Clayton Weems highlights service, professional growth through Leadership Academy

Meet Clayton Weems, a member of the 2025-2026 Missouri Bar Leadership Academy class! A graduate of the Saint Louis University School of Law, Weems is an assistant attorney general at the Missouri Attorney General’s Office Governmental Affairs Division, with a focus on constitutional and administrative law.

Every year, The Missouri Bar brings together a select group of new and young lawyers to serve on the Leadership Academy. Each class completes a service project, engages in leadership workshops, networks with leaders in Missouri’s legal profession, and attends bar meetings. Following graduation, members continue to serve The Missouri Bar in an active capacity for two years. 

Weems recently chatted with The Missouri Bar about his advice to new and/or young lawyers, how Leadership Academy has provided a unique opportunity to grow as a lawyer, and the interesting Lego sets you will find in his office.

Why did you decide to apply for Leadership Academy?

“I applied for Leadership Academy because I have always been passionate about service-oriented leadership and improving as a leader. I have spent my entire career in the public sector, serving the people of Missouri. As my career has progressed, I have had the opportunity to supervise multiple interns and other attorneys. These experiences reinforced my belief that effective leadership requires intentional growth, self-reflection, and a willingness to learn from others.  Leadership Academy presented a unique opportunity to polish my leadership skills alongside emerging leaders in our profession, expand my perspective, and better equip myself to lead and serve in the years ahead.”

What has been your favorite part about being on Leadership Academy?

“My favorite part of Leadership Academy has been building meaningful relationships with an exceptional group of peers and leaders in our profession. Being part of a cohort of talented young attorneys from across the state has allowed me to connect with like-minded individuals who share a commitment to excellence, service, and leadership. The conversations we have had — both during formal program events and informal meetups — have provided valuable perspective and fostered connections that will last throughout our careers.”

This year's class service project centers around learning about new lawyers’ needs, wants, and perceptions of The Missouri Bar. How do you see this work shaping the bar’s overall ability to continue helping lawyers even better serve their clients?

“I believe this project will strengthen The Missouri Bar’s ability to remain responsive to the needs of the next generation of lawyers ... Attorneys who feel supported, connected, and equipped with the tools they need are better positioned to provide high-quality representation and make meaningful contributions to Missouri’s legal profession.”

What advice would you give to new/young lawyers?

“Stay humble and embrace lifelong learning. No matter how much you know or how accomplished you become, there will always be opportunities for growth. Seek out mentors and colleagues who are willing to share their knowledge and experience. Good mentors will help you navigate challenges, broaden your perspective, and learn from their experiences. And when you inevitably fall short or make mistakes, approach those mistakes as learning opportunities rather than failures. If you commit to continuous learning and remain teachable, you will build a strong foundation for a rewarding and impactful career.”

Why should new/young lawyers consider applying for Leadership Academy?

“Leadership Academy is a unique opportunity … [that] offers hands-on training sessions to hone your skills with a cohort of talented peers who are committed to excellence, service, and leadership. These training sessions are supplemented by meaningful access to accomplished judges, attorneys, and other leaders in our profession. Leadership Academy will challenge you to think beyond your individual roles and consider how you can have a broader impact — skills that are valuable regardless of practice area or career path.”

What do you value most about The Missouri Bar and its mission?

“What I value most about The Missouri Bar and its mission is the unwavering commitment to improving the lives of the people we serve. That mission reflects the fundamental reason many of us entered the legal profession — to use our knowledge, skills, and advocacy to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

“To me, leadership and service are inseparable. Whether representing constituents or mentoring younger colleagues, I believe our greatest impact comes from empowering others and helping ensure that justice is accessible and meaningful for those who depend on us. The Missouri Bar’s mission serves as a constant reminder that our work extends beyond individual cases. The work we do contributes to the integrity of our legal system and the well-being of our communities.”

What is one interesting/unique thing in your home/work office that brings you joy?

“Building Legos has been a longtime hobby of mine. I enjoy the challenge and creativity, and seeing complex projects come together piece by piece. I have several plants and animals scattered throughout my office and am currently working on ‘The Great Wave off Kanagawa.’”

Editor’s note: These answers have been edited for clarity and conciseness. Learn more about Leadership Academy here.