State Bar welcomes 119 new members; U.W. Law School class sworn in
at Capitol
June 21, 2005
New attorney Maria M. Hanson signs the roll
One hundred nineteen U.W. Law School graduates were admitted to
practice on Tuesday. Surrounded by family and friends, the new lawyers
were welcomed to the profession by members of the Wisconsin Supreme
Court, U.W. Law School Dean Kenneth B. Davis, State Bar President
Michelle Behnke, and Wisconsin Board of Bar Examiners Director Gene
Rankin.
Justice Jon P. Wilcox, Justice Neil Patrick Crooks, Justice David T.
Prosser, and Justice Patience D. Roggensack administered the oath in the
supreme court hearing room during four ceremonies throughout the
day.
"Take pride in the legal profession to carry on and function as
lawyers and judges to be fair and untarnished," said Justice
Crooks. "I know of no good attorney who did not have a compelling
sense of pride in being an attorney and serving the community. As you
venture out into society as lawyers, people are going to rely on your
expertise; they will expect you to help shape, direct, and resolve
conflicts.
Using the words of President John F. Kennedy, spoken more than 40
years ago at a commencement ceremony, Crooks said, "As you look at
the opportunities within your communities, remember, 'the water is
fine, think about it and come on in' ... Be especially proud
to be a part of the profession."
Following each swearing in ceremony, Chief Justice Shirley Abrahamson
spoke to the new lawyers reminding them that as lawyers they have a
responsibility as lawyers to serve the public. Abrahamson urged them to,
"Do well and be good."
"I encourage you as you begin your careers to emphasize a high
ethical manner as you serve your clients," State Bar President
Michelle Behnke, a U.W. Law School alumni, told the new lawyers.
"Your legal skills set you apart because they make you capable of
analyzing problems and providing solutions. Be sure to apply your skills
to those who will be your clients as well as those who are unable to pay
for legal services."
Behnke encouraged the new lawyers to become familiar with the State
Bar programs that can help them meet that challenge, "You will be
rewarded with a greater understanding of the legal system and aiding the
citizens of Wisconsin," she said.
Following the swearing in ceremonies, the new lawyers attended a
reception at the Monona Terrace Convention Center hosted by the State
Bar of Wisconsin. During the reception, each new attorney signs the
supreme court roll that has been signed by every lawyer admitted to
practice in Wisconsin since the state was a territory.
The State Bar welcomes the University of Wisconsin Law School class
of 2005:
