THE OKLAHOMA BAR JOURNAL 54 | FEBRUARY 2026 AS OBA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, I get to wear many hats. Some are less fun than others, such as those times when our aging, yet still beautiful, Oklahoma Bar Center has a sewer system backup, and I become plumber-in-chief for a day (or night). I won’t relive that trauma for you here; my therapist has it under control. One of the hats I do enjoy wearing, though, is that of editor-in-chief of the Oklahoma Bar Journal, an award-winning legal publication that, in 2026, is entering its 95th year of production. Why is our association’s journal so important? It is the opportunities it provides members to learn and grow in their profession, both as readers and as authors. There is a professional obligation for lawyers not only to represent clients but also to contribute to the strength, integrity, and education of the legal profession. One of the most effective ways attorneys can fulfill this responsibility is by sharing their professional and subject-matter expertise through articles published in scholarly journals and bar association publications, like the Oklahoma Bar Journal. These contributions benefit fellow practitioners, improve the quality of legal discourse, and strengthen the profession as a whole. And as of Jan. 1 of this year, there is an even greater benefit to authors. A recent rule change approved by the Supreme Court ensures that Oklahoma lawyers who author scholarly articles published in the Oklahoma Bar Journal will earn 6 hours of MCLE credit. That translates to half of your required credit hours for an entire year. That is what I call a win-win! What was behind this rule change? A recognition of the time and expertise that goes into crafting this scholarly content. An acknowledgment of those OBA members who use their practical, day-to-day experience to play a critical role in translating complex legal developments into accessible and actionable information. It should be noted that writing for bar publications also promotes professionalism and ethical practice. Articles that address ethics, professionalism, and best practices help reinforce shared standards within the legal community. Experienced attorneys can use their platform to highlight common pitfalls, encourage thoughtful advocacy, and emphasize the importance of civility and integrity. This peer-to-peer guidance carries particular weight because it comes from colleagues who understand the realities of legal practice. In addition to benefiting readers, contributing articles strengthens the author’s connection to the profession. Writing encourages lawyers to deepen their understanding of their practice areas, stay current on developments, and reflect critically on their work. It also enhances professional reputation, demonstrating expertise and leadership to peers, judges, and potential clients. Contributing to our bar’s publication signals a commitment to the profession beyond individual cases or billable hours. Ultimately, the legal profession functions best when knowledge is shared rather than siloed. By writing articles for our bar journal, lawyers help elevate the collective competence of the bar, promote ethical and effective practice, and strengthen the institutions that support the profession. This exchange of expertise is not merely an optional activity but a vital component of a healthy and informed legal community. I am looking forward to seeing your contributions in 2026 (and to no repeats of the sewage system incident)! From the Executive Director By Janet Johnson Write On! To contact Executive Director Johnson, email her at janetj@okbar.org. How the Bar Journal Delivers Ink, Insights, and MCLE Credit for Authors
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