Provided by the Virginia State Bar Membership Committee
The Real Property Section of the Virginia State Bar has unveiled an innovative new video series titled the “Living Library” produced by the Section’s Membership Committee. The project is intended to demystify the complexities of real estate law. Its goals include providing Section and Bar members at large with a glimpse of the opportunities and resources available to expand the scope of existing practices and to educate law students on the myriad of opportunities available in the practice of real estate law. Launched in 2024, this passion project of the Real Property Section features seasoned real estate attorneys sharing their insights and expertise with an aim at making valuable legal knowledge more accessible to both newcomers and experienced professionals.
To date, five informative Living Library “Chapter” presentations have been produced that cover diverse topics including Environmental Law, Foreclosures, Easements, Title Insurance, and Real Estate Litigation. The Committee intends to produce additional presentations at the rate of five or six topics each year. Future topics under consideration include Land Use, Local Government, Waterfront Issues, In-House Counsel, Eminent Domain/Condemnation, and Domestic Relations.
In addition to a general introduction of each practice area, the speakers provide an understanding and appreciation for the intricacies of a law practice of the subject specialties. Each video is constructed to provide practical tips as well as insight into the daily challenges and rewards encountered by practitioners. The videos vary in length from short introductions to half-hour presentations and are constructed to address the respective viewer’s level of interest. The speakers range from veteran lawyers, lawyers in the prime of their carriers, and relative newcomers practicing in jurisdictions throughout the Commonwealth. Speakers have been chosen from large firms, solo practices, and governmental positions.
The videos are not intended to be a substitute for Continuing Legal Education (CLE) but rather informal resources designed for mass distribution. They do not provide CLE credits.
The series is available for free online. Viewers can find the series by searching for “Living Library” on YouTube or by visiting the Real Property Section webpage at the Virginia State Bar. As the legal landscape continues to evolve, initiatives like the “Living Library” play a crucial role in equipping legal professionals with the tools and knowledge needed to thrive in the ever-changing world of real estate law.
If you have an idea for a suitable topic or presenter for future Chapters of the Living Library, or if you wish to become involved with this exciting project, please contact Larry McElwain at lmcelwain@larrylawva.com.
