WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HB 2624

Relating to the licensing and regulation of certain legal paraprofessionals; requiring an occupational license; imposing fees.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Barbara Gervin-Hawkins

Texas HB 2624 would require occupational licensing and impose fees for certain legal paraprofessionals, establishing state regulatory oversight to standardize qualifications and consumer protections.

Referred to Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence
#courts--general(i0160) #courts--personnel(i0155) #criminalprocedure--general(i0208) #lawexaminers #boardof(vt1oy) #occupationalregulation--othertrades&professions(i0541) #statebaroftexas(v2529) #supremecourt(v0311)
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 2624

Legislative bill overview

HB 2624 proposes creating an occupational licensing requirement for certain legal paraprofessionals in Texas, establishing state regulatory oversight where previously there may have been minimal or no formal regulation. The bill would impose licensing fees to fund this regulatory framework and define which paraprofessional roles fall under this requirement.

Why is this important

Legal paraprofessionals play a significant role in making legal services more accessible and affordable to Texans by assisting attorneys and providing certain legal services independently. Licensing requirements affect both the paraprofessionals themselves (through compliance costs and barriers to entry) and consumers (through potential service cost increases, but also potential quality assurance). This regulation could reshape how legal services are delivered in the state.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost and access trade-offs: Licensing fees and compliance requirements may reduce the number of available paraprofessionals, potentially increasing legal service costs for low-income Texans who rely on these more affordable alternatives to full attorney services
  • Definition and scope ambiguity: The bill's definition of "certain legal paraprofessionals" remains unspecified in available information, creating uncertainty about which roles qualify and whether it affects limited license legal technicians, document preparers, or other categories differently
  • Regulatory burden vs. consumer protection: Stakeholders will debate whether formal licensing adequately protects consumers or primarily serves to restrict competition and protect attorney market interests

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.