As my year as your president comes to an end, I wanted to take a moment to thank all of you for this amazing experience. Although many events this year were canceled or virtual, some events started occurring again as COVID restrictions loosened. It was so wonderful to be able to get out and see people again and celebrate their endeavors. In January, we had a swearing-in ceremony for new attorneys, and starting late last year, we began having investiture ceremonies again for some of our remarkable judges around the state. I was so honored to be a part of recognizing the accomplishments of people just starting their career and those moving into a new chapter of service.
As we started gathering to celebrate again, it became clear that despite having to pivot how we work due to a pandemic, many legal professionals continued and even increased their commitment to serving the public. It has been so humbling to attend award ceremonies and hear about all the amazing things legal professionals have been doing. Throughout the pandemic, lawyers and other legal professionals in Arizona did not cut back, but they stepped up. It is inspirational to hear about the volunteer efforts, the hotlines and other initiatives that were created. There were also large numbers of volunteers who have worked on committees or on their own to recommend rule changes or other fixes so that the system continues to run smoothly throughout the pandemic and now. The commitment to service that I have witnessed has been unbelievable.
Over this year, I also had the chance to meet with many members of affiliate bars and county bars across the state (thank you, Zoom). I was grateful for the opportunity to meet with so many members to hear how they were doing, how they were making it through the pandemic and how we could better assist them in their endeavors.
There have been some consistent positive things that have come out of the pandemic. I heard how virtual meetings and hearings were making it easier for people, particularly in rural counties, and saved them from excessive travel. I heard that the increased availability of quality online CLE has been helpful.
But there are areas where we have learned we can improve, including doing a better job of demonstrating the value of being a member of the Bar. I realized that because I have been involved with the Bar for so long, I assumed everyone knew all the tools and benefits the Bar provides. Based on your feedback, I have tried to work harder on outreach to show all our members the amazing things the Bar does, including providing access to free legal research (Fastcase), providing free CLE, Practice 2.0 forms, the annual convention, the Ethics Hotline, Fee Arbitration and, of course, this magazine.
Throughout the pandemic, lawyers and other legal professionals in Arizona did not cut back, but they stepped up.
Working in the legal field is challenging and stressful. We all have good days and not-so-good days. Most of us have had to endure difficult cases that led to late nights and even disappointing results. As legal professionals, we have had to make sacrifices. We have missed dinner or family events. I have certainly had my share of moments wondering if all the time and effort is really worth it.
When I see the difference that we as lawyers make in people’s lives, helping them through what is for many the hardest time in their life, I know I chose the correct profession. My love of this vocation increased even more this year. The more people I met and the more events I attended, the more I realized how many incredible legal professionals we have and how amazing our profession is. I reflect on how it is an honor and privilege to be a lawyer. On those stressful, not-so-very-good days, I strive to appreciate and be grateful that I am a member of the State Bar of Arizona. The law is a wonderful profession, and lawyers are in a position to advocate, right the wrong and serve the public good.
It has been my honor to serve as your president this past year. I hope I served you well. Thank you to everyone.
