Spring 2011

Cover Story

Civic Education: The need is great, and so is the desire to help By Clifton Barnes

How can children grow up to be good citizens if they’re no longer being taught such basics as the three branches of government? Across the country, many bar associations are helping to fill those gaps. Here’s a look at a few of their programs and a related initiative.

Solo and small-firm lawyers: A renewed priority for bar associations

By James R. Silkenat, Harvey B. Rubenstein

Especially in today’s economy, more and more lawyers are in solo practice or at small firms. Is your bar doing all it can to serve this growing membership segment? Two distinguished bar leaders issue a call to action for bars of all types and sizes.

Think you know LRIS? Think again

By Marilyn Cavicchia

Don’t underestimate your lawyer referral and information service; it has amazing potential when it comes to public service, member service, and nondues revenue. That was the message from panelists at the Midyear Meeting of NABE, NCBF, and NCBP. Also, how do you reach consumers today? Is it goodbye, Yellow Pages, hello Facebook?

The Gift

By William R. Bay

Will you give schoolchildren in your area the gift of your time and knowledge, to ensure they learn about our system of government and their rights and responsibilities as citizens? Bill Bay, chair of the ABA Standing Committee on Bar Activities and Services, explains why some gifts are too precious not to pass along to future generations.