Inside the LSBA Young Lawyers Division

In this episode, District 1 representative Margaret Manning shares why High School Mock Trial is the committee closest to her heart. She discusses the program’s statewide structure, recent improvements, and plans to fully modernize it with digital tools, training videos, and a dedicated website. Margaret also previews the 2026 state competition in Shreveport held at the federal courthouse where he...

In this episode, Kristen Amond reflects on nearly a decade of service with the LSBA Young Lawyers Division and shares why the people, not just the programs, have been the most rewarding part of the journey. This conversation highlights how YLD programming supports both community impact and professional growth, with a special focus on the popular Level Up Learning series, including hands-on CLEs th...

In this episode, Margaret Manning shares how LBF grant funding is helping transform Louisiana’s High School Mock Trial program. She highlights the new website launching, complete with past problems, FAQs, and upcoming how-to videos featuring LSU law students. Margaret also explains how new digital tools will streamline scoring, pairing, and tournament logistics, making mock trial more accessible t...

In this episode, Kristen Amond and Collin Melancon share their paths through the LSBA Young Lawyers Division, from starting on committees and joining the Leadership Class to running for the District 1 seat (against each other!) and eventually stepping into executive leadership. A candid, funny, and insightful look at how young lawyers grow within the YLD and why service to the profession matters.

Inthis episode, District 1 representative Jennifer Gordon Lampton shares her“young lawyer’s gumbo” approach to CLE programming. She explains how the YLDpulls ideas from a diverse mix of committee members including defense,plaintiff, in-house, public interest, law clerks, and more to create broad,practical CLEs that serve young lawyers across every practice area inLouisiana.

Inthis episode, Collin Melancon and Kristen Amond explore what it means to serveas a District 1 Representative in New Orleans. How acting as a liaison betweenlocal bar associations and the LSBA helps connect young lawyers to newopportunities, resources, and leadership pathways. From the New Orleans BarAssociation to regional and affinity groups, this conversation highlights thepower of collaborati...

In this episode, Collin Melancon and Kristen Amond explore how the LSBA Young Lawyers Division advocates for young lawyers across Louisiana. We share why it’s critical that young lawyers have a seat at every table, from firm leadership to Bar governance, and how the YLD ensures their voices are heard. A conversation about leadership, influence, and empowering the next generation of attorneys to he...

In this episode, Kristen Amond and Collin Melancon explore how LSBA and local bar associations work together to support young lawyers and strengthen communities. We explain the importance of collaboration across organizations and break down who qualifies as a “young lawyer” under LSBA guidelines, including age and practice-year considerations. A practical look at connection, service, and what it r...

In this episode, Kristen Amond, a past chair of the LSBA Young Lawyers Division, reflects on the YLD leadership track and the journey from secretary to chair. The conversation highlights the importance of statewide, high-quality programming and strong advocacy for young lawyers across Louisiana. A behind-the-scenes look at how YLD leadership works to elevate professional development and give young...

District 1 representative Margaret Manning shares her unexpected path into the LSBA Young Lawyers Division. Margaret talks about stepping into vacancies created when Collin Melancon and later Chris Sellers entered the officer pipeline, her run for election, and how those twists led to three years of service on the YLD Council. A candid look at resilience, opportunity, and finding your place in bar...

In this episode, Kristen Amond and Collin Melancon explore the Barristers for Boards program, an LSBA YLD initiative that pairs young lawyers with nonprofit organizations for board service. We share how the program expanded statewide, adapted through virtual CLEs and regional meetups, and created meaningful connections between attorneys and nonprofits. Learn how board service can strengthen your l...

Meet Margaret Manning, District 1 representative of the LSBA Young Lawyers Division. Margaret shares her path from graduating during the pandemic to clerking for Judge Maurice Hicks in Shreveport, then moving to New Orleans to build a practice focused on insurance defense, attorney ethics, legal malpractice, appellate work, and civil litigation. She reflects on the challenges and growth that shape...

A conversation with Kristen Amond, past chair of the LSBA Young Lawyers Division. Kristen shares how she went from teaching third graders to practicing complex litigation, serving as outside general counsel, and building a mediation practice in New Orleans. She reflects on her years of YLD service, lessons learned, and what’s next as she steps into her “past chair emeritus” era.

District 1 representative Jennifer Gordon Lampton shares how she encourages young lawyers to get involved with the LSBA YLD. From Wills for Heroes and the Young Lawyers Conference to professional development seminars and Level Up Learning sessions, she explains why attending just one event often turns into many. A conversation about community, service, and why YLD programming is a one-stop shop fo...

In this episode, we talk with Jennifer Gordon Lampton, research attorney for Judge Nakisha Ervin-Knott at the Louisiana Fourth Circuit Court of Appeal. Jennifer shares her path from clerking on the domestic and civil dockets at Orleans Parish Civil District Court to her current role reviewing cases that come through the Fourth Circuit. With experience touching civil, criminal, and juvenile matters...

This week we’re joined by Collin Melancon, chair of the LSBA Young Lawyers Division. Collin talks about his Louisiana roots, his path through law school and practice, and the meaningful work he does representing survivors of sexual abuse. He also shares what it’s like to lead the YLD. A great listen for anyone wanting a behind-the-scenes look at YLD leadership and service. Find out more at www.lsb...

Join LSBA Young Lawyers Division District 1 Representatives Jennifer Gordon Lampton and Margaret Manning as they discuss YLD committees, opportunities to get involved, and how young lawyers can make an impact through service and leadership. Find out more at www.lsba.org/yld