Editor’s Note: In this blog series, we are getting to know the members of the Texas Young Lawyers Association Board of Directors. TYLA, commonly called the “public service arm” of the State Bar of Texas, works to facilitate the administration of justice, foster respect for the law, and advance the role of the legal profession in serving the public. All TYLA programs are accomplished through the volunteer efforts of its board and committee members, with the cooperation of local affiliate young lawyers associations. Learn more at tyla.org.

Name: Cali Franks

Firm: Bocell Ridley, P.C.

Area of Law You Practice: Insurance Defense, Civil Litigation

Position Held in TYLA: American Bar Association Young Lawyers Division District 26 Representative

How did you get involved in bar service?

After moving back to my hometown near Dallas, I sought to become involved in bar service. I had my first exposure to bar service through the Dallas Association of Young Lawyers 2019 Leadership Class.

What is your favorite TYLA project and why?

My favorite TYLA project is the CLE Roadshow because as someone who grew up in small-town Texas, I understand the importance of camaraderie of young lawyers throughout Texas.

What tips can you give to other attorneys to manage stress?

Find your passion outside of law. Find an activity that takes you outside of analysis, cases, and clients and instead allows you to relax. This gives you excitement and something to look forward to when things get tough.

What is a piece of advice you would give new lawyers or law students?

Figure out why you went to law school, write it down, and look at it frequently. This grounds you and gives you the reason to overcome stressful times.

What do you do in your spare time?

I am currently training for a marathon in Disney World in 2021 and enjoy taking lessons to better my golf and tennis games.

What is one thing most people don’t know about you?

I did not turn 21 years old until my second year of law school.

Anything else you wish to share?

I love to laugh and I am the biggest fan of “Dad Jokes.”