Missouri Bar welcomes new lawyers, hosts virtual ceremony

Friday, May 1, dozens of individuals were sworn in as new Missouri lawyers – during a virtual ceremony.  

The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted many events around the world, including at The Missouri Bar. When the 2020 Spring Enrollment Ceremonies were cancelled because of social distancing measures, the bar coordinated with the Supreme Court of Missouri and the Missouri Board of Law Examiners to host an alternative: the first-ever enrollment ceremony hosted on a video conferencing platform.

“I wish we could all be together. One thing these recent months have told us is that support groups are very important, and I know that your families and friends are all very proud of what you’ve accomplished,” Tom Bender, 2019-20 Missouri Bar president, told enrollees. “In a few minutes, you’re going to part of another, even bigger support group – you’re going to become members of The Missouri Bar.” 

During the ceremony, judges of the Supreme Court of Missouri “convened” via video to swear in attending new lawyers and provide remarks, led by Chief Justice George W. Draper III.   

“Today we celebrate your accomplishment,” Draper said. “Now you will have the enhanced ability to impact the lives of hundreds – if not thousands – of people. Congratulations on being part of this historic, innovative induction ceremony. Welcome to the bar!” 

In addition, The Missouri Bar and its Young Lawyers’ Section sent welcome packets to all of the state’s enrollees, offering support and resources for their professional road ahead. New lawyers are also encouraged to share how they are safely celebrating using #NewMOLawyers on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.  

Click here to see a video of the ceremony and here to see the complete list of new lawyers. Congratulations!