On Thursday, October 3, 2024, the Grand Ballroom of the Salt Palace Convention Center was filled to capacity as new lawyers and new Licensed Paralegal Practitioners (LPPs) took the oath into the Utah State Bar. In total, 333 new lawyers and 4 LPPs joined the ranks as the Bar’s newest licensees. It was an event marked by joy, achievement, and anticipation, where the warmth of family support and the hard work of countless hours of study came together in a standing-room-only gathering.
The ceremony began with the U.S. District Court, District of Utah Clerk of the Courts, Gary Serdar, convening the court, setting a tone of formality and celebration. Presiding over the event, the Hon. Robert Shelby welcomed the audience, acknowledging the achievements of those taking the oath and the dedication of their friends and families who supported them throughout their journeys. His remarks reflected a sense of shared accomplishment and underscored the significance of the moment for the new legal professionals.
Ezzy Khaosanga, president of the Young Lawyers Division (YLD), followed with a warm and encouraging welcome. She urged the new lawyers to continue building the community they had experienced in law school by getting involved in the YLD. She highlighted upcoming opportunities, including the Wills for Heroes event on October 19th, and expressed excitement about the fresh energy these new peers would bring to the profession.
Next, the Hon. Daphne Oberg delivered a poignant and inspiring speech, rooted in advice from her late mentor, U.S. Circuit Judge Monroe G. McKay. She shared his final words to her: “You already know what to do.” Oberg used this advice to encourage the new lawyers to trust in themselves as they step into their legal careers. “Practicing law is hard,” she reminded them, emphasizing the weight and responsibility that comes with their new roles. She encouraged them to live their values and be mindful of their reputations as they navigate the challenges of the legal profession.
Utah State Board of Bar Commissioners President Cara Tangaro echoed these sentiments, assuring the new legal professionals that they have a bright future ahead. She advised them to remain civil and professional, especially with court clerks and staff, reminding them that people are always watching. Tangaro emphasized Utah’s proud tradition of an independent judiciary and urged the new attorneys to protect it. She also stressed the importance of wellness, sharing her personal routine for maintaining balance in life and law. Her parting words were simple but impactful: “Find your people”—a call to seek out mentors, build professional networks, and give back through pro bono work.
The highlight of the ceremony came when Utah Supreme Court Clerk Nicole Gray administered the attorney oath, with Bar President-Elect Kim Cordova and 3rd Division Bar Commissioner Miriam Allred joining Tangaro with reading the names of all of the new attorneys in attendance at the ceremony. The air was electric with excitement as the new attorneys and LPPs stood, united by their shared achievement.
The event concluded with a resounding round of applause and celebration, marking not only the end of the ceremony but the beginning of promising new legal careers. For those who took the oath, the journey ahead is filled with challenges and rewards, and the entire Utah legal community eagerly awaits their contributions.
Welcome, Utah State Bar’s newest members! (Watch Video)
