Swearing-In Ceremony Celebrates King Hall Class of 2013
Members of the UC Davis School of Law Class of 2013 returned to King Hall with family and friends on December 6 to celebrate their success on the California State Bar Examination in a Swearing-In Ceremony featuring Dean Kevin R. Johnson, the Honorable Louis Mauro '87, Associate Justice of the California Court of Appeal, Third Appellate District, and the Honorable Troy L. Nunley, U.S. District Judge for the Eastern District of California. King Hall graduates who took the July 2013 exam posted an impressive 85 percent pass rate.
2013 Swearing-In Ceremony Photo Gallery
Dean Johnson opened the ceremony, congratulating the Class of 2013 and introducing Justice Mauro. Before administering the State oath, Justice Mauro talked about the history of attorneys' oaths and the ways in which they reflect the ideals of legal professionalism and justice.
"Certainly the oath is a condition for the right to practice law, but it's also more than that," said Justice Mauro. "It inspires us to live up to the ideals of our profession. Today you become members of the profession that built and continues to maintain the framework of our society. You will be the peacemakers, the problem solvers, the protectors, and the defenders. You will do that with a commitment to the law, and your oath confirms that commitment. I hope your oath inspires you."
Following the State oath, Judge Nunley proceeded directly to the federal oath before offering his brief remarks. He talked about "what an honor it is to practice law" and advised the new attorneys to work hard to be prepared for court appearances, to look actively for mentors who can help them chart their courses in the profession, and to use their legal skills for the betterment of society.
"In practicing law, just be mindful of the tremendous responsibility that you have as an attorney to make society a better place," said Judge Nunley. "That's my challenge to you, to go out there find some cause that you're passionate about, be it immigration, be it victim advocacy, and try to make this world better."