Entries by NCBA YLD

A Letter to My Younger Self

By Patti Ramseur Dear Patti (age 26), You just graduated law school, got married, and started your clerkship with Judge Walker. You will learn so much from Judge Walker! He is a great mentor and will continue to be an important part of your life for many years to come. You will enjoy your DINK […]

Unlocking Opportunities: Duke Law Students Create Lasting Memories in Externships and Pro Bono Projects

By John Godfrey Jr., Surya Korrapati, and Christina Trepczynski In the dynamic world of law, where traditional classroom learning meets real-world application, externships and pro bono projects play pivotal roles in shaping future legal professionals. This month, we had the privilege of interviewing three law students who are gaining experience outside the classroom, either through […]

A Letter to My Younger Self

By Chazle’ N. Woodley Dear New Associate, You finished law school, studied for the bar exam, passed the bar exam, and now you’re about to embark on your journey as an attorney! Congratulations! You did it, and now you’re about to engage in doing the work of a real lawyer. You’re probably feeling a flood […]

Voices of Democracy: Law Day 2024

By Sidney Thomas and Nicholas Sorensen The American Bar Association hosts Law Day each year on the first Friday in May to celebrate the role of law in our society and to cultivate a deeper understanding of the legal profession. Law Day 2024 will focus on “democracy and encouraging Americans to participate in the 2024 […]

A Letter to My Younger Self

By S. Collins Saint Dear Younger Sully, There’s so much I wish I could share with you, especially about navigating the world as a young attorney. Here are some lessons I’ve learned along the way, including things that have become increasingly important — physical and mental health. Plus, there are some lessons from battles you’ve […]

Clear the Queue

By Brad Piland The holidays and new year can be a time of heightened emotions and contrasting circumstances. Joy and plenty abound alongside anxiety and need. Throughout December and January, the NCBA YLD Pro Bono Committee and the North Carolina Bar Foundation will strive to satisfy one of these needs through the Clear the Queue […]

Ten Key Points to Remember Throughout Your Career

By Mike McIntyre  1. The most important case you have is the one sitting in front of you, because that client is there for that moment, trusting that you are going to invest yourself in his or her case. 2. Your greatest source of referrals is your fellow lawyers. Value your relationship with other members […]

Supporting Lawyer Well-being with Animal Assisted Interventions

By Elizabeth “Brooks” Savage  The legal profession is in the midst of an occupational health crisis — particularly with regard to mental health. In 2016, the American Bar Association founded the National Task Force on Lawyer Well-Being, which subsequently published a report that utilized research from a study of mental health and substance use disorders […]