Whether you are a new lawyer, new to Jacksonville or simply want to learn your way around the new courthouse, “Afternoon at the Courthouse” has something for everyone. This year’s Afternoon at the Courthouse, presented by The Jacksonville Bar Association’s Young Lawyers Section, will be this November at the Duval County Courthouse at 501 W. Adams St. As in years past, the support of generous sponsors allows us to make this event free of charge. In addition, The JBA has applied for CLE credit for those attending this seminar.
All attorneys and law students in and around the Jacksonville area are invited to acquaint themselves with our wonderful new courthouse. In addition, local judges and practitioners will provide insight and commentary on professionalism, proper courtroom etiquette and the general professional courtesies that local lawyers abide by. Whether you are looking for information on how to file a lawsuit, review a court file, attend ex parte hours or conduct research in the courthouse law library, this seminar will help you learn where to go and how to accomplish all of those things.
Having practiced throughout the state, I am always proud that our local Bar is as professional and courteous as any I’ve encountered. This is due in large part to The Jacksonville Bar Association’s commitment to encouraging its members to abide by the rules of professionalism and striving to always incorporate those rules into their day-to-day practice. The seminar will feature a presentation on practicing with integrity and professionalism. After that, several members will perform a mock hearing where several members of the local judiciary will perform a skit demonstrating what not to do in the courtroom. Not only is this skit helpful and informative, but it is guaranteed to provide a few laughs. Best of all, these gracious judges have agreed to stay and field a few questions from our participants and to provide their insight and tips on proper courtroom protocol and etiquette.
After the mock hearing, there will be a presentation by local judicial assistants on local courtroom practices. The helpful hints offered by our judicial assistants are invaluable and will not only decrease the level of stress in your life, but will also increase its longevity.
The seminar will also include a guided tour of the new Duval County Courthouse. The tour will show participants how to navigate their way around the courthouse, from the clerk’s office to the judges’ chambers to all of the new amenities offered to JBA members.
Each participant will be provided with a variety of materials, including copies of local administrative orders, contact information for judges, judicial assistants and courthouse personnel, an updated certified mediator list and an array of additional documents relating to foreclosures and discovery practice in Florida.
Immediately following the seminar, a reception will be held from 5-7 p.m. All “Afternoon at the Courthouse” participants, the local judiciary and members of the Young Lawyers Section are invited to attend the reception.
Shea Moser and I are pleased to present this year’s “Afternoon at the Courthouse.” It would not be possible without the help and support of the local judiciary, practitioners, court personnel and YLS members. We hope to continue the long tradition of making “Afternoon at the Courthouse” a memorable and informative event. We will provide more information on the program in the weeks to come. If you are interested in attending or would like to be a sponsor, please contact me at 858-3211 or email [email protected].
On behalf of the YLS, we look forward to seeing you at “Afternoon at the Courthouse.”