“Join the CBA” is the advice my principal gave me when I began articling. A senior partner at my firm said the same thing. The next day I signed up for the Young Lawyers’ section of my Alberta branch. It is still one of the best decisions I have made.
In the early years of my career, like most new lawyers, I worked long and hard but always had a looming feeling I didn’t know enough. I felt disconnected not knowing many lawyers at the bar. After joining the section, those feelings gradually disappeared. The lunch-and-learn sessions offered practical advice on the latest issues facing new lawyers. Through CBA social functions I met many senior lawyers and members of the judiciary who over the years have become my mentors and friends. Almost overnight, I had a network of colleagues and more confidence in my abilities.
Through my involvement with my branch, I was encouraged to run for an executive position with the National Young Lawyers’ Conference. Involvement at this level has further enriched my career. I am now more aware of the issues facing the profession as a whole. More importantly, I have a voice in the discussion on important topics like access to justice and the future of the legal profession. Without the CBA, I know that I wouldn’t have had these opportunities to make a difference. I am looking forward to my time as Chair of the Young Lawyers’ to do what I can to serve the needs of all new lawyers across Canada so that they too can experience all that the CBA has to offer.
Without a doubt joining the CBA will make you a better lawyer.
About the Author
Erika Carrasco is a partner at Field LLP and the incoming Chair of CBA Young Lawyers.