The annual committee preference form for Florida Bar members seeking appointments for the presidential term of President-elect Jay White are now available on The Florida Bar’s Web site, www.floridabar.org.
If you do not have access to a computer, call (850) 561-5600, ext. 6802, to request a form be mailed or faxed to you.
“Many of you have expressed interest in becoming more involved in the work of the Bar,” said White. “I can think of no better way to do that than to actively participate in committee work. I believe service on a Bar committee is one of the most rewarding experiences an attorney can have.”
White said while there are many — although not unlimited — opportunities for committee service, often there are too many applicants for certain committees and not enough for others. He encourages applicants to select in order of preference the committees they would like to serve.
“There are several factors which I will consider in making appointments to any committee,” said White.
Among the criteria are prior service on a Bar committee and service to local voluntary bars, whether applicants have previously had an opportunity to serve on a committee, the need for new members to serve, and diversity in all forms, including gender, ethnicity, geography, and area of practice.
There are roughly 500 appointments to be made, and typically the Bar receives about 5,000 requests.
White said in the event a lawyer is currently serving or has previously served on a committee, the level of prior attendance, participation, substance of contribution and an evaluation of contribution to the committee will be considered.
Those currently serving on a standing committee should check the Bar’s Web site to determine when the term expires. If the term expires in 2008, applicants must submit the Committee Preference Form to be considered for reappointment.
Forms must be submitted prior to Jan. 15, 2008.
“Your comments concerning your qualifications and interests will be particularly helpful to me in making these choices,” White said.
Those serving on a substantive law committee must also complete and return the form by Jan. 15 to retain membership on that committee.
“I encourage you to apply for committee membership, which I can tell you from my own experience is both enjoyable and personally rewarding,” said White. “The Florida Bar cannot function without your service, hard work, and commitment.”
— Courtesy of the Florida Bar News