GETTING INVOLVED WITH THE YLD

Over the past few months, questions have been rolling in asking about the purpose of the YLD and how someone can get involved. This causes one to conclude that many newer lawyers in Oklahoma are apparently missing out on the substantial benefits and opportunities that the YLD provides to its members.

The YLD is the Young Lawyers Division of the Oklahoma Bar Association. All OBA members who were first admitted to the practice of law in any jurisdiction 10 years ago or less are automatically members – meaning that the age range varies greatly and the tag “young” does not relate only to those who were in high school during the New Kids on the Block era. All “young” attorneys are invited. As an extra bonus, you are not required to sign up or pay any additional dues to join.

The YLD exists as the OBA’s public service arm. It also focuses on serving the newer lawyers in the state. While the division represents approximately 4,500 OBA members, the work of the division is accomplished through the combined efforts of its officers, board of directors, liaisons to OBA committees and its own committees. The numerous YLD committees serve as the backbone of the division through which programs and projects benefiting the public and the bar are implemented. An excellent way to get involved with the YLD is to join a committee.

A description of each committee’s objective along with the contact information of the chair(s) is on the YLD section of the OBA Web site. You can contact the chair of any committee or any YLD officer if you are interested in getting involved in a particular committee. We are always looking for volunteers.

Other ways members can get involved are by attending the YLD Midyear Meeting (which is held in conjunction with the Solo & Small Firm Conference) June 19-21, the YLD Annual Meeting (which is held in conjunction with the OBA Annual Meeting) Nov. 19-21, a New Admittee Happy Hour in Oklahoma City or Tulsa or by serving as a director on the YLD Board.

As you can see, there are many ways and opportunities to take advantage of your YLD membership. Don’t let your YLD years go by without getting involved!

If you have any questions or suggestions about how the YLD can better assist the public or help you in establishing yourself in the practice of law please contact the 2008 YLD Chairperson Kimberly Warren at kwarren@coleandreed.com. 

YOUNG LAWYERS ATTEND ABA MIDYEAR MEETING

The YLD was well represented at this year’s American Bar Association Midyear Meeting in Los Angeles. The Oklahoma delegation to the YLD Assembly included Kimberly Warren, Molly Bircher, Nathan Johnson, John Truskett and Shanda McKenney. Doris Gruntmeir also attended as the ABA/ YLD District 24 Representative. The meeting, held Feb. 7-9, featured a Young Lawyer Summit, which focused on top issues facing young lawyers across the nation, including striking a work-life balance, dealing with law school debt and managing a legal career. The group also attended the YLD Assembly where they debated and voted on important resolutions affecting the legal profession. If you would like information on any of the resolutions, please contact one of your delegates.

THE ROASTING OF CHRISTOPHER CAMP

YLD Immediate Past Chair Chris Camp was “roasted” by the YLD board members on the evening of Jan. 19 at Fleming’s Steakhouse in Tulsa. The evening was filled with stories and tributes to Mr. Camp’s exceptional year as division chairperson.