Law Week 2023

by Jeff Nall

The Escambia-Santa Rosa Bar Association welcomed its members and the judiciary April 29 through May 5 for Law Week 2023 as well as a new presenting sponsor, Atlas Financial Strategies. It was a pleasure to have Andrew Martin, founder and president of Atlas Financial Strategies, and the Atlas team on board this year.

The theme selected by the American Bar Association (ABA) for Law Day 2023, “Cornerstones of Democracy: Civics, Civility, and Collaboration,” was adopted for the week-long local commemoration. As described on the ABA website, “The Constitution is a dynamic document, as it not only outlines a blueprint for government, but also delegates power, articulates rights, and offers mechanisms for change.”

Lawyers Division and the Northwest Florida Chapter of the American Board of Trial Advocates, was both well-attended and well-received by ESRBA, YLD and ABOTA members, the judiciary and guests alike. The evening event was held in the private Governor’s Room at Jackson’s Steakhouse. We thank the Young Lawyers Division and the Northwest Florida Chapter of the American Board of Trial Advocates for providing such a wonderful opportunity for mingling and networking in an informal after-hours social setting.

The Law Week Luncheon, co-sponsored by Aaron Erskine and Zarzaur Law, P.A., closed out the celebration. The event, held at Heritage Hall, featured a panel discussion surrounding the theme for 2023, “Cornerstones of Democracy: Civics, Civility, and Collaboration.” The

Also at the event, the 202e Liberty Bell Award was posthumously awarded to Sheldon Bernau, longtime board member of the Bar Foundation and friend of the association. The Liberty Bell Award is presented annually to recognize community service that has strengthened the American system of freedom under law and to accord public recognition to men and women, particularly non-lawyers, for outstanding service. The award was accepted by his wife, Lisa, and children, Diana and Benjamin. It was an honor to have Sheldon’s family, friends and colleagues join us for the well-deserved tribute. Additionally, the Northwest Florida Paralegal Association announced the winners of its theme-related high school essay contest at the luncheon. The winner was Riley Perantoni from Gulf Breeze High School. Tyler Carach from