Three speaking engagements, with topics ranging from wills, trusts and estates to civil rights law, are available in October and November. Check the schedule and let us know if you’re available.

If public speaking is part of your legal business development plan and you’re not getting the results you’d hope for, you may be missing a step. …

Note: As of Friday, Aug. 7, 2020 this date has been filled. Currently, there are no open speaking dates available.

David Behrend, M.ED., director of Career Planning Services for Lawyers in Ardmore, Pennsylvania, and Judith Rushlow, executive director of Florida Lawyers Assistance, will offer a free career counseling program for lawyers via computer or telephone from the privacy of your home or office. The next session is on Wednesday, Aug. 12 at 12 p.m. See…

Virtual technology is revolutionizing the administration of justice, but the digital age is also exacting a toll on the legal profession, warns Caroline Johnson, a former member of the Supreme Court’s Commission on Professionalism. Johnson said lawyers are forgetting their professional and ethical responsibilities at a time when the Supreme Court is taking an increasingly…

With litigation practices entering the world of remote technologies due to the coronavirus pandemic, counsel should understand the tools and techniques available remotely to conduct effective depositions.  See the full Florida Bar News article.

The 11th Circuit designed a hybrid model for its pilot, one that mixed remote technology for jury selection with heavy use of social distancing, protective gear, and strict protocols. Witnesses were separated by plexiglass shielding. All participants wore PPE and were temperature checked and required to fill out a questionnaire before entering the building. IT…

Six former professional basketball players are participating in an upcoming public service ad campaign to benefit The Florida Bar Foundation. The goal of the campaign is to broaden support for civil legal services beyond the legal profession. See the full Florida Bar News article.

Partnering with the Appellate Practice Section, the Young Lawyers Division, and the Florida Association for Women Lawyers among others, Florida’s Guardian ad Litem program has launched a YouTube channel offering free CLE to encourage lawyers to do pro bono work. It’s called Free Florida CLE: LeGAL Support for Your Pro Bono Practice. See the full…

Bar President Dori Foster-Morales will lead panels of Bar leaders, judges, and local affiliate members in virtual town hall forums in each of Florida’s 20 judicial circuits through August and September. See the full Florida Bar News article.

In a recent #ProTipTuesday, best-selling author, attorney, speaker, and advocate Brian Cuban discussed how there’s no such thing as a high-functioning lawyer struggling with addiction. “We can and do recover.” #WellLawyer #mentalhealthandwellness See other ProTipTuesdays clips.

“Everyone’s lives have changed, and anyone who says it hasn’t just doesn’t get it,” says new Florida Bar President Dori Foster-Morales in the Bar Journal profile. “I look at it like we’re in a tunnel, and we have to figure out a way to get out of it.” If any Bar president can find the…

The Florida Bar provides a wealth of information as part of its initiative to educate Florida’s voters about judicial elections. The Vote’s in Your Court webpage includes a “Guide for Florida Voters,” an easy-to-read, nonpartisan brochure about the courts and the role of judges; statements submitted by trial court judicial candidates; and biographies of the judges facing…

In light of “longstanding and recent acts of racist violence,” the deans of the 12 law schools in Florida have formed the Florida Law Schools’ Consortium for Racial Justice. “This collective will leverage the strengths and educational roles of every law school in the state to assist community organizations fighting for racial justice and policy…

The Florida Bar is grateful to you for speaking to groups about their basic legal rights and responsibilities and the roles of lawyers in American society. The Florida Bar offices are in Phase 2 of reopening during the COVID-19 pandemic with a portion of the staff working remotely from their homes, and others on staggered…

Judge Renatha Francis and John Couriel were appointed May 26 by Gov. Ron DeSantis to become the newest justices of the Florida Supreme Court. Surrounded by their spouses and children, donning face masks when they were not speaking at the podium, and keeping proper social distance, Francis and Couriel both said at a news conference…

Perhaps you have had the displeasure of attending presentations where the speakers bored you. You look around the room and everyone is looking at their smartphone.

Citing the COVID-19 pandemic and recent civil unrest, new Florida Bar President Dori Foster-Morales said she will forego a theme for her presidency and focus instead on rebuilding. “Our Florida Bar will be more proactive than ever, listening to you — our members — and doing what we can to meet your needs and the…

The COVID-19 pandemic is forcing a “foundational” shift in the delivery of legal services that could dramatically expand access to justice, said Jack Newton, founder and CEO of the legal software giant, Clio. Appearing in a live “fireside chat” webinar with outgoing Bar President John Stewart in the Bar’s first virtual convention, Newton said he wasn’t forgetting…

A minute-long public service announcement video by a Supreme Court workgroup emphasizes social distancing measures in courthouses across the state, continuous cleaning and disinfecting of courthouses, and the need to wear masks when doing business at the courthouses. The video is being distributed to the 20 judicial circuits’ public information officers and clerks’ offices around…

Much has changed for The Florida Bar since it began operating in 1950 but one thing remains immutable. Steve Zack, Bar president for 1989-90 and who went on to become president of the ABA, recalled advice he got from Chesterfield Smith, another former Bar and ABA president. “He had a very simple statement: Do good,”…

Beware of “Deep Fake” videos, buy plenty of cyber insurance and never forget that protecting client data is an ethical responsibility. Those are just a few warnings issued by leading cybersecurity experts during the 2020 Masters Ethics Seminar sponsored by the Professional Ethics Committee at the Virtual Annual Florida Bar Convention. See the full Florida…

It only takes one hurricane to change your life, your home, and your community. Just ask anyone in the Florida Panhandle who survived Hurricane Michael in 2018 or those living in the Florida peninsula or the Keys who went through Irma in 2017. The 2020 Hurricane Season began June 1 and runs through November. The time…

“The professionalism panels are a great way to help attorneys who have lost track of professionalism,” said Ita Neymotin, incoming chair of the Standing Committee on Professionalism and chair of the 20th Circuit professionalism panel. “It’s easier and quicker to help attorneys get back on professionalism if it’s an issue from being discourteous to being…

David Behrend, M.ED., director of Career Planning Services for Lawyers in Ardmore, Pennsylvania, and Judith Rushlow, executive director of Florida Lawyers Assistance, will offer a free career counseling program for lawyers via computer or telephone from the privacy of your home or office. The next session is on Wednesday, July 8, at 12 p.m. See…

The Florida Bar is grateful to you for speaking to groups about their basic legal rights and responsibilities and the roles of lawyers in American society. Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, The Florida Bar offices are temporarily closed with some staffers working remotely from their homes. Until a full re-opening occurs in Florida, we will…

Two weeks after it was set up, a special workgroup dealing with how the court system can function during the coronavirus pandemic had its first suggestions accepted and promulgated by the Supreme Court. The suggestions mostly deal with what court operations can be handled remotely. The 17-member workgroup includes several judges, a state attorney, a…

The 2020 Annual Bar Convention will be a virtual only event this year because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Originally slated for June 17–20 in Orlando, the 70th Annual Convention is being re-tooled so that section and committee meetings, CLE seminars and certain other events can be held virtually or remotely during the week of June…

More than a traditional hotline, Florida Lawyers Helpline is available 24/7/365 to provide a continuum of services for members.  Lisa Hardy, vice president of clinical operations for CorpCare Associates, Inc., the Atlanta-based provider of the services, said the Helpline can offer members everything from crisis intervention and referral for free mental-health counseling, to providing a…

The Young Lawyers Division, always a champion of using technology to enhance the practice of law, is revamping its digital “Practicing With Professionalism” series. The series has new features in addition to regular features such as a panel discussion on professionalism and ethics; an introduction to social media and the law; and an overview of…

Relax. Begin your talk with a well-prepared grabber. A relevant personal story is a great start. It establishes your credibility. 

David Behrend, M.ED., director of Career Planning Services for Lawyers in Ardmore, Pennsylvania, and Judith Rushlow, executive director of Florida Lawyers Assistance, will offer a free career counseling program for lawyers via computer or telephone from the privacy of their homes or offices. The next session is on Wednesday, June 10, at 12 p.m. See…

On March 9, Gov. Ron DeSantis declared a state of emergency for Florida as a result of COVID-19. Since then, we’ve lived through weeks of quarantine orders, virtual home schooling, remote working and toilet paper shortages. Now, almost two months later, the state is preparing to re-open and everyone is wondering how to begin getting…

As we sail across the seas of change, the unexpected can occur. The waters are not always calm. The winds aren’t always favorable. We are experiencing a global health crisis that caused the population of various nations — including the United States — to make unprecedented changes in the way we live and work. See the…

At a May 7, LegalFuel CLE, Halley Peters and Karen Cespedes of Esquire Deposition Solutions went over how courts dealing with COVID-19 are changing the video deposition universe and how the legal profession can best deal with likely permanent changes after the pandemic. LegalFuel has been organizing several free seminars to help Bar members cope…

Social distancing stress during the pandemic and the fear of an “invisible enemy” added to an already high-pressure career is putting the mental health of Florida lawyers at increased risk, an expert warns. “Having worked with attorneys for a while,” said South Carolina marriage and family therapist Amy Wood, “I know attorneys are more stressed…

Plans are underway at The Florida Bar to provide Floridians with information about trial and appellate judges on the ballot later this year, as well as educating voters about judicial elections, merit retention, and the court system. The Bar will again be printing its Guide for Florida Voters, which be made available at supervisors of…

The Florida Bar is grateful to you for speaking to groups about their basic legal rights and responsibilities and the roles of lawyers in American society. Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, The Florida Bar offices are temporarily closed with a portion of the staff working remotely from their homes. Until stay-at-home orders are lifted in…

In times of crisis such as the one presented by the COVID-19 pandemic, consumer attorneys are on the legal frontlines. They help clients with questions about mortgages, leases and financial obligations. They are working overtime, and one deserving attorney could be the recipient of The Florida Bar 2020 Consumer Protection Lawyer of the Year Award…

“In the midst of the COVID-19 coronavirus crisis, all of our lives, personally and professionally, have been impacted,” Florida Bar President John Stewart says. “However, we at The Florida Bar want to make sure that you have the latest information on what our Bar is doing and where you can find important information during this…

Many workplaces are closed with employees working remotely from home as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and its “social distancing” practices. Out of necessity, we have adapted our behaviors both personally and professionally. See the full Florida Bar News column by former President Eugene K. Pettis.

This month’s tips are coping tips and articles for living through a pandemic. Resources cover topics such as anxiety, mental health, office management and leadership.

Every lawyer and law firm should have a plan for an emergency, be it a stay-at-home order or a hurricane. COVID-19, social distancing and stay-at-home orders have affected how attorneys are practicing law. Lawyers are practicing remotely, a new situation for many lawyers and their staff. See the full Florida Bar News article.

The Florida Bar has temporarily expanded the Florida Free Legal Answers online legal clinic that aids …

People who didn’t pass the bar exam on their first try go on to become incredible lawyers, and not passing the first time isn’t a measure of how successful you will be in life, according to Ethan Wall, co-chair of the Young Lawyers Division’s Mental Health and Wellness Committee. Wall said: “With this Stigma Free…

David Behrend, M.ED., director of Career Planning Services for Lawyers in Ardmore, Pennsylvania, and Judith Rushlow, executive director of Florida Lawyers Assistance, will offer a free career counseling program for lawyers via computer or telephone from the privacy of your home or office. The next session is on Wednesday, May 13, at 12 p.m. See…

The unprecedented nature of the COVID-19 epidemic has been challenging for Florida’s 107,000-plus legal community and the clients they’re sworn to protect. Interviews with individual attorneys, Florida Bar leaders and Bar staff, suggest that most lawyers are adjusting to the new reality by closing offices, working from home and relying heavily on technology. See the…

Florida Lawyers Mutual Insurance Company (FLMIC) has a COVID-19 ethics checklist for Florida lawyers, Attorneys can use it to work through the challenge of client representation during a public health crisis. See the full Florida Bar News article.

Column by Beth Kirkland, program coordinator for the Henry Latimer Center for Professionalism.: Before working from home, my apartment was my serene space. It was my quiet space. My comfort. Now that it is not only my home, but also my office, I had to think creatively to craft a calming space where I could recharge…

Miami attorney Paula Phillips gave a talk on cyber security issues to the Colombian-American Bar Association in February of 2020.

A proposal that would limit the penalties judges could impose on so-called “no-show” jurors is heading to the Senate floor. The Senate Rules Committee voted Feb. 19 to approve SB 1590 by Sen. Bobby Powell, D-West Palm Beach. The measure was prompted by a 2019 contempt-of-court case in which a 15th Circuit judge ordered a 21-year-old West…

Bar sections intent on enhancing diversity may want to take a cue from the Real Property, Probate and Trust Law Section’s Fellowship Program. At the Bar’s Winter Meeting in Orlando, the RPPTL’s Michael Gelfand discussed with the Bar’s Standing Committee on Diversity and Inclusion the section’s efforts to attract and cultivate young, diverse leadership. See…

A great majority of Florida lawyers are pleased with The Florida Bar’s stewardship of the legal profession, according to the 2019 Membership Opinion Survey. Eighty-two percent of all respondents rated The Florida Bar as an excellent or good advocate for the profession, the highest rating ever received for that question, which dates to 1995, said Mike…

After several years’ gestation, the Florida Hispanic Bar Association, aimed at being an umbrella for existing local Hispanic bars, plans to launch this summer. “Everything fell into place in terms of having all the right relationships and support around the state on the effort to launch the Florida Hispanic Bar Association,” said Vivian Hodz, who…

In his February President’s Video Message, Florida Bar President John Stewart gives an update on The Florida Bar’s priorities during the 2020 Legislative Session, discusses how the Florida Supreme Court is working to keep Florida’s legal system efficient and accessible, and lists what Florida Bar members can do to provide input and stay informed. See…

The brainchild of former YLD President Christian George, “#StigmaFree YLD” was launched last year as part of The Florida Bar’s mental health and wellness campaign. The original series featured high-profile attorneys, including members of the Board of Governors, describing how they overcame alcoholism, addiction, depression, and other forms of mental illness. See the entire Florida…

David Behrend, M.ED., director of Career Planning Services for Lawyers in Ardmore, Pennsylvania, and Judith Rushlow, executive director of Florida Lawyers Assistance, will offer a free career counseling program for lawyers via computer or telephone from the privacy of your home or office. The next session is on Wednesday, March 11, at 12 p.m. See…

Make an Outline Like a good brief, the key to an effective CLE is organization. No one wants to listen to someone darting from one topic to another. That’s why an outline is critical. If you start with an outline, it’s easy to see the big picture. You’ll understand how you want the topics to…

Apr. 21, 6 p.m., Miami, Paralegals/Legal Assistants/Attorneys. Topic: Landlord Tenant. Apr. 21, 6 p.m., Lake Park, Lake Park Library members. Topic: Immigration and Naturalization.

The Florida Bar is grateful to you for speaking to groups about their basic legal rights and responsibilities and the role of lawyers in American society. Please complete this form after your events as your feedback is valuable. Also, please tell your local civic and social clubs that might want to make a presentation about the…

Boca Raton attorney Sharifa Tharpe spoke about tax law to a group at the Lake Park public library.

Jacksonville attorney Giselle Girones’ gave an online, virtual classroom lecture to middle and high school students on the topic of Media Law and Technology.

Many lawyers have called the Bar’s ethics hotline to ask whether the rules permit them to use their own money to either advance or pay outright a litigation client’s living expenses such as a rent or mortgage payment, food and medical expenses. See the entire Florida Bar News article.

The Bar’s Appellate Practice Section and Florida’s Guardian ad Litem Program are teaming up to offer the CLE program, “Appeals for the Pro Bono Practitioner,” at the Bar’s Winter Meeting. The program will run from 1 to 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 5. The Winter Meeting is at the Hyatt Regency on International Drive in…

Jan. 1 marked the beginning of a new digital era in Florida, with the implementation of a law authorizing the remote notarization of most legal documents. The new law makes electronic wills available July 1. See the entire Florida Bar News article.

Encouraged by the results of a three-county pilot program, Florida court officials expect to launch “E-Notify” statewide by the end of January. E-Notify users are directed to a website where they register for free. In addition to choosing how they are alerted, users also have a choice of when they are alerted about court appearances — any…

From Florida Bar President John M. Stewart: “Over the past seven years, and perhaps even longer, Bar presidents have made statements I could still make today. While reading Journal columns by my predecessors, it becomes clear that certain issues centered around technology have been unequivocally pertinent to the practice of law. The rapidly changing legal…

The 2020 Florida Pro Bono Law School Challenge kicks off Feb. 3. The statewide competition, now in its second year, connects Florida law students with lawyers to partner on pro bono cases from local legal aid organizations. Students and lawyers can visit www.FloridaLawSchoolChallenge.org through April 3 to pick a case. See the entire Florida Bar News article.

Attorney General Ashley Moody joined a handful of lawmakers and advocates at a Capitol news conference to announce the launch of the Florida Alliance to End Human Trafficking. See the entire Florida Bar News article.

David Behrend, M.ED., director of Career Planning Services for Lawyers in Ardmore, Pennsylvania, and Judith Rushlow, executive director of Florida Lawyers Assistance, will offer a free career counseling program for lawyers via computer or telephone from the privacy of your home or office. The next session is on Wednesday, Feb. 12, at 12 p.m. See…

Work The Room Before The Talk From San Francisco lawyer and author Jeena Cho: This took a lot of practice but it’s incredibly helpful. Before you take the stage, walk around the room, shake hands, and connect with your audience members. When I gave the talk at Clio with 500 plus people, I walked to…

Date City Audience Topic March 6, 11:45 a.m. Ft. Pierce Bar Association Grievance/Bar Self-Policing March 16, 2:30 p.m. Jupiter Library members Tax Law Apr. 6, 2:30 p.m. Jupiter Library members Benchmarks Apr. 7, 3 p.m. Deland Library members Patents/Trademarks/Copyrights Apr. 13, 6:30 p.m. West Palm Beach Library members Home Owners Associations May 16, 2 p.m….

The Florida Bar is grateful to you for speaking to groups about their basic legal rights and responsibilities and the role of lawyers in American society. Please complete this form after your events as your feedback is valuable. Also, please tell your local civic and social clubs that might want to make a presentation about the…

Palm Beach County Attorney Michael Gelfand in January spoke to members of the Jupiter Branch Library on the topic of Homeowners’ Associations.

The Florida Bar Foundation will be accepting nominations for the 2020 Medal of Honor Awards until Feb. 1. Nominees in the lawyer category must have a demonstrated dedication to the mission of The Florida Bar Foundation, which seeks to provide greater access to justice in Florida. See the entire Florida Bar News article.

Launched in 2014 with a goal of promoting a more diverse and inclusive leadership in The Florida Bar, the Wm. Reece Smith, Jr., Leadership Academy is about to be able to boast of more than 300 graduates. The Bar will be accepting applications for the 2020-21 Leadership Academy Class beginning Dec. 2. The academy is open to all Florida…

James Sandman, president of the Legal Services Corporation, spoke at the Dec. 6 Tallahassee meeting of the Supreme Court’s Commission on Access to Civil Justice and encouraged members to find ways to make sure people with little or no resources can still get their day in court. “There is never going to be enough money…

Florida Bar members reported doing more pro bono work and giving more donations to legal aid organizations for the 2018-19 Bar year than the previous year, but more lawyers also reported no pro bono activities. The numbers were presented to the Bar’s Pro Bono Legal Services Committee on October 17 during the Bar’s Fall Meeting…

An ABA study is underscoring the economic and social potential of Free Legal Answers, the web-based pro bono program, at a time when a strategic billboard campaign is boosting awareness in Florida to new heights. One key Florida Free Legal Answers volunteer, former Bar President Michael Higer, calls participation in the program, “the right thing to…

The Florida Bar has released an updated online handbook, “Best Practices for Professional Electronic Communication,” which offers guidance to all Florida lawyers on communicating in the digital age. The handbook is available for download from the “Resources” section of the Bar’s Henry Latimer Center for Professionalism at www.floridabar.org/prof/presources/. See the entire Florida Bar News article.

LegalFuel: The Practice Resource Center of The Florida Bar’s Speaker Series features well-known and respected Florida lawyers discussing relevant topics from technology to work-life balance and social-media marketing. The latest installment of this free CLE video series is “Requests for Time Off: How Caregiving is Changing the Workforce and Impacting Your Firm,” by Amanda Singleton…

The Bar’s Appellate Practice Section and Florida’s Guardian ad Litem Program are teaming up to offer the CLE program, “Appeals for the Pro Bono Practitioner,” at the Bar’s Winter Meeting. The program will run from 1 to 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 5. The Winter Meeting is at the Hyatt Regency on International Drive in…

David Behrend, M.ED., director of Career Planning Services for Lawyers in Ardmore, Pennsylvania, and Judith Rushlow, executive director of Florida Lawyers Assistance, will offer a free career counseling program for lawyers via computer or telephone. The next session is on Wednesday, Jan. 8, at 12 p.m. See the entire Florida Bar News article.

Getting the tone and pace right. The way you deliver your speech will say a lot about you. If you speak too fast or too slow, it’s obvious that something’s wrong and you’re probably nervous. Try keeping a moderate pace. Speak clearly and in a conversational tone, which will make it easier to engage with…

Date City Audience Topic Feb. 19, 6 p.m. University Park (Sarasota) Paralegal Association Ethics/Professionalism Apr. 21, 7 p.m. Jacksonville Baptist Church Convention Criminal Justice/Law/Process   As of Thursday, Jan. 16, 2020 these dates have been filled. Currently, there are no open speaking dates available. Important Note: When Speakers Bureau events are advertised in the Speaking Out…

The Florida Bar is grateful to you for speaking to groups about their basic legal rights and responsibilities and the role of lawyers in American society. Please complete this form after your events. We value your feedback. Also, please tell your local civic and social clubs that might want to have a presentation about the Speakers Bureau. Here is our…

Judicial Nominating Commissions: One lawyer vacancy for each of the 26 JNCs. The Florida Bar has the opportunity to nominate three lawyers for each Judicial Nominating Commission to the governor for his appointment. Each appointee will serve a four-year term, commencing July 1, 2020. Download the Judicial Nominating Commission application from the Bar’s website, www.floridabar.org,…

In the latest edition of The Florida Bar Podcast, Christine Bilbrey and Karla Eckardt,  practice management advisors at LegalFuel: The Practice Resource Center of The Florida Bar, welcome employment law expert Deborah Minnis of Ausley & McMullen in Tallahassee to help lawyers understand the applications of Title VII and other anti-discrimination statutes within the law firm setting. See…

More than 100 public sector attorneys gathered for the Young Lawyers Division government lawyer summit Nov. 1. The Orlando event focused on finding ways to encourage and recognize young government lawyers for their Bar and civic work, as well as their public service. See the entire Florida Bar News article.

Members of the Young Lawyers Division may be nominated for the YLD Board of Governors from the circuits indicated by their official Bar address if they will not have reached the age of 36 before July 1 or, if age 36 or older by such date, will not have been admitted to practice in any…

The Florida Bar campaign to destigmatize mental illness and promote health and wellness in the profession remains a top priority. That’s the message Bar leaders delivered to the Mental Health and Wellness of Florida Lawyers Committee at an Oct. 17 meeting in Tampa. See the entire Florida Bar News article.

The Florida Bar Foundation will be accepting nominations for the 2020 Medal of Honor Awards until Feb. 1. Nominees in the lawyer category must have a demonstrated dedication to the mission of The Florida Bar Foundation, which seeks to provide greater access to justice in Florida. See the entire Florida Bar News article.

Launched in 2014 with a goal of promoting a more diverse and inclusive leadership in The Florida Bar, the Wm. Reece Smith, Jr., Leadership Academy is about to claim more than 300 graduates. The Bar will be accepting applications for the 2020-21 Leadership Academy Class beginning Dec. 2. The academy is open to all Florida Bar members…

Dozens of Bar members are reporting receiving fraudulent emails from spoofed email accounts designed to look like they are from Florida Bar Executive Director Joshua Doyle. Lawyers are always advised to keep their guards up as scammers become increasingly clever in their quest to do harm. See the entire Florida Bar News article. Other scams…

David Behrend, M.ED., director of Career Planning Services for Lawyers in Ardmore, Pennsylvania, and Judith Rushlow, executive director of Florida Lawyers Assistance, will offer a free career counseling program for lawyers via computer or telephone from the privacy of your home or office. The next session is on Wednesday, Dec. 4, at 12 p.m. See…

Get to the room early. Getting to the room five or 10 minutes before everyone else arrives can help relieve anxiety. Some people find it very helpful to visit the room a few days before their speech as well. See other speaker tips to remember on your lecture date.

Date City Audience Topic Dec. 12, noon Boca Raton Paralegal Association Identity Theft Dec. 17, 6 p.m. Miami Attorneys, Paralegal, Legal Assistants Technology Law Jan. 14, 6 p.m. Lake Park Library members City/County/Local Government Law Jan. 23, 10 a.m. Palm Beach Gardens (hosted online) Middle/HS Gov’t class Open, fitting topic Feb. 4, 9:45 a.m. Winter…

The Florida Bar is grateful to you for speaking to groups about their basic legal rights and responsibilities and the role of lawyers in American society. Please complete this form after your events as your feedback is valuable. Also, please tell your local civic and social clubs that might want to make a presentation about the…

The South Florida Chapter of the American Immigration Lawyers Association featured immigration leader Ira Kurzban in its leadership training about public speaking on Oct. 4 in Miami. Kurzban’s training will help members feel more comfortable presenting at CLE panels and conferences. Kurzban has been practicing immigration law for more than 40 years and is the author…

Judicial Nominating Commissions: One lawyer vacancy for each of the 26 JNCs. The Florida Bar has the opportunity to nominate three lawyers for each Judicial Nominating Commission to the governor for his appointment. Each appointee will serve a four-year term, commencing July 1, 2020. Download the Judicial Nominating Commission application from the Bar’s website, www.floridabar.org,…

Most lawyers, whether they are conscious about it or not, have mental checklists they follow whether it’s getting ready for a hearing, mediation of trial. They follow certain procedures when interviewing a witness, drafting a pleading or negotiating a settlement. Most of the practice is a process, and by shifting the paradigm from art and…

The Young Lawyers Division has sent an email to all of its members seeking volunteers to assist Floridians who may be impacted by Hurricane Dorian. Florida Bar President John Stewart also reminds members that The Florida Bar has an entire web page of resources and tips dedicated to hurricane prep, both for lawyers and the…

Stetson University, a stakeholder in WINGS ( Working Interdisciplinary Network of Guardianship Stakeholders) from its inception in 2017, will coordinate meetings of WINGS, host its website, and manage the work of the program through the Center for Excellence in Elder Law and its faculty, including Professors Rebecca Morgan and Roberta Flowers. See the full Florida Bar…

The Florida Bar is seeking nominations for the annual pro bono service awards, which honor lawyers, judges, law firms and associations that have contributed extraordinary pro bono service. The deadline for most nominations is Oct. 24. The 2020 pro bono service awards ceremony will be held at the Florida Supreme Court at 3:30 p.m., Thursday,…

David Behrend, M.ED., director of Career Planning Services for Lawyers in Ardmore, Pennsylvania, and Judith Rushlow, executive director of Florida Lawyers Assistance, will offer a free career counseling program for lawyers via computer or telephone from the privacy of your home or office. The next session is on Wednesday, Oct. 16, at 12 p.m. See…

The Florida Legislature approved $500,000 to staff and launch a statewide Veterans Legal Helpline Project. The Florida Department of Veterans Affairs has partnered with Bay Area Legal Services to lead the initiative, which is now underway. Veterans can now reach the helpline at 1-866-486-6161. For more information about Bay Area Legal Services, visit bals.org. See the…

The Young Lawyers Division has put the finishing details on its Nov. 1 gathering in Orlando for government attorneys in management positions. The event, billed as The Florida Bar YLD Summit on Young Government Lawyers, will feature four panels — executive, criminal justice, judicial operations, and another on the types of government legal offices and…

Since its establishment 70 years ago, The Florida Bar has been a trusted, reputable and financially sound organization that has served the people of Florida and its members well. Through mandatory membership, The Florida Bar effectively and efficiently unites diverse attorneys across the state in a shared mission to ensure high ethical and educational standards, consistent…

Serve the Audience When you’re preparing to take the stage, it’s easy to focus on yourself. Will I say the right thing? Will I be funny? Will the audience like me? Did I pick the right color dress? Instead of hyper-focusing on your own performance, ask yourself: How can I be of service to the audience? What…

Date City Audience Topic Nov. 7, noon Jacksonville Lawyers, Paralegals and Legal Assistants Open Topic (fitting for Paralegal Association) Nov.14, 5:30 p.m. Ocala Legal Support Association Technology Law Jan. 21, 10 a.m. Dunedin Elderly/Seniors Computer Crimes/Internet Law Jan. 25, 8:30 a.m. Lakeland Lawyers, Paralegals and Legal Assistants Homeowners Associations Feb. 25, 10 a.m. Dunedin Elderly/Seniors…

The Florida Bar is grateful to you for speaking to groups about their basic legal rights and responsibilities and the role of lawyers in American society. Please complete this form after your events as your feedback is valuable. Also, please tell your local civic and social clubs that might want to make a presentation about the…

“These resources embody and reflect the substance of the professional identity, personality, character, and fitness to practice law which each member of the Bar should exemplify,” said Adriannette Williams, assistant director of The Florida Bar’s Center for Professionalism. See the full Florida Bar News article.

Help is available for those who want to make their websites functional for disabled users and minimize the possibility of lawsuits. Updates can be implemented while still maintaining a functional web presence. See the full Florida Bar News article.

The Florida Bar is accepting applications for lawyer vacancies on each of the Second DCA, Fifth DCA, Fifth, Seventh, Ninth, 15th, 16th, and 18th circuit judicial nominating commissions. Completed applications must be received by the Executive Director, The Florida Bar, fax 850-561-9405 or email [email protected] by the new, September 4 deadline. See the full Florida Bar News article.  

Law firms and corporations that ignore diversity in hiring and promotion not only rob themselves of talent, they risk becoming irrelevant in a rapidly changing society. That’s just one message that keynote speaker Sherry D. Williams, a corporate attorney and University of Miami Law School graduate, gave Florida Bar members who attended the Henry T….

Applications are now being accepted for the 2020 first cycle of Florida Bar board certification exams. Access the applications, rules, policies, exam dates, and specifications online at www.floridabar.org/about/cert/. See the full Florida Bar News article.

An enhanced hotline for distressed lawyers, better member benefits for attorneys looking to boost their well-being and resources for local bars sponsoring health and wellness events are the priorities this year for the Bar’s Committee on Mental Health and Wellness of Florida Lawyers. The committee met at the Bar’s Annual Convention in Boca Raton to…

Make an Outline Like a good brief, the key to an effective CLE is organization. No one wants to listen to someone darting from one topic to another. That’s why an outline is critical. If you start with an outline, it’s easy to see the big picture. You’ll understand how you want the topics to…

The number of Floridians using the Bar’s Lawyer Referral Service — especially those who are connecting with lawyers online instead of calling the service — has increased with the help of a new internet platform. See the full Florida Bar News article.

Date City Audience Topic Sept. 7, 6:30 p.m. Lakeland Non-profit Community Organization Mental Health Issues/Suicide Prevention Oct. 4, 11:45 a.m. Fort Pierce Local Bar Association Ethics/Professionalism Jan. 17, 2:30 p.m. Jupiter Library members Homeowner’s Association   As of Tuesday, Aug. 27, 2019 these dates have been filled. Currently, there are no open speaking dates available.

The Florida Bar is grateful to you for speaking to groups about their basic legal rights and responsibilities and the role of lawyers in American society. Please complete this form after your events as your feedback is valuable. Also, please tell your local civic and social clubs that might want to make a presentation about the…

The Florida Bar is accepting applications for lawyer vacancies on each of the Second DCA, Fifth DCA, Fifth, Seventh, Ninth, 15th, 16th, and 18th circuit judicial nominating commissions. Completed applications must be received by the Executive Director, The Florida Bar, fax 850-561-9405 or email [email protected] by the August 19 deadline. See the full Florida Bar News article.

Guardian ad Litem Program administrators are designing a guidance system for foster teens that is powered almost exclusively by women lawyers. When it’s fully operational, the “FAWL in love with GAL” program will help girls who are aging out of foster care navigate the real world. See the full Florida Bar News article.

Legal publisher Fastcase and The Florida Bar have launched Case Alerts, a daily report of court decisions in key practice areas. The subscription-only service introduced Florida Family Law Alerts, a daily e-mail summary of family law decisions from Florida courts. Fastcase and The Florida Bar will roll out new Florida practice areas throughout the summer,…

Florida Bar members, Authorized House Counsels, and Florida Registered Paralegals may pay their 2019-20 Florida Bar fees online by signing into their Member Portal at member.floridabar.org and clicking the “Pay My Fees” button. This marks the 18th consecutive year without a fee increase. Payments not submitted online or postmarked by August 15 are considered late and will…

A self-help video to assist pro se litigants with the non-legal aspects of representing themselves in civil cases has been released by the Supreme Court’s Commission on Access to Civil Justice. Posted on the court system’s Florida Courts Help website and on YouTube, the video provides information and advice, ranging from informing pro se parties that clerks and…

Dori Foster-Morales may have been called “Little General” in her youth, but to her Florida Bar colleagues, she is a “smart,” “savvy,” “tough,” “sensitive” and “caring” leader who tempers her intensity with a magnetic sense of humor. That’s how Senior U.S. District Judge Patricia Seitz, another Bar trailblazer, introduced her friend and mentee moments before…

Self-described as humble and cavalier, Stewart’s casual demeanor renders him an approachable Bar president. He can seem relaxed and cool — like a beach-lounger sipping a fruity drink on the soft sands of the Atlantic Coast. “Make no mistake, John is laid back. But it’s not this fall-asleep-in-the-sand laid back, it’s just a different approach,”…

Benchmarks: Raising the Bar on Civics Education offers attorneys presentations they can use when they are invited to speak to adult civic and community groups. Increasing public awareness of how the government and courts work is a critical mission for The Florida Bar. An informed public is the best defense of the rule of law and a…

If you ever experience a little “stage fright” when giving lectures, please browse through some of these helpful tips. They may bolster your next presentation to be tremendous, like pictured, motivational Football coach, Rob Mendez.  

David Behrend, M.ED., director of Career Planning Services for Lawyers in Ardmore, Pennsylvania, and Judith Rushlow, executive director of Florida Lawyers Assistance, will offer a free career counseling program for lawyers via computer or telephone from the privacy of your home or office. The next session is on Wednesday, August 14 at 12 p.m. See…

    Date City Audience Topic Aug. 29, 6 p.m. Tampa Bar Association Law and Technology (if chosen, presentation outline will be required) Sept. 14, 9 a.m. Fort Lauderdale Expert Witness Association Expert Witness Selection Oct. 19, 1 p.m. Miami Paralegal Association Aviation Law Oct. 19, 2 p.m. Miami Paralegal Association HIPAA (obtaining medical records…

We’re grateful to you for speaking to groups about their basic legal rights and responsibilities and the role of lawyers in American society. Please complete this form after your events as your feedback is valuable. Also, please tell your local civic and social clubs that might want to make a presentation about the Speakers Bureau. Here…

Talbot D. “Sandy” D’Alemberte helped write and push through Article V of the Florida Constitution that modernized the state’s courts. The former ABA president, Florida State University College of Law dean and president of FSU died May 20. See the full Florida Bar News article.

Following up on an initiative by President Michelle Suskauer, the Board of Governors has agreed to create a Special Committee on Criminal Justice. “This special committee would be created to act as a forum for a discussion and to provide subject-matter expertise in the criminal justice legislation arena,” PEC Chair Wayne Helsby told fellow board…

The latest edition of the “2019 Florida Handbook on Civil Discovery Practice” is hot off the presses, thanks to a joint effort of the Trial Lawyers Section and the Conferences of Circuit and County Court Judges. “This is available to help them work out their differences before there is a need to go to the…

David Behrend, M.Ed., director of Career Planning Services for Lawyers in Ardmore, Pennsylvania, and Judith Rushlow, executive director of Florida Lawyers Assistance, will offer a free career counseling program for lawyers via computer or telephone from the privacy of your home or office. The next session is on Wednesday, July 10, at 12 p.m. The…

Benchmarks: Raising the Bar on Civics Education offers attorneys presentations they can use when they are invited to speak to adult civic and community groups. Increasing public awareness of how the government and courts work is a critical mission for The Florida Bar. An informed public is the best defense of the rule of law and a…

For every lawyer who thinks they have oral presentations down pat, there’s another who has anxiety about talking in front of a crowd. And they both need help. As an attorney and a formal federal law clerk, Faith Pincus gives lawyers the tools they need to succeed at public speaking. See Faith Pincus’ speaking tools…

A new program to educate business leaders about the civil legal needs of their employees and how to help meet those needs is being launched by the Supreme Court’s Commission on Access to Civil Justice. Former Bar President Greg Coleman, vice chair of the commission, demonstrated, at the commission’s recent Tallahassee meeting, the final version of a…

The 2019 Annual Florida Bar Convention mobile app is now online and available for all Apple and Android mobile devices or tablets. This Mobile App has everything you need to get ready — and then attend — The 2019 Annual Florida Bar Convention June 26 – 29 at the Boca Raton Resort & Club. This year’s…

Date City Audience Topic July 18, noon Jacksonville Paralegal Association Internet and E-Mail in the Workplace Aug. 1, noon Jacksonville Paralegal Association Jury Selection Sept. 13, noon Tampa Court Administrative Staff Benchmarks/Constitution Day   Nov. 8, 2 p.m. Tallahassee Business and non-profit leaders Sexual Harassment/Discrimination As of Thursday, June 27, 2019 these dates have been filled….

We’re grateful to you for speaking to groups and about their basic legal rights and responsibilities and the role of lawyers in American society. Please complete this form after your events. Your feedback is valuable. Also please tell your local civic and social clubs that might want a presentation about the Speakers Bureau. Here is our request…

Florida Bar members, Authorized House Counsels, and Florida Registered Paralegals may pay their 2019-20 Florida Bar fees online by signing into their Member Portal at member.floridabar.org and clicking the “Pay My Fees” button. This marks the 18th consecutive year without a fee increase. Payments not submitted online or postmarked by August 15 are considered late and will…

To protect clients of an attorney who unexpectedly dies or otherwise becomes unable to practice, the Rules Regulating the Florida Bar provide that members who practice in-state must designate an inventory attorney. See the full Florida Bar News article.

Ethical and practical concerns for a salable law firm asset The Senior Lawyers Committee will present “More Stuff I Didn’t Learn in Law School: Ethical and Practical Concerns for a Salable Law Firm Asset” June 28 at the Bar’s Annual Convention in Boca Raton. The seminar, presented by Ed Alexander of Orlando, is free for…

The Solo & Small Firm Section of The Florida Bar is constantly evolving to meet the needs of the more than 60 percent of Bar members who identify themselves as solo or small-firm practitioners. Read more about these resources of the Solo & Small Firm Section in the May/June edition of The Florida Bar Journal.

The Florida Bar recently updated the MyFloridaBar Member Portal on the Bar’s website making it easier to find meetings, CLE courses and products, join a section, and register for events. See full Florida Bar News article.

Benchmarks: Raising the Bar on Civics Education offers attorneys presentations they can use when they are invited to speak to adult civic and community groups. Increasing public awareness of how the government and courts work is a critical mission for The Florida Bar. An informed public is the best defense of the rule of law and a…

“The first time you say something, it’s heard; the second time, it’s recognized; the third time, it’s learned.” – John Maxwell If you have an extremely important point that you want the audience to retain, don’t be afraid to repeat yourself. The first time you say it, the audience may not realize the importance, but by…

YLD President Christian George of Jacksonville said the survey results confirm the Bar is on the right track in making mental health and wellness a top priority. The study was conducted in partnership with The Florida Bar to mark May as “Health and Wellness Month for Florida Lawyers.” “We need to continue the conversation,” George…

Date City Audience Topic July 10, 6:30 p.m. Pinellas Park Women’s Organization Constitution/Equal Rights July 30, 6 p.m. Lake Park Library members How Not to be sued Aug. 13, 6 p.m. Lake Park Library members Purchasing a Home Sept. 10, 6 p.m. Lake Park Library members Condominium Law Sept. 13, 9 a.m. Doral HS Mock…

We’re grateful to you for speaking to groups and about their basic legal rights and responsibilities and the role of lawyers in American society. Please complete this form after your events. Your feedback is valuable. Also please tell your local civic and social clubs that might want a presentation about the Speakers Bureau. Here is our request…

Applicants to The Florida Bar who are asked to have an evaluation for potential mental health or substance abuse problems will have that evaluation paid for by the Florida Board of Bar Examiners, under a new policy adopted effective March 21. According to a FBBE press release, the new policy continues the Bar Examiners’ policies…

With a new survey showing young lawyers facing mountains of debt, the Young Lawyers Division is working to convince law schools to disclose more data and make financial aid counseling a higher priority. The survey results are prompting The Florida Bar YLD, the Iowa Bar YLD, and the ABA Task Force on the Financing of…

The Bar Ethics Hotline received a call from a member March 22 to alert the Bar to a potential swindle. The attorney had received a call from someone saying Bar complaints had been filed against him and the caller could help resolve the matter. Rest assured, if a complaint has been filed against you with…

Benchmarks: Raising the Bar on Civics Education offers attorneys presentations they can use when they are invited to speak to adult civic and community groups. Increasing public awareness of how the government and courts work is a critical mission for The Florida Bar. An informed public is the best defense of the rule of law and a…

Smile One way to instantly relax is to smile—even if you don’t feel like it. Research reported by NBC News shows smiling can boost your mood and lower stress. Smiling can also make the audience more receptive to you. Psychology Todayreports that smiling makes people appear more attractive to others. If your speech isn’t completely solemn or serious, try…

The deadline for the Real Property, Probate and Trust Law Section Fellowship Program has been extended. Applications will be accepted until May 10. The fellowship program is open to all lawyers who are members of the RPPTL Section and have been admitted to the Bar for fewer than 12 years or are younger than 38…

Law Day is held May 1 every year to celebrate the role of law in our society and to cultivate a deeper understanding of the legal profession. The American Bar Association promotes this annual event, which this year will focus on Freedom of speech and the press. To celebrate Law Day, some local bar associations hold luncheons,…

Date City Audience Topic June 25, 6 p.m. Lake Park Library members Benchmarks/Voting Rights July 5, 2:30 p.m. Jupiter Library members Revocable Trusts July 20, 8:30a.m. Kissimmee Attorneys/Legal Assistants Admiralty and Maritime Law July 20, 10:30 a.m. Kissimmee Attorneys/Legal Assistants Substance Abuse Aug. 24, 9 a.m. University Park Paralegals Immigration and Naturalization Nov. 14, noon…

We’re grateful to you for speaking to groups and about their basic legal rights and responsibilities and the role of lawyers in American society. Please complete this form after your events. Your feedback is valuable. Also please tell your local civic and social clubs that might want a presentation about the Speakers Bureau. Here is our request…

The median hourly rate for Florida attorneys is $300, according to lawyers participating in The Florida Bar’s 2018 Economics and Law Office Management Survey. The Bar poll is taken every other year to keep lawyers informed on what their colleagues are doing in various areas of law office management. This year’s survey was completed by 682…

YOUNG LAWYERS LAUNCH #STIGMAFREEYLD CAMPAIGN Broward county Attorney Hillary Cassel is the first “hero” to describe her personal struggles in a series of biographical videos that make up the Young Lawyers Division’s new “#StigmafreeYLD” health and wellness campaign. Launched in February, the campaign is designed to extinguish the prejudices that discourage people, especially competitive professionals, from admitting…

A rule change that took effect in September 2018 removed a major barrier for spouses of military personnel who wish to practice law in Florida. For Bailey L. McGowan, the first person to take advantage of the change, it meant she didn’t have to be a substitute teacher after all. Florida has more than 55,000…

THE MARCH/APRIL ISSUE OF THE FLORIDA BAR JOURNAL IS NOW ONLINE This month features a collection of articles on diversity and inclusion, including: Beyond the Barriers of Bias Implicit Bias and Its Application in the Life of a Lawyer What Does Gender Bias Look Like in Real Life? Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives: What Is the…

Benchmarks: Raising the Bar on Civics Education offers attorneys presentations they can use when they are invited to speak to adult civic and community groups. Increasing public awareness of how the government and courts work is a critical mission for The Florida Bar. An informed public is the best defense of the rule of law and a…

Consumer attorneys are the lawyers Floridians often turn to when they are in crisis, facing foreclosing or evictions, trying to restore their credit or dealing with deceptive and unfair business practices. The Florida Bar’s Consumer Protection Law Committee wants to honor a top-flight attorney for not only helping consumers but also educating peers about the…

March’s Monthly Speaking Tip Give your audience some idea of how your speech is organized. If you are going to make three arguments, say it right in the beginning then number them throughout the speech. This helps the audience have an idea of where you are in your speech. Reiterate your major points in your…

Law Day is held May 1 every year to celebrate the role of law in our society and to cultivate a deeper understanding of the legal profession. The American Bar Association promotes this annual event, which this year will focus on Freedom of speech and the press. To celebrate Law Day, some local bar associations hold luncheons,…

Date City Audience Topic May 1, 2:30 p.m. Wellington Library members 1st Amendment & Press Freedom May 16, 6 p.m. Lake Park Library members Immigration & Naturalization June 25, noon Miami Paralegals HIPAA July 23, noon Miami Paralegals Computer Crimes/Internet Law July 26, 10 a.m. Orlando Creditors Rights Attorneys Ethics/Professionalism Sept. 27, 2 p.m. Orlando…

We’re grateful to you for speaking to groups and about their basic legal rights and responsibilities and the role of lawyers in American society. Please complete this form after your events. Your feedback is valuable. Also please tell your local civic and social clubs that might want a presentation about the Speakers Bureau. Here is our request…

LegalFuel is helping Florida Bar members become savvy about cyber attacks with a new CLE offered in its Speakers Series. “Lawyers are under attack,” Miami lawyer and cyber security expert Alfred Saikali says. “There has become an adage in the cyber security industry that law firms are the weak link.” Young Lawyers Division immediate past President…

David Behrend, M.ED., director of Career Planning Services for Lawyers in Ardmore, Pennsylvania, and Judith Rushlow, executive director of Florida Lawyers Assistance, will offer a free career counseling program for lawyers via computer or telephone from the privacy of your home or office. The next session is on Wednesday, March 13 at 12 p.m. The meetings…

Beginning with the January 1, 2019, issue, the News has returned to its once-a-month roots, albeit supplemented with a new, continuously updated website to provide Florida lawyers with the information they need in a more-timely format, said Journal & News Editor Mark Killian. “With our new, state-of-the-art Journal & News website, we will work to continue to be the go-to source for news, columns, and…

Benchmarks: Raising the Bar on Civics Education offers attorneys presentations they can use when they are invited to speak to adult civic and community groups. Increasing public awareness of how the government and courts work is a critical mission for The Florida Bar. An informed public is the best defense of the rule of law and a…

Consumer attorneys are the lawyers Floridians often turn to when they are in crisis, facing foreclosing or evictions, trying to restore their credit or dealing with deceptive and unfair business practices. As it has for the past eight years, The Florida Bar’s Consumer Protection Law Committee wants to honor a top-flight attorney for not only…

February’s Monthly Speaking Tip – Be a storyteller. Regardless of the topic it is always good to weave in an interesting or thought-provoking story to make you more relatable as a speaker. People love listening to stories. They say Lincoln was a master story-teller, by the way. Supposedly many of his speeches were in the nature…

The improved online platform provides a reliable, easy-to-use way to connect with more than 600 Florida attorneys at no cost The Florida Bar has launched a newly enhanced online Lawyer Referral Service designed to provide users with a modern, easy-to-navigate conduit to more than 600 participating Florida attorneys across 120 practice areas. The service, which…

Open Speaking Opportunities at several venues As of Monday, February 25, 2019 these dates have been filled. Currently, there are no open speaking dates available. Date City Audience Topic May 13, 2019 – 6:00 p.m. St. Augustine Professional coders Health Law May 18, 2019 – 1:15 p.m. Fort Lauderdale Paralegal association Corporations and Banking Law

We’re grateful for your willingness to speak to members of civic groups about their basic legal rights and responsibilities and the role of lawyers in American society.   Please complete this form after your events. Your feedback lets us know how satisfied you were with your presentations.   Please tell your local civic and social clubs…

Veterans’ clinics, license restoration program ready for replication Guidelines for setting up clinics to assist veterans and local courts to help those who have lost their driver licenses get them back have been prepared for the Supreme Court’s Commission on Access to Civil Justice.   The commission, at its December 14 meeting in Tallahassee, heard…

Benchmarks: Raising the Bar on Civics Education offers attorneys presentations they can use when they are invited to speak to adult civic and community groups. Increasing public awareness of how the government and courts work is a critical mission for The Florida Bar. An informed public is the best defense of the rule of law and a…

Declaring that “This is our new normal,” ABA President Bob Carlson came to Tallahassee on December 11 to find out how Hurricane Michael recovery efforts, particularly those requiring lawyers, are going. Carlson, during a whirlwind set of meetings, met with The Florida Bar, Young Lawyers Division, FEMA, legal aid, and other government and nonprofit officials,…

January’s Monthly Speaking Tip – Speak with an intent to move people to action. Know what you want your audience to do immediately after hearing your speech. If nobody does anything different than they would have done before you spoke – the value of your speech is zero. Other tips from Forbes, that will leave…

With the digital edition of The Florida Bar Journal, you can enjoy the magazine in its original format on your computer or mobile device. You can also read and download back issues, perform keyword searches, and share articles on social media. READ IT HERE> Additionally, Criminal Justice Summit videos are available

Twenty-four years after posting its first website, the Florida Supreme Court December 27 unveiled its first smartphone-friendly website. The new design gives the state’s highest court room for growth and for phone app development as 21st century communications technology continues to evolve. The new website is at: www.floridasupremecourt.org . In developing the new site, customer service was…

Open Speaking Opportunity in Jupiter, FL Date City Audience Topic Apr. 29, 2019 – 2:30 p.m. Jupiter Library members/elderly Consumer Protection   As of Monday, January 28, 2019 this date has been filled. Currently, there are no open speaking dates available. However, a few openings have been discussed and shall be listed soon. I will email members…

We’re grateful for your willingness to help individuals in civic groups and organizations better understand their basic legal rights and responsibilities and the role of lawyers in American society.   Please complete this form after your events. Your feedback lets us know how satisfied you were with your presentations.   Please share our sign-up link with attorneys…

The Florida Bar Leadership Academy is accepting applications for the incoming 2019–20 Academy, which will be Class VII. The deadline to submit an application is January 15, 2019. The Florida Bar Leadership Academy is a year-long leadership training program designed to foster professional growth and enhance the leadership skills for a diverse group of attorneys. The Leadership…

LegalFuel: The Practice Resource Center of The Florida Bar has launched its Speaker Series, which features well known Florida lawyers discussing relevant topics from technology to work-life balance and social-media marketing. The latest installment of this free CLE video series is, “Cybersecurity for the Everyday Lawyer” presented by Al Saikali. It is available at LegalFuel.com. This…

 Benchmarks: Raising the Bar on Civics Education offers attorneys presentations they can use when they are invited to speak to adult civic and community groups. Increasing public awareness of how the government and courts work is a critical mission for The Florida Bar. An informed public is the best defense of the rule of law and a…

December’s Monthly Speaking Tip – Nervousness Is Normal. Practice and Prepare! All people feel some physiological reactions like pounding hearts and trembling hands. Do not associate these feelings with the sense that you will perform poorly or make a fool of yourself. Some nerves are good. The adrenaline rush that makes you sweat also makes you more…

Want to serve on a Bar committee? Preference forms are available online The annual committee preference form for Bar members seeking appointments for the term of President-elect John M. Stewart are available at floridabar.org and are due no later than January 15, 2019. President-elect Stewart will make about 500 appointments to more than 70 committees and he…

Open Speaking Opportunities at several venues As of Wednesday, January 2, 2019 these dates have been filled. Currently, there are no open speaking dates available. Date City Audience Topic March 6, 2019 – 6:00 p.m. West Palm Beach Library members Bill of Rights Aug. 28, 2019 – noon Orlando Association of Legal Administrators Law Office…

We’re grateful for your willingness to help individuals in civic groups and organizations better understand their basic legal rights and responsibilities and the role of lawyers in American society.   Please complete this form after your events. Your feedback lets us know how satisfied you were with your presentations. Please share our sign-up link with attorneys who…

LAWRENCE “LARRY” MONCRIEF, 91, volunteers as a pro bono lawyer for Legal Aid Society of Palm Beach County. Now, thanks to a recent Florida Bar rule amendment that took effect in February, more retired judges, law professors, and lawyers like Moncrief are eligible to provide pro bono services. Moncrief, center, is pictured here with Kimberly…

We’re glad you want to make Benchmarks presentations! This Benchmarks Toolkit will help you get started! Attorneys who become trained in Benchmarks – by attending a seminar – are eligible to earn CLE credits. Sign up with the Speakers Bureau to learn about presentation opportunities. To order free Constitution pamphlets for your presentation, call (850) 561-5834. Tools…

Hurricane Michael wreaks havoc Florida lawyers and the court system rally in response By Gary Blankenship Senior Editor and Rawan Bitar Associate Editor   “Pray for the Panhandle.” That’s how one lawyer put it after Hurricane Michael, which fell just short of a Category 5 maelstrom, carved its way through some of the most rural parts…

November’s Monthly Speaking Tip Give people a chance to adjust to your accent. Everyone has an accent — at least, when someone else is listening. Luckily, TED has a global audience and is very comfortable with hearing different varieties of speech. That said, speakers can make their accents more accessible to listeners all over the world….

Health and Wellness Suffering in silence no more   Drugs. Alcohol. Mental Health. Baker Act. Jail. Recovery. Relapse. Repeat. By Judge Lauren L. Brodie Special to the News   Drugs. Alcohol. Mental Health. Baker Act. Jail. Recovery. Relapse. Repeat. In our profession, these are topics we hear about every day and may have seen to…

Applications for Class 7 available December 1   Beginning December 1, the Bar is accepting applications for its seventh class of the Wm. Reece Smith, Jr., Leadership Academy, which will meet for the first time at the Bar’s Annual Convention in June as the sixth class graduates. Applications can be found on the academy’s page on…

We’re grateful for your willingness to help individuals in civic groups and organizations better understand their basic legal rights and responsibilities and the important role of lawyers in American society. We would like to continue receiving feedback from you about your events. Please notify us on how things are going. What can we do to…

Date City Audience Topic Jan. 29, 2019 – 10:00 a.m. Dunedin Elderly/Senior Population Estate Planning Feb. 19, 2019 – 10:00 a.m. Dunedin Elderly/Senior Population Advanced Directives Mar. 8, 2019 – 9:00 a.m. Ft. Lauderdale Diverse Professionals Family Law Mar. 26, 2019 – 10:00 a.m. Dunedin Elderly/Senior Population Computer Crimes/Internet Law Apr. 2, 2019 – 10:00…

New bar association toolkits help legal profession confront harassment, gender bias By Robert J. Derocher Resources are key in the research, discussions and learning opportunities surrounding sexual harassment, sexual assault and gender bias issues that confront the legal profession. On the national level, the ABA Commission on Women in the Profession has developed the Zero…

A Benchmarks seminar at The Florida Bar Fall Meeting in Tampa will discuss how to evaluate the constitutional amendments on the 2018 ballot and how to evaluate judges. The seminar will run from 9 to 10:30 a.m. on Friday, Oct. 19. There is no fee to register. Register by emailing Susannah Lyle at [email protected], or call…

Keep it in your head Avoid using index cards as a prop. They usually result in presenters appearing stilted and less confident. You don’t need to remember each and every word. Memorize key talking points and then the bits in the middle will take care of themselves. Of course, the best way to make your…

A poll of Florida Bar members regarding the merit retention election of one state Supreme Court justice and 17 appellate court judges indicates support for all to be retained. Results showed recommendations for retention ranging from 92 percent to 66 percent approval. The confidential poll seeks to find whether attorneys who know the most about…

We’re grateful for your willingness to help individuals in civic groups and organizations better understand their basic legal rights and responsibilities and the important role of lawyers in American society.   We would like to continue receiving feedback from you about your events. Please notify us on how things are going. What can we do…

A Benchmarks seminar at The Florida Bar Fall Meeting will discuss how to evaluate the constitutional amendments on the 2018 ballot as well as how to evaluate judges. The seminar, which offers 1.5 hours of General credit,  will run from 9 to 10:30 a.m. on Friday, Oct. 19.  There is no fee to register. Please…

We’re grateful for your work in helping civic groups and organizations better understand their basic legal rights and responsibilities and the important role of lawyers the United States. Here are a few things you can do to help make the Speakers Bureau more effective:   Please let us know about your events. You can do…

The Florida Bar has a new online resource to assist Florida lawyers called LegalFuel: The Practice Resource Center of The Florida Bar. LegalFuel gives members many ways to hone their law practice management skills. LegalFuel: Offers law office management and technology support for Bar members, a variety of free CLEs and assists lawyers in running the…

Speakers generate a great amount of emotion and interest through the use of non-verbal communication, often called gestures or body language. A speaker’s body can be an effective tool for emphasizing and clarifying the words they use, while reinforcing their sincerity and enthusiasm. Here are a few tips on how to use gestures effectively: http://www.toastmasters.org/resources/public-speaking-tips/gestures-and-body-language

In November, Florida voters will be greeted by 13 amendments on the General Election ballot. Speakers who are invited to discuss the Constitution Revision Commission and the amendments it put on the ballot can prepare for that presentation and gain CLE credit by watching “Examining the Issues, Evaluating Proposals: 2017-2018 Florida Constitution Revision.” In this…

Complimentary Benchmarks seminar to be held at Florida Bar Fall Meeting A Benchmarks seminar at The Florida Bar Fall Meeting will discuss how to evaluate the constitutional amendments on the 2018 ballot as well as how to evaluate judges. The seminar, which offers 1.5 hours of General credit,  will run from 9 to 10:30 a.m….

As of Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2018 these dates have been filled. Currently, there are no open speaking dates available. Date City Topic Audience Sept. 20 – 9:00 a.m.    Coconut Creek  Criminal Law   High School Students Mar. 15 – noon  Gainesville  Immigration and Naturalization  Bar Association Members  Jun. 20 – 10:00 a.m.    Naples   Workers’ Compensation  Financial &…

All speaking opportunities have been filled. Date City Topic Audience    

The Spring 2018 edition of The Professional is now available! This edition features health and wellness articles by Chief Justice Jorge Labarga and Molly Paris of Florida Lawyers Assistance (FLA).  Here’s an article on mental health and wellness that you also may find of interest.

Since Florida Free Legal Answers, a cooperative effort between The Florida Bar and the American Bar Association, was launched one year ago, Florida lawyers have answered more than 2,200 legal questions from Floridians. The virtual legal advice clinic gives low-income Floridians a way to have legal questions answered free of charge and gives lawyers a…

We’re grateful for your willingness to help individuals in civic groups and organizations better understand their basic legal rights and responsibilities and the important role of lawyers in American society. We would like your feedback. Please notify us on how things are going, and tell us what can we do to change or improve the…

Be yourself, don’t become a talking head — in any type of communication. You will establish better credibility if your personality shines through, and your audience will trust what you have to say if they can see you as a real person. Here are 9 other tips to consider.

In November, Florida voters will be greeted by 13 amendments on the General Election ballot, eight of those put there by the Florida Constitution Revision Commission. Speakers who are invited – either through the Speakers Bureau or through local civic and community groups – to discuss the CRC and its work can prepare for that…

The application for the 2018 Diversity Leadership Grants is now available online. The purpose of this voluntary bar association grant program is to support initiatives and programs that encourage diversity, diversity training and dialogue among lawyers in Florida through financial support of conferences, seminars, summits and symposia planned and hosted by local and specialty bar…

Through its partnership with the Young Lawyers Division, last year The Florida Bar launched a networking website. Lawyers Advising Lawyers features a peer-to-peer program giving members across the state access to veteran attorneys who can help answer procedural and substantive legal questions across more than 50 practice areas. Lawyers Advising Lawyers gives experienced attorneys a…

About the 2018 Law Day Theme: Separation of Powers: Framework for Freedom The U.S. Constitution sets out a system of government with distinct and independent branches—Congress, the Presidency, and a Supreme Court. It also defines legislative, executive, and judicial powers and outlines how they interact. These three separate branches share power, and each branch serves as…

“Benchmarks: Raising the Bar on Civics Education” offers attorneys activities they can use when they are invited to speak to adult civic and community groups. This month’s focus is on: “Amending Florida’s Constitution: The Role of the Courts” In this activity, participants learn about the five methods of amending Florida’s Constitution and the role that…

With a recent survey showing that 9 of 10 Floridians are unaware of what the Constitution Revision Commission does, The Florida Bar in October launched Protect Florida Democracy: Our Constitution, Our Rights, Our Courts, a statewide public education program to fill the void in Floridians’ awareness of constitution revision and engage Floridians in this critical process. The Bar…

We’re grateful for your willingness to help individuals in civic groups and organizations better understand their basic legal rights and responsibilities and the important role of lawyers in American society. Please keep taking photos to commemorate your events. Forward them to us, and the photos will be included in upcoming blogs/newsletters! Here are a couple…

A complimentary seminar at The Florida Bar Winter Meeting in Orlando will teach attorneys about the ongoing Constitution Revision Commission in the Benchmarks presentation called “Every 20 Years.”   “Benchmarks: Raising the Bar on Civics Education” will be held on Thursday, Jan. 18, from 9 to 10:30 a.m., at the DoubleTree by Hilton at the Entrance…

Citizens and interest groups have filed hundreds of proposed changes to the Florida Constitution. Those proposals are being considered by the Florida Constitution Revision Commission – which convenes every 20 years and will be able to put amendments directly on the ballot for voters to consider in November 2018. Some of those proposals could affect…

What is the Rule of Law? Could you Pass the Test? Another group of Palm Beach County Bar Association members are trained and ready to speak to businesses, community groups and organizations about civics education. Benchmarks presentations are interactive and fun! Interested in having a speaker? Contact Law Related Education Chair Andrew Kwan at [email protected]