FEBRUARY 2026 | 63 THE OKLAHOMA BAR JOURNAL (continued from page 4) governance, compliance and risk management strengthens local institutions that rely on volunteer leadership. In these roles, lawyers help ensure that community organizations can focus on their missions without being undermined by legal uncertainty. Finally, lawyers are educators and trusted public resources. Through workshops, articles, presentations and informal conversations, lawyers help demystify the law for the people it affects every day. Explaining changes in statutes, clarifying legal obligations or dispelling common misconceptions empowers community members to make informed decisions. This educational role reduces fear of the legal system and encourages lawful, proactive behavior. The OBA’s May 1 celebration of Law Day and its annual, concurrent Ask A Lawyer community service project are the perfect opportunity for Oklahoma lawyers to put words into action and serve in that educational role! Be on the lookout for this year’s volunteer sign-up information in your local area. To sum it all up, in an era when public trust in institutions is often strained, the presence of engaged, ethical lawyers matters more than ever. By expanding access to justice, solving problems, upholding the rule of law, supporting civic life and educating the public, lawyers contribute to communities that are fairer, more resilient and better equipped to meet future challenges. Our work may not always be visible, but our impact is enduring. From the President Our work may not always be visible, but our impact is enduring.
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