A conversation at a luncheon becomes a lasting friendship. A colleague invites you to join a committee. An opportunity to serve grows into a contribution that helps shape a city.
For generations, the Jacksonville Bar Association (JBA) has brought attorneys together in ways that strengthen both the profession and the community. As the JBA celebrates its 130th anniversary, Marks Gray is proud to honor the people who helped build that history and those carrying it forward.
Generations Who Stepped Forward
Since 1935, six Marks Gray attorneys have served as JBA president. Each brought distinct talents and interests, connected by a commitment to serve.
Harry T. Gray, 1935 A respected trial lawyer, Gray helped draft Florida’s first workers’ compensation law, contributing to a legal framework affecting workers and employers across the state.
Delbridge L. Gibbs, 1956 Gibbs led the JBA and, later, The Florida Bar. His real estate and title practice included examining titles for Disney’s Central Florida land acquisitions, connecting his work to a project that would help transform Florida.
James C. “Jim” Rinaman Jr., 1972 Rinaman helped draft portions of Jacksonville’s consolidation charter, served as general counsel for the consolidated government, and later became president of The Florida Bar. His service continued through various leadership roles including the JBA’s Special Courthouse Committee.
Victor “Vic” M. Halbach Jr., 1979 A trial and aviation attorney, Halbach served on The Florida Bar Board of Governors and later became Marks Gray’s managing partner. His leadership extended from the firm to the broader legal community.
Jeptha F. “Jep” Barbour, 1996 A distinguished trial lawyer, Barbour led the Young Lawyers Section, then served on the JBA Board of Governors and as president. His honors include American College of Trial Lawyers membership and ABOTA Trial Lawyer of the Year. A generous mentor, he has supported Marks Gray colleagues and others pursuing JBA leadership.
Many Ways to Make a Difference
The firm’s connection to the JBA extends well beyond the presidency.
Linda Ingham led the Young Lawyers Section. Crystal Broughan chaired committees supporting intellectual property practice and professionalism. Logan McEwen contributed continuing legal education on pro bono service. In 2016, Mary Bland Love became the first woman to receive the JBA’s Justice Raymond Ehrlich Trial Advocacy Award.
Today, that tradition continues through attorneys such as Bryce McCloskey, who serves on the JBA Board of Governors through the Young Lawyers Section, and Marlana Johnson, who serves as vice chair of the Judicial Relations Committee. Their involvement reflects the same commitment to professional leadership, service to the legal community and civic engagement that has connected Marks Gray and the Jacksonville Bar Association for generations.
Each contribution reflects a different way to strengthen the profession: sharing knowledge, supporting colleagues, creating opportunities, or helping others find their place.
Marks Gray is proud to be a member of the JBA’s 100% Club, with every attorney in the firm a member. We encourage other firms to join us in supporting a connected, engaged legal community.
“As the Jacksonville Bar Association celebrates 130 years of service to the legal profession, Marks Gray is proud that generations of its attorneys have helped lead the organization,” said Fred Kent, president of Marks Gray. “From Harry T. Gray’s presidency during the 1930s to Giselle Carson’s leadership in 2015, Marks Gray lawyers have shared in the JBA’s mission of professionalism, public service and strengthening the administration of justice in Jacksonville.”
An Invitation to Be Part of What Comes Next
We are grateful for the JBA colleagues who welcomed us, encouraged us and gave us opportunities to grow. Their invitations made a difference, and we hope to extend that same welcome to others.
If you have been thinking about becoming more involved, start with something that interests you. Attend a luncheon, reach out to a committee or invite a colleague to join you.
You may discover a friendship, a new interest or an opportunity to lead. Your participation may also be the encouragement someone else needs to take that first step.
Marks Gray is proud to celebrate this shared history and looks forward to helping build the JBA’s next chapter.
