(FROM INDIANA PUBLIC BROADCASTING)

As Indiana faces a worsening attorney shortage, the state Supreme Court is convening a commission to develop solutions
for the future of Indiana’s legal profession. 

Chief Justice Loretta Rush says the state’s critical attorney shortage, particularly in rural communities, creates an access to
justice problem.  She stated,  “We’ve got to adapt and change in making sure that you have fair, efficient — that you can afford legal services when some of our dearest rights are at stake.”

The commission will look at alternative licensure options, incentivizing public service and rural legal practices, and pathways to admission and education, among other issues.

Rush also says initial recommendations for potential legislative and funding changes are due by August 1, ahead of 2025’s
budget-writing legislative session, “You can committee these things to death, but what are the short-term solutions? And let’s look at those.”

A final report from the commission is due July 1, 2025.