BAR PANEL TO HOLD HEARING

CAPE GIRARDEAU - A special Missouri Bar committee reviewing certification of specialists in the legal profession will hold a public hearing in Cape Girardeau Thursday.

The hearing is being held for the commission to receive input on the subject. It is one of four that are being held across the state.

The hearing will take place from 1 to 5 p.m. at Drury Lodge, Route K and Interstate 55.

Those interested in offering comments at the hearing are asked to call the Missouri Bar in advance at 635-4128 to schedule a specific time for testimony. Unscheduled comments are also welcome.

The committee was authorized by the Missouri Bar's Board of Governors in January, and is charged with conducting a comprehensive examination of the issue.

Committee members will eventually present their report and any recommendations to the Board of Governors. If the board deems any proposals worthy of further consideration, they will be circulated to the entire Missouri Bar membership for comment prior to submission to the Supreme Court of Missouri.

Included on the committee is Cape Girardeau attorney John L. Oliver Jr.