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: Garrett Brawley

Employer/Organization: Beck Redden

Practice Area(s): Commercial Litigation

Why did you join the TYLA board? As a first-generation college graduate and lawyer, I joined the TYLA board to give back and facilitate TYLA’s continued support of first-generation lawyers as they navigate the practice of law.

What advice would you give to other TYLA members who are looking for ways to grow professionally? Get involved with something that sparks passion. The growth will then come naturally.

Before joining the TYLA board, what is your favorite experience with community or public service? My most meaningful experience has been representing death row inmates during state habeas proceedings. It is difficult work—sometimes with insurmountable odds. However, it reveals the severe need for quality representation (and the heart wrenching results that can occur from sub-par representation) and challenges perceptions related to people within the criminal justice system.

What was your favorite movie, TV show, musical artist, or song from high school/college? I am a huge Prince (i.e. TAFKAP) fan and loved (and still do) “Nothing Compares 2 U” by Prince.