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too often devolved into character
assassination. This trend is
corrosive—not only to the practice
of law, but to the rule of law itself.
Our profession demands more.
Lawyers are entrusted with the
sacred responsibility of shaping
outcomes that affect livelihoods,
reputations, and communities.
When we abandon civility, we
undermine that trust. When we
allow personal attacks to replace
professional debate, we weaken the
very institutions we are sworn to
defend.
A Message of Hope
Yet despite these challenges, I
believe our future is bright. Why?
Because of you—our members. I
see in you the qualities that give me
confidence: resilience, integrity,
compassion, and leadership. You
are not only advocates for your
clients; you are leaders in your
churches, synagogues, schools,
charities, and neighborhoods. You
are the steady hands in an unsteady
world.
The FDCC can be a beacon
in this climate. By modeling
professionalism and civility,
we show younger lawyers that
excellence is not just about
winning cases but about how we
conduct ourselves while doing so.
By supporting one another, we
create a culture that reminds us—
and teaches others—that the law
remains a noble profession.
A Plan for the Future
How do we move from concern to
action? I suggest a three-part plan:
1Reimagine Engagement for
Younger Lawyers.
Create flexible pathways for
participation that fit busy lives:
2 February 2026 | Federation Flyer PRESIDENT’S REPORT
If we want our FDCC
to thrive, we must
demonstrate that
membership is not
an obligation but
an opportunity: a
way to accelerate
professional growth,
expand networks,
and find community
in a demanding
profession.
virtual networking, micro-
volunteering opportunities, and
short, impactful mentorship
programs. Offer meaningful
leadership opportunities early,
so they see the FDCC as their
organization and opportunity.
2 Champion Civilit
as a Core Value
Champion professional conduct
within the FDCC. Provide training
and recognition for those who
embody civility in advocacy.
Celebrate lawyers who resolve
disputes with dignity and fairness.
Remind our members that how we
practice law is as important as the
outcomes we achieve.
3 Lead with Hope
and Purpose
Promote our members as not only
litigators but as community leaders.
Highlight the ways our members
give back—whether through pro
bono service, civic engagement, or
mentorship. By telling these stories,
we remind ourselves, and show the
world, that our profession is a force
for good.
Conclusion
The future of the FDCC and our
profession depends on how we
respond to these challenges. We can
lament generational differences, or
we can embrace the opportunity
to evolve. We can allow incivility
to poison our practice, or we can
recommit ourselves to the values
of respect and integrity that define
true professionalism.
I choose hope. I choose to believe
that our profession’s best days are
ahead. I choose to believe that by
working together—as members,
colleagues, and leaders—we can
ensure that the FDCC remains not
only relevant but indispensable.
For younger lawyers and industry
members searching for meaning—
they will find it here with us. For
lawyers and industry members
disheartened by incivility—they
will find in our FDCC membership
professionals who are committed
to higher ground. And to all who
wonder whether professionalism
still matters—our answer must be,
and will be, a resounding “YES!”
Let us continue to lead—not
only in the courtroom, but in our
communities. Let us be known not
only for what we achieve—but for
how we achieve it. And let us show
the next generation why joining
us is a privilege and a pathway to
a purposeful and consequential
career in law and in business.
Remember: We get to make a
difference and can do so with
commitment, resolve, and
dedication.
Marc H. Harwell is President of the
Federation of Defense & Corporate Counsel,
and a Founding Partner of Harwell & Hurst
in Chattanooga, TN.
www.thefederation.org