YLD volunteers draft estate planning documents for emergency responders during the Wills for Heroes event in Weatherford on Aug. 10. Back row (from left): Bryan Goodpasture, Chloe Moyer, Randy Gordon and Taylor Venus. Front row: Hiba Jameel, Laura Talbert, Mary McCann and Liz Stevens. Also attending the event were Morgan Maxey and Janet Johnson.

The spirit of summer is closing in on us. Whether you spent it going to outdoor barbecues, spending lazy weekends at the lake or taking road trips, saying goodbye to summer is just different than the other seasons. Reflecting on the passing season, the Young Lawyers Division had an active summer, chock-full of activities from beginning to end. Collectively, we wanted to make this summer one to remember, and we hit the ground running.

OBA ANNUAL MEETING

In early July, attorneys from all over the state made their way to Norman for summer school, also known as the OBA Annual Meeting. This year, the Annual Meeting and the Solo & Small Firm Conference were rolled into one. Additionally, for the first time in decades, the Annual Meeting and the Oklahoma Judicial Conference were held simultaneously, giving lawyers and judges opportunities for valuable interactions in a shared space. Of course, the YLD hosted the best hospitality suite, the “Summer Vacation” suite. Designed by the YLD’s Mary McCann, the Summer Vacation suite had it all: inflatables, games, music, food and drinks – you name it, we had it. For the first time, the YLD’s hospitality suite featured a mocktail bar courtesy of Lawyers Helping Lawyers. Needless to say, Summer Vacation was enjoyed by all this year.

During the Annual Meeting, the YLD was presented the Outstanding Service to the Public Award for the Wills for Heroes program. Caroline Shaffer Siex, the YLD’s immediate past chair, was also presented with the Outstanding Young Lawyer Award. Again, we thank the OBA for honoring both the Wills for Heroes program and Caroline.

BAR EXAM SURVIVAL KITS

The day after the Annual Meeting wrapped up, the YLD Board of Directors gathered to prepare bar exam survival kits for each person taking the July bar exam. This year, that was no easy feat – there were over 400 people taking it! With bar results coming out soon, we wish each test taker the best of luck and look forward to you joining the YLD ranks in the near future.

ABA ANNUAL MEETING

In early August, the American Bar Association held its Annual Meeting. This year, it took place in Chicago. The ABA meeting provides a platform at the national level for exchanging ideas on legal reforms, improving legal education and addressing ethical challenges in the practice of law. This engagement not only helps in shaping sound legal policies but also in ensuring that state laws remain aligned with national standards and evolving legal norms. Of course, in between the action, we had a few moments to check out Chicago.

WILLS FOR HEROES

A few weeks ago, the YLD had another Wills for Heroes event. Organized by YLD members Clayton Baker and Taylor Venus, we partnered with Southwestern Oklahoma State University for this year’s event. Throughout the day, the YLD prepared and finalized wills for several public safety professionals, including law enforcement officers and veterans, and had a great time doing it. Between drafting, witnessing and notarizing, we had it all covered every step of the way. Big shoutout to our new friend, Hiba Jameel, for joining in and volunteering her time.

JOINT CLE AND DOG ADOPTION EVENT

For the first time, the YLD will partner with the Animal Law Section and the OBA Leadership Academy for a dog adoption event and CLE focused on key issues in animal law. Light snacks will be served, and dogs will be available for adoption on-site following the CLE. Don’t miss this unique blend of education, networking and an opportunity to find your new best friend! Please join us on Friday, Sept. 20, at 5 p.m. over at Bar K in Oklahoma City for this event. Your dog is invited, too!

WE WANT YOU TO GET INVOLVED!

Despite the intense heat, the YLD managed to make the most out of this summer, and we hope you did, too. From organizing engaging community outreach events, to co-hosting CLEs on legal issues, to party planning for hospitality suites, we strove to stay connected and active. Our team has been busy creating opportunities for professional development, fostering collaboration among members and tackling important initiatives aimed at improving access to justice. As we transition into the fall, we look forward to building on this momentum, continuing our efforts to support and inspire young legal professionals and driving positive change within the legal community.

Ms. Talbert is a lawyer in Oklahoma City and serves as the YLD chairperson. She may be contacted at lrtalbert@gmail.com.