Last time, I outlined the challenges in keeping up with rapidly evolving Generative Artificial Intelligence (“GenAI”) technology and gave my #1 Tip: Adopt a long-term perspective in thinking about how to explore potential uses for your law practice. Part 1 Here are some more takeaways from the past year since the release of ChatGPT:

In 1973 I graduated from the University of Iowa law school, passed the Bar, and began practicing law with a small general civil practice firm in Clayton Missouri. I cannot believe fifty years have passed and I am still practicing! I remember going downtown in 1973 to answer a docket navigating the dreaded Vandeventer overpass (one lane each way) in a car that for some reason did not have air conditioning. When I got to Court lawyers would announce to the Magistrate Judge “dwopc” (dismissed without prejudice plaintiff’s costs). Took me a while to figure that out. One of the many things I learned on the fly that was not addressed in law school. 

Generative Artificial Intelligence (“GenAI”) has been a prominent topic in legal news since the release of ChatGPT in November 2022. GenAI stands out due to its wide public accessibility and its potential to profoundly influence the knowledge-based legal industry. In addition to boosting efficiency and productivity, GenAI’s new technological capabilities hold the promise of empowering lawyers to offer more precise and insightful guidance to their clients.

The Nomination Committee for the 2024-2025 BAMSL bar year Board of Governors announces the opening of nominations for the following positions: President-Elect, Vice President, Treasurer, Secretary and ABA Delegate. As a member-driven organization, the Board of Governors plays a pivotal role in shaping our future and ensuring that we continue to uphold our mission and values. To nominate yourself or other qualified candidates for these important leadership positions or for more information, please visit our website!

The Innovation and Technology in the Legal Profession Committee is following developments in artificial intelligence carefully and will continue to provide a forum for discussion of the implications for our industry.

The pace of legal innovation has accelerated exponentially in the past three years and constantly provides new opportunities for us to think differently about how we practice law. The Innovation and Technology in the Legal Profession Committee strives to provide a forum to explore these issues.

Following the interview process and vetting of candidates, the Nominating Committee is pleased to submit the following slate of officers for the Bar Association of Metropolitan St. Louis, 2023 – 2024 Bar Year:

• President – President-Elect Hon. Kendra Howard will assume Presidency on May 1, 2023
• President-Elect – Kevin Gunn
• Vice President – Untress Quinn
• Treasurer – Amy Rebecca Johnson
• Secretary – Graham Dobbs
• ABA Delegate – Lynn Ann Vogel

Board and YLD election petition filing period opened at 8:30 a.m. on January 10 and ends at 5 p.m. on January 31. Sample petition and deadlines available here.

BAMSL is once again partnering with the Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis for a large food and PPE distribution on Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day (January 16) at the Urban League's headquarters (1408 N. Kingshighway). Volunteers and monetary donations are needed to make the event successful.

The 2022 Motion for Kids Holiday Celebration was held on Saturday, December 3, at Harris-Stowe State University's Emerson Performance Center. The celebration featured visits with Santa Claus, games with prizes, books, craft packets, sandwiches, and gifts purchased specifically for each child. Thank you to everyone who made the party a success by volunteering their time, donating gifts, or donating funds. With your support we were able to invite almost 2,200 children and their caregivers.

Congratulations to Mavis Thompson and Keith Williamson on being named as the 2023 Legal Pioneers by the Minorities in the Legal Profession (MILP) Section!