Abstract: A motorized latch retraction assembly for installation within a door latch system is provided. The motorized latch retraction assembly comprising an electromechanical actuator, a gear assembly, and a rack and pinion drive mechanism. The gear assembly includes first and second gears. The first gear is operably coupled to the electromechanical actuator and the second gear. The rack and pinion drive mechanism includes a drive arm and a pinion gear. The drive arm defines a rack member and is configured to be operably coupled to the actuating assembly. The pinion gear includes a pinion shaft operably coupled to the second gear. The pinion gear further includes a rack gear operably coupled to the rack member. The electromechanical actuator operates the gear assembly and the pinion gear to move the drive arm in a linear direction such that the actuation assembly moves the latch between the extended position and the retracted position.