IndyBar: How My IndyBar Membership Transformed My Legal Career

By Burnell Grimes, Carrier Global Corporation

When I joined IndyBar as a law student, I never imagined how deeply it would influence my career. Today, as I reflect, I’m reminded how much my membership has played a pivotal role in shaping my career. Offering me more than just CLE opportunities—it has provided mentorship, leadership opportunities, and a community that has propelled my growth. Here’s how IndyBar has been a game-changer for me, and why I believe IndyBar is a MUST for any legal professional in Central Indiana.

Building Real Relationships

My journey with IndyBar began in law school as Chair of the Law Student Division Executive Committee. At the time, my primary goal was to connect with peers and legal professionals in the Indianapolis community, but I quickly discovered the depth of opportunities available. The relationships I formed through IndyBar weren’t just superficial; they became the foundation of my professional network. I met seasoned attorneys, judges, and business leaders, many of whom I still work with today. Those same seasoned professionals helped guide me through the daunting transition from law student to practicing attorney and became vital sources of advice and client referrals, paving the way for my career to flourish.

Leadership That Opened New Doors

Taking on leadership roles within IndyBar has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my career. Sitting on the Board of Directors was an opportunity I never expected to have so early in my career. It forced me to stretch beyond my comfort zone, helping me develop leadership skills that translated directly into my practice. This not only increased my confidence but also positioned me as a thought leader within my practice area, helping me secure opportunities to be of service to businesses and nonprofits in our community.

The Ability to Specialize

IndyBar’s practice-specific sections offer a unique opportunity to dive deep into your area of practice. As Chair Elect of the Business Law Section’s Executive Committee, I’ve been able to collaborate with other sections and stay current on industry trends and legal developments. Thanks to my IndyBar membership, I’ve also been able to contribute to thought leadership in my practice area while gaining a community of colleagues who share my passion for business and corporate law. This has translated directly into tangible growth for my practice, as I’ve been able to offer more informed, strategic advice to my business clients.

Leadership Training

One of the most transformative career experiences was participating in Class XIX of IndyBar’s Bar Leader Series. Through conversations with community leaders and team-based problem solving, I was able to develop the kind of leadership skills that go beyond courtrooms and boardrooms and into community-based solutions and strategic thinking.

Thanks to the Bar Leader Series, I learned about the issues impacting Central Indiana from a legal perspective and how to lead with intention and purpose to address them. This opportunity didn’t just enhance my leadership abilities within IndyBar—it had a ripple effect throughout my career. Whether managing my own team or navigating business relationships, I’ve been able to apply the skills I developed through this program in every facet of my work. Furthermore, the relationships I built with my cohort have been unmatched.

An Unmatched Network

Through fantastic networking opportunities, I have been able to connect with attorneys who provided invaluable guidance and made a lasting impact on my career. These relationships helped me navigate early career challenges and offered insights into different legal opportunities, growing my practice, and maintaining work-life balance. The culture of camaraderie within IndyBar means that at any given event or meeting, there’s an opportunity to learn from someone with more or different experiences. These connections have been a cornerstone of my personal and professional growth.

Pro Bono Opportunities

Beyond professional development, IndyBar has also given me a way to give back to the community through its pro bono programs and partnerships. I’ve had the chance to participate in community based pro bono opportunities that have had a direct impact on people’s lives, reminding me why I pursued a career in law in the first place. Pro bono work has not only strengthened my legal skills but also reinforced my commitment to using the law as a tool for positive change.

More Than an Association

Looking back, my membership in IndyBar has been far more than just a professional obligation—it’s been a transformative experience. From leadership roles to networking, from mentorship to community service, IndyBar has opened doors I didn’t even know existed when I started law school. Thanks to my membership, I’ve been able to build a thriving career, develop meaningful relationships, and be considered a leader in my practice area. For anyone thinking about joining or renewing, I can only say: IndyBar isn’t just an association; it’s an invaluable career partner.•

Burnell Grimes is an innovative, business-minded attorney who partners with domestic and global businesses to close complex transactions and solve difficult corporate problems.

A trusted adviser, skilled advocate, and effective relationship manager, Burnell currently serves as Director of Legal at Carrier Global Corporation working with executive stakeholders to achieve business objectives related to commercial transactions, marketing, supply chain, litigation, data privacy, and sales matters. His extensive business and corporate law practice also includes serving as a consultant to a number of local small businesses and community-based organizations, helping to achieve business formation and resolve governance matters. He is an active IndyBar member, is the Chair Elect for IndyBar’s Business Law Section, and a graduate of the Bar Leader Series. Burnell lives in Indianapolis with his wife Brit’ney and their two children Burnell III (Trip) and Brooklyn.