TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — The Florida Bar Young Lawyers Division (YLD) is currently holding elections for its Board of Governors across three key circuits – the Ninth, 17th, and 11th. Lawyers who are members of the Florida Bar and fall within these circuits with contested races are eligible to participate in the vote, either online through the MyFloridaBar Member Portal or by traditional mail, with all ballots due by March 17.
The elections spotlight the broader ambitions of the YLD to actively enhance the role of young lawyers in legal practice and governance. The selected candidates will be inaugurated at the June Annual Florida Bar Convention, marking a significant step in their careers and offering a fresh boost of ideas to the YLD activities.
In the Ninth Circuit, candidates Melissa A. Bryan and XiXi Li are contesting for Seat 3. Melissa A. Bryan emphasizes her unique perspective as a non-immigrant, first-generation attorney and outlines several initiatives aimed at mentorship and professional development of young lawyers. XiXi Li, currently the President-Elect of the Greater Orlando Asian American Association, pledges to introduce more accessible and practical learning resources for young lawyers, such as webinars and a pro bono opportunities database.
The 11th Circuit showcases a diverse slate of candidates across three seats, reflecting Miami’s vibrant and culturally varied legal landscape. Brittany Herndon is vying for Seat 2, focusing on leveraging her board leadership experience towards enhancing mentoring offered by the YLD. Magbis Sanchez is also a contender for Seat 2, with a rich background in maritime and civil litigation and a comprehensive approach to supporting young lawyers. Seat 3 has candidates Blake Bierman, emphasizing resources and practical skills enhancement for young lawyers, and Joshua Peter Padron, who is committed to mentorship and professional development. Melissa Victoria Jordon and Brittney Polo vie for Seat 6, both spotlighting their unique approaches to leadership and community engagement in their campaigns.
Meanwhile, the 17th Circuit has Lair Hall and Shawn Shaikh pursuing Seat 3. Hall, with a robust background as both a state and county assistant attorney, hopes to focus on development programs and community service. Shaun Shaikh stresses the need for addressing student debt and enhancing mentorship opportunities.
The participation of young lawyers in this election is not only critical for their immediate professional environment but also shapes broader legal practice standards and community engagement in Florida. The candidates, through their varied platforms, aspire to tackle some of the pressing challenges faced by young attorneys today, including work-life balance, effective use of technology in legal practice, and professional development.
The call to vote holds importance not only as a professional duty but also as a commitment to the evolution and diversity of thought that these young leaders can bring to the Board of Governors.
As the voting process unfolds, dedicated members across the circuits are encouraged to participate actively, ensuring their voices contribute to shaping the future landscape of the Florida Bar’s Young Lawyers Division. The outcome of this election will underscore the continuously evolving narrative of young legal professionals in Florida and their pivotal role in steering the future of legal practices in the state.
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