by Caroline Gabsewics
Staff Writer
At the Jacksonville Bar Association’s 6th Annual Raymond Ehrlich Trial Advocacy Seminar, Stephen Pajcic, brother of the late Gary Pajcic, spoke to over 50 attorneys about his brother and his professionalism.
Stephen spoke about “Being a True Professional: Reflections on Ray Ehrlich and Gary Pajcic.” But before he spoke, Michael Freed — the chair of this year’s seminar — honored Gary with the Justice Raymond Ehrlich Trial Advocacy Award. Stephen accepted the award on Gary’s behalf.
“He (Gary) is an example of what we are all trying to be,” said Freed, who co-chaired this year’s seminar with former Jacksonville Bar Association President Alan Pickert.
Stephen said there is no better way to honor his brother.
“On behalf of my brother and soul mate, I want to thank the Jacksonville Bar Association for this great honor for Gary,” said Stephen. “Gary believed that it is not about how successful you are, but the type of person you are.”
Stephen went on to talk a little about Ehrlich, and in his honor Stephen wore a bow tie. He also spoke of the similarities between Gary and Ehrlich, specifically their mutual interest in politics. Stephen wanted to show that lawyers can be passionate about politics like Gary and Ehrlich were, and at the same time be true professionals.
“Gary treated clients like their case was the only case,” said Stephen. “For Gary it came down to how you treat other people — with respect and friendliness.”
Stephen added that there were guidelines Gary always followed. With sports: “be a good sport, play hard for the team and have fun.” In their law office they follow these guidelines: “always be ethical, work hard for your clients and enjoy your work,” said Stephen.
“Making it fun was always important to Gary.”
After lunch, the seminar continued through the afternoon. Attorneys, judges and special guest speakers from around Florida spoke during the day-long seminar on various topics including “Strategic Use of the Rules of Civil Procedure” and “What You Should Know About Sovereign Immunity.”
“The purpose of the seminar is to perpetuate professionalism in the legal community,” said Freed. “As the number of attorneys grows in Jacksonville, we want to keep our standards of professionalism high.”