Members of The Jacksonville Bar Association have always answered the call to lend a helping hand whenever needed. Since the events of Sept. 11, much of our efforts have been focused on providing assistance to those living outside of our community. Many may not be aware of the impact national events are having on us here at home.
The State of Florida’s budget shortfall, which has been exacerbated by the events of Sept. 11, has resulted in cuts in many local programs. One of those is the Guardian Ad Litem Program.
The Guardian Ad Litem program advocates on behalf of abused, neglected, and abandoned children affected by court proceedings in the 4th Judicial Circuit. Guardians are appointed by the court on a case-by-case basis for the purpose of investigating a child’s circumstances, monitoring public agencies that provided services to the child, ensuring that the court’s orders are implemented, protecting the child from one-size-fits-all judicial procedures, and generally speaking for the child’s best interests. Guardians do not work alone, but are supported by case coordinators, legal staff, and an executive director.
Unfortunately, recent budget shortfalls have eroded the Guardian Ad Litem’s support system in the 4th Judicial Circuit. The program recently lost its executive director, several case coordinators, and both of its staff attorneys. The Program currently has an interim executive director, but does not have the authority to fill other vacancies.
This is where we, as local attorneys, can make a difference. The Program is in need of pro bono attorneys with experience in handling dependency, termination of parental rights, and family law cases. Even if you don’t have training in these matters, you can team with an experienced attorney and get the job done. Please consider volunteering. It’s a great way to benefit a child right here at home. Call Katherine Cavin, assistant program director for the Guardian Ad Litem program, at 630-1200.
• • •
Change is one thing, progress is another. Did you know that many services traditionally performed by lawyers — everything from contract negotiation to mediation — are now offered on the Internet by out-of-state lawyers and non-lawyers alike? How will this affect your practice? Will the Internet do to the practice of law what managed care did to the practice of medicine?
One thing is certain, the craft of lawyering is far different than it was just five years ago, and the changes will likely only accelerate with time.
Toby Brown, a nationally recognized author, consultant, and speaker on the effects of technology on the practice of law, will address these and many other questions at our Nov. 15 luncheon and three-hour CLE seminar to immediately follow. If your professional horizon extends more than five years, this may be the most important speaker you will have the opportunity to hear all year. Call or e-mail the Bar office for reservations.
• • •
Finally, if you have a design idea for the new county courthouse, speak now or forever hold your peace. The Jacksonville Bar Association Space Planning Committee is soliciting ideas from JBA members and communicating those to City Hall (and they’re listening), but time is short. Call or e-mail the Bar office with any thoughts or suggestions.