Paying It Forward: Cultivating the Next Generation of Leaders Is TICL Section Chair’s Primary Goal
4.15.2025
Richard Kokel’s connection with the New York State Bar Association has come full circle. His ascension to chair of the Torts, Insurance and Compensation Law Section marks the latest chapter since he became reengaged with the association some 15 years ago after his daughter was 7 or 8 years old.
A no-fault arbitrator and a former trial attorney for two prominent New York City law firms, Kokel has never forgotten the guidance members provided him. It left such a strong impression that among his goals as section chair is to nurture the next generation of the association’s leaders in the same manner that he was mentored at the outset of his career.
That experience helps him to relate to one of the section’s annual goals of increasing its younger membership, which he placed an even greater emphasis on this year. Partnering with the Young Lawyers Section on programming is one approach the section has used while trying to fulfill that objective.
“Membership is key. I have also been part of the association’s membership committee for several years. Our focus has not only been on getting new members but integrating them into the sections and encouraging them to participate so that everybody who joins has a voice and remains involved.”
Looking back on his own involvement, Kokel said attending family-friendly destination meetings when his daughter was younger helped forge professional and personal bonds with other members. They also enticed him to become more engaged, which is why he is aiming to implement similar meetings this year.
In addition, the bonds Kokel formed with other members proved invaluable when he left big law to start his own firm.
“I went on a few section trips, which is among the things that cemented my relationship with those members. The section leaders wanted to involve families, and those destination meetings allowed me to become acquainted with a lot of people. Those relationships were key, especially when I began working for myself. It was nice to have a group of people around that I could reach out to with any thoughts and questions I may have had at the time.”
That is still true today. For anyone looking to join the TICL section, Kokel said its greatest benefits are the wide range of practice areas.
“We have a large group of professionals who address many different issues including workers’ compensation, no fault and insurance claims. So, if you join TICL, you’re going to be exposed to a diverse group and that is particularly beneficial because no matter what your expertise is, you’re going to find someone you can relate to.”
The upcoming programming is a testament to its varied offerings.
The section is hosting a CLE on Mastering Trial Skills on April 23 while the next installment of its Insurance Expert Showcase Series is scheduled for May 9. Both programs are free for members. The section is also having an executive committee meeting at Citi Field in June. Its Fall Destination Meeting, being held in conjunction with the Trial Lawyers Section, takes place in Orlando this October.
