It operates under the delegated authority of the Washington Supreme Court to license the state's nearly 41,000 active and inactive lawyers and other legal professionals.
The WSBA's mission is to serve the public and the members of the Bar, to ensure the integrity of the legal profession, and to champion justice.
WSBA implements the rules for admitting persons to the practice of law by means of biannual Bar Exams and annual relicensing.
Its Office of Disciplinary Counsel investigates and prosecutes claims of lawyer misconduct, as specified in the Washington State Court Rules of Professional Conduct.
The WYLC has three focus areas: Member Outreach & Leadership, Transition to Practice, and Pro Bono and Public Service.
WSBA administers, under APR 12, the Limited Practice Officer (LPO) license for non-lawyers to select, prepare, and complete approved documents for use in closing a loan, extension of credit, sale, or other transfer of real or personal property.
The Washington Supreme Court on June 15, 2012, issued an order adopting the Limited License Legal Technician (LLLT) Rule, directing WSBA to create a license that allows trained professionals to practice law on a limited basis as a means to further access to justice for those who cannot afford a lawyer.
After several years of licensure, the Washington Supreme Court in June 2020 decided to sunset the Limited License Legal Technician program, with July 31, 2022, being the deadline for anyone in the educational pipeline to complete all requirements.
The Bar Foundation ensures WSBA with sufficient resources to lead on issues of justice, public service, and diversity.