Continuedfrompage8 |
Elizabeth Rice, each of whom |
|||||||
generously opened their chambers | ||||||||
The concept was intentionally simple. Chamber Chats would be small, invitation-based discussions held in judicial chambers, designed |
to young lawyers for thoughtful and candid discussions about effective advocacy, courtroom expectations, and professionalism. |
|||||||
to encourage open dialogue rather |
These |
were |
not |
rehearsed |
||||
than formal instruction. The goal was not CLE credit or scripted |
presentations; they were genuine conversations grounded in real |
|||||||
presentations, |
but |
genuine |
courtroom experience. |
|||||
conversation |
about |
advocacy, |
The impact of the program has |
|||||
professionalism, career development, and the human side of serving on the bench. |
July 24 Chamber Chat with Chief Judge Sabella |
now been recognized beyond
Hillsborough County. The Chamber Chat series recently received the
|
||||||
|
In January 2025, the HCBA YLD applied for grant funding through The Florida Bar YLD’ s Affiliate Outreach Conference, and we were fortunate to receive that support to launch the series. When the grant was approved in April 2025— before I was even sworn in as President— it confirmed that this program had the potential to become a cornerstone of the upcoming bar year.
With that support, the YLD launched the Chamber Chat series during the 2025 – 2026 bar year. The response from both the judiciary and our members exceeded every expectation. Judges were eager to participate, attendance was consistently strong, and the feedback from young lawyers made clear that these conversations were filling a meaningful gap in our professional community.
This year’ s Chamber Chats featured conversations with Chief Judge Christopher Sabella, Judge Caroline Tesche Arkin, Judge Helene Daniel, and Judge
|
2025 Member Service Project of the Year Award from The Florida Bar Young Lawyers Division, a statewide recognition honoring innovative programs that strengthen the profession and support young lawyers across Florida.
In a time when many court appearances are virtual and informal interaction with the judiciary is increasingly rare, Chamber Chats reaffirm the importance of professionalism, preparation, and mutual respect. They remind us that service to the profession includes creating spaces where lawyers and judges can connect, learn from one another, and strengthen the relationships that support the administration of justice.
I am incredibly proud that what began as a simple idea has grown into a program that not only strengthened connections between the bench and bar in Hillsborough County, but also received recognition across the state for its impact on our profession. n
|
|||||||