(HUTCHINSON ISLAND, Fla.)- It was a day of insight, collaboration, and connection as judges, attorneys, and legal professionals from across the Treasure Coast gathered for the 19th Judicial Circuit Bench Bar Conference. Hosted by Florida Rural Legal Services (FRLS) on Friday, Oct. 24, at the Hutchinson Shores Resort and Spa in Jensen Beach, the annual event brought together members of the bench and bar for meaningful conversations about the evolving legal landscape.
This year’s discussions focused on ethics, mental health awareness, and collaboration within the legal community. Breakout sessions explored cybersecurity and AI, disaster relief, and criminal law—offering attendees practical tools and perspectives to strengthen their practice and professional growth.
Photo Breakout: A Look Back at the Day
Photos captured the energy and engagement of the conference, from panel discussions and networking sessions to moments of recognition and reflection. Attendees connected, learned, and celebrated the shared pursuit of justice.
To open the conference, Nineteenth Circuit Judge Jeffrey W. Hendricks presented a session on ethics and professionalism, examining how the human brain influences behavior and decision-making. Hendricks discussed the functions of the amygdala and prefrontal cortex in regulating aggression and rational thought, citing real-world cases to illustrate how injuries to these regions can shape conduct and judgment. His presentation offered a scientific lens into how ethics intersects with human psychology.
Next, keynote speaker Gary Lesser, Esq., former president of The Florida Bar and one of Florida’s leading personal injury attorneys, spoke on professionalism, mentorship, and maintaining ethical integrity amid rapid technological change. Drawing from his time as Bar president, Lesser emphasized that while one-year terms make sweeping reforms difficult, meaningful progress begins with selfless leadership. He also reminded attendees that even as technology reshapes the field, ethics and professionalism remain at the heart of the legal profession.
The conversation then shifted toward emotional wellness in law. Kanisha Taylor, Esq., FRLS Palm Beach County regional managing attorney, led a session on mental health in the legal profession and the importance of emotional intelligence in leadership. She encouraged attorneys to address workplace challenges with empathy and understanding, noting that compassion fosters stronger, more connected teams and healthier work environments.
Later in the day, FRLS recognized outstanding pro bono service during the Presentation of the Pro Bono Beacon of Hope Awards. The awards honored Carl J. Domino, Esq.; Jason D. Berger, Esq.; Jessica M. VanValkenburgh, Esq.; and Steven A. Messer, Esq., for their exceptional commitment to providing free legal assistance to those in need. These volunteer attorneys play a vital role in advancing FRLS’s mission to ensure equal access to justice for all, regardless of income or background.
As the conference concluded, attendees left with new insights, meaningful connections, and actionable ideas to carry forward in their practice. The 19th Judicial Circuit Bench Bar Conference once again reinforced the importance of collaboration between the bench and bar in building a stronger, more ethical, and compassionate legal community.
Key Takeaways from the 2025 Bench Bar Conference
The importance of understanding human behavior in legal ethics and decision-making.
- The enduring value of professionalism and mentorship amid technological change.
- How emotional intelligence and compassion strengthen leadership in law.
- Recognition of attorneys whose pro bono work exemplifies service and justice.
- Continued collaboration between judges and attorneys to improve the legal system.
About Florida Rural Legal Services (FRLS)
Florida Rural Legal Services, Inc. (FRLS) is a non-profit law firm providing free civil legal aid to qualified individuals, families, and vulnerable communities across 13 Florida counties—and to farmworkers statewide.
Since 1966, FRLS has worked to deliver justice through services in housing law, family law, consumer protection, public benefits, elder law, disaster relief, and education law. Through partnerships with community organizations and pro bono attorneys, FRLS continues to advance its mission to ensure equal access to justice for more than five decades.