by Max Marbut
Staff Writer
It’s not very often that proceedings begin behind schedule at the Duval County Courthouse, but that was the case last Thursday afternoon in Courtroom No. 4. A larger-than-expected number of inductees arrived to be sworn in as members of the Bar and more chairs had to be brought in to accommodate the overflow crowd of family members and friends who were there to witness the event.
Before he administered the oath, Presiding Judge Charles Mitchell of the 4th Judicial Circuit told the group he was about to induct, “Take the time to enjoy this moment. Having the privilege to practice law opens doors to unimaginable opportunities.”
Mitchell also said he could well understand what the parents of a law student go through and then revealed that his daughter, Catherine, was one of the inductees.
Former Florida Bar President Hank Coxe then addressed the group and shared an experience he had years ago.
“When I came to Jacksonville, I was looking for a job. I went to Judge Mitchell’s firm, but he didn’t hire me. Look where we are now,” said Coxe.
He also impressed on the inductees their obligation to perform pro bono services for those who are unable to afford them and said, “That is the highest calling in this profession and I challenge you to do the very best you can.”
Court Counsel and President of the Jacksonville Bar Association (JBA) Caroline Emery also addressed the group. She said the most valuable thing an attorney has is his or her reputation.
“All of your actions determine your reputation. Pay attention to the details,” she said.
Emery also explained the benefits of JBA membership, especially the networking opportunities. She then invited the group to attend a Young Lawyers JBA event that was taking place after the ceremony at Mark’s across the street from the Courthouse.
So many of Jacksonville’s newest attorneys took advantage of the offer that within a few minutes, Mark’s was as crowded as Courtroom 4 had been earlier.