Group of older professionals of different ethnicities and genders.

Senior Lawyers Division

The Senior Lawyers Division (SLD) of the State Bar of Georgia was established to create a community of experienced legal professionals to support continued professional engagement, address cognitive decline, promote pro bono work, provide mentorship to younger lawyers and foster social connection among Bar members who are aged 55 and older.

Cognitive Health Initiatives

  • Workshops, seminars and resources on mental wellness and cognitive decline.
  • Continuing legal education focused on staying mentally sharp, how to recognize symptoms in yourself and others, and what to do if/when that happens.
  • Access to professional assessment or counseling for lawyers concerned about their cognitive abilities.

Pro Bono Opportunities

  • Organize pro bono legal services programs targeting underserved populations.
  • Partner with legal aid organizations to offer reduced-hour commitments for senior lawyers.

Social Engagement

  • Regular social gatherings, retreats and networking events.
  • A mentoring program for younger attorneys.
  • A quarterly newsletter highlighting members’ achievements and activities.

Succession Planning

  • Ensure Georgia lawyers are aware of the State Bar’s sudden health crisis website portal.
  • Encourage retirement planning, especially for Senior Lawyers Division members.
  • Coordinate with the Young Lawyers Division for mentoring and employment opportunities with members of the Senior Lawyers Division.

SLD Leadership

President

Elizabeth “Betsy” Hodges

President-Elect

Howard Delashmit

Treasurer

James Hyder

Secretary

Kendall Butterworth


The Senior Lawyers Division was created by action of the Board of Governors for the State Bar of Georgia and pursuant to Chapter 7, Rule 1-707, of the Rules of Governance of the State Bar of Georgia.

View Bylaws