Both attorneys shared some of their fondest memories as children living in Jamaica.

“Though my maternal and paternal roots were grounded in Spanish Town, St. Catherine, Lucea, Hanover and Montego Bay, my childhood memories were rooted in the streets of Kingston and St. Andrew. I was born at Andrews Hospital on Hope Road, hence my middle name. My grandmother had been a primary school teacher for many years and my early years were spent as one of her first grade students at New Providence Primary School, nestled between the contrasting communities of Standpipe and Hope Pastures in Liguanea,” Marlon recalled.

Alison regaled, “My grandmother was extremely permissive and one of my absolute favorite memories is as a child, being allowed to write on the walls of our house (outside) with crayons. We thought it was an everlasting blackboard and pretended to be in school! We never got in trouble for doing that either! My childhood under Grammie’s watchful eye and support was very fun and safe and happy.”

Read their full interviews here:

Jamaica, Land We Love: Marlon Hill

Jamaica, Land We Love: Alison F. Smith

The post WSHC+B Attorneys Alison F. Smith and Marlon A. Hill featured in “Jamaica, Land We Love” series by South Florida Caribbean News appeared first on Weiss Serota Helfman Cole + Bierman.

The interview highlighted Judge Beamer’s experience as an Asian American in the legal industry, her advice for Asian American aspiring lawyers, and how her culture shaped her into the person she is today.

Born and raised in West Palm Beach, Judge Beamer had a strong work ethic since childhood. Her family immigrated from South Korea and owned a dry-cleaning business in West Palm Beach where they worked 60-70 hours a week. Judge Beamer graduated from the University of Florida with a bachelor’s in Business Administration and soon after taught English in Korea. Later, she attended Barry University – Dwayne O. Andreas School of Law and began her work experience as a Prosecutor in Miami-Dade County in addition to the Office of the Attorneys General Office in Orlando. In 2019, Judge Beamer was appointed by Governor Rick Scott. 

In the virtual interview with Alen and Kayla, Judge Beamer spoke about how her Asian American identity influenced her, gave advice to aspiring lawyers and talked about what she believes legal professionals can do to speak out against Asian hate crime.

Q: What drew you to the legal profession? 

A: As a lawyer, I acted as my parents’ advocate when they got sued occasionally by customers. Advocating and extending my career in public service felt like the perfect fit for me and motivated me to continue to represent people who needed assistance. As a young Asian, I did not think being a judge was possible, at first. I wanted to be a role model for my own kids and show them that they can do anything they set their minds to – ultimately, they have to give it a shot.

Q: What’s your favorite thing about being a judge? 

A: I am fortunate to serve the people and the community. Serving others is what I think I was put on Earth to do. It’s my calling and has been instilled in me since childhood. Also, I handle the civil division where I am constantly learning and growing. Overall, the areas of civil practice are diverse. I write a lot and enjoy it.

Q: How did your Asian American identity influence you? 

A: I was raised with a strong work ethic as my parents would work 60-70 hours a week doing hard physical labor. I grew up with different perspectives, especially humility. Humility was learned early on by my parents. My father valued humility, and this continues to influence me in daily life and with raising my children.

Q: In this current moment – what else can legal professionals do to speak out against Asian hate crime? 

A: The issue Asian Americans are dealing with makes me so sad. In terms of our communities, it’s important to connect with people who are different from us, making sure to be visible and present. We all go through the same things and finding that commonality rather than what separates us is crucial.

Q: In regard to the legal industry, do you have any advice for aspiring lawyers? 

A: Mentoring is a big one – I seek mentors who tell me the truth, and those that later become friends. I tell others to find people that are going to be honest with you, that have a different perspective, and have your best interest at heart. Networking helps as well and finding opportunities that you really enjoy. Alen Hsu, a partner at WSHC+B, and I met organically in a courtroom, but we always kept in touch. Maintaining those relationships is important – taking the initiative, reaching out, and looking for opportunities.

Q: What do you think is the biggest issue Asian Americans are facing in the field today? 

A: Florida is different from New York and California. Florida is unique in that there is a very low Asian American population (I believe 3% of Florida’s population is comprised of Asian American). Trying to get people to engage and network especially in our busy lives is hard, but we have to take responsibility for these relationships – keep asking and try to include others.

Q: What can professionals do to increase the presence of Asian Americans? 

A: It’s all about inclusion like including other Asian American attorneys in different opportunities. Pro-bono cases or even just events, barbecues, and everyday traditional life events make a difference.

Q: Who inspires you the most? 

My parents. They immigrated to the United States, and I think, could I start a business where I don’t know the language spoken in that country, the culture, and raise kids at the same time? I don’t know. Am I that brave? I don’t know. My parents always taught me that if you work really hard and make those connections, keep a positive attitude, and keep trying then it will all work out. Growing and saying yes, while not thinking of the end result, but building relationships organically is important. This is exactly what I did.

Q: Having been a young active attorney, how did you get this active? Did someone help you? 

A: I was always showing up and just started talking to people. I would volunteer and then be invited to different things. We lift each other up when one succeeds.

Q: Do you recommend aspiring lawyers to be as active as possible? 

A: Yes, but it’s hard. Bar associations can feel cliquey sometimes, but you have to try. I suggest going with a friend, slowly getting to know more people. Ultimately bar associations become a great source for friendships.

The post In celebration of Asian Pacific American Heritage Month, WSHC+B Partner and Summer Law Clerk Interview Florida’s first Korean American circuit court judge appeared first on Weiss Serota Helfman Cole + Bierman.

The FMU Legal Scholars Pipeline Program is designed to inspire and assist students to consider careers in the legal profession. Through collaboration with regional high schools and other organizations, the program will create a pipeline of talented students who are college-ready and prepared to successfully pursue undergraduate degrees in Law and Government from Florida Memorial University as well as attend and graduate from law school.  

“We are hopeful that this program will increase the number of Black lawyers in South Florida. I am confident that we have the right people and programs in place to accomplish this important goal,” said Joseph Serota, a founding partner of WSHC+B. “I can’t think of a better way to celebrate our 30th anniversary than doing something that will make a difference in the community that has been so good to us over the years.”

“It is initiatives like the Legal Scholars Pipeline Program that will help produce more legal scholars of color who will help shape policies that are equitable for all,” said Dr. Jaffus Hardrick, President of Florida Memorial University.

The program is a partnership between FMU, WSHC+B, and legal marketing consulting company Compass Legal Marketing (CLM). 

To learn more about the FMU Legal Scholars Pipeline Program, please visit https://www.fmuniv.edu/legal-scholars-pipeline-program/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss. 

PRESS CONFERENCE

When:  Thursday, June 3, 2021 at 11:00 a.m. 

Where: Florida Memorial University 

Wellness Center Arena

15800 NW 42nd Ave.

Miami Gardens, FL 33054

CONTACTS:

Opal Comfort | Director, Communications and Marketing | Office of the President, Florida Memorial University (FMU)

(305) 623-1452 | opal.comfort@fmuniv.edu  

About FMU Social Justice Institute (SJI)

The FMU Legal Scholars Pipeline Program is part of FMU’s Social Justice Institute (SJI), a research institute and solutions-focused think-tank to examine issues involving the intersection of racial disparities and injustice in Miami-Dade County and the state of Florida. SJI serves as a resource for understanding and facilitating tangible reforms in order to achieve a more just and fair society.

About Weiss Serota Helfman Cole & Bierman (WSHC+B)

The firm is the product of innovative thinking. In 1991, our founders saw a need in the South Florida legal market for a high-end, boutique firm dedicated to a small number of integrated practice areas. More than 30 years later, the firm continues to outpace sophisticated market players with focused practice groups, teamwork and a zealous commitment to clients.

About Compass Legal Marketing (CLM)

Co-Founded by Jamie Cotera and Aleesha Khan, Compass Legal Marketing is a consulting company that provides marketing services to law firms, and helps bar associations run their organizations strategically and successfully. 

The post Press Conference: Florida Memorial University and Weiss Serota Helfman Cole & Bierman Launch Program to Foster Next Generation of Black Lawyers appeared first on Weiss Serota Helfman Cole + Bierman.

WHEN:  SATURDAY, March 27th from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

LINK TO REGISTER: https://bit.ly/308yhm6?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss

The post Weiss Serota Hosts Women’s History Month Conference with Legal Industry and Community Leaders appeared first on Weiss Serota Helfman Cole + Bierman.

Ignite Your Passion will offer Broward College students the opportunity to hear from people of different backgrounds, from attorneys to doctors to tech entrepreneurs and beyond, on a monthly basis. The program is expected to have a mentoring component so students are able to receive one-on-one time with South Florida’s most successful people. Ignite Your Passion was designed to grant students a gateway to hear from leaders in the community, feel inspired, and open their eyes to what career paths are available to them, no matter their background.

“I’m honored to partner with BCBA on this important program,” said Alison. “When I was a student, I would have jumped at the chance to participate in a program like this. I hope students will take advantage of getting to hear first-hand from some of our community’s greatest leaders.”

Harold Prior, attorney and the first African American to successfully run for State Attorney in the Democratic primary, will kick off the program on Nov. 23, 2020 at noon via Zoom. Future presentations will be held in person once it is safe to do so.

“What I love most about this initiative, is that it helps our students better identify with their major or program,” said Stephanie Repaci, Campus Director of Student Life at Broward College. “This is a wonderful opportunity for our students to hear from a professional in that industry as to what they can potentially expect in the day-to-day aspects of that career.”

“I am truly elated to work with Alison and Broward College to bring this program to fruition,” said Braulio Rosa, Executive Director at Broward County Bar Association. “I hope this program will inspire students, spark interest and provide a new perspective on possible career paths.”

To learn more about Ignite Your Passion and to register for the first and subsequent presentations, visit browardbar.org.

The post Alison Smith Expands Inspirational Program for Minority Students appeared first on Weiss Serota Helfman Cole + Bierman.

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The Cultural Affairs Council develops cultural excellence and participation throughout Miami-Dade County by strategically creating and promoting opportunities for the community’s thousands of artists and not-for-profit cultural organizations, and the residents and visitors who are their audiences.

In addition to his work as an attorney and advocate, Mitchell Bierman is a leading community advocate for the arts in Miami.  He currently serves as Corporate Secretary for the Board of Trustees of the Perez Art Museum Miami and as a member of the Board of Governors of the Miami Foundation.  He recently completed his four year service as a trustee of the Miami Dade County Art in Public Places Trust.

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In an effort to maximize diversity, the University of Texas at Austin (the “University”) adopted an admissions policy that incorporates a “holistic” review of each application. Each applicant is assigned a Personal Achievement Score. Race is one of seven factors that can add points to a Personal Achievement Score. The appellant, Abigail Fisher, brought suit against the University of Texas after she applied to the university’s undergraduate program and was not admitted. Fisher alleges that use of the Personal Achievement Score in admissions decisions is discriminatory and violates the equal protection clause. The University countered that the policy is permissible under Grutter v. Bollinger, 539 U.S. 306, 123 S. Ct. 2325 (2003), which held that higher learning institutions could consider race as one factor among many in admissions decisions. The United States District Court (W.D. Texas) granted summary judgment for the University, and the Fifth District Court of Appeals affirmed the lower court’s decision.

With more than 20 litigators and trial attorneys, our Litigation Division represents public and private sector clients in a number of claims before judges, juries, administrative panels, arbitrators and appellate panels. Our lawyers have extensive experience defending civil rights claims in both federal and State court. The Division works seamlessly with our Appellate Practice Group, which handles some of the most significant constitutional and governmental law matters to come before the courts of Florida and the United States.

You can read a copy of the Fifth Circuit’s opinion here.

Author(s): Brooke P. Dolara

The post Nine Years After Grutter v. Bollinger, Supreme Court Revisits Affirmative Action in College Admissions appeared first on Weiss Serota Helfman Cole + Bierman.

Author(s): Brooke P. Dolara

The post U.S. Supreme Court Revisits Affirmative Action in Higher Education appeared first on Weiss Serota Helfman Cole + Bierman.

Developers and those who oppose regulation are cheering. They argue that existing laws have stymied growth and delayed recovery from the Great Recession of the 21st century.

Environmentalists have raised concerns about decreased state scrutiny, decreased ability to challenge, and the potential impact of the legislation on land conservation.

Many planning advocates mourn what they see as the death of growth management in Florida. They know that planning is an art, an iteractive process of learning from mistakes and developing a vision over time. Because planning mistakes have long lives, the full impact will not be felt for years.

Cities and counties are celebrating the removal of some state mandates, while pointing out that many mandates remain, and raising concerns about the limitations on their continued ability to require growth to pay for itself. Some built-out cities see little change, because they already qualified for flexible treatment under the law.

Finally, many realize that the Act will not have much impact until the economy recovers, and the market for new development and redevelopment strengthens.

Prosperity requires more than just reducing regulation. Economic development requires quality of life and an educated workforce. Appropriate state spending and investment in universities, schools and in initiatives that support the area’s businesses, also are key.

There are many implications, both good and bad. The Act allows those who want to develop wisely to do so, and it addresses some “one size fits all” features of the prior law that prevented the best outcomes for some areas of the state. However, you don’t write laws for those who want to do the right thing. You write laws to provide an enforceable minimum.

Stop signs are based on the need to protect others from the impacts of your driving decisions, and do not depend on your subjective intention as a driver. A traffic law that made it optional to respect a stop sign would be making a value judgment that it is acceptable for people to be protected from being T-boned at intersections only some of the time, and that they can fend for themselves the rest of the time. Most people accept the stop sign, because the goal of safety is self-evident. They would never think of stopping as optional.

In community planning, we do not all approach the “stop sign” in the same way. We have different abilities to harm others and protect ourselves; the single family homeowners are driving around in Cooper Minis, the small infill developers drive 8-cylinder pickup trucks and some large scale commercial and residential developers have hired stunt drivers to handle fleets of armored personnel carriers.

Community planning is not as self-evident as traffic regulation because different communities have different visions. West Palm Beach has planned a mid-scale environment on its downtown waterfront, with limitations in its charter on the height of buildings closest to the water. Miami, 70 miles to the south, has embraced the urban dynamism of star-studded architectural monuments, dozens of stories tall, directly on Biscayne Bay. That diversity was often discussed this session, where the Community Planning Act was sometimes promoted to “let cities be cities.”

The Act expresses the intent to preserve community planning, celebrate the diversity of aims to which it could be dedicated and enable it to be more fully expressed through local planning regulations. The concern is whether the details in 350 pages of legislation, crafted hurriedly in the last, intense days of the legislative session (and not even debated a single time on the floor of the Florida Senate), adequately assure that every development decision, not just the well-meaning ones, will implement that laudable intent.

Good outcomes are possible without state mandates. The Community Planning Act may open the door to progress where onerous regulations previously blocked the way. But communities should proceed carefully in exercising their new-found freedoms, so that they do not inadvertently discard appropriate regulations that could lead them to a brighter, more enjoyable and more prosperous future.

Author(s): Susan L. Trevarthen

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