Last week, I paid my annual bar dues for a jurisdiction where I practice law. While reviewing the fee schedule, I noticed that attorneys who have practiced for 50 years or more are exempt from paying these dues. My initial reaction was to question why senior attorneys, who practice just like the rest of us, were not required to contribute equally. However, upon reflection, this policy makes sense and highlights the respect owed to senior lawyers for their contributions to the profession. Experienced attorneys often bring immense value to legal practice and deserve recognition from their peers.
In my work, I frequently encounter senior attorneys—those who have practiced for 40 years or more—who offer a wealth of knowledge about the legal field. They often have insights into the history and evolution of legal practices that provide context for why certain procedures exist today. For instance, I recently worked with a senior attorney who shared stories about their career and explained the historical reasons behind a procedural task we needed to complete in a case. While many practitioners understand the need for this task, few likely know its origins, which date back to the pre-efiling era when managing large paper files was far more challenging.
Senior lawyers also have fascinating anecdotes about current judges. Since most judges were once practicing attorneys, senior lawyers often recall their time working alongside or against these now-prominent figures. Hearing about judges’ past experiences as attorneys makes them more relatable and less intimidating to appear before in court. It’s always insightful to learn about how respected judges handled the same pressures and challenges faced by practicing lawyers.
Additionally, senior attorneys are an invaluable resource due to their vast knowledge of the law. As the saying goes, it’s called the “practice” of law because experience enhances expertise over time. Senior lawyers, with decades of practice, are more likely to have encountered unique or complex legal issues compared to less experienced attorneys. Earlier in my career, I faced an unusual legal challenge that stumped many colleagues. However, a senior attorney I consulted had dealt with the exact issue years prior and offered advice that significantly eased my handling of the case.
Recognizing the contributions of senior attorneys, I now understand why bar associations provide them with benefits like reduced or waived dues. Their experience enriches the profession and often serves as a valuable resource for other lawyers. If a senior attorney is involved in a legal matter, their knowledge and perspective can benefit everyone involved.
