Key Contact Program
The Florida Bar’s ability to educate lawmakers on bar-related issues is only as strong as its members’ commitment to be actively involved. For Florida’s legal profession to be a resource in legislative matters, it is critical for the bar to have grassroots involvement from membership.
The Florida Bar needs the assistance of lawyers and lay persons who are knowledgeable about the issues on its agenda; who are personally acquainted with lawmakers; and who would be willing to present the views of the bar when requested. Participation in this activity will not transform a volunteer into a registered lobbyist but does help the legal profession in maintaining strong relationships with state and federal lawmakers and makes volunteers a valuable part of the Bar’s legislative program.
Volunteers are kept informed about the bar’s policy agenda and serve as local components of a statewide network that augments the bar’s Tallahassee-based legislative resources. These local efforts have been effective in explaining the Florida Supreme Court’s regulation of the legal profession, advocating for funding of the judicial branch of government and explaining selected aspects of the bar’s policy platform.