By Bryce McColskey • JBA Young Lawyers Section
If I had to pick one word to describe the Jacksonville Bar Association and its Young Lawyers Section, it would be “influential.”
Recent law school graduates face many unknowns. What city will I be moving to? Will I pass the Bar exam? What type of law will I be practicing? The list goes on.
What the JBA offers is a vital tool for those in the legal field, regardless of how long they have been practicing. It takes some of those uncertainties and turns them into opportunities.
For myself, I can attest to the network opportunities, the mentorship and advice and the relationship building.
While I was studying for the Bar exam, I attended a YLS social event at Estrella Cocina. Little did I know that event would provide me with great friends that I still am close with to this day.
Attending these events, you have no idea who you may meet and the opportunities are endless.
The JBA and YLS offer continuing education seminars along with sports and activities to keep you sharp both mentally and physically.
This past year, a kickball league was sponsored by the YLS that comprised teams of legal professionals from all over Jacksonville. When I joined the league, I signed up as a “free agent” and the team on which I played still stays in contact and gets together for bonding and social events.
The JBA does a fantastic job in building relationships in the legal profession while also continuing to be updated on the legal issues and news that affect our profession. Even if you do not know anyone before attending an event, rest assured you will be welcomed with open arms and big smiles.
I encourage attorneys who have just moved to Jacksonville, or have been in the area for some time, to check out the JBA and the Young Lawyers Section.
It not only provides fun and entertaining events to break up the flow of work weeks, but it provides you an opportunity to network with your colleagues and build lasting relationships.
I know I will be at many more events, and I hope to see you there too.
Bryce McColskey is an attorney at Eraclides Gelman practicing worker’s compensation defense.
