The turning of the calendar offers more than a symbolic fresh start. It invites reflection, renewal, and a recommitment to the values that unite us as members of the legal profession. As we ring in the new year, I hope we are also taking time to celebrate the important role lawyers play in our society. Whether you are beginning your first year of practice or marking decades of service, it is always worth reminding yourself that the work you do matters.

The past year has asked much of our profession. We navigated evolving laws, shifting client needs, technological changes, and the ongoing responsibility to uphold justice with integrity and compassion. Through it all, our members have continued to demonstrate resilience, professionalism, and an unwavering commitment to serving our clients and communities.

The year ahead presents an opportunity to pause and consider how we wish to grow, both personally and professionally. What skills do we want to sharpen? How can we better support one another’s well-being? In what ways can we strengthen public trust in the legal system and expand access to justice? These questions are not abstract; they are guideposts that help shape meaningful careers and a stronger bar.

Our association exists to support you in this journey. In the year ahead, we invite all members to take part in a variety of events and activities designed to foster both professional development and personal connection. These include OBA CLE programs that address emerging issues and practical skills, as well as forums for thoughtful dialogue about ethics, leadership, and the future of our profession.

Equally important are the gatherings that bring us together beyond the demands of daily practice. Committee and section meetings, pro bono events, and community service projects create opportunities for collegiality as well as opportunities to support our neighbors. The strong professional relationships you can build by participating in bar-related activities will enrich your life, enhance collaboration with your colleagues, and make our shared work more fulfilling.

A few notable examples of pro bono service opportunities this year include our annual celebration of Law Day on May 1, when, for the 50th consecutive year, volunteer lawyers will gather to provide answers to the public’s legal questions via the Ask A Lawyer phone and email hotline. Coming Nov. 11, the OBA Military Assistance Committee will partner with the Oklahoma Access to Justice Foundation to host an in-person free legal clinic for military service members in conjunction with Veterans Day. Our Young Lawyers Division is planning a Wills for Heroes event to support service members and first responders, and the Oklahoma High School Mock Trial Program is looking for volunteers to coach and mentor young people as they begin to understand how our legal system functions. There is truly an opportunity for every lawyer in Oklahoma to make a difference in someone’s life.

I am also excited to announce that in 2026, we will be building on the success of last year’s Solo & Small Firm Conference with the first-of-its-kind “OBA Midyear Meeting.” This meeting will focus on CLE opportunities for all practitioners, while still offering programming geared toward solo and small-firm lawyers as well. As in the past, this summertime event will take place in a fun, resort-style environment with plenty of opportunities for relaxing and having a great time with colleagues and family. For 2026, we will be returning to the OKANA Resort and Indoor Waterpark in Oklahoma City, which earned rave reviews from last year’s attendees. More details and registration information will be coming soon, so be sure to mark your calendars for the OBA Midyear Meeting, June 17-19, and save the date!

Additional dates to keep in mind are Nov. 11-13, when the OBA will host the 2026 Annual Meeting. This year’s meeting will focus on bar business, committee and section meetings, and awards presentations, and this year’s event will once again take place in Oklahoma City. Stay tuned for more information!

As we step into the new year, let us do so with optimism and intention. May we celebrate our achievements, learn from our challenges, and remain open to new ideas and perspectives. Together, we can continue to uphold the highest standards of our profession while supporting one another as colleagues and friends. Thank you for all that you do and for the privilege of serving you. I look forward to seeing you throughout the year ahead and working together to make it one of growth, connection, and purpose for our entire bar.

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New for 2026! The OBA announces “In Case You Missed It (ICYMI),” a new, traveling CLE roadshow designed to keep judges, court staff and lawyers up to date on the latest changes in law and court forms.

This lunch-and-learn (or breakfast!) series will bring timely updates directly to communities across Oklahoma. Each year, ICYMI will focus on a different topic critical to the bench and bar.

Year one kicks off in early 2026!

Judges who attend will earn mandatory judicial CLE (MJCLE) credit, and attorneys will receive MCLE credit. Sessions are designed to be practical, interactive and convenient because we know your time is valuable! Lunch (or breakfast) is provided, and we’ll bring the updates to you. Don’t miss this opportunity to stay current and connected!

This series is co-sponsored by the OBA Bench and Bar Committee, the OBA Access to Justice Committee and the Oklahoma Access to Justice Foundation.

Interested in hosting or attending in your local area? Email info@okaccesstojustice.org for more details or to schedule a session!

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To contact Executive Director Johnson, email her at janetj@okbar.org.