Oct. 5, 2016 – Ready.Set.Practice, the State Bar of Wisconsin’s new mentoring program, is seeking applicants for its second year.

The program matches a lawyer having six years or more of experience within the legal profession with new lawyers practicing for five years or fewer. The program was developed by a consortium of the State Bar of Wisconsin, the University of Wisconsin Law & Entrepreneurship Clinic, and the Wisconsin Lawyers Mutual Insurance Company.

This project, now in its second year, aims to match new lawyers with experienced lawyers in areas around the state with no local, active mentoring programs, for the year-long program.

Program Needs Mentors and Mentees

The success of any mentoring program depends on the commitment of both the mentors and the new lawyers. The selection and matching process are coordinated by the Young Lawyers Division, and the New Lawyers Challenges and Leadership Development committees.

Candidates for mentees and mentors are selected based on:

• Reason for wanting to participate in the program;

• Level of commitment in serving as a resource for future program participants; and

• Geographic diversity to establish a strong foundation for the program.

How the Program Works

Mentors and mentees who sign up for the year-long program will watch a short webinar training and receive a handbook. Mentors and mentees are asked to complete 10 activities together, based on criteria in the handbook.

The handbook includes guidance that will ensure a successful mentor/mentee relationship, including:

• Initial Meeting Guide;

• Mentor and Mentee Checklists;

• New Lawyer Mentoring Plan Form; and

• Full List of Activities for Mentors and Mentees.

As part of the program, mentors are encouraged to:

• Introduce the new lawyer to the legal community in their geographical area;

• Provide valuable assistance in moving from law school to legal practice;

• Offer the opportunity to learn practical skills needed for the practice of law;

• Provide the new lawyer with an experienced lawyer to turn to with procedural or ethical questions;

• Enhance the competence, reputation, and professionalism of the new lawyer; and

• Expand the new lawyer’s personal network.

How to Apply to the Program - Apply by Oct. 30

To apply to be a mentor or mentee, contact Megan Zurbriggen at the State Bar by Oct. 30.