Name: Megan Banister
Age: 27
Family: Husband, L. Ford Banister, II, married May 30, 2009
Pets: Three cats, one of which was “unplanned.” Colbie, Tux, and Ayla, who climbed three flights of stairs to win her way into our hearts.
Education: Summa cum laude graduate of the University of Georgia, B.A. in Sociology, Cum laude graduate of Florida Coastal School of Law, 2007.
Admitted to the Bar: November 2007
Employed by: Rinaman & Associates, P.A.
Field of practice: Insurance defense/PIP litigation
Professional organizations: Jacksonville Bar Association, JBA Professionalism Committee, Florida Bar Law Related Education Committee.
Community involvement: Jacksonville 20/30’s Avid Reader’s Book Club - Thursday Night Book Club Organizer, Jacksonville Area Legal Aid
How did you get involved?
I got involved with the book club because I have always enjoyed reading and I really wanted to meet other people in the community. I did an Internet search for book groups and, voila!, I found one that needed an organizer. I volunteered for the position so I could be even more involved. I also am volunteering with Jacksonville Area Legal Aid and I find it very rewarding. I volunteer because it is an excellent way to get a taste of new and challenging areas in the law and really...it just feels good!
How can someone else get involved?
Just send an e-mail or give someone a call! Also, don’t be afraid to try something a little out of your comfort zone.
What have you learned/achieved through the experience?
I have gained experience practicing in areas outside of insurance defense and so my legal learning skills stay sharp. I also have come into contact with many different types of people and I learn something new from every person that I meet.
What was the last book you read or are reading?
“Name of the Wind” by Patrick Rothfuss; my mom recommended it to me.