June 2025 Bulletin

Chairs Message

As we close out another year, it’s the perfect time to take a moment and celebrate what we’ve accomplished together as a Section. From thought-provoking CLEs and networking events to law school panels and publications, this year has been one of collaboration, growth, and service. I’m proud of the work we’ve done—and grateful for the many Section members who gave their time and expertise to make it all possible. It has truly been an honor to serve this year as Chair of this incredible Section.

It’s certainly important to highlight our successes, but it’s just as important to keep building on that momentum. I invite each of you to consider how you can get more involved in the Section this coming year. Whether by joining the executive council, becoming a member of a committee, volunteering to help with an event, submitting an article for publication or simply encouraging one of your colleagues to join the Section, your voice and your contributions help shape the future of this Section and strengthen our impact across the Florida Bar and the legal profession.

Thank you for all you do in service to the public and to our Section. I’m excited about the year ahead, and I look forward to working with you as we strive to make this coming year even more successful and productive.

-John Bajger

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The Annual Florida Bar Convention

You're invited to the Section's Executive Council meeting on Thursday, June 26th, at 10:00 AM, located in Room Capri I/II at The Boca Raton.

Please also attend the General Assembly on Friday from 9am-noon in Grand Ballroom E/F to support this years Claude Pepper Outstanding Government Lawyer Award winner!

If attending in person isn't possible, you can join the Section's Executive Council meeting remotely via Zoom.

Zoom Link

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Networking (and a little educational) Fun

Thank you to all of the Law Schools and Voluntary Bar Associations that partnered with the Government Lawyer Section over the last few months.

The goal for these partnerships is to discuss practicing government law, the benefits of becoming a government lawyer, mentorship, and even ways to manage stress and challenges unique to government lawyers.

Florida State University

The Section concluded its fiscal year with a highly successful and exceptionally timely CLE! On June 3rd, Deputy Executive Director and General Counsel at the Florida Commission on Ethics, Steven Zuilkowski, presented "Master Your Form 1: Essential Ethics CLE on Financial Disclosure." Held at FSU's Doak Campbell Stadium's Champions Club and followed by a networking reception, the event saw excellent attendance both in person and virtually, marking a fantastic close to our year.

Brunch With the Bosses

The Hillsborough County Bar Association and the Government Lawyers Section recently collaborated to host a successful Brunch with the Bosses event on May 22nd. This event provided a unique opportunity for attendees to engage directly with local government leaders from prominent agencies. Lawyers rotated between tables, gaining valuable insights into the bosses' roles, career paths, and various positions available within their offices, fostering important connections with key local figures.

Happy Hour!

On May 22nd, the Florida Bar Government Lawyers Section and the Miami-Dade Bar Government Law Committee brought together over 40 government attorneys for a fantastic happy hour at the Tipsy Flamingo in Miami. The event provided a wonderful opportunity for legal professionals to connect, build relationships, and enjoy each other's company.

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Call for Volunteers: Ad Hoc Committee on Public Service Loan Forgiveness

The Government Lawyer Section is seeking volunteers to serve on a newly established Ad Hoc Committee on Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF). This committee will examine ways to support Section members in navigating the PSLF program, increase awareness of eligibility requirements, and advocate for greater transparency and accessibility in the administration of loan forgiveness for government attorneys.

PSLF remains a critical tool in recruiting and retaining talented attorneys in public service roles. Your participation will help ensure that our members have the resources, information, and institutional support necessary to benefit from this important program.

If you are interested in serving or would like more information, please let us know! 

You can reach GLS Chair-Elect Maria Pecoraro-McCorkle at mccorklem@flcourts.org.

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Call to Action

The Publications Committee invites article submissions for The Voice, The Bulletin, and other Bar publications.

Submissions for the July edition on The Voice must be submitted by July 1st for consideration.

Submit yours here.