July-August 2013

Professional Development

What the future legal market means for lawyers and bar associations

Globalization. Technology. Regulation. All of these factors, along with the economy, are rapidly transforming the legal profession, say Frederic S. Ury and Jordan Furlong. Challenges abound, but where are the opportunities—and how can bar associations help lawyers make the most of them?

New Attorneys

New generation, new legal profession: Is your bar association ready?

by Marilyn Cavicchia

Did you know that Generation Y/Millennials are the largest demographic group ever, with 80 million people? That work-life balance is the No. 1 concern for both male and female law students? Or that if you’re not on social media, you’re not reaching your youngest potential members? Are you ready for the future—or for what’s already happening today? Here’s a recap of the advice that Deborah Epstein Henry and Marta-Ann Schnabel gave to attendees at the 2013 ABA Bar Leadership Institute.

New Attorneys

Project Rural Practice: Saving an endangered species by recruiting the Sweet Sixteen

by Patrick G. Goetzinger

It’s no secret that new law grads are seeking jobs in a very difficult market. Meanwhile, many communities in rural areas are desperate for lawyers to come live there and assist with their legal needs. One bar association, the State Bar of South Dakota, has received attention and accolades recently for its efforts to match lawyers and small towns. Patrick G. Goetzinger, co-chair for the bar’s Project Rural Practice, explains how it works and how you might replicate it in your own state.

Immigration

Houston bar president explains why, how he focused on human trafficking

by Marilyn Cavicchia

Brent Benoit, president of the Houston Bar Association for 2012-13, had his term and its initiatives pretty well mapped out. Then he learned about human trafficking—and Houston’s role as a major hub—and knew he had to revise those plans. Here’s what the bar accomplished, the work that is still ongoing, and why Benoit believes any bar president can and should focus on this issue, too.