“To whom much is given, much will be expected.” For leaders, that means embracing the opportunity to identify challenges in our communities and find meaningful ways to meet those needs. Amanda Arriaga welcomes Sherie Edwards for a conversation about the power of servant leadership and how bar leaders can inspire their members to engage, give back, and make a difference in their communities.

To learn more about NCBP or to become a member, visit ncbp.org

As attorneys, we have a responsibility to confront injustice and uphold the rule of law. For some members of our profession, that commitment is deeply personal, shaped by family histories in which justice failed and corrupted laws were used as instruments of oppression.

At the recent National Conference of Bar Presidents Annual Meeting, NCBP President Juan Thomas and Past Connecticut Bar President Monte Frank reflected on how their families’ experiences with persecution during Jim Crow and the Holocaust influenced their decisions to become lawyers and leaders. They share how those histories shaped their understanding of justice and strengthened their commitment to preserving the rule of law and protecting the principles upon which our legal system depends.

To learn more about NCBP or to become a member, visit ncbp.org

Good leaders encourage others to a high level of integrity, creating cultures of respect and examples of servant-hearted civic leadership. At a challenging moment for both the country and the legal profession, lawyers have an important role to play in upholding the rule of law and persevering in civility and professionalism.

As Juan Thomas begins his term as President of the National Conference of Bar Presidents, Amanda Arriaga welcomes him to discuss his vision for the year ahead, the responsibilities of bar leadership, and how lawyers can lead with purpose while contributing to the health of the profession and their communities.

To learn more about NCBP or to become a member, visit ncbp.org

As his presidency of the National Conference of Bar Presidents comes to a close, Patrick Palace joins host Amanda Arriaga to reflect on his time in office, the challenges of leading during a pivotal moment for the legal profession, his future plans, and the enduring importance of the rule of law.

Patrick shares what it means to lead an organization made up of accomplished bar presidents from across the country, offering insights into the unique responsibility of guiding leaders who are deeply committed to the future of the profession. He also discusses the NCBP's Pledge to Preserve the Independence of the Legal Profession and the Judicial System, highlighting its role in strengthening, protecting, and advancing the legal community during a time of unprecedented challenges.

To learn more about NCBP or to become a member, visit ncbp.org

Getting involved in bar leadership in the areas you're passionate about is a meaningful way to serve your fellow attorneys—and it can open the door to new leadership opportunities throughout your legal career. Jonathan Cole, Chair of the ABA House of Delegates, joins Amanda Arriaga and NCBP President Patrick Palace to reflect on his career of leadership, service, and advancing the legal profession.

Jonathan shares insights from his journey through state bar, ABA, and NCBP leadership, highlighting the opportunities that shaped his career along the way. He also discusses the importance of maintaining civil discourse within bar associations, upholding the rule of law, and engaging in pro bono work to help expand access to justice.

To learn more about NCBP or to become a member, visit ncbp.org

Strong bar leadership begins with strong governance, and the Washington State Bar Association has set an example of both. Amanda Arriaga and Patrick Palace welcome Francis Adewale and Terra Nevitt to celebrate the WSBA's accomplishments and reflect on the leadership, collaboration, and strategic vision that have shaped their organization. Together, they discuss what makes effective bar governance, the importance of serving members and the public, how they encourage unity across political divides, and the lessons other bar associations can take from Washington State's success.

To learn more about NCBP or to become a member, visit ncbp.org

What does it take to lead today's legal profession? In Season 2 of Leading the Bar, now also on VIDEO, we continue to explore what it takes to lead today's legal profession. Hear from bar presidents and other legal leaders as they discuss navigating challenges, driving innovation, strengthening their organizations, and preparing the profession for what's next. Through candid conversations and real-world experiences, each episode offers practical insights and fresh perspectives for attorneys looking to grow as leaders and make a lasting impact.

In certain capacities, artificial intelligence is quite capable of doing quality legal work. It may enhance a lawyer’s workflows, provide new opportunities for access to justice, assist in legal research—the possibilities seem innumerable. So, should we be fearful of its potential? Are we all out of a job? Amanda Arriaga and Patrick Palace welcome Ed Walters to talk through the ethics and opportunities lawyers must consider in the age of AI. Ed focuses on the important role bar associations should play in the lives of all attorneys and highlights the need for thoughtful leadership for AI use as we move into the future.

Ed Walters is Vice President of Legal Innovation and Strategy at Clio. 

To learn more about NCBP or to become a member, visit ncbp.org

In the 75-year history of the NCBP, only 10 of its presidents have been female. In this episode, Amanda Arriaga talks with two of these trailblazing women, Marna Tucker and Jennifer Parent, to hear their stories of leadership and inspire future generations of women as they pursue leading roles in law. They reflect on the challenges they faced on their paths to leadership roles, the mentors and moments that shaped their careers, and the importance of resilience in a historically male-dominated profession.

To learn more about NCBP or to become a member, visit ncbp.org

This bonus episode of Leading the Bar features a special installment from the Council of Firsts series, which spotlights trailblazing leaders who were the “first” to break barriers in their bar associations.

In the next episode of the Council of Firsts, Amanda Arriaga, first Latina president of the Austin Bar talks to Robin Wolpert, Past President of the National Conference of Bar Presidents (NCBP) and Past President of the Minnesota State Bar. This episode was recorded at the American Bar Association/National Conference of Bar Presidents meeting in Louisville, Kentucky. To learn more about NCBP, visit https://ncbp.org