by Joe Wilhelm Jr.
Staff Writer
Representatives from the Florida Association for Women Lawyers were the guests of the Jacksonville Women Lawyers Association Wednesday at the local group’s monthly meeting.
The Jacksonville group is a member of the Florida association and the representatives were asked to attend the luncheon to explain what the statewide organization does for women lawyers in Florida.
One of those benefits is representation in legislative affairs. Elizabeth “Bib” Willis, the Florida association’s legislative chair, talked about her mission for the next few years.
“If you have an issue or concern with proposed legislation in Tallahassee, let me know. We will be looking at the legislation that not only affects the practice of law, but also women lawyers,” said Willis.
“We need to be more involved in the process that affects so many of us. We have women who are
attorneys, judges and Florida Supreme Court justices, but, in most circles, we are still looked at as the girls. We need to change that,” she said.
Willis was admitted to The Florida Bar in 1988 after careers in journalism and state government, where she developed a network of contacts that she plans to use to help women lawyers in Florida.
In her latest career, Willis focuses on the practice areas of child and family law, dependency, guardianship, dispute resolution and mediation.
Her practice and pro bono efforts earned her The Florida Bar 2011 President’s Pro Bono Service Award for the Second Judicial Circuit.
Her office may be located in Tallahassee, but she misses Jacksonville.
“I love this town. If there was a law school here when I wanted to go, I probably would still be here,” said Willis.
For more information on the Florida Association for Women Lawyers, visit www.fawl.org.
Plans for the JWLA Judicial Reception June 9 are under way and it will be held at The River Club.
356-2466