Colin A. Adebayo | YLD Secretary

Candidate Statement

I am running for secretary of the Young Lawyers Division because I believe YLD should feel like a place where every young lawyer can find something that makes participation worthwhile and sustainable.

Like many attorneys, I know how challenging the first few years of practice can be. There is a lot of uncertainty about whether you are doing things the right way, whether you should be doing more, or whether you even have the time or energy to get involved beyond work. For many young lawyers, Bar involvement can feel like one more thing added to an already full plate.

Through my involvement with YLD, I have seen how meaningful it can be to connect with peers at a similar stage or just a step ahead who are willing to share their experiences and perspectives. When participation feels welcoming and realistic, it becomes a support system rather than a burden.

Serving as co-chair of the YLD Solo Practice/Small Firm Committee and as a member of the YLD Board of Directors has shaped how I approach leadership. As secretary, I would focus on clear communication, thoughtful programming, and ensuring YLD opportunities respect the time and real-world demands young lawyers face.

My goal is simple. I want YLD to be a community where more young lawyers feel informed, included and comfortable participating at a level that works for them.

I would be honored to earn your vote.

Education

• Howard University (2014)
• Wake Forest University School of Law (2017)

Personal/Family

• Resides in Atlanta, Georgia
  
• Enjoys watching Atlanta Hawks basketball, Atlanta Falcons football, amateur boxing and struggling to develop a consistent golf swing

Professional Background, Bar Activities, Civic Activities

• Solo practitioner and owner, The Adebayo Law Firm
• State Bar of Georgia Young Lawyers Division (YLD)
  • Member, YLD Board of Directors (2024-25; 2025-26)
  • Former Northern District representative, YLD Representative Council (elected 2023; served through 2025)
  • Co-chair, YLD Solo Practice/Small Firm Committee (2024-25)
  • Graduate, YLD Leadership Academy (2025)
  • Recipient, YLD Award of Achievement for Service to the Profession presented by 2024-25 YLD President Kenneth Mitchell Jr. at the 2025 YLD Dinner and Swearing-In Ceremony
• Other Bar Association Involvement
  • Member, Gate City Bar Association; Gate City LEAD (2023)
  • Member, Georgia Trial Lawyers Association; GTLA L.E.A.D. (2024-25)
  • Member, Atlanta Bar Association, including board service with the Lawyer Referral & Information Service, Atlanta Council of Younger Lawyers and Solo Practitioner/Small Firm Section

Main Issues Facing the State Bar/Position

• Increasing engagement and participation among young lawyers who may not feel naturally connected to Bar leadership
• Ensuring YLD opportunities are accessible and realistic for lawyers balancing demanding workloads, career development and personal responsibilities
• Being mindful of time and financial constraints that can make participation feel like an added burden rather than a benefit
• Strengthening communication so YLD feels welcoming, transparent, and supportive of young lawyers across practice settings and firm structures