The fact that our judges appear on the ballot is a surprise to many voters. Often, voters do not take the time to find out about the judges who are up for retention. Many voters are honest, and admit that, "I didn't know any of them, so I just skipped that part of the ballot." Or, even worse, "I didn't know any of them, so I just voted 'no.'"

If you mention "family law" to a group of lawyers and judges at a social gathering, you will see most of them looking for the exit. The view from outside this area of practice and into the courtrooms of those judges who handle these cases is not one that shouts, "Come on in. This is fun!" But as lawyers and judges, we often are required to help litigants with matters that are essential, and life-changing, whether they are "fun" or not. This is never more true than in the family law arena.

I joined the cross-country team in high school and never looked back. I didn't have to, nobody was there. The good and mediocre runners were all in front of me.

I want to express my gratitude to each of you for renewing or becoming a new member of BAMSL. Your membership reflects your desire to further enhance your legal career and your commitment to helping the legal community make an impact in the St. Louis Metropolitan region. 

For years, I considered reaching out for help when I was in emotional turmoil. I picked up the telephone more than once, with the number to contact the Missouri Lawyers' Assistance Program (MOLAP) staring back at me.

A highlight of the 2016 ABA CoLAP and Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation attorney well-being research.

I hope you saw the "Zoomin' on a BAMSL Afternoon" video (check your emails from July 9, 2020, if you missed it). You will see that our Executive Director Zoe Linza tried to sneak out of town early, but fortunately Bill Bay was there to remind her that she cannot be replaced – at least not yet.

The Supreme Court of Missouri's Commission on Racial and Ethnic Fairness ("CREF") is seeking an independent contractor to serve as an Executive Director. CREF is responsible for promoting racial and ethnic fairness in the Missouri judicial and legal systems.

This weekend, rent and mortgage payments will be due, just as unemployment benefits and remaining federal and local eviction protections expire. Jobs remain scarce and financial assistance dwindles, and families, who were able to make ends meet pre-COVID, are now unable to pay rent and put food on the table.

Books. They have always been a love of mine. I enjoy escaping into a book and learning about a new culture, being engaged in characters and stories, or allowing the words to sink in and create an opportunity for personal or professional growth.