Young Lawyers Division President Brandon Evans says he might not be working as a lawyer today if it wasn't for the help of his mentor, John C. Heugel of Green Bay, during the early years of his practice. Photo: Scott Dupras, the L Gallery.net

Nov. 16, 2016 – A new award initiated by the State Bar of Wisconsin Young Lawyers Division (YLD) will honor those who mentor young lawyers.

The Outstanding Mentor Award pays tribute to a Wisconsin-licensed attorney who has made an exceptional contribution to the life and career of a young attorney.

“It is a way to recognize and encourage mentorship,” says YLD President Brandon Evans of Marquette, Michigan.

Evans received crucial mentoring during his first years in the profession. John C. Heugel of Green Bay helped him learn the profession, and his guidance shaped the early years of Evans’ career.

“John explained things that I did not understand, and worked tirelessly to help me find a new job when I needed it,” Evans said. “I was very lucky to have him as a mentor.”

In honor of Heugel and other mentors, Evans encourages young lawyers to submit nominations for the new mentor award.

How to Nominate a Mentor – Nominations due Jan. 20

The nominee must have six or more years of practice experience, be a member of the State Bar of Wisconsin, and have been in good standing with the State Bar for more than 12 months.

Lawyers who currently sit on the YLD board or on the State Bar Board of Governors are not eligible for the award.

Nominations are due on or before Jan. 20, 2017.  To nominate a mentor, email Jerry Vang and Ben Roovers with the following information:

• Name and bar number of nominee

• A statement explaining how the nominee has positively impacted the life of a young lawyer mentee. The statement may include how the mentor has:

  1. Provided advice on legal, ethical, and client issues;

  2. Helped to advance a mentee’s professional career;

  3. Introduced the mentee to new lawyers and contacts;

  4. Provided support in the early stages of the mentee’s legal practice.

The YLD also welcomes a short biography of the candidate as well as any other material that demonstrate the nominee’s mentorship accomplishments.

The State Bar will honor the winner at the Young Lawyers Conference in Green Bay on March 24, 2017, and at the State Bar of Wisconsin Annual Meeting and Conference in Wisconsin Dells, June 15-16, 2017.

Keep in mind that statements and materials submitted may be included in communications announcing the award.