Greetings
by V. Lowry Snow
I’d like to begin this first message by simply saying how immensely honored I am to be your President. My past several years of service on the Bar Commission have provided me a greater level of appreciation for the quality of our organization. I readily embrace the office with its responsibilities and I am committed to making it my first professional priority of this 2007 – 2008 annual Bar year. I sincerely thank you for your vote of confidence and also for your expressions of support.
The task of leading this organization from St. George, while challenging, is made more practicable by utilizing today’s technology. Telephone and internet access have reduced the distance dramatically and when necessary, I can choose from five daily flights which allow me to arrive in Salt Lake City in just over an hour. More importantly, though, my job is made much more manageable because of some very capable people who serve with me and who are equally committed to the continued success and improvement of the Bar. I give credit and thanks to the exceptional women and men who comprise our Bar Commission and also to our skilled and dedicated Bar staff, all of whom will make my service more effective.
I would like to provide you a preview of some of the projects the Commission will be working on in the upcoming year – a few landmarks from which we can chart our course and measure our progress.
Long-Range Strategy Plan
This process has allowed us to step back to identify the long range values and objectives of the Bar. Commissioners and some members of staff have already been involved in this process. We anticipate the plan being finalized by late fall.
Operations Review
It is healthy for any organization to review its internal operations in order to evaluate their overall effectiveness and efficiency. The review of Bar operations and programs will get underway during my term with members of the Commission playing an important role in this task. Final reports will be available for review and comment by our membership.
Mentoring Program Review and Development
While still in committee review, it is anticipated that the mentoring committee will provide its report and recommendations within the next few months.
On-line Lawyer Referral Service
We anticipate the construction of a simple and effective internet-based lawyer referral tool which will allow the public to easily identify lawyers within their locale who have experience in an area of law that will be helpful to the consumer.
Pro Bono and Access to Justice
Coordination of the efforts of the Bar and its many members who unselfishly contribute thousands of hours and dollars in fulfillment of our obligation to members of society who desperately need legal assistance but who cannot afford a lawyer.
There has been some discussion relative to an increase in Bar dues, but I firmly believe we can accomplish all we have planned without seeking an increase during my term. I look forward to working with all of you over the next term to meet the challenges set forth above. As I’m sure you know, it won’t be easy, but worthwhile achievements rarely are. I am confident that the year we will spend working together on these projects will be not only rewarding, but beneficial to all members of the Bar.