Oklahoma Bar Journal
The Back Page | Retirement – What’s That?
By Dan Crawford
After decades of depositions, deadlines, and the occasional courtroom battle, many attorneys imagine retirement as a long, quiet exhale. But for most lawyers, the instinct to analyze, advocate, and serve never truly goes away. In fact, retirement often becomes the perfect time to use those hard-earned skills in ways that are more flexible, more personal, and sometimes even more rewarding than the daily grind of practice.
One of the most fulfilling paths for retired attorneys is service to nonprofit organizations. Many charities benefit greatly from board members who understand governance, legal compliance, and responsible decision-making. I sit on the Board of Trustees for the Oklahoma Lions Meadows of Hope, a nonprofit that provides residential care, education, and stability for children and their foster parents who need a supportive environment. Organizations like this rely on thoughtful leadership, and attorneys are uniquely positioned to help guide policy decisions, ensure proper oversight, and assist with legal and organizational issues that arise. For many retired lawyers, nonprofit board service offers a way to continue contributing to the community while supporting a mission they care deeply about.
Bar associations also offer numerous opportunities for attorneys to stay involved after retirement. Programs such as Ask A Lawyer, another mission of mine, often held in connection with Law Day and organized through groups like the OBA, allow attorneys to volunteer their time answering legal questions from members of the public. Even a few hours of volunteer service can help someone better understand their rights and options while reinforcing public confidence in the legal profession.
Another area where retired attorneys can make a lasting impact is through mentorship and support of educational programs. For example, the National High School Mock Trial Program and similar state and regional mock trial programs depend heavily on volunteer lawyers and judges. These competitions introduce students to the courtroom environment and the principles of advocacy, evidence, and critical thinking. Retired attorneys who volunteer as judges, scorers, or coaches often find it especially rewarding to watch students develop confidence and skill as they simulate real trials. In many cases, these programs inspire students to pursue careers in law, public service, or civic leadership.
For attorneys interested in continuing to contribute directly to the integrity of the profession, participation in disciplinary or oversight roles can also be meaningful. In Oklahoma, lawyers may serve on many panels and committees. I am a current member of the Professional Responsibility Tribunal, which hears matters involving attorney discipline and professional conduct. These panels rely on experienced attorneys who can thoughtfully evaluate evidence and apply the ethical standards governing the profession. Service on such tribunals allows retired lawyers to help maintain the standards and public trust that underpin the legal system.
Beyond these specific examples, retired attorneys frequently engage in mediation, civic leadership, teaching, and mentoring younger lawyers. Law schools, bar associations, and community organizations often welcome experienced attorneys as speakers or advisors. The wisdom gained through years of practice – whether in litigation, transactional work, or public service – can provide invaluable guidance to those just entering the profession.
Perhaps the greatest reward of these activities is the continued sense of purpose they provide. The habits formed during a legal career – such as careful reasoning, fairness, and service – do not disappear when a lawyer leaves daily practice. Instead, retirement can offer the freedom to apply those skills in ways that are less constrained by schedules or billing pressures.
Ultimately, the legal profession is built on a tradition of service. By volunteering with nonprofits, assisting with public outreach programs, supporting educational initiatives or serving on professional oversight bodies, retired attorneys can continue to strengthen both their communities and the profession itself. Retirement, in this sense, becomes not an end to a legal career, but a new beginning.
Remember the immortal words of the great 19th century educator Horace Mann: “Be ashamed to die until you have won some victory for humanity.” Retirement gives us that opportunity to win those victories!
Mr. Crawford recently retired after many years of practice in Tulsa. He is a long-time volunteer for the Oklahoma High School Mock Trial program and well as serving as the long-time Law Day coordinator for the Tulsa County Bar Association.
Originally published in the Oklahoma Bar Journal – OBJ 97 No. 6 (August 2026)
Statements or opinions expressed in the Oklahoma Bar Journal are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect those of the Oklahoma Bar Association, its officers, Board of Governors, Board of Editors or staff.