State Bar of Michigan

 Master lawyers section to launch at SBM annual meeting

The Master Lawyers Section (MLS), a new section of the State Bar of Michigan, will launch at the State Bar Annual Meeting at 9:30 a.m. on Friday, October 1, 2010. 

Active, inactive, and emeritus SBM members of good standing who have reached age 60 or completed 30 years of practice as members of the Bar will automatically be entered for free membership in the section. Over 11,700 members qualify. 

Active, inactive, and emeritus SBM members of good standing who have reached age 50 or have completed 20 years of membership in the Bar may join the section for $25.

The MLS will promote its members’ interests; plan and carry out programs, publications and activities; and coordinate programs with local, affiliate, and national bar associations. It will also protect the public by providing resources on the ethical and practical issues related to transitioning from the practice of law, be a resource for attorneys as they plan their retirement, and expand opportunities for its members to contribute to the community. 

“The wisdom and experience of this group of attorneys is unparalleled,” said State Bar of Michigan President Charles Toy. “This section will give them an opportunity to network with each other, to continue to give to the community, and to find resources that will help them transition into the next phase of their careers.”

Planning and design of the new section was aided by leaders of the Bar's Senior Lawyers Section, which will be dissolved on October 1. The new officers and council members elected on Oct. 1 will become the leaders of the new section.

The October 1 meeting will also feature a “Guide to Pro Bono” panel discussion at 10 a.m., featuring American Bar Association Past-President Robert Grey. The Golden Celebration Luncheon, for those members of the new section who have practiced law for 50 years, will take place at noon on Oct. 1.

State Bar members may opt out of the section by selecting that option on their dues invoice this fall, or by submitting a request in writing. 

For more information about the Master Lawyers Section, visit http://www.michbar.org/mastersection/ or contact State Bar Director of External Development Candace Crowley at (517) 346-6319 or ccrowley@mail.michbar.org.

––––––––––––––––––––
Subscribe to the Legal News!
http://legalnews.com/Home/Subscription
Full access to public notices, articles, columns, archives, statistics, calendar and more
Day Pass Only $4.95!
One-County $80/year
Three-County & Full Pass also available