Vol. 29, No. 4 #3 (August 2006). FROM THE PRESIDENT.

• Author: By Warren A. Lauer

Wyoming Bar Journal

2006.

Vol. 29, No. 4 #3 (August 2006).

FROM THE PRESIDENT

WYOMING LAWYERAugust 2006/Vol. 29, No. 4FROM THE PRESIDENT . . .By Warren A. Lauer

My inaugural column in the Wyoming Lawyer was entitled "Leadership." Leadership can take many forms including simply becoming interested, becoming involved and being willing to serve. My service with the Bar organization began in 1998 when I was elected as a Commissioner from the Second Judicial District. That election was atypical. The usual custom was for the local bar to conscript a lawyer into service. "Bar Commissioner" was not something that lawyers seemed to seek out. However, in 1998, the Second Judicial District had three candidates, myself included, who were vying to become elected. There was definite interest in becoming involved. I believe that type of expressed interest is beneficial to the Bar organization for the betterment of its members and their clients. That was my point of beginning with the Wyoming State Bar leadership and becoming involved.

Eight years later, I set pen to my last column for the Wyoming Lawyer. My year as the President of the Wyoming State Bar has been one of the most satisfying experiences I have ever had - particularly having a heightened awareness of the importance of the legal profession in Wyoming; the governance of the Bar; and the many friendships and acquaintances I made during my tenure.

Not long ago, I mentioned to my grandson, Marshall, that I was proud to be a Wyoming lawyer. As only a 17-year-old could do, he challenged me to describe what it means to be an attorney. I was also told that I had to "provide the answer in 25 words or less," (he learned that one from his school teachers). I must admit that I was stumped for a while. Finally, I told him that it is a privilege for me to be part of a very old and noble profession of lawyers who serve people in connection with their legal affairs. I told him that lawyers are officers of our Wyoming courts and that our actions are defined by a strict code of ethics.

Our conversation made me recall the day that I was admitted to the practice of law. I remember quite clearly that the ceremony took place in September of 1981 in Cheyenne in the Supreme Court chambers and that Robert R. Rose, Jr. was the Chief Justice. On that day, I raised my hand and gave the...