named to the Washington State Bar Association’s (WSBA) 13-member governing board for the Limited Licensed Legal Technician (LLLT) profession. Approved by the Washington Supreme Court in 2012, the Limited License Legal Technician (LLLT) rule authorizes non-attorneys who meet certain educational requirements to advise and assist clients in approved practice areas of law. Washington is the only state in the nation to sanction the LLLT profession, making it a leader in expanding legal services for all citizens. The governing board serves as the supervisors of this new rule, including regulations for professional conduct, exam procedures, continuing education requirements and disciplinary procedures.
Ivarinen’s board service aligns with her interest in and commitment to providing legal counsel to under-represented populations. She is also leading WCC’s efforts to offer the LLLT educational requirements, including new curriculum in family law.
Ivarinen, coordinator and instructor for WCC’s paralegal studies program since 2003, has been an attorney in both private practice and for legal aid programs since 1988. During her time at the College, Ivarinen developed the volunteer-based Street Law program, which provides free, confidential legal advice to students and their families. Ivarinen was also named the 2010 Professional Woman of the Year by the Whatcom Women in Business and was the 2006 recipient of the Courageous Award from the Washington State Bar Association, presented to a lawyer who has displayed exceptional courage in the face of adversity. Earlier this year, the Whatcom County LAW Advocates’ Board of Directors honored her with the Joseph T. Pemberton Award for her longstanding commitment to civil legal aid in the community.
