September-October 2007

Cover Story

Good Governance: In a new day, bars move toward new controls and policies By Robert J. Derocher

In the years following Enron and other corporate scandals, and the resulting legislation such as Sarbanes-Oxley, many bar associations and foundations are taking a hard look at their governance practices and the documentation, policies, and controls that are involved. Do you have, for example, a conflict of interest policy? A whistle-blower provision? And if you don't-should you?

Bar communications: Fear no media: Communications advice for the smaller bar

By Marilyn Cavicchia

If you're the president or executive director of a bar association with no communications staff, then you're going to have to learn to work with the media. These days, burrowing in and hoping not to attract attention just isn't an option. Here, a veteran bar communications professional and an equally experienced news reporter offer some tips on how to make sure your interactions with the media are positive ones for your bar and the profession.

Bar Foundations: What would you do with a million dollars? How to seek cy pres awards

By Bob Glaves

Are you looking for a new source of funding for your bar foundation? Have you considered cy pres awards? These awards often arise from class-action suits when the intended recipient is dead, can't be found, or hasn't responded to a notice. The court then seeks the "next best use" for the funds; with some careful planning, you can position your foundation as an excellent "next best use." Many of these awards are small, but some total millions of dollars! An executive director shares how his bar foundation has received more than $3 million in cy pres awards over the past several years-and how you can, too.

Oh, the places you will go: Reflections on the past ABA year

By Michelle A. Behnke

This issue marks the beginning of a new bar year for the ABA. Accordingly, Michelle A. Behnke, chair of the ABA Standing Committee on Bar Activities and Services, recalls some highlights of the committee's work over the past year, and gives a glimpse of what's on the horizon.