Young Lawyers News

This month I would like to focus my message on State Bar involvement and pro bono. I know that not everyone gets involved with the State Bar, but I’m here to tell you that you really should.

I am frequently asked why I volunteer. The answer is simple – I say yes to the opportunities when presented. I have essentially created a rebuttable presumption that I would say ‘yes’ whenever asked to be involved. As example, when I was asked to consider running for Secretary/Treasurer of the YLS, my mind immediately came up with all of the reasons that might excuse me from such a role. Time is always a struggle, and it is an easy out. I have plenty going on to keep myself busy. But, if I start out knowing that I am going to say ‘yes’ unless I have a very good reason not to, it’s definitely harder to turn down the opportunity to be of service.

Beyond saying yes to opportunities as they arrive, I have found that if it’s a cause or project that means enough to me, I will prioritize it and find the time to make it work. And volunteering for leadership roles within the bar has been good for me. It feels good to give back to my profession. I enjoy making a difference even if it is a small one. I distinctly remember a lecture from my undergraduate studies in psychology that helping others releases endorphins and can essentially make you happier. I believe that is 100% true.

I encourage everyone to get out there, volunteer, and serve others. The State Bar has numerous opportunities for you to serve and improve our profession. There are also opportunities to do pro bono work through our State Bar’s Access to Justice program. So, I am asking you to get involved and challenging you to start out with a presumption that you will say ‘Yes!’

If you have questions about how you might be able to get involved, please do not hesitate to contact me. I may not have the answer, but I will help you find it!

justsay

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John P. Blackburn Richard D. Casey Hon. Michael Day Robert B. Frieberg Thomas H. Frieberg William C. Garry David A. Gerdes Hon. David R. Gienapp Patrick G. Goetzinger G. Verne Goodsell Robert E. Hayes Terry L. Hofer Carleton R. “Tex” Hoy Steven K. Huff Hon. Charles B. Kornmann Bob Morris Thomas J. Nicholson Gary J. Pashby Stephanie E. Pochop Reed A. Rasmussen Pamela R. Reiter Robert C. Riter, Jr. Eric C. Schulte Jeffrey T. Sveen Charles M. Thompson Richard L. Travis Thomas J. Welk Terry G. Westergaard

Hon. John Bastian Robert C. Riter, Jr. Mary Jane Cleary Laura Clark Rowe Andrew L. Fergel Thomas Eugene Simmons Neil Fulton Jason R.F. Sutton Tom E. Geu Sarah L. Thorne Craig A. Kennedy Barry R. Vickrey Hon. Judith K. Meierhenry