by RICH CASSIDY on AUGUST 15, 2010
Most lawyers who regularly attend the ABA Annual Meeting skip the so-called “Opening Ceremony.” In fact, I must admit that before I became a member of the ABA Board of Governors, I skipped it myself.
Since the Governors are introduced at the ceremony, their attendance is pretty much obligatory, and so, in those years, I started to attend.
Once I attended, I learned that it was an event that I did not want to miss. The speakers are typically simply excellent. And the entertainment is first rate.
This year was no exception. The San Francisco Boy’s Choir was wonderful. And the keynote speaker — one of America’s best known litigators — David Boies, delivered a thoughtful and first- rate speech. He addressed the Rule of Law, focusing on changes that he thinks are needed to maintain its vitality.
His speech made such a strong enough impression on me, that within a few days, I found myself quoting it on the floor of the House of Delegates (If you wish you can read more about this later).
His speech on the Rule of Law is too good to miss. See it here:
And if you make it to the ABA Annual Meeting next year, take my advice and show up for the Opening Ceremony.
Rich