Mischa Buford Epps, Missouri Bar executive director
As spring arrives, I find myself reflecting on the new group of lawyers who will join our profession in April. Many of these new lawyers will convene in Jefferson City for a swearing-in ceremony at the Supreme Court of Missouri. It’s an exciting day filled with smiles, hope, and celebration. It concludes with enrollees taking the oath of admission, just as so many of us did before them:
I do solemnly swear that I will support the Constitution of the United States and the Constitution of the State of Missouri;
That I will maintain the respect due courts of justice, judicial officers and members of my profession and will at all times conduct myself with dignity becoming of an officer of the court in which I appear;
That I will never seek to mislead the judge or jury by any artifice or false statement of fact or law;
That I will at all times conduct myself in accordance with the Rules of Professional Conduct; and,
That I will practice law to the best of my knowledge and ability and with consideration for the defenseless and oppressed.
So help me God.1
What can our new colleagues expect as they enter the practice of law? How does this oath of admission apply in our present time of rapid change in our laws, government institutions, technology, and economy?
For decades, when feelings of uncertainty and unpredictability have run rampant, people frequently have looked to lawyers for more than just legal advice. They also come to us for information, leadership, and even comfort.
As lawyers, we play an important role in making the rule of law work and preserving society. The preamble to our Missouri Rules of Professional Conduct directs us to “further the public’s understanding of and confidence in the rule of law and the justice system because the legal institutions in a constitutional democracy depend on popular participation and support to maintain their authority.”2 This can take place in many forms.
This might look like volunteering to answer legal questions for those affected by the tornadoes that swept across our state in March or devoting professional hours to ensure all Missourians, regardless of income level, have access to legal services. Some lawyers may choose to serve in a public office and impact policy, while others might educate students and community groups about the Constitution and The Missouri Plan for Law Day.
As advocates and advisors, we help guide individuals, businesses, and institutions through complex times.
Assisting in this manner can be fulfilling and rewarding, but it can also feel challenging. As the old adage goes, you can’t pour from an empty cup. Please remember that the Missouri Lawyers’ Assistance Program is here to help with no-cost, confidential counseling services to address concerns that adversely affect personal or professional well-being.
This spring, The Missouri Bar is partnering with the University of Utah to distribute a well-being in the profession survey, which will help us have a better understanding of concerns affecting the well-being of Missouri lawyers and judges and how we can help you even better serve your clients and communities. Be on the lookout for an email with a link to the questionnaire. Your voice matters.
Also, several special activities are planned for this year’s Well-Being Week in Law, May 5-9, providing an opportunity to invest further in your well-being.
Seasonal transitions are a chance to reflect and reset. I encourage you to take a cue from nature this spring: Revisit the oath of admission to be reminded of your role as a lawyer, and approach your work with a renewed energy and balance in your professional and personal life.
Best regards,
Mischa
Endnotes
1 Mo. S. Ct Rule 8.15(b)
2 Mo. S. Ct. Rule 4 Preamble [6], [15]