by JBA President Courtney Grimm
Is it really December? The kids are out on break (wasn’t it just summer break?); it’s the holidays; and oh my, it’s the end of the year!
This time of year brings different feelings and offers different meanings for each of us. Some of us rejoice with the hustle and bustle, others of us stress with all that must be accomplished before year’s end.
Regardless of your reaction, this is the time for enjoying our families, reminiscing about achievements and planning for those ubiquitous New Year’s resolutions.
As the year comes to a close, I want to thank each of you for not only your support of The JBA, but your active participation and contributions.
We have enjoyed terrific speakers, fantastic CLEs and committee meetings by our committee/section chairs, renewed enthusiasm for pro bono services, successful implementation of the Residential Mortgage Foreclosure Mediation Program, and needed support of the Jacksonville Jaguars, among numerous other benefits.
I also want to remind you of a few of The JBA’s services that many of you forget to use but which provide invaluable contributions, not only to our members, but to all within the Fourth Judicial Circuit.
First, remember that we have an Ombudsman Committee. The committee assists with complaints of unprofessionalism by lawyers as well as any complaints relating to members of our judiciary. The committee’s purpose is to provide an informal and confidential means of resolving complaints, with the goal of ensuring that the Fourth Judicial Circuit maintains the highest level of professionalism for which it is known and regarded.
If you have a complaint or matter that you would like to submit to the Ombudsman Committee, you may contact Committee Chair Buddy Schultz at 353-2000.
Second, The JBA has a Mentor Committee which pairs mentees with experienced mentors who provide guidance and assistance when needed or requested by the mentee. The mentor/mentee relationship may be as formal or informal as the mentee wishes and may even remain confidential.
If you wish to be paired with a mentor or to serve as a mentor, please contact Committee Chair Glenn Warren at 398-9002.
Thanks again for your membership and contributions, and please remember to call on the committees that we have to serve and assist you. May you enjoy the holidays, bring 2010 to an end with minimal stress and a sense of accomplishment, and so begin 2011 with a refreshing start.
Last, but not least, do not forget the “One” campaign – “One Client. One Attorney. One Promise.” The JBA joins with The Florida Bar in its campaign to increase volunteer legal work. Although you may not consider the campaign as a service to you, if you answer the call and assist just one, you will realize that in making a significant difference in someone else’s life, you actually benefit in a meaningful and fulfilling way.
To assist that one client, call The JBA Pro Bono Committee Chair Kathy Para at 356-8371, ext. 363.