The Delaware State Bar Association (DSBA) represents lawyers practicing in the state. Beyond advocating for an efficient judiciary and ethical practices, the century-old Wilmington institution champions professional development. It mentors new attorneys, facilitates pro bono services, and fosters a strong legal community through its extensive resources.
Like other states, DSBA offers continuing legal education opportunities for its members. Attorneys can participate in live seminars held throughout the year on diverse topics or access pre-recorded video CLEs. This continual professional development assists lawyers in maintaining their licenses and ensures they keep current with the latest legal changes and innovations. The DSBA's CLE requirements are rigorous – attorneys must complete 24 credit hours every two years, with at least 12 from live, in-person courses. New lawyers face additional fundamental course requirements covering core practice areas.
The bar also prioritizes member well-being through the DE-LAP, Delaware Lawyers Assistance Program, a confidential resource for judges and attorneys grappling with mental health, addiction, stress, and gambling problems. Unlike discipline, DE-LAP enables this at-risk group to recognize their underlying issues and target them before they sabotage their lives or careers. Self-referral is available at no cost, with assured confidentiality to encourage proactive intervention.
Member lawyers also benefit from the bar's Delaware State Bar Insurance Services, Inc. (DSBIS). This insurance agency – a wholly owned subsidiary of the DSBA – caters to members' business, professional, and personal insurance needs. From malpractice coverage to health plans and business policies, DSBIS leverages expertise across insurance lines to secure optimal protection and savings for member firms and individuals. Further, DSBIS offers risk management services and resources to help members mitigate potential liabilities and ensure compliance with industry regulations.
Complimentary multimedia resources represent another key benefit for member attorneys. The DSBA offers videos addressing topics like handling eviction cases and boosting productivity using technology. Supplemental materials accompany recordings to expand on the content covered in select videos. The bar also gives insights on diversity and inclusion through content highlighting trailblazers like Delaware's first African American attorney. By subscribing to future updates, lawyers stay updated on new videos and documents added over time.
Additionally, DSBA offers various benefits for small firm attorneys. They have a dedicated section for Small Firms & Solo Practitioners, providing specialized support, programs, and conferences tailored to their unique needs. Members also enjoy access to free legal research platforms, customized newsfeeds, and discounted case and client management software from preferred vendors. The Law Office Management Assistance Program further caters to small firm attorneys by offering valuable resources and guidance.
Benefits also extend to the next generation through student memberships. This avenue allows law students to immerse themselves in Delaware's legal community, have a voice on key issues, and cultivate connections that can lead to future career opportunities through the bar's events and programs. Student members also gain exposure to the legal profession and access DSBA-organized mentorship programs and workshops to develop their professional skills.
Beyond serving its members, the bar commits to increasing access to justice for all Delaware residents. While not providing direct legal advice or recommending an attorney, the bar's referral system connects individuals with volunteer attorneys. Those who cannot afford legal services can also benefit from pro bono legal representation from several legal aid organizations, including Delaware Volunteer Legal Services, Inc. (DVLS), Legal Services Corporation of DE (LSCD), and Community Legal Aid Society, Inc.—the DSBA further aids in resolving grievances through its fee dispute and disciplinary complaint processes.
