New Attorneys Sworn into Practice
Marking what Orange County Bar Association (OCBA) President Dimetria Jackson described as "probably one of the happiest days in your legal career"—likening it to winning their first case, making partner, and finally paying off their student loan debt—the latest batch of candidates to pass the California State Bar Exam were sworn into the practice of law at the State Bar of California Admission Ceremony, held Wednesday, June 6, 2012, at the Sheraton Anaheim Hotel.

American Bar Association (ABA) Delegate Richard Millar, Jr., addressed the crowd following Presiding Justice Kathleen O'Leary's introductory remarks, pointing out that as they embarked upon their legal careers "you won't be alone." The idea of support—from family, friends, and colleagues alike—was one that was echoed throughout the day. While Millar touted the ABA for bringing a national perspective to Mandatory Continuing Legal Education, Jackson encouraged the new lawyers to take advantage of OCBA's community outreach activities as well as pro bono opportunities made available in conjunction with the Public Law Center.

State Bar Board of Trustees Representative Pearl Mann reiterated that sentiment, stating "I challenge you to do well and do some good." Remarking on that impulse to give back to the community at large as well as the close relationships fostered by local members of the bench and bar through OCBA networking events, Justice O'Leary noted that "Orange County prides itself—rightfully so—on having a real sense of legal community."

The time then came to officially welcome the new attorneys to the legal profession through the swearing in ceremony. "Keep smiling," Committee of Bar Examiners member J. Scott Bovitz said as he prepared to certify the admittees. "This is the good stuff, y'all."

Such good humor was indicative of the day's generally light-hearted and celebratory mood. Several speakers made jokes related to the Rule of Perpetuity; Associate Justice Raymond Ikola, for one, told an anecdote of having litigated a case involving the Rule of Perpetuity in 1975: "And I haven't seen it since." He then proceeded to call the roll so that Justice O'Leary could administer the State Oath.

Prior to the administration of the Federal Oath, United States District Judge Josephine Staton Tucker encouraged the new lawyers to embrace the opportunity to "lift your nose from that grindstone" and appreciate the "noble profession of law," which she said would enable them to always treat opposing counsel with civility and respect, make ethical decisions, and properly prepare for court appearances.

"How does this oath you just took change you?" asked Associate Justice Eileen Moore as she began her closing remarks. "You're now officers of the Court," Justice Moore added, which she stated involved another duty than those outlined in the California Business and Professionals Code: "to help the legal system work." Having graduated from law school and recently passed the Bar Exam, Justice Moore addressed the audience that she felt was "overflowing with energy and enthusiasm" and charged them to "please put it to work" to the betterment of the legal profession.

Before adjourning, Justice O'Leary had some parting advice. To the friends and family members in the audience, she counseled, "The new lawyers are going to need their pit crew [moving forward], and you'll want to be there for them." As for the new lawyers themselves, she encouraged them to bear in mind that the practice of law "is a profession, not just a job," and to get involved in the legal community and give back through pro bono and other volunteer work.

"Think like a lawyer," Justice O'Leary said, noting the importance of analytical thought for a successful legal career, "but don't forget to think like a human being."

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