Lawyer Volunteers and Earns a “Standing Ovation”
Amarillo attorney, Mark D. White, was honored this month by the State Bar of Texas for his exceptional contributions in 2013 to the Bar’s continuing legal education efforts. Mr. White was one of six volunteer lawyers receiving an award from the staff of the TexasBarCLE, the Bar’s division for providing continuing legal education and one of the premier providers in the nation.
The award, an attractive clear obelisk, is inscribed with “A Standing Ovation – Staff Appreciation for an Outstanding Volunteer of 2013.” It bears Mr. White’s name, the logo for TexasBarCLE, and the seal of the State Bar of Texas. This award recognizes volunteers who stand out for their extraordinary energy, commitment of time, and leadership.
Patrick Nester, Director of the TexasBarCLE, explained the significance of the award. “All of our volunteers deserve our gratitude for contributing to the continuing education of their peers. Nevertheless, some stand out each year for extraordinary dedication and commitment. The staff looks forward to singling out individuals that not only gave enormously to our efforts, but also were gracious, easy to work with, and – oftentimes – helped us out in a real pinch.”
Mr. White started speaking for TexasBarCLE in 2000 and has been in great demand ever since: 36 courses and numerous webcasts. Serving as Vice-Chair of the State Bar of Texas Standing Committee on Continuing Legal Education and as a member of the Board of the Texas Board of Legal Specialization, he has been one of the Bar’s most dependable and highest-evaluated experts on issues regarding attorney’s fees, retainer agreements, and navigating the grievance process.
“Without volunteers, Nester continued, CLE from the State Bar couldn’t be nearly as high quality, as abundant, or as affordable. Attorney volunteers are the reason TexasBarCLE can claim the slogan, ‘Education by the Bar, for the Bar.’ ”
Lawyers must earn 15 hours of continuing legal education each year in order to maintain a license to practice law in Texas.
