Michael Miller has been a solo practitioner in Manhattan for more than 30 years, with a general civil practice focusing primarily on estates and trusts. He is a past president of the New York County Lawyers Association, a past chair of the New York State Conference of Bar Leaders, and has been a member of the House of Delegates of both the New York State Bar Association and the American Bar Association. He received the ABA's 2002 Pro Bono Publico Award, its highest award for pro bono service, for his leading role in the post-9/11 legal relief effort. He takes over as the new president of the New York State Bar Association Friday.

Q: What has prepared you for the position?

A: Serving in leadership roles over the years at the New York State Bar Association (NYSBA) and the New York County Lawyers Association (NYCLA) has given me a keen perspective on and appreciation of the dynamics of bar associations and the justice system. I understand the challenges that our courts face and how bar associations can participate in meaningful efforts to improve the administration of justice, work to enhance access to justice for all and advocate for sufficient resources for the courts to meet their Constitutional duties. I have chaired committees and task forces and advocated on many important matters, including conditions in the courts, judicial evaluations, cameras in the courts, recording of judicial proceedings, recording of custodial interrogations and the dangerous impact of judicial budget cuts — as well as developing award-winning pro bono programs and hosting a TV program on legal topics for the general public. Perhaps the most important insight I have gained through my involvement at NYSBA and NYCLA is that all roads lead to membership. In order to be effective in recruiting and retaining new young members in our changing times, the number one job that bar leaders have is to provide a vibrant and relevant membership experience.