The 2026 ABA Young Lawyers Division Midyear Meeting in San Antonio offered valuable opportunities for professional development, connection, and engagement with peers from across the country. The programming was substantive, the discussions were thoughtful, and the energy among young attorneys was a strong reminder of the collective purpose we share in advancing our profession.

At the same time, attending national events involves personal considerations as well. Being away from family even for a few days means missing the ordinary moments that matter such as dinner conversations, bedtime routines, and the small details of daily life. That tension is real and it highlights an ongoing challenge young lawyers face in pursuing professional growth while honoring their commitments at home.

I try to approach these opportunities with perspective. Engaging with colleagues, learning from leaders in the field, and bringing back useful insights to my practice helps me serve my clients more effectively and build a sustainable career. Returning home after a conference like this also makes it clear how important those personal connections are and how much you appreciate life outside the professional sphere.

One positive aspect of this Midyear meeting was seeing fellow young lawyers bring their families when possible. While not every event or schedule makes family travel feasible, those instances showed how important it can be to create room for personal life alongside professional engagement and how meaningful it is when the two come together.

Our Young Lawyers Division continues to work toward inclusivity and to support participation from all young attorneys regardless of their family circumstances. An inclusive YLS means recognizing that our members live in many different life stages and family structures. Some are single, some have partners, some are parents or caregivers, and some have extended family responsibilities. Making sure YLS events are accessible, relevant, and supportive for everyone strengthens our community and reflects the range of experiences present in modern legal practice.

Returning home after Midyear reinforced an important point. Professional development and personal life are both essential parts of who we are as lawyers and as individuals. Finding balance can be difficult, but with intentional participation and a supportive community it becomes more manageable and ultimately more rewarding. Here is to future gatherings that continue to inform, connect, and include all young lawyers as we navigate the many roles we carry in our professional and personal lives.

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Darnell Barton is the YLS Chair-Elect and a partner at Barton Law, PLLC.