Robert
Riter, Jr.
Riter, Rogers, Wattier & Brown, L.L.P.
Professional & Executive Building
319 South Coteau Street
P.O. Box 280
Pierre, South Dakota 57501
Law
School: University
of South Dakota, J.D., 1973
College:
University
of South Dakota, B.S., 1970
Member:
State
Bar of South Dakota (Commissioner, 1992-1995, Chair: Administrative Law
Committee, 1979-1981, Continuing Legal Education Committee, 1981-1984,
Ethics Committee, 1986-1989; Multi-Disciplinary Practice Committee,
2000—); American Bar Association; South Dakota Defense
Lawyers Association; American Board of Trial Advocates; American
Counsel Association; American Bar Foundation; Defense Research
Institute (State Representative, 1994-1999; Member, Board of Directors,
1999—); American College of Trial Lawyers.
Biography:
Phi
Delta Phi. Member, Board of Editors, South Dakota Law Review,
1972-1973. Assistant City Attorney, 1973—.
Born: Pierre,
South Dakota, July 8, 1948
June, 2006
I recently returned from a Bar meeting where Supreme Court
Justice Anthony Scalia spoke. While all may not always agree with his approach
or perspective, he did very ably share with us not only some of the Court's
consideration of issues on "standing", but a broader consideration of the proper
use of judicial power. With the attention interested citizens and the legal
community are giving to proposed Amendment E, I was reminded again of the
important interrelationship between the judicial, executive and legislative
branches of our government.
A.DeTocqueville, Democracy in America, Vol 1., Chapter 285 (1959 Ed.) stated:
Lawyers are attached to public order beyond every other
consideration, and the best security of public order is authority. It must not
be forgotten, also that if they prize freedom much, they generally value
legalities still more.. .
Clearly, electoral accountability is incomplete without the availability of
legal review. An independent judiciary guided by lawyer advocates protect
society from "unwanted intrusions by the state". Sarat, The Blackwell Companion
to Law and Society, p. 527 (2004 Ed.)
But while our legal system can work to protect citizens from the excesses of the
state, it also can be used to encourage the state's activity to secure
protection for those who are otherwise unable to protect themselves and to
enforce our rights as a society to security and a healthy environment.
As Justice Scalia recognized, generally the legal system provides rights and
opportunities for individuals to assert on their own behalf. However, the legal
system can also require the state to be responsive to its obligations.
These readings remind me again of our duty to participate in pro bono activities
to assist those least able to protect their own rights. Further, I am reminded
of the need for us to maintain an independent judiciary. Of course, while
judicial decisions often need to be enforced by political will, lacking
independent judicial oversight, the executive and legislative branches are not
only incomplete, but likely unable to fully protect our democracy.
So we all need to speak loudly during the ensuing months on the need for an
independent judiciary. If you have not already attended a presentation by Tom
Barnett in your community on proposed Amendment E, please take advantage of the
several opportunities during the Bar convention later this month to become a
participant.
Again, my wife Carolyn and I, thank you for allowing us the opportunity to spend
time in the leadership of your Bar. You should be proud of your organization and
everything it does — I know I am!
May, 2006
I have enjoyed the opportunity to share my thoughts through
this page during the last twelve months. It has required me to consider some
introspective thoughts, an activity which is certainly good for all of us.
We recently had an employee retire after 28 years with our firm and one of our
predecessor firms. I observed all of the well wishes she received from clients
of our office and was reminded again of what I already knew: that is, good
employees care about the law firm as much as do its partners. Of course, for
them to likewise feel that passion, we must respect those who work for us and
evidence that respect to them.
When staff are focused on the overall success of the law firm, they spend less
time on typical office politics and comparison of their performance and
responsibilities with co-employees. Rather, their focus is on the goal at hand.
Of course, successful lawyers have found that giving responsibility to employees
and then let- ting them utilize their talents and skills to properly accomplish
those tasks, not only creates efficiencies and excellent results, but also
inspires employees. Engaged employees produce the results every firm needs.
We also need to encourage our employees to discuss with us how we can improve
our service. We need to communicate the passion we hold for our profession to
our employees and encourage a reasonable work/life balance for them. All of this
creates a more stable and successful work environment.
Of course, when we consider the success of our firm, we cannot help but look at
our State Bar Association. While I have known. Tom Barnett for many years, the
past two years I have been able to work more closely with him than ever. What I
have had confirmed is how dedicated he is to the Bar and all of its members, how
hard he works for us, his excellent ideas and the outstanding results he is able
to obtain.
While Tom is ultimately the individual responsible for the Association office,
his success and that of our Association depends upon others who make it run
smoothly. We are fortunate to have DeeAnn Stevens and Kelly Krell, who are both
long time and loyal employees for the Association. Their energy and enthusiastic
spirit help lift the Bar to greater heights.
Of course, Lary Zastrow and Anita Zastrow are engaged and passionate members of
the Association as well. Their leadership
with Dakota Disc and in other areas has been vital to our success.
The next time you stop by State Bar headquarters or speak with someone in the
office, thank them for the extra effort they provide to the Association. Also
remember to similarly acknowledge your own employees.
And, while I am thinking of those who make the Bar function well, I am reminded
of Cheryl Hanna, our new director of Access to Justice, Inc. She has been
actively working on the pro bono recruitment drive. While her knowledge of the
area and enthusiasm are important attributes to a successful program, she is
necessarily dependent upon State Bar members volunteering to participate.
Cheryl has already received around 50 responses to her memorandum with some
attorneys not only taking cases, but donating money. I would remind all of us to
respond to her request and consider how you can best fulfill your responsibility
to those who need legal services but are unable to afford them. Contact her
today!
Have a good May!
April, 2006
All of us likely devote too much of our personal time to help
clients who are in a crisis mode. Because of the demands our profession places
upon us, we often have a narrow focus on our life. Like many of you have already
done, however, we all need to broaden our horizons.
When I reflect upon those in our profession who have already been successful in
this regard, I think of a now retired lawyer from Rapid City. He appeared at a
deposition in which I participated, accompanied by a youngster. He introduced
the young man to me as his little brother. I saw them together on another
occasion and was curious as to the age difference between them, until I learned
the attorney was involved in the "Big Brothers" organization in Rapid City. He
had included that young boy a part of his family.
I am also reminded of a lawyer from Pierre who has served as Chair of our local
legal referral group for the 20+ years it has been in existence. He does it not
because of any accolades he expects, but rather because he knows it is an
important undertaking.
Several lawyers from Sioux Falls I know, have always spoken of a sole
practitioner in that community, now deceased, who mentored several lawyers. He
provided them advice, but more importantly encouragement and support. They
likewise assumed his torch and are acting similarly.
I think of a lawyer from Mitchell and another from Parkston who each served for
many years as Chair of a State Commission often surrounded by controversy. They
volunteered their time because they were asked to participate, and they
selflessly provided important leadership under constant scrutiny.
I am also reminded of lawyers who have become involved in areas important to
them. I think of a lawyer from Aberdeen who was involved[ in the statewide
hockey organization for many years. I am also aware of another lawyer from
Aberdeen and one from Sioux Falls who provided, without compensation, lobbying
and advocacy for their diocese because it needed their talents and expertise. I
think of another lawyer from Sioux Falls who now gives of her time by service in
the legislature. And, of course, I smile when I think of a friend who now
practices in Rapid City, who while he was in Pierre provided his talents to his
church's youth program.
There are many lawyers who have donated their talents to the public. I think of
a lawyer from Pierre, who prior to his recent untimely death, counseled with and
advocated for several chief executives of our state in their personal and
professional lives. He did it because they were friends and had requested his
assistance and recognized the talent and integrity he brought to the issues he
was espousing on their behalf.
I also think of lawyers from across the state who have volunteered in a variety
of settings outside of the legal practice. Lawyers have contacted their local
alternative high schools to volunteer time in teaching students, have served on
their local or regional Girls Club or Boy Scout councils or have been active in
leadership in the State Historical Society.
When members of the public cast dispersions upon members of our profession and
most particularly the lawyers in our state, we need to remind them and ourselves
of all we do outside of our legal practice. We also need to expand our
viewpoint, step outside our comfort zone and get involved in new areas!
I invite each of you to follow the example of these attorneys and many others.
Personally challenge yourself. Become involved in one new activity this year.
Find something you think may interest you, give of your time and talents, and
you will receive amazing returns!
Have a Happy Spring!
March, 2006
The Legal Services Committee of the Bar meet recently with Cheryl
Hanna, the new pro bono coordinator. She presented her initial Access to Justice
Report. Ms. Hanna, and the entire committee, are excited and enthusiastic about
commencement of the program's activities.
Ms. Hanna has worked with attorneys for the vast majority of her adult life,
with the past 15 years devoted to working with indigent people across South
Dakota. Among other administrative responsibilities, she coordinated and
monitored the Private Attorney Involvement program through Dakota Plains Legal
Services. That program is very similar to our pro bono project, and thus adds
greatly to her strong foundation.
Ms. Hanna was in Rapid City the first of this month to meet with the Pennington
County Bar. She encouraged members' participation in our pro bono program. She
also intends to travel to other communities within our state this spring to
insure lawyers in those areas, as well as the public who will be served, are
aware of and participate in the program.
She has been in contact with East River Legal Services and Dakota Plains Legal
Services to facilitate the necessary arrangements for coordination between those
programs and the Access to Justice efforts begun by our Bar.
She will be contacting many of the lawyers who had previously agreed to
participate in the pro bono program. I encourage everyone to consider
participation in the program, even those who were not able to previously express
an ability to serve. All of us recognize our responsibility to help those Whose
legal needs are unmet. Our system of law functions most effectively when every
party's position is properly protected and advocated.
Another positive attribute reflected by this program is that our profession can
be recognized by the public as it should; that is, as a compassionate and
concerned group of South Dakota citizens.
Please greet Ms. Hanna openly when she comes to your community. Once you meet
her and discuss her view of the program's importance and the opportunities
presented by it, I am certain you will be impressed with her infectious
enthusiasm. You will also become well satisfied with her ability to aggressively
implement this important program.
Thank you for your help on this project.
February, 2006
January and February bring a buzz of activity to Pierre. Because I have
regularly lobbied for thirty (30) years, it is a particularly exciting time for
me. I always look forward to commencement of the legislative session and
likewise, look forward to its completion in March.
Many other attorneys in Pierre engage in lobbying, including several of my
partners. We see, on a daily basis, legislative efforts to pass bills which
ultimately guide us in the practice of law. Accordingly, I am constantly
reminded that we are fortunate to have lawyers willing to take time away from
their practice to serve as legislators.
South Dakota is blessed to have a truly "citizen legislature". Our legislators
come from all walks of life and bring their education, training, but more
particularly their variety of experiences to the legislative halls. This helps
insure that in the final analysis all perspectives are considered.
Marl) lawyers have been outstanding leaders in the legislature. It would be easy
to look. back upon the past thirty (30) years to recall some excellent lawyer
legislators; however, we need look no farther than the current group of lawyer
legisla.tors to understand the important roles they play.
In the Senate, Eric Bogue of Faith is the Senate Majority Leader and Lee
Schoenbeck, who practices in Watertown, is the President Pro Tem. Matt Michels
of Yankton, serves as Speaker of the House and Tom Deadrick of Platte serves as
Speaker Pro Tem. Seven other lawyer legislators serve and all are looked upon
for their leadership and analytical skills.
I like to think that our statutes are built upon logic and reasoning. While I
know political issues often become involved, our lawyer legislators bring their
skills to the discussion and work hard to insure proposed legislation leads to
logical results.
These lawyer legislators take time away from their practice and suffer financial
constraints because of it. They need our encouragement, as well as support from
their partners and other lawyers in their community. We need to remember they
are completely occupied during the months of January and February, and have
important meetings which take substantial amounts of their time during the
interim.
It is equally important that we seek additional lawyers to join in the effort to
serve their respective districts and the State of South Dakota. When we consider
that only 11 of the 105 legislators are lawyers, we understand better the need
to lend support to those considering running for office. Not only would more
lawyers in the legislature be beneficial to our profession, but even more
importantly, the public would be well served.
Hence, please give consideration to your personal involvement in the legislative
process; and encourage friends within the profession to consider legislative
service. Also, please thank any of our current lawyer legislators for their
service when you next see them:
Eric Bogue - Faith
Joni Cutler - Sioux Falls
Tom Deadrick - Platte
Margaret Gillespie - Alcester
Roger Hunt - Sioux Falls
Dave Knudson - Sioux Falls
Matt Michels - Yankton
Sean O'Brien - Brookings
Lee Schoenbeck - Watertown
Shawn Tornow - Sioux Falls
Tom Van Norman - Eagle Butte
January, 2006
We begin the new year facing a direct attempt by supporters of the
J.A.I.L. initiative to block judicial independence. However, the initiative may
actually provide us an opportunity to remind our citizenry of the vital role
played by an independent judiciary.
When our founders were establishing three branches of government, they
specifically sought to protect courts from undue pressures, so as to insure
parties received fair and impartial resolution of their disputes. But, the
judiciary's power to review acts of another branch of government is only
effective when it can independently resist influence from the political
branches.
If approved, the J.A.I.L. initiative would create a special grand jury,
empowered to authorize pursuit of civil lawsuits or criminal charges against the
judiciary. But it involves more than reviewing the judiciary's conduct. It goes
so far as to impact school board members, county commissioners, licensing
boards, zoning boards and even jurors, all of whom could be sued by disgruntled
litigants and criminal defendants.
Also, the grand jury would be empowered to accept, reject or amend existing laws
as established in our Constitution, statute or common law. The uniformity of
results under which everyone, including businesses, operates would be
eliminated. The special jury could adopt retroactive laws, granting disgruntled
litigants a new "run" at laws existing when a lawsuit was initially handled or a
criminal originally convicted.
Not only would the grand jury have the power to supersede all existing laws, it
would answer to no other entity, especially not the people. There is no recall
or appeal from its decision. Rather, seven jurors who change on a rotating
basis, could decide that a legislative measure passed after considerable debate,
or a longstanding constitutional provision, could be completely disregarded.
To finance this effort, the amendment would compel annual funding of $2.65
million. This would likely increase filing fees for small businesses from $50.00
to over $600.00. Similarly, it would eliminate the early resolution of cases by
summary judgment. Why would a judge decide legal questions early, and risk
charges against her if a grand jury retroactively deems a decision wrong? This
will increase expenses to our unified court system and interfere with
efficiencies in the judicial system.
We currently have a Judicial Qualifications Commission which is authorized to
investigate allegations of misconduct against the judiciary. That Commission can
pursue sanctions or commence proceedings to remove. Also, in South Dakota the
trial judiciary is currently subject to both retention and contested elections.
Perhaps even more importantly, the California proponents of this measure confirm
there are no problems in our state. Yet they have appeared here under the mantra
that "we came from California and are here to help."
Our citizenry needs to be energized and actively engaged in debate on this
measure. The responsibility is upon our profession to insure opportunities are
pursued to remind the general populace of the issues at stake. Your Bar will be
in contact with attorneys across the state soliciting involvement in this
effort. We do not expect active efforts will be requested from you until the
Spring, but from then until the November election, your involvement will be
vital. Without your efforts our judicial system, as well as boards, commissions
and jurors making good faith decisions which affect all of us, could be
paralyzed. Rest assured, however, the Bar will respond directly to this
misguided effort.
No one necessarily expects decisions of a commission or the judiciary to always
be perfect. That is why there are mechanisms to allow review of these decisions.
This process has worked for 200 years with limited problems. Those judging
issues must be free to decide them fairly and impartially, relying only on facts
received and existing law. This procedure has protected decisions from outside
pressures and has insured equal treatment under the law for everyone. Your Bar
must and will stand firmly in its support of an independent judiciary.
December, 2005
The holiday season is upon us with its usual glitter and
commercialism, yet with equal doses of family and sharing. Our family
and loved ones receive special attention from us during this time of year
but if we were able to bring a better balance to our lives, perhaps this could
be a more regular occurrence.
All lawyers want to take care of their clients' business in a timely
and efficient manner. This is an important part of being
successful and also being a competent professional. There are
times when all of us take on work when we are already overloaded,
likely in part because having people want us to complete matters for
them, strokes our ego. We should not, however, be afraid of
asking for help from others in our office. Nor should we
hesitate to refer prospective clients to other competent attorneys when
undertaking their matter would jeopardize our ability to do a competent
job for current clients or for the new prospect.
Professional activities also make up an important part of an attorney's
life. That might involve attendance at State Bar activities,
including CLE's and Section meetings. Also, we might choose
to serve as a resource for emerging issues in our profession of
particular interest to us, such as the Judicial Accountability
Initiative (J.A.I.L.), which appears headed for a vote next
November. Others in our profession might lend their expertise
to local or statewide boards who rely upon the professional attributes
an attorney brings to the questions presented.
Another leg on a perfectly balanced stool includes leisure and
exercise. Approximately ten years ago my daughters encouraged
me to exercise regularly. Accepting their urging has made a
significant difference. Not only does one feel better about
themselves, but their energy level and productivity on other activities
increases. The stress of the work day can evaporate while you
are jogging along the bike trail or lifting free weights at the
"Y". This should become part of an attorney's regular weekly
schedule, as should leisure activities whether they be golfing,
fishing, hunting or a myriad of others.
All of these aspects of our lives revolve back to that which must be of
prime importance, our family. We need to spend time together,
not just during special occasions but during other times which are made
special because we are able to share them with our family.
And during the time with our family, we need to be careful not to use
our cross-examination and analytical skills in responding to our
family. Families do not ask that from us, but rather only that we be
there to enjoy life's experiences with them. Unfortunately,
part of the technical tools which allow us to
work from locations outside our office, also lead to additional
expectations of 24 hour availability from some of our
clients. We must guard our family time preciously.
What parent wants their child to be on the cell phone or text messaging
communications constantly during a three day weekend out of town with
Mom and Dad? We like our children's undivided attention and
they are equally entitled to ours.
Enjoy especially the time with your family during this season, but
resolve to share more quality time with them next year.
This sends best wishes from my family and me for peace, hope and joy
this season and always!
November, 2005
Judicial
independence is the touchstone of our legal system, but it is not given
sufficient consideration by the public. Society's well-being is
dependent upon an independent judiciary standing ready to resolve
disputes and interpret law. Unfortunately, we now face efforts
externally, and upon occasion internally, which detract from and
perhaps jeopardize that necessary independence.
Much rhetoric has been heard regarding judges and courts. Of course,
the attention necessarily given to an impartial judiciary is magnified
by promotion of the recent J.A.I.L. initiative in South Dakota. That
proposal seeks to create in our state a "super" grand jury which while
answerable to few, is authorized to approve criminal or civil
proceedings against judges. It would be empowered to rule on the law
and the facts. Its effect is to allow those who are disappointed with a
judicial result to challenge the Court outside of our existing legal
processes. The measure also seeks to eliminate certain judicial
immunity regularly recognized as necessary to protect judges in the
important work they do. Of course, if an effort like that was
successful it would likely destroy the current independent nature of
our judiciary.
Whether the measure gets on the ballot or not, unfortunately it is a
reflection of the societal pressures which those outside the legal
profession are attempting to impose upon our judiciary.
Also, efforts to force judicial candidates to describe how they will
rule upon issues likely to be presented to them upon appointment, also
frustrate the independence of the process. We should strive for judges
with intellectual distinction, who are hardworking and able to bring to
the Court common sensibilities as well as a broad variety of life
experiences. If a judge is clothed with these attributes and allowed to
remain independent, our current system will continue to flourish.
Sometimes we forget, just as does the public, how important it is to
have independent judges who can make the difficult decisions affecting
one's livelihood and other important issues involved in one's life,
including his or her freedom. It is the best system ever designed to
peaceably and thoroughly resolve issues. The pay is modest and the time
spent carrying out the functions of the job is consuming and
challenging; but the judiciary brings to society predictable results,
so parties can properly anticipate responses to issues and situations
presented to them.
Of course, the decision of a Court can sometimes be in error. That is
why appellate courts exist. It is vital that none of us disparage the
Courts or their decisions to the public or our clients.
We should respect their efforts, just as the Court respects our
client's right to seek judicial review of decisions flowing from a
court of general jurisdiction. Lawyers should trumpet the work of our
judges to all and periodically thank our jurists for the difficult work
they have undertaken.
Efforts to attempt to intimidate judges into making decisions in a
particular manner is an affront to our judicial system. All members of
our profession should speak as one voice against that effort. It must
start with each of us individually spending the time and effort
necessary to defend judicial independence. As recognized by Theodore B.
Olson, former Solicitor General in the Bush administration in an
opinion column in the Wall Street Journal on April 25, 2005:
We expect dignity, wisdom, decency, civility, integrity and restraint from our judges. It is time to
exercise those same characteristics in our dealings with, and
commentary on, those same judges -- from their appointment and
confirmation to their decision-making once they take office.
We must provide leadership to ensure public trust and confidence exists
in support of an independent judiciary.
September, 2005
The face of our Bar is changing. Our challenge is to adapt to that reality
and embrace it. Only by that effort will we continue to insure this
Association is relevant for all members of our Bar.
I just returned from addressing the first year students at the
USD School of Law. Their diversity is quickly evident. After my short
presentation I shared a lunch with students from Nebraska, Mississippi,
Oregon, Nevada, Pierre and Sioux Falls. They included male and female,
and persons of color, as well as those who had previously pursued other
endeavors, including a former paralegal and a former semi-professional
football player. While they were all in Law School for one purpose,
that is to study law to gain the necessary tools to help people, they
likely have diverse expectations as to the specific setting within
which they will perform that role.
Law firms need to welcome that diversity. Some of the firms in
our state our headed by lawyers like those referenced by Virginia Grant
and Marci M. Krufka in their article in the March 2005 issue of GP Solo
as the "command and control management style". Fortunately, current
graduates value freedom and versatility in their careers. Many
recognize how important it is to maintain the proper balance between
family life, career and involvement in professional and community
activities.
We need to acknowledge that the values and expectation of
newer Law School graduates likely varies from what was previously
considered to be the traditional viewpoint. Those who fail to recognize
these changes will likely face adjustment problems internally,
particularly with recruiting and retention. Also, they may fall behind
in their relationships with clients and their acceptance by juries
before whom they appear.
Our legal profession needs to be a microcosm of our current
society, and the diversity it exhibits and the values it embraces.
Society has given us the opportunity to perform important roles in the
legal system for it, but in part we must recognize that society is
better served if those tasks are completed by individuals who mirror
the diversity of ideas and faces society exhibits.
I challenge each of you to be willing to look at your
practice, consider whether you are personally and professionally
receptive to this need to consider change. Then, be willing to advocate
it within your individual practice and within your profession. This
will insure these diverse faces and perspectives are acknowledged and
appropriate consideration and responses given to them.
Since Fall is almost upon us and I was reminded of my alma
mater by my recent trip to Vermillion, I must add one closing thought.
Most of our practicing attorneys are USD Law graduates and the school's
President is a USD Law graduate, hence, with all due deference to my
friends who failed to see the advantages of school in Vermillion until
Law School beckoned: "Go Coyotes!"
August, 2005
I traveled to Vermillion last month to greet participants in the Bar's
first Trial Academy and to thank the lawyers across the state who have
given of their time to serve as instructors. The terrific "hands on"
learning experience should prove beneficial to all attendees. Of
course, the volunteer instructors reflect the willingness of so many to
give of their time and talents to help others in your profession.
This month I am traveling to the Law School to address the
first year students as part of their orientation. Next month I hope to
attend the Career Services Seminar presented in Vermillion by the Law
School Committee, chaired by Pam Bollweg of Sioux Falls. That
committee's activity is not only important for current students but
also benefits lawyers practicing across the state. The committee is
seeking to ensure students are aware of career opportunities available
in all aspects of the law, including many non-traditional areas. It is
also going to be working closely with the Law School to insure adequate
lines of communication exist between applicants and law firms seeking
to hire interns or associates. A review of the procedure currently
utilized for interviews with summer interns will be undertaken to
insure all firms are following established guidelines designed to
benefit the students and the law firms.
It is clear a successful effort needs the active involvement
of the Law School. Dean Barry Vickrey has been very willing to insure
the Law School is a place where practicing attorneys are welcome. A
good example is the recently completed Trial Academy. Another important
example is the Law School's agreement to allow the pro bono coordinator
to office in the Law School. This joint effort should provide
accessible opportunities for law students seeking to learn by
participating in the provision of pro bono services, yet also reduce
the overhead of a significant statewide program. Dean Vickrey also
realizes how important it is to practicing lawyers across the state
that successful programs for hiring new associates and interns be
established. The Bar is anxious to work with the Law School in this
area.
Another area where the Law School Career Placement Office can
be involved is when practicing lawyers consider a job change.
Certainly, the recognized mission of any career center at the Law
School would be to guide law students into appropriate professional
opportunities, however, it would also seem appropriate for any career
center to help serve the needs of alumni. While this is a relatively
new approach, it appears the Law School placement center could consider
implementation of additional procedures to better assist practicing
lawyers seeking new career opportunities.
Certainly, we are pleased the joint effort seems likely to
bring good results, particularly because of the hard work of the Law
School Committee and the dedication of Dean Vickrey and the Law School
to address the concerns expressed. We encourage the lawyers across the
state to support the efforts of your committee and utilize all aspects
of the placement services offered by the Law School.
July, 2005
Our bar had been fortunate that Tom Welk served as its
President. Tom was truly our “leader” during the
past year! This was shown by his take charge perspective and personal
dedication to current Bar programs, as well as his implementation of a
new, important program. His leadership has lead to creation of the
Trial Academy, which will have its first run later this month in
Vermillion. He also actively pursued important issues such as legal
service funding questions and the State Bar Endowment Fund campaign.
While his term as President is completed, knowing Tom and Terry as well
as I do, I am confident they will continue to be actively involved.
Thanks again Tom!
In our state, activities by lawyers are not confined to their
office or the courtroom. From Custer to Belle Fourche to Mobridge to
Watertown to Yankton to Winner and every where in between, lawyers
service as leaders in state and local organizations. Our association,
and more importantly the public, needs to be reminded of the important
leadership work lawyers accomplish. Whether as chair of the local PTA
or chair of the State Board of Regents, lawyers use their training,
aptitude, keen perspective and willingness to work hard to make our
state function better. During the next Bar year, we hope to remind
ourselves as well as our state and all of its communities, of the role
lawyers gladly accept as leaders in every aspect of South Dakota life.
While we do that, we also want to thank each of you for your
participation not only in professional activities, but also your active
involvement in your communities.
The face of the Bar is changing. Our law school graduates have
become much more diverse, not only in age, sex and color, but also in
their reasons for obtaining a law degree. The State Bar Law School
Committee has recognized the need for more career counseling
opportunities for USD law graduates. They work hard to fill that need.
We intend to partner with the Law School to insure that law students,
and ultimately graduates, are kept abreast of traditional opportunities
but are also on the cutting edge of other areas where their legal
training will serve them well.
We just completed our 2005 Annual Meeting. Special thanks go
to Tom Barnett and his staff for an excellent meeting. Until you are
close to the epicenter, you do not realize all the activity occurring
to ensure the convention runs as smoothly as it does. However, if you
were among the 500 attorney in attendance, you know of the informative
CLE’s, important business meetings and terrific social events
provided.
We concluded the meeting invigorated by the words provided by
our keynote speaker, Donna Melby. She reminded us to remain vigilant to
the need to protect the public’s right to jury trial and to
an independent judiciary. As the standing ovation she received
confirmed, South Dakota lawyers will do just that.
Enjoy your summer!