Who could have imagined a year ago what 2001 would bring? No one could have predicted the events of Sept. 11, the war in Afghanistan, or the anthrax scare. What was predictable, though, given those events, was the demonstration of American strength, compassion, and courage that followed. We can be sure that the unforseen challenges of 2002 will be met in similar fashion.
Closer to home, we also can be sure that Jacksonville lawyers will continue to be out front on the effort to do good and to give back to the community. Last year, 1,200 lawyers practicing in the 4th Judicial Circuit reported that they performed over 53,000 hours of pro bono legal services (up from 1,000 lawyers reporting 37,000 pro bono hours the year before), and 239 Jacksonville-area lawyers donated $155,000 to legal aid programs.
Another safe prediction for 2002 is that the upcoming legislative session will present both opportunities and challenges to the organized Bar. The legislature convenes in Tallahassee on Jan. 22. While most media attention will be focused on the legislature’s attempts to strengthen homeland security and deal with the growing budget deficit, several bills will be quietly introduced seeking to fundamentally alter the administration of justice in Florida. We, as lawyers, must not allow the independence of the judiciary to be compromised. The authority to regulate lawyer discipline and admission to The Florida Bar should remain with the Florida Supreme Court, as should procedural rule making authority. Attempts to diminish protections historically given to client confidences also must be opposed. And though it will be politically difficult, lawyers should continue to lobby for equitable and competitive compensation for Florida’s judges as the best way to ensure that justice continues to be fairly and competently administered by those most qualified to serve.
A final prediction for 2002: If you continue to practice law in Jacksonville, you will be surrounded by the most dedicated and competent legal professionals anywhere. We can all be proud that lawyers in this circuit have long held a reputation for showing candor, diligence, and respect to the judiciary, courtesy to opposing counsel, and uncompromising loyalty to their clients. A keen tradition of professionalism has long been the hallmark of Jacksonville lawyers.
On behalf of the Board of Governors and dedicated staff of The Jacksonville Bar Association, we wish you a happy New Year. We hope to see you often.