In an ongoing commitment to enhancing professionalism, the St. Pete Bar has established its Mentor Program as a means to support new lawyers through the challenges that face them in their legal career. The mentoring process can be a rewarding and life-changing experience for both mentor and mentee. The program will enable young lawyers to talk to bar members about their experiences, beliefs, and recommendations in becoming a successful lawyer in today’s society. The program is not designed to provide day-to-day assistance on pending legal issues.

Mentors – The St. Pete Bar is always looking for representatives in the bar who would be willing to participate in the program. If you’re willing to participate, please email the bar office at info@stpetebar.com your contact information and practice area. It is the discretion of the Mentor to determine the mentoring relationship which can include one meeting, a shadow day, ongoing meetings, etc.

Mentees – If you’re seeking a mentor, please contact the St. Pete Bar office at info@stpetebar.com. It is the responsibility of the Mentee to contact the potential mentor for an introduction. It is the discretion of the Mentor to determine the meeting(s) timeframe that suits their schedule. Mentees are welcome to share with the Mentor their expectations regarding their needs – a coffee meeting, lunch, ongoing mentorship, etc.

A recent Mentee shared the following - "I recently contacted the St. Petersburg Bar Association about the possibility of participating in their mentorship program. I am a newly admitted attorney strongly considering starting my own practice in the Tampa Bay area. Shortly after contacting the Bar Association, Melissa Byers put me in contact with Lucas Fleming, an established criminal defense attorney in St. Petersburg. Mr. Fleming and I met and discussed several topics, particularly the best ways for me to advance my career as a solo practitioner. The meeting was extremely helpful. Mr. Fleming not only provided me with sound advice, but also offered me strong words of encouragement.  While Mr. Fleming and I have only met once, I already feel that I have a much better understanding of what it will take to successfully start a practice. I am glad that I had the opportunity to sit down and talk with Mr. Fleming, and I certainly look forward to continuing our relationship."  - Brooks Saible