The IndyBar exists to serve members of the legal profession, and through our members we serve the community. Lawyers are problem-solvers, defenders of the rule of law. We spend our days seeking to improve the lives of our clients and our communities. We have an opportunity and a privilege to help. 

For the first time in history, the Indiana Supreme Court is holding oral arguments using videoconferencing platforms. During this unprecedented time, it's important now more than ever to make sure you're prepared for your argument. Traditionally hosted in person, the IndyBar's Indiana Appellate Institute offers "moot" or practice argument sessions before panels of seasoned appellate advocates and others who have reviewed the briefs and will ask the sorts of questions an advocate can expect at the actual argument. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, moot sessions have been moved to videoconferencing platforms with a continued goal of preparing advocates for argument.

I am hopeful that something good can and will emerge from our shared ordeal  It is with this in mind that I’m excited to announce a new social media campaign started by the Women and the Law Division Executive Committee – Find the Good. The goal of this campaign is to highlight IndyBar members who are finding good in life during this extraordinary time.

The outbreak of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) in the United States has resulted in declaration of a national emergency, and the C.D.C., state officials, and public health authorities have issued orders or guidance regarding “social distancing” to protect public health and safety.  Travel has also been significantly affected.

During this extraordinary time and beyond, the IndyBar is committed to bringing you the information, tools and resources you need to stay informed, stay connected and succeed in the legal profession.

During this challenging time, the IndyBar is dedicated to making many of our services, resources and tools available to members online so that you can keep thriving in your practice, even from home!

The Indiana Supreme Court is adjusting rules and giving guidance to help attorneys and courts meet legal needs. The court is also making sure attorneys have more latitude to complete education requirements through distance learning as well as extending the deadline for applications to the July bar exam.  

The Indiana Supreme Court and Indiana Court of Appeals issued an order on March 25 extending the filing deadlines for filings due between March 23, 2020 and April 6, 2020. 

The CLE programming and events for this year’s Bench Bar Conference are designed to coincide with these developments, which we have coined “Bridging the Gap.” On behalf of myself and the other chairs for this year’s Bench Bar Conference, registration is now open, and we are looking forward to a phenomenal few days in beautiful French Lick from June 18-20.

Many of our legal organizations, whether in the public or private sector, have acknowledged the benefits of having a diverse team by developing diversity commitments and taken steps to building a diverse team that more closely reflects the makeup of the clients they serve. That said, whether you are a law firm, an in-house legal team for a business, or a judge, building the right foundations for diversity within your team is important.