The JBA recently honored six of its members with Honorary Membership status for achieving 50 years of membership to the Florida Bar and those six were asked to share the knowledge they have gained through their careers by answering the questions listed below.
What attracted you to the practice of law?
The challenge of tax law. The magnitude of the affect that it has on people and businesses.
Who was your mentor and what information did you learn that you still use today?
I started practicing with Buck, Drew & Glocker and worked primarily with Ted Glocker. I moved on to Milam, LeMaistre, Ramsey and Martin where I worked primarily with Ralph Martin. I learned techniques of complete preparation and thoroughness as to facts of law as they apply to the situation that’s before you. I also learned the value of hard work.
What was the transition like out of law school?
After I finished my undergraduate work at the University of Florida, I went into the Navy as supply corps officer to fulfill my two-year commitment. Once I got out of the Navy I went to law school with the help of the G.I Bill. I also taught accounting courses at the University of Florida and my taught elementary school while I was attending law school. My friends joked with me that I would be taking a pay cut when I graduated and started practicing law.
How did you feel when you tried your first case on your own?
A little bit anxious, but I realized I was as prepared as I could be and felt confident that the outcome would be successful for me.
What has been your proudest moment during your legal career?
I got a decision out of an administrative agency that awarded our client in excess of $1 million, back when $1 million was real money.
What advice would you give to a law school graduate?
Find an area of the law that you are really interested in and work hard in that area. Prepare yourself to become a real expert in that area of the law. Your ethics and integrity are primary factors in your success and satisfaction in the practice of law. You always want to be up front and candid with your client, other lawyers and the court.
Do you participate in an volunteer activities?
Downtown Jacksonville Rotary past president, Christian Legal Society, past president of the University of Florida Alumni Club of Jacksonville, past president of the University of Florida Alumni Association, president of Gator Bowl Association and numerous other civic and charitable organizations.
Do you utilize the latest technology in your practice?
Yes, I use the computer for administrative, communication and research.
Why did you join the Jacksonville Bar Association?
I believe the JBA is as important, in a different way, as the Florida Bar. It involves your local issues and I believe it is important to be a part of your local organization. You certainly get to know lawyers that you normally wouldn’t meet through your regular practice.
What is your fondest memory of your involvement with the JBA?
The annual golf tournament and meetings. The lawyers that I met and the friends that I made as member of the JBA.