by Mike Sharkey
Staff Writer
Attorneys and local judges gathered Thursday at the County Courthouse for a seminar aimed at reinforcing the necessity of professionalism in the workplace. The seminar also proved to be the perfect way to honor Gary Pajcic, one of the most respected attorneys in town who passed away this past summer.
Attorneys Hugh Cotney and Michael Seelie hosted the first of what will be many Gary Pajcic Professionalism Seminars in conjunction with the American Board of Trial Advocates. Cotney said the free seminar worth Florida Bar Continuing Legal Education Requirement and Ethics credits will become an annual, free event for area lawyers. About 75 attended Thursday’s seminar and Cotney said he can see the day 500 attorneys and judges participate.
After opening remarks from Chief Judge Don Moran, the seminar featured segments from Rutledge Liles, former Jacksonville Bar Association and Florida Bar president and Cotney. Circuit Court Judges Charles Mitchell, Charles Arnold, Haldine Taylor and Karen Cole provided “A View from the Bench” and the seminar wrapped up with a panel discussion between Seelie, Thomas Edwards, Grier Wells, Michael O’Neal and Charles Sorenson.
All who attended found the seminar worth spending four hours out of the office.
“I thought it was very informative,” said attorney Jennifer Millis of Peek, Cobb & Edwards. “It was great to have the judges there to provide their insight and perspective.”
Ray Reid of Pajcic & Pajcic, said Pajcic’s philosophy was emphasized at the seminar.
“Do the right thing, do it right and have fun at it. That’s what Gary used to say,” said Reid.
“I liked that it was dedicated to Gary,” said Ben Richard of Pajcic & Pajcic.