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: Sara Anne Giddings
Firm: Law Offices of Trent Nichols, PLLC
Area of Law You Practice: Tax, Estate Planning and Probate, Business
Position Held in TYLA: Chair-elect
How did you get involved in bar service? When I was a first-year lawyer in Corpus Christi, Dick King and Omar Leal encouraged me to get involved with the Corpus Christi Young Lawyers Association. I fell in love with bar service and have been actively involved in bar service in every legal community that I have practiced in. Bar service is something that has truly changed my life, and I am so glad that I have the opportunity to continue to serve TYLA as chair-elect.
What is your favorite TYLA project and why? Picking just one is too hard. I have had the privilege of working on several fantastic projects during my time on TYLA. Here are a few of my favorites:
I Was the First. You Can Be a Lawyer Too! (See http://iwasthefirst.tyla.org/.) This project is one that certainly inspires me as the first lawyer in my family. It is amazing to see all of the incredible things that these first-generation lawyers accomplished. I share this project with anyone interested in learning more about the law.
Teach Safe. Learn Safe. Be Safe. (See http://teachsafe.tyla.org/.) I am blessed to come from a family of educators. My mother, who was a huge help in creating this website, has been teaching for 42 years! This website is truly a hub—it relates to the way that the law and education intersect and is a great resource for teachers, administrators, and parents. I have had the honor of teaching a course based on this website and can say that it is an invaluable resource created by TYLA.
Attorney Wellness Website. (See http://texaslawyercare.tyla.org/.) Anyone who knows me well knows that I am passionate about attorney wellness. It is important that we break the silence and the stigma surrounding mental illness. This website provides powerful testimonies on attorney wellness and resources for achieving well-being. Take five minutes today and check it out.
What tips can you give to other attorneys to manage stress? Don’t forget to make yourself a priority. It is easy to make our clients, our friends, and our family a priority and forget all about ourselves. It is important that you treat yourself as your most important client. When I make myself a priority, my clients, friends, and family receive a much better version of me and I can be the best advocate for them.
What is a piece of advice you would give new lawyers or law students? Don’t be afraid to ask for help. More likely than not, another lawyer has faced the same issue that you are facing.
What do you do in your spare time? I enjoying spending time with my family and friends, eating good food, and exploring the world we live in. I’m also a huge sports fan, and I spend many hours cheering on the Texas Longhorns, Astros, and Spurs.
What is one thing most people don’t know about you? I am a huge Peanuts fan. I have several Peanuts collectibles and I’m always on the lookout for the next great addition. My favorite Peanut is Peppermint Patty.
Anything else you wish to share? Although it may feel like it at times, you are not alone. It is important that we continue to have difficult conversations, reach out to others, and get help. If you ever need to talk or if I can be of any assistance, feel free to email me at sara@trentnicholslaw.com.