June 2007
Editor’s Column
by Shelley Ajax
Like many young lawyers, I graduated from law school, hung a shingle, and started praying for miracles. I stop today to think about where I have been and where I am going. My firm is expanding and my professional life busier then ever. Reality sets in – if I do not steal time I will never have any time to myself. Other lawyers repeatedly say “That’s a good problem to have.” Where did the time go?
I realize that I have not always taken the time to say thank you to those who helped me along the way. I have not always taken the time for myself and at times, caused my family to suffer right along with me. This seems to be a recurring theme and one could probably make a video entitled “A day in the life of a young lawyer” and cover just about all of the things a young lawyer should not do as he or she begins to practice law. Yet, it is a cycle that is not easily broken and seems to be more like a torch that is passed on from generation to generation.
This month is going to be different and I invite every reader to join me on this adventure. I am going back in time to thank those who have helped me along the way and those who are currently helping me. There is always that special professor from law school, that particular Judge who took it easy, or that older lawyer who took the time to teach you something. When I am done thanking everyone who has helped me, I am going to the gym to work out because I never get there. I am going to leave the office on time and go jogging with my son. I think I will attend my 20 year high school reunion. Maybe I will teach the dog a new trick (like how to write legal briefs).
But seriously, for the past 18 months I have had the pleasure of working as the associate editor of De Novo. Our previous editor, Jason Vail, has prepared me well. The experience has been rewarding and as I step into the shoes of editor I must give thanks to Jason’s preparation and time commitment to the transition. Jason continues to serve De Novo on the Editorial Advisory Board and his input and knowledge is most helpful.
There are many young lawyers who help make this publication interesting and award-winning. Our WYLD laison, Amy O’Donnell, provides a wealth of knowledge about events around the state and keeps us pressing forward in an organized fashion. New associate editor, Cynthia Jones, has been a welcome addition. Cynthia is currently law clerk to Honorable Charles W. Johnson and she brings to the table a wealth of editing experience. Our desktop publisher, Ken Yu, provides a unique and organized appearance to De Novo.
De Novo could not be as successful without the Editorial Advisory Board (Jason Vail, Megan Vogel, Chris Veley, Alexis Wallace, Mark O-Halloran and Laura Chuang) and its many authors. I am thankful for the thoughtful input of each. The diversity of our board and authors shines through in every issue.
This publication features an informative article concerning the academic track for lawyers. The article focuses on the practical steps to obtaining a position teaching law and the steps necessary to guide young lawyers in the proper direction. Carla Lee and Cynthia Jones explain each step along the way as well as the resources needed to ensure success.
Also highlighted in this issue is an update on how lawyers can help people diagnosed with breast cancer. The article highlights a recent CLE and provides intuitive insight into the legal rights and barriers that face those diagnosed with breast cancer.
I am thankful to those who have contributed to this publication and look forward to working with the advisory board and authors in the future. I am proud to be a part of De Novo and look forward to serving all young lawyers in the next year and half as editor.
Shelley Ajax is the editor of De Novo. Ms. Ajax is a solo practitioner in Richland, Washington. She can be reached at 509-946-7778 or shelley@ajaxlawfirm.com. All opinions are solely her own and not those of the WYLD, the WSBA or De Novo.
