I hope this Report finds you well and you are ready to take on the New Year. Starting a new year is refreshing. It is a reset, recharge, and a great time to set goals and embrace opportunities. Many of us come up with New Year’s Resolutions to help focus and accomplish various goals personally, professionally, and financially. The CBA is here to help you meet these goals and here are a few ideas:
In our field, the pressures are significant, which has a direct impact on our health and wellbeing. The field of law has had many substance abuse and other mental health challenges. Consider joining the CBA Health and Well Being Committee and getting more involved in participating and planning events. Building a healthy support system is key to mental health success.
Volunteering is great for mental health, as well. The CBA has several opportunities to meet new peers and volunteer. They’re currently seeking attorneys, law students, and judges to assist with their Mock Trial in January and February. Visit their website for information on the Mock Trial and Health and Well Being Committee.
It’s never too early, or late, to establish your financial goals.
This issue of the Report will educate you about the value of trusts (pg. 5) and remind you how important it is to establish the correct trust to ensure your future, and/or your family's future. Another feature article about the importance of financial wellness (pg. 8) is a brilliant breakdown that teaches us to establish goals and focus on the positive in the realm of money. It’s not about money, it’s about setting attainable goals. Finally, former CBA member, Terry Patterson, provides a refresher on lawyers’ trust accounts (pg. 10) and raises interesting points that could spark a lively discussion with your peers. Setting yourself up for success now can only lead to bigger and better things to come.
The new year brings fresh opportunities for professional growth within the legal community. Take that class you’ve been eyeing. Master a new skill or program. Find a mentor or become a mentor to a new associate. By expanding your practice, learning new technologies, or focusing on niche areas of law, you can increase revenue while advancing your career. The CBA is committed to helping you navigate these opportunities with practice and interest groups to help you grow your financial success in the coming year.
Let’s embark on this new year with a commitment to wellbeing, professional growth, and financial success. By setting clear financial goals and making wise investments in our practices and health, we can ensure that this year is successful. I hope to see you all soon at an event or meeting and I wish you the best in 2025.
Faith C. Whittaker is a partner at Dinsmore and the 2024-2025 CBA president.