State Bar Consultant Lorraine H. Weber and Harold D. Pope.

Attorneys from around the state gathered this weekend in Novi, Michigan for the Fifth Annual Opening Doors Conference sponsored by the State Bar of Michigan's Open Justice Division.

The event, which was held on Saturday, October 30, 1999, served to explore the unique challenges facing under-represented groups in the law and celebrate the key role of minorities and women in the legal profession. It also provided an opportunity for new and inexperienced attorneys to network with seasoned practitioners in an informative and informal environment.

Harold D. Pope, President of the National Bar Association, served as keynote luncheon speaker at the event. Pope discussed employment issues facing minorities and the under-represented in law today outlining both the challenges and the opportunities.

Throughout the day, attendees were able to have their resumes and cover letters reviewed by professionals offering helpful pointers on how to make a good first impression. Videotaped "mock interviews," complete with an on-site critique of the candidate's performance, allowed attendees to "see themselves through the interviewer's eyes."

Program topics at this year's Conference included:

• "Building a Successful Law Practice";
• "Career Alternatives to the Practice of Law";
• "Setting up a Law Office";
• Representing the Client to the Best of Your Ability"; and
• "Practical Aspects on Lawyering."

The Conference also featured programs that focused on employment strategies and opportunities in the specialty areas of family/probate law, criminal law, litigation and public interest/immigration law.