A Few Parting Thoughts
by Gus Chin
Dear Bar Members:
At the May Bar admission ceremony, Senior United States District Judge Bruce S. Jenkins, in his remarks to the new admittees, mentioned how times have changed. He had them stand, look towards their family and friends, and reminded them that their accomplishments, including admission to the practice, were not achieved alone. He also said that ends and means must harmonize and challenged the new admittees to use their skills so that the rule of law continues in all of its revolutionary majesty.
Undoubtedly, the Bar has experienced and will experience change. We have benefitted from the increase in young, minority, and women lawyers, as well as paralegals and legal assistants who are committed to the ideals of the profession. Technological advances and skilled bar personnel now make it possible for members in rural areas to access live CLE classes and seminars without having to drive to Salt Lake City. Casemaker allows full service Bar members no-cost, unlimited access to legal research.
One recent change is the Utah Supreme Court Order requiring mandatory malpractice insurance disclosure to the Bar as a condition of licensing for the next two years. The Bar Commission supports this disclosure rule which will provide important information about the state of malpractice insurance coverage among our members and also assist us in determining how to address reasons for lack of malpractice insurance coverage.
Over the next several months, the Bar Commission will be considering an alternative to the current lawyer referral service, whose contract expires in 2008. Additionally, at some future point in time, it is possible there will be a change in bar dues. The Bar Commission understands that this is and will be a difficult issue and will, I am sure, give full consideration to member concerns, as well as the best interest of the profession and the Bar.
Throughout the year, I have enjoyed our meetings with members of the Weber County Bar, the Utah County Bar, the Southern Utah Bar, the Uintah Basin Bar in Vernal, and the Southeastern Bar in Price, as well as with students from both law schools. These meetings proved to be productive, as they allowed us to have instant feedback from our members and future members. We anticipate holding similar meetings to improve outreach, promote greater communication, and address concerns.
I wish to acknowledge the dedication of our members who help us achieve our mission and goals by sharing skills and giving of their time to chair and participate in sections, committees and regional, local and specialty bars, and who also provide quality CLE instruction. Without your help, we could not meet the needs or expectations of our members. I hope you will continue to give of your time and skills and will be joined by others, thereby enhancing the practice of law in Utah.
Finally, as I conclude my year, I thank you for the privilege of serving as your 75th Bar president. I am proud to belong to a noble profession whose members are constantly trying to make a difference as well as safeguarding justice. I am also particularly grateful to the staff of the Bar and the members of the Board of Bar Commissioners, whose work ethic, professionalism, commitment to excellence, and friendship have made my journey meaningful and memorable.