Competitor?

I have been a practicing member of The Florida Bar since 1959, particularly in the field of family law. Membership in the Bar was always a source of great pride, because it meant that I was among those professionals maintaining the highest standards.

The words of the Bar itself, in describing the purpose and history of the Bar, states:

"An integrated Bar organization would also pave the way for a uniform discipline system, capable of weeding out unethical lawyers and assuring the public that only those with high standards would be allowed to practice."

However, in recent years I have seen the Bar cross the line from assuring the public of the high standards of its members to itself providing services directly to the public. Those of us who practice in the field of family law know the serious implications of choices made by divorcing couples that are not apparent from a system of filling in boxes.

Yet, The Florida Bar now provides the public with "do-it-yourself' forms that compete with online $99 hucksters who will provide you with a divorce. Just fill in the boxes. No need to get the help of Florida Supreme Court Family Law Mediators to help navigate you through important issues. No need to obtain the advice and services of those members of The Florida Bar who we insist...