One year ago, in February 2013, Texas became the first state to initiate a licensing accommodation policy for military spouse attorneys without a formal rule change so that it could begin consideration of military spouse applications immediately. The License Portability for Military Spouses (LPMS) policy allows for admission for military spouses stationed in Texas and provides for reduced application fees for those military spouse applicants.
To celebrate this milestone, on Sunday, February 23, join Military Spouse JD Network (MSJDN) in Austin, Texas for Deep in the Heart: Celebrating Texas Support for Military Spouse Attorneys. Come early to celebrate and network with your fellow military spouse attorneys, and stay for brunch when guests will enjoy a message from special guest speaker Justice Phil Johnson of the Texas Supreme Court. If you would like to attend Deep in the Heart, register now!
Chief Justice Nathan Hecht, a veteran of the U.S. Naval Reserve JAG Corps, and Justice Jeff Boyd will also attend Deep in the Heart, as will Julia Vaughan, Executive Director of the Texas Board of Law Examiners.
The LPMS policy in Texas is one example of MSJDN’s effort to work with state licensing authorities to make the legal profession compatible with military service. MSJDN continues to work throughout the nation, on a state by state basis, to advocate for licensing accommodations for military spouses, including bar membership without additional examination. The goal is to reduce the barriers for military spouse attorneys to get licensed and find employment after each military move. To date, six states have adopted some form of licensing accommodation in support of military spouse attorneys. To get involved with these efforts, contact MSJDN’s State Licensing Chair, Rachel Winkler, at rachel.winkler@msjdn.org.
Proceeds of Deep in the Heart will benefit the Military Spouse JD Foundation’s two programs: the Military Spouse Professional Development Program and the Justice for Military Families pro bono program and virtual law clinic. Deep in the Heart is made possible by generous donations from Langley & Banack Incorporated, and Seigman, Starritt-Burnett & Sinkfield PLLC.