2510 Briefs

TIME MANAGEMENT

Leesa Badley on how Paralegals can stay ahead without burning out

ACCESS TO JUSTICE

NEVER TOO EARLY

C. Todd Smith salutes the attorneys who volunteer on the LRIS panel

A PUBLICATION OF

XiXi Li shares practical tips for young attorneys

OCTOBER 2025 VOL. 93 NO. 8

FOOTBALL UNITES THE NINTH CIRCUIT Beneath the robes, beyond the rivalries

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Contents 12 I

BENEATH THE ROBES, BEYOND THE RIVALRIES How Football Unites the Ninth Circuit

LETTERS FROM LEADERS

06 I PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE The Perfect Season Keshara D. Cowans, Esq.

08 I CLERK’S CORNER A New Era for Florida’s E-Filing System

The Honorable Tiffany Moore Russell, Esq.

FROM THE COMMITTEES

18 I PARALEGAL COMMITTEE

Time Management for Paralegals

SIDEBAR: NEWS / EVENTS / UPDATES

24 I YOUNG LAWYERS SECTION Michael B. Stone, Esq.

Leesa Badley

20 I LRIS COMMITTEE

Expanding Access to Justice Through Service C. Todd Smith

22 I PROFESSIONALISM COMMITTEE Practical Tips for Young Lawyers XiXi Li

ADVERTISING DEADLINES

Magazine: 10th of month prior to publication eEdition: 20th of month prior to distribution Copy: Six weeks prior to publication If the deadline falls on a weekend or holiday, the deadline is the next business day. Publication of advertising herein does not imply any endorsement of any product, service, or opinion advertised. The opinions and conclusions, including legal opinions and conclusions contained herein, are those of the authors and do not reflect official endorsement by the Orange County Bar Association or its officers and directors, unless specifically stated as such. ©2023 Orange County Bar Association. All rights reserved. ISSN 1947-3968

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O C B A O CT O B E R LU N C H E O N 880 N. Orange Ave., Orlando, FL 32801 Phone (407) 422-4551 Fax (321) 430-1558 orangecountybar.org Legal Aid Society (407) 841-8310 Citizen Dispute (407) 423-5732 Family Law Mediation (407) 423-5732 Lawyer Referral Service (407) 422-4537 Foreclosure Mediation (407) 515-4330 Young Lawyers Section (407) 422-4551 _________________

the Briefs OCTOBER 2025 VOL.93 NO.8

Editor Kate T. Hollis Associate Editors Christine Wasula Tina Leger Columnists Alena V. Baker Michael Stone Officers Keshara Cowans, President Lisa Gong Guerrero, President-Elect Michael Barber, Treasurer Brandon Sapp, Secretary Cooper Powell, YLS President Executive Council Stephanie Alcalde Onchantho Am Jill Davis Kate T. Hollis John M. Hunt Bruce Mount Conti Moore Alisia Profit Rafael O. Rodriguez C Andrew Roy C. Todd Smith Jennifer Thomas Executive Director Candice Disorbo Advertising & Sponsorship Manager Ursla Gallagher

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Joint Luncheon with the Central Florida Association of Women Lawyers.

Access to Justice, Leadership, and the Power of Community: Reflections from ABA President Michelle Behnke

RSVP by Monday, October 13, 2025 Ashley Velez ashleyv@ocbanet.org | orangecountybar.org/store RSVPs and cancellations will not be accepted after October 13, 2025.

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PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

THE PERFECT SEASON Keshara D. Cowans, Esq., serves as a Staff

Attorney, EEO and Equity Officer, and District Title IX Coordinator in the Office of Legal Services for Orange County Public Schools (“OCPS”), the fourth-largest school district in Florida and the eighth-largest in the nation. Ms. Cowans has practiced law for over 17 years. Her primary practice areas include labor and employment, employment discrimination, and Title IX compliance. She also serves as the legal advisor for the OCPS District Police Department.

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As October unfolds and autumn leaves paint cities in brilliant hues, we find ourselves at the heart of two of America’s most cherished traditions: the pursuit of academic excellence and the excitement of college football!

I am often reminded that these seemingly different worlds share far more than a common season; they share common values that define the very essence of higher education.

October brings homecoming celebrations that unite entire university communities, reminding us of the foundational experiences that shaped our careers. Alumni return to campus, many now partners at law firms, respected judges, or successful practitioners, and law students see living proof that their studies can lead to meaningful careers.

These gatherings allow us to build professional communities that support each other through challenges and celebrate each other’s victories.

The values displayed on gameday: teamwork, resilience, leadership, and healthy competition are values that transfer to the legal profession. When a team faces a fourth-down decision, they must trust their preparation, rely on their teammates, and commit fully to the game plan. We want attorneys who trust their preparation, collaborate effectively with colleagues, and commit fully to zealous representation within the bar rules. The strategic thinking required for a successful two-minute drill mirrors the quick decision-making needed during cross-examination. The leadership displayed by team captains translates directly to managing complex litigation teams or guiding clients through difficult legal challenges.

As we move through the heart of college football season, let’s remember that every touchdown pass, every brief submitted, and every case won represents the same fundamental truth: excellence in the legal profession requires dedication, preparation, and

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the support of a professional community that believes in your potential.

Speaking of excellence, I am proud to highlight our distinguished judges featured on this month’s magazine cover, representing their respective colleges and universities with the same pride they bring to the bench daily. Our judges exemplify the perfect union of academic achievement and practical wisdom, having transformed their educational foundations into careers dedicated to justice and service.

The connection between education, athletics, and judicial excellence perfectly sets the stage for our upcoming Bench Bar Conference on May 1st, 2026, themed “The Ultimate Playbook: Winning Techniques from the Bench.” Just as every successful football team relies on a well-crafted playbook developed through years of experience and strategic thinking, our judicial system benefits from the accumulated wisdom and proven techniques of seasoned judges. Our conference will examine the “plays” that work in courtroom management, the strategies that ensure fair and efficient proceedings, and the leadership techniques that maintain dignity and respect in our legal system.

Just as every championship team refines their playbook throughout the season, our profession continues to evolve and improve through the shared wisdom of experienced practitioners and jurists. Our Bench Bar represents the culmination of this collaborative spirit.

Bench Bar will bring together the strategic minds that make our legal system work: seasoned judges who have mastered courtroom management, experienced attorneys who have perfected their advocacy techniques, and emerging lawyers eager to learn. We will explore the “championship plays” that ensure effective case management, the proven strategies for maintaining courtroom deco-

rum, and the leadership techniques that uphold the integrity of our judicial system.

As members of the OCBA, we have the privilege and responsibility to continue learning and growing throughout our careers. Just as coaches study game film and athletes practice fundamentals, we must commit to ongoing professional development and mentorship. The judges featured on our magazine cover, proudly representing their respective universities, remind us that the foundation for judicial excellence begins with quality education and continues with a lifetime commitment to professional growth. Their willingness to share their expertise exemplifies the collaborative spirit that strengthens our entire legal community.

This October, as we celebrate the excitement of college football, let’s also prepare for a Bench Bar that will provide the ultimate playbook for legal excellence.

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CLERK’S CORNER

A NEW ERA FOR FLORIDA’S E-FILING SYSTEM What Legal Professionals Should Know The Honorable Tiffany Moore Russell, Esq., Orange County Clerk of Courts, has been a member of the OCBA since 2004.

As of July 1, Florida’s court system entered a new phase of digital modernization with significant changes to the state’s electronic filing process. These updates—part of the Florida Supreme Court’s “E-Everything” rules package—formalized long-evolving electronic filing practices, introduced standardized procedures, and updated fee structures. For attorneys and legal staff who rely on the portal daily, these changes represent an important shift in how documents must be filed, processed, and accessed.

The Florida Courts E-Filing Authority governs the Florida Courts E-Filing Portal and operates under the rules and standards set by the Florida Supreme Court, in consultation with the Florida Courts Technology Commission. The Florida Courts E-Filing Portal has far exceeded its original scope. A system initially designed to handle approximately 5 million filings per year, the Portal received over 31�6 million filings in fiscal year 2024–2025. In Florida, the monthly volumes now exceed what some states experience annually, highlighting the system’s vital role and the need for consistent and sustainable improvements.

CORRECTION QUEUE OVERHAUL

One of the most significant procedural updates involves the Correction Queue process. Previously, Clerk’s Offices could reject filings and provide customized responses to the filer, leading to over 14�000 different explanations across the state.

As of July 1, under revised Rule 2�525(f) (1), only seven standardized reasons are permitted when placing a document in the Correction Queue:

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1. The document lacked the correct case number, and the number could not be reliably identified.

2. The case style was missing or incorrect.

3. Multiple documents were improperly filed as a single document.

4. A multi-page document was broken into multiple files.

5. A proposed order was filed without a notice of filing.

6. The submission was illegible, corrupt, or blank.

7. The document was barred by court order or could not be processed by the clerk’s system.

This change has created a more predictable and streamlined experience for filers across all jurisdictions.

Additionally, the E-Portal now provides filers with a standardized copy of the original document, complete with the date and timestamp. This serves as verifiable proof of submission—critical in any situation where the timing or content of a filing is questioned.

If a party seeks judicial review of a clerk’s Queue decision, the timestamped document must be attached to the motion.

Another improvement is the extended retention period for documents in the Correction Queue—from five to 30 days—giving users more time to correct filings based on one of the seven exceptions and refile without unnecessary disruption.

FEE CHANGES REFLECT GROWING COSTS

Another major shift that went into effect July 1 was the revision of filing payment convenience fees. Where automated clearing house (ACH) transactions once represented 60% of Portal payments, credit cards now make up

69%, creating a sharp increase in processing costs for the E-Filing Authority.

To address the transaction costs, the E-Filing Authority Board approved an increase in the credit card convenience fee from 3�5% to 3�95%. The $5 flat fee for ACH transactions remains unchanged.

MOVING FORWARD TOGETHER

These recent changes reflect the Florida court system’s commitment to improving consistency, transparency, and service across all judicial circuits.

I encourage you to visit www.myflcourtaccess.com for regular updates and training materials from the Florida Courts E-Filing Authority.

Warm Regards,

Tiffany Moore Russell Orange County Clerk of Courts

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BENEATH THE RO BEYOND How Football Unites the Ninth Circuit AUTHOR Reatha Cruz-Johnson

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OBES, D THE RIVALRIES orangecountybar.org

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BENEATH THE ROBES, BEYOND THE RIVALRIES

E

very fall, the stately Orange bench. Whether it’s recalling marching bands, stuCounty Courthouse transdent sections, or the informs in subtle but unmistensity of rivalry games, takable ways. The conversation shifts football ties the judges back to the communities from case law to kickoff times, from and traditions that forged precedent to point spreads. For the their identities. judges of the Ninth Circuit, autumn is MORE THAN JUST A GAME more than just a season of oral arguWhile football provides ments and decisions — it’s game time. the stage, the true story

is what happens off the field. Judges find in each other not just colleagues but teammates of sorts, These moments reBehind the dignified robes connected by a common veal judges not just as inand carefully reasoned rhythm of fall Saturdays. terpreters of statutes, but opinions lies a lighter, The sense of belonging as alumni who still cheer spirited side: a deep loyto something larger — a for their schools with the alty to their alma maters school, a tradition, a team same zeal they had as unand a shared enthusiasm — reinforces their sense of for college football. It is a dergraduates. The result belonging within the Ninth is a culture where foottradition that, year after Circuit itself. year, injects camaraderie, ball serves as the spark It’s a kind of fellowship for connection. levity, and even a touch rarely visible to the public but deeply felt withof rivalry into the courtA COMMON LANGUAGE in the courthouse. Judges house halls. who may disagree pasLegal work is demandsionately on points of law BEHIND THE BENCH ing, and the weight of recan still laugh together Judges are often viewed sponsibility is heavy. Yet as solemn arbiters of the football season provides about a fumbled pass or a law, far removed from the a shared language that last-second field goal. It’s passions that animate ev- crosses chambers and case these human connections, eryday life. Yet, as fall assignments. Friendly riforged through fandom, Saturdays roll in, a difvalries turn into bonding that help sustain the colleferent picture emergrituals. One judge might giality of the court. es. Chambers decorated proudly tout a storied prowith university memoraSPIRIT IN SEASON gram’s latest win, while bilia, coffee conversations another counters with There’s something fitting an underdog story that about the timing. Just as punctuated by recaps of stole headlines. the legal calendar ramps weekend matchups, and the occasional playful jab It’s more than banter — up after summer, so too at a colleague’s underper- it’s a reminder of the exdoes football season. Both forming team paint a very periences that shaped carry their own intensidifferent portrait. them long before the ty, discipline, and stakes.

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Both rely on preparation, teamwork, and the occasional halftime adjustment. For the judges, it’s no coincidence that the rituals of the courtroom and the rituals of the stadium complement one another.

As the season unfolds, chambers continue to echo with updates, predictions, and good-natured ribbing. And while the outcome of Saturday’s games may be unpredictable, one thing is certain: the bonds formed through this shared enthusiasm are stronger than any rivalry.

BEYOND THE ROBES

At its core, the judges’ school spirit is not about football scores or championship banners. It’s about connection — to their past, to their peers, and to the pride of representing something larger than themselves.

Each fall, as the courthouse hums with both legal work and football chatter, it becomes clear: beneath the robes are fans whose fervor enlivens not just the game, but the very culture of the Ninth Circuit. They remind us that even in the most serious of professions, there’s room for joy, rivalry, and the kind of camaraderie that keeps a community thriving.

THE HONORABLE

THE HONORABLE

THE HONORABLE

Michigan State University

Michigan State University

University of Central Florida

Amy J. Carter

Brian S. Sandor

THE HONORABLE

THE HONORABLE

Florida International University

University of Florida

Doug Walker

Christine E. Arendas

THE HONORABLE

Gisela T. Laurent

LaShawnda K. Jackson University of Florida

THE HONORABLE

THE HONORABLE

THE HONORABLE

THE HONORABLE

Florida State University

Duke University

Boston College

Michigan State University

Heather Pinder Rodriguez

Alicia L. Latimore

Vincent Falcone III

Patricia L. Strowbridge

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BENEATH THE ROBES, BEYOND THE RIVALRIES

THE HONORABLE

THE HONORABLE

THE HONORABLE

University of Miami

University of Central Florida

The Ohio State University

Eric H. DuBois

Mikaela Nix-Walker

Vincent S. Chiu

THE HONORABLE

THE HONORABLE

THE HONORABLE

Duke University

University of Florida

Rollins College & Florida State University

Heather L. Higbee

Mark S. Blechman

Barbara J. Leach

THE HONORABLE

THE HONORABLE

THE HONORABLE

THE HONORABLE

University of Florida

Texas Tech University

Florida State University

University of West Florida

Robert J. Egan

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Tom Young

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Amanda S. Bova Laura Shaffer

THE HONORABLE

THE HONORABLE

THE HONORABLE

University of Florida

University of Florida

University of Florida

Elizabeth Gibson

Celia Thacker Dorn

Wayne C. Wooten

THE HONORABLE

THE HONORABLE

THE HONORABLE

US Military Academy, West Point

Duke University

Florida State University

Craig A. McCarthy

Margaret H. Schreiber

Alicia P. Robinson

THE HONORABLE

THE HONORABLE

THE HONORABLE

THE HONORABLE

University of Arizona

Florida A&M University

University of Florida

University of Florida

Carly S. Wish

Faye L. Allen

Lisa T. Munyon

Luis F. Calderon

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PARALEGAL COMMITTEE

TIME MANAGEMENT FOR PARALEGALS How to Stay Ahead Without Burning Out. Leesa Badley,

Paralegal at Hagood & Hagood, PLLC and President of the Orange County Bar Association Paralegal Section

I

n a profession that thrives on deadlines, precision, and rapid response, managing time as a legal support professional can feel like a juggling act. The pace is high, the tasks are varied, and the expectations are unwavering.

In my experience, I have seen how effective time management isn’t about doing more. It’s about doing the right things at the right time and giving yourself space to breathe in between the tasks. I would like to share three practical time management techniques that have helped me stay focused, reduce stress, and improve workflow.

The first one is “Time Blocking”. Time Blocking allows you to make your calendar a command center. It is the practice of assigning specific blocks of time to certain types of work before the day gets away from you and you are simply reacting to the next email, phone call or meeting you have. To block time, you could reserve blocks of time on your calendar for specific items like drafting or research. I like to set 15-minute “buffer blocks” between meet-

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ings for email, wrap up items, or to update my “To Do” list so things are not missed. If you are a visual person, go for it with color coding for quick visual references (red for deadlines, blue for client work, etc.) For this method to work, you need to think of time blocks as “non-negotiable” appointments with yourself and protect them like you would a court appearance.

If you find Time Blocking to be too strict, you can try the second method, which is the “Pomodoro Technique”. I refer to this as the HIIT workout for legal tasks. This process is simple but powerful. This process allows you to work in focused sprints towards the finish line. You break time down into 25-minute focus sessions, followed by 5-minute breaks. After four sessions, you take a longer

break (15-30 minutes).

This process is fantastic for reviewing documents, drafting pleadings, and summarizing records. You would be amazed at what great ideas you are able to obtain in those 5-minute break times when you aren’t completely focused on the task at hand. The best way to do this is to use a

Urgent & Important (DO FIRST)

Urgent & Not Important (DELEGATE)

timer tool to keep you on track with your sprint and rest, sprint and rest process. Free timer tools can be found at pomofocus.io or marinaratimer.com.

The third technique is “The Eisenhower Matrix”. When everything feels urgent and you are surrounded by dumpster fires, this framework helps you cut through the noise and determine what to do first. This visual tool helps you categorize tasks into four categories: (1) Urgent & Important; (2) Not Urgent but Important; (3) Urgent but Not Important;

Not Urgent & Important (SCHEDULE)

Not Urgent & Not Important (ELIMINATE)

and (4) Not Urgent and Not Important (but eventually needs to be done).

You can create a grid like the below image and then write the tasks in each box. You can use this at the start of the week to plan or when you are feeling overwhelmed.

These tools are not about being perfect, but they are ways to make space for what matters most and avoid that frazzled, always-behind feeling. Having a plan and/ or the use of any of these time management techniques can help you reclaim your focus and build a process that works for you. Whether you are supporting one attorney or an entire firm, these techniques can help you lead your day rather than chase it. As a bonus, I use a 2-minute rule. If something lands on my desk or in my inbox and it will take less than two minutes to do it, I just do it right away. That includes things like forwarding a document, confirming a meeting, or jotting down a billing entry. It keeps little tasks from piling up and overwhelming me later.

If you have your own strategies or tools that work, share them with our section! Let’s keep learning from each other and offering support for obtaining excellence in our field.

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The businesses listed herein (the“Vendors”) are not affiliated with the Orange County Bar Association (OCBA) and shall not under any circumstances be deemed to have any authority to act on behalf of the OCBA. The OCBA does not make, and expressly disclaims, any warranty, representation, responsibility, or guarantee as to (a) the quality or suitability of the Vendors, their products, or services, and (b) the duration or validity of any discount or other promotion offered by any of the Vendors.

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LRIS COMMITTEE

EXPANDING ACCESS TO JUSTICE THROUGH SERVICE A Salute to Our LRIS Panel Attorneys.

C. Todd Smith,

Chair, Lawyer Referral & Information Service (LRIS) Committee If you are an OCBA member looking for a way to give back, I encourage you to consider joining our LRIS Panel. You will have the opportunity to grow your practice while making a meaningful difference in the lives of people right here in our community.

To all of our current panelists, thank you for your hard work, dedication, and for making a positive impact in our community.

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n behalf of the Orange County Bar Association, (OCBA) and our Lawyer Referral & Information Service (LRIS) Committee, I want to express our gratitude to all of the dedicated attorneys who serve as panelists in the OCBA Lawyer Referral & Information Service (LRIS) Program. Your service, professionalism, and generosity have a measurable impact on the lives of people in our community every day.

and explain what I would need and what route I would need to take.” — Stephanie G. “Christopher Block was professional and gave me excellent advice on my matter.” — Roberto T.

“Prompt, professional the OCBA’s role in connect- and helpful describes Mr. Thanks to your time, exing the public with legal re- Manney. Thank you for the pertise, and compassion, sources. The OCBA extends assistance!” — Justine C. countless individuals and families are able to find the its impact beyond its mem“They (Barry LaBolegal guidance they urgent- bership, reinforcing our da’s firm) contacted me role not only as a resource ly need. Whether helping promptly and asked defor legal professionals but someone navigate a landlord-tenant dispute, offering as a vital part of the broad- tailed questions. They also made sure to get backer community we serve. clarity during a family law ground information and Every call you take and crisis, or assisting a small told me the terms before I every client you serve business owner in a conmade a decision. I am curhelps build trust in the tract dispute, you are prorently proceeding with viding legal guidance, offer- legal system. As an examthem to help with my claim ing hope, and much-needed ple of the work you do, the following testimonials and they are sending out access to justice. paperwork soon. Thank And the contributions of are from LRIS clients and you for the follow-up, and a glimpse into the impact our panel members go far please make sure the reyou’re making: beyond handling individcord stands, they are a firm ual cases. By participating who will take the client’s “Jordan Benbow was in our LRIS Program, you very interested in my situa- interests seriously.” — are helping build bridgtion and gave me excellent Joseph E. es between the legal proadvice which helped me fession and the broader Each of these stories is move forward with getting public. Programs like Askmore than just a review. a-Lawyer events rely on at- it resolved.” — David D. Each one is a powerful retorney volunteers to help minder of why the work “He (Bernie Mazaheri) promote the LRIS Program took his time to talk to me you do matters. and increase awareness of

I OCTOBER 2025

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PROFESSIONALISM COMMITTEE

PRACTICAL TIPS FOR YOUNG LAWYERS

XiXi Li

Associate at Sasso and Sasso, P.A. where she practices commercial, construction, and election law litigation.

Ms. Li currently serves as the President of the Greater Orlando Asian American Bar Association (“GOAABA”), The Florida Bar Young Lawyers Division (“YLD”) Governor for the Ninth Judicial Circuit, and Chair of the OCBA Professionalism Committee. Ms. Li can be contacted at xli@sasso-law.com.

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tors, criminal defense attorneys, and non-practicing attorneys. Each mentor shares a commonality - investment in the development and success of their mentees.

You may measure success by having a solid book of business or winning trin my first day of law school orientation, a pro- als, but success does not alfessor made a statement to the wide-eyed class ways equate to billing 200+ hours every month, or closof future lawyers in our freshly pressed suits: ing out the most cases in “Always come prepared with a pen and paper in hand.” a short amount of time as This statement still rings true in practice – every day. you progress in your career.

You can never be overly prepared, but you will always Success is measured by the be remembered for being underprepared. Being prefulfillment you feel when pared is not limited to bringing pen and paper with you practice law. I can say you, this philosophy encompasses how you practice in that my success is attributreal life. Case in point: before you ask your supervising able to those mentors who partner a question, make it a habit to mentally prepare inspired me to become a yourself to ask the right questions. stronger, more competent attorney. My mentors are my cheerleaders – they are this does not mean the same individuals that I can talk In many instances, you to on my hardest days, and standard exists today. The are tasked with finding rulmotion can be a great frame- they are also people who I ings on nuanced issues. Be sure you are researching the work on how to analyze the call my friends when I seek words of wisdom. One of issues, but the responsive relevant statutes, case law, the wonderful things about deadline and setting it for or rules before you go askthe Ninth Circuit is truly hearing is completely difing questions. For civil litiferent today than it was last how tight-knit we are. We gators, we are accustomed to rule changes based on year. Need a refresher? Take always come out in full force to support each other! amendments to the civil a look at Rule 1�510 of the Many of you work at Florida Rules of Civil Procerules. However, you can no firms where you are paired dures (June 19, 2025). longer depend on the old with a mentor, but many of Being prepared puts you version of the Florida Rules you may have just moved of Civil Procedures because ahead of the game. here from another part of rules that were applicable the state or even the counlast year are not necessarily MENTORSHIP try and you are asking relevant this year. Being pre- You can never have too yourself: “where do I find pared with this knowledge is many mentors. My primacrucial to a successful prac- ry practice is civil litigation, a mentor?” I have an answer for you: go to any luntice. You may want to rehowever, I have mentors view a motion for summaoutside of my practice area. cheon or event put on by ry judgment someone wrote My mentors include judges, the OCBA, Young Lawyers Section (“YLS”), or any of last year for inspiration, but in-house counsel, prosecu-

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the many voluntary bar associations (“VBAs”) in our circuit. You will meet attorneys and judges and may even end up sitting next to your future mentor. Do not be afraid to make the first introduction – I promise, they will remember you for it.

Mentorship is crucial to our profession. Mentors are there to teach you the hard lessons you need to learn, but they are also there to provide constructive feedback when you need it the most. One of the most important things I have learned, especially taking on leadership roles, is that I am never alone. Mentors paved the way for me to take on challenges which continue to inspire me to build on their legacies for my future mentees. By the way, mentors do all of this for free.

RULES

In law school, Civil Procedure always put a knot in my stomach, and maybe some of you can relate. It was difficult to see how the cog was fitting into the wheel, especially when I did not have practical experience. Fast forward to today, Civil Procedure is one of my favorite subjects in practice. The Rules can be your secret weapon (maybe not so secret anymore). Develop good habits by reading amendments to the Rules, knowing your

judges’ procedures, local rules, and any standing orders issued by the judge of each circuit and district you appear in front of. Do not assume that the font type or size you are accustomed to is the same font type or size that the judge you will be appearing in front of prefers. Take initiative and envelope yourself with these nuances – this will take you far and judges will remember you for that. Additionally, knowing the Rules can be crucial to your case. In the proverbial sense, first impressions and dates matter, so make it a habit to make sure you are meeting deadlines and know the rules. Can you tell how much I like the Rules now?

VOLUNTEER

If you are still reading this article, I commend you for getting this far. I want to

emphasize the importance of volunteering. Volunteer work can come in the form of joining a VBA, committing yourself to pro bono work, or involvement in a local organization. I have always felt a strong sense of fulfillment knowing that I am helping someone resolve an issue that may have a major impact on their life. If you are looking

for a jumping off point, join a committee at OCBA or a VBA. OCBA provides a list of all of the available committees, and the Florida Bar lists all of the VBAs in our area. As a bonus, if you are a young lawyer, you are automatically a member of the YLS and YLD, so come join us at our next event where you will be sure to make some new friends!

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SIDEBAR

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SIDEBAR: NEWS / EVENTS / UPDATES NEWS / EVENTS / UPDATES

Fall into Fun with YLS

October is upon us, which means cooler weather (hopefully), pumpkin spice everything, and some of our favorite YLS traditions such as the annual Gator Bus Trip, our Halloween Party, and a full slate of networking and learning opportunities. But before we “fall” into a new season of events, let’s look back at some highlights from this summer and early fall.

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WHO’S WHO 1 YLS Health Awareness Bike Day in Winter Garden 2 Luncheon with Lauren Klein 3 Law Clerk Reception 4 Morning at State Courthouse

Leveling Up Your Productivity

In August, we were joined by Conti Moore Smith, Managing Attorney at Moore Law Divorce Lawyers, who delivered an energizing talk on time management and skill development. Her message resonated especially with newer attorneys: your time is an investment. She shared practical strategies to maximize productivity, avoid burnout, and build an intentional routine, lessons that benefit every stage of your career.

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Michael B. Stone, Esq., Partner at Jordan Dougherty Stone LLP, specializes in commercial litigation, first-party property, general liability, and personal injury claims. OCBA Member Since 2020.

FOLLOW US!

@OCBAYLS #TogetherWeGoFar

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100 Club Firms with two or more attorneys who are all members can belong! If your firm is eligible, call the Membership Department (407-422-4551 x225)

20+ MEMBERS GoodBlatt – Leo

Record Breaking Success

Our Backpack Project Happy Hour at Pour Choice Taphouse set a new record for YLS, raising more than $10,500, the highest in the event’s history! Thanks to our amazing members, sponsors, and volunteers, we were able to provide 488 backpacks fully stocked for the 2025–2026 school year.

Finding Your Voice in the Courtroom

September’s luncheon featured Richard B. Schwamm, Senior Partner at Haliczer Pettis & Schwamm, who shared powerful insights on public speaking, techniques for presenting in court, client communication and tips for clear, confident communication as a junior attorney. He shared his personal journey and struggles with a severe stutter and lisp as a child and how his interest in studying law as a young student helped him overcome his issues and gain the confidence he needed to become the seasoned trial attorney he is today.

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OTHER YLS EVENTS GATOR BUS TRIP / It’s game time! Join us as the Florida Gators host the Mississippi State Bulldogs.

Seats are limited, reserve your spot on the bus and in “The Swamp” now!

HALLOWEEN PARTY AT SALVATION ARMY / Dust off your best costume and get ready for a night of spooky fun and fellowship, with the goal of giving the kids in our community a memorable night of fun with YLS.

GOLF TOURNAMENT / Whether you’re a scratch golfer or just here for the sunshine and camaraderie, our fall golf outing promises fun competition, networking, and maybe even a few birdies.

STAY INFORMED: As we turn back the clocks and settle into autumn, grab your favorite fall drink, mark your calendars, and stay connected with everything YLS has to offer.

Stay connected all Fall by signing up for our weekly email updates. Just Visit our website here and click “Sign Up for YLS Emails.”

Rumberger, Kirk & Caldwell Shutts & Bowen Wicker, Smith, O’Hara, et al.

Winderweedle, Haines, et al.

10-19 MEMBERS

Colling Gilbert Wright Fisher Rushmer McDonald Toole Richman & Correnti, P.A Stovash, Case, Shay & Pearce

2-9 MEMBERS

The Aikin Family Law Group Anderson & Ferrin The Arnold Law Group Artemis Family Law Barrister Law Firm Carr Law Firm Compass Law Davey Law Group DeCiccio & Johnson Dellecker Wilson King McKenna Ruffier & Sos Divine & Estes The Draves Law Firm The Elder Law Center of Kirson & Fuller Fassett, Anthony & Taylor Frank Family Law Practice The Fighter Law Firm

orangecountybar.org

Haliczer Pettis & Schwamm Harris Harris Bauerle Lopez Hilyard, Bogan & Palmer Jill S. Schwartz & Assocs.

Keating & Schlitt King, Blackwell, Zehnder & Wermuth Korshak & Assoc.

Kosto & Rotella Law Offices of Brent C. Miller Lebron Law Marcus & Myers The Marks Law Firm McMichen, Cinami & Demps McShane & McShane Murphy & Berglund N. Diane Holmes P.A. O’Mara Law Group Orange Blossom Law Page & Eichenblatt Perez LaSure Sawyer & Sawyer Shannin Law Firm Stovash, Case, Shay & Pearce, P.A. Tangel-Rodriguez & Assoc.

Warner & Warner West Family Law Group Wieland & DeLattre Wilson McCoy Wooten Kimbrough Yergey & Yergey

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