Richard E. Norris graduated from UCLA with a BA degree in political science in 1974 and from University of California College of the Law, San Francisco in 1977.

Richard was a founding member and senior partner of Archer Norris, a law firm headquartered in Walnut Creek, California with offices in Walnut Creek, Sacramento, San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Orange County. Richard retired in 2017.

Richard’s nonprofit work included service on the Contra Costa County Democratic Central Committee (elected) and Boards of Directors of Richmond Art Center (president), Richmond Chamber of Commerce (President), Diablo Regional Arts Association, California Shakespeare Company, and Riverside Legal Aid (RLA).

Richard is a volunteer attorney for RLA in addition to his service on the Board.