When Brian Coughlin was sworn in as president of the Jacksonville Bar Association for the 2025–26 term, he set the tone with clarity and conviction. His theme for the year, “Elevating Our Profession,” is more than a slogan—it’s a blueprint for action.
Paired with the motto inherited from his father, legendary football coach Tom Coughlin—“Deeds, not words”—our president’s vision urges each of us to define our commitment to the profession not by what we say, but by what we do.
As a member of the board of governors, I’ve taken this message to heart. The charge to elevate our profession demands more than exceptional advocacy in the courtroom or diligent work at our desks.
It demands engagement with our colleagues, with the community and with the future of the legal profession. President Coughlin’s leadership reminds us that we are not only stewards of justice, but also role models for what principled, service-minded lawyering can look like.
This year, every member of the board is being asked to lead or support a project that reflects this ethos of service. These projects are not meant to be symbolic; they are meant to be impactful.
Whether it’s organizing pro bono initiatives, mentoring new attorneys or partnering with community organizations, we are called to act in ways that visibly elevate our profession in the eyes of the public and each other.
To that end, I’m proud to offer a sneak preview of a new initiative we are developing.
Litigation Lab is a hands-on training and mentorship experience for aspiring and early-career litigators.
It aims to demystify the realities of litigation by allowing participants to observe real courtroom proceedings, engage in curated debrief sessions with experienced attorneys and gain insight into strategy, advocacy and professional ethics in real time.
The goal is to create a space where practical learning meets professional development. A space where learning by watching is elevated by context, conversation and community.
We envision Litigation Lab as not just a skills-building platform, but a pipeline for strengthening our trial Bar and deepening our commitment to excellence.
This is how we elevate our profession — not only by raising the bar for ourselves, but by investing in those who will carry it forward.
President Coughlin’s theme is a timely reminder that the public’s trust in the legal system depends on what lawyers do when no one is watching.
And sometimes, the most meaningful contributions come not from accolades or headlines, but from showing up for the next generation.
This year, let’s rise together through deeds, not words, and prove that elevating our profession starts with intentional action, collective effort and a willingness to lead by example.
Obinna Anum is a senior attorney with Owenby Law and the founding attorney of Anum Law, a national firm focused on contracts and intellectual property.
His primary practice at Owenby centers on high-conflict divorce, child custody and complex asset and debt division.