New Hampshire Bar News: A Year of Connection, Service, and Support

As my term as President of the New Hampshire Bar Association (NHBA) comes to a close, I find myself reflecting on the year, the goals I set, and the progress we have made. In one of my first columns, I described the NHBA as a “unified effort to support the whole attorney.” Over the past 12 months, we have worked to do just that. We set out with a clear focus: returning to the fundamentals, encouraging lawyers’ involvement in the community, preparing for the future, and strengthening how we support one another as legal professionals.

I’m proud to say that together we’ve made meaningful progress in each area, and I am confident that the work will continue beyond my term.

Returning to the Fundamentals

One of our earliest initiatives was a systemic review of the Bar’s operations and the benefits it offers its members. That includes traditional services – low-cost CLEs, professional tools like insurance, and software discounts – but also the invaluable work of our ten standing and special committees. New processes are in development that will make our Bar more efficient and effective. From member renewal to committee involvement, we have worked to make the Bar more user-friendly.

Engaging with One Another

I’m especially proud of our reinvigorated opportunities for connection, from Breakfast at the Bar events to in-person gatherings that build professional relationships and foster a stronger sense of community. During my term, I attended county bar association meetings across the state. Though many of us are still recalibrating in a post-COVID world, it is clear to me that in-person contact is vital.

Over the past year, we balanced the conveniences of remote participation with the value of meeting in person. The Midyear Meeting drew one of the largest crowds in recent memory, and many attendees said that seeing colleagues in person was a highlight of the event.

Engaging with the Community

Our commitment to serving the public remains steadfast. Programs like LawLine, where members of the public can call in and speak directly with volunteer attorneys, exemplify the accessible, impactful service we can offer. These efforts, and the broader work of pro bono and civil legal aid, keep us grounded in our purpose as attorneys. To help support pro bono work, this year’s Annual Meeting includes a free CLE on criminal annulments.

Our Law Related Education Committee has a newly reinvigorated focus on civics education, and, with the arrival of Martha Madsen as coordinator, will continue working to expand opportunities for lawyers and schools to connect and explore this critically important topic.

Setting the Stage for the Future

We renewed and deepened our connection with the University of New Hampshire Franklin Pierce School of Law, ensuring that our future colleagues have a clear pathway to mentorship, guidance, and community. As we look ahead to the rapidly evolving legal landscape – AI, remote practice, and other transformations – I believe that these changes make our work more vital, not less. Our Bar Association must remain at the forefront of preparing Granite State attorneys for whatever comes next and so the work of our AI Committee continues.

Supporting One Another

From the beginning, I promised to continue our focus on attorney wellness – and this year, we’ve done just that. The NHBA’s Special Committee on Attorney Wellness continues to advocate for programming and resources that support mental health and well-being. At the same time, our CLE catalog has expanded to include offerings that address emotional health and resilience. Our Mentor Advice Program continues to pair experienced attorneys with new members of the Bar, offering guidance and connections that are especially valuable in solo or small firm practice.

As I pass the gavel to the incoming president, I know the NHBA is in good hands and that the important work we’ve done this year will continue to grow and thrive. I am incredibly grateful to our Executive Director, Sarah Blodgett, and the entire Bar staff for all that they do on behalf of our members. Under Sarah’s insightful leadership, we are seeing meaningful, lasting change that will serve the Bar’s mission for years to come.

The role of attorneys in our democracy has never been more important, and the NHBA is here to support the whole attorney in preparation for the critical work ahead. I leave this role proud of the NHBA – not just as an organization, but as a community, a resource, and a vital voice in New Hampshire’s legal landscape. Thank you for the opportunity to serve.

New Hampshire Bar News, May Issue  |  President’s Perspective