Criminal Law Library Blog
OVERVIEW:
The April/May 2026 issue of the American Bar Association Senior Lawyers Division’s Experience Magazine (Volume 36, Issue 3) centers on a unifying and reflective theme: the meaning of the “bucket list” at different stages of life and professional maturity. The issue combines personal essays, reflections on retirement and reinvention, practical professional guidance, and a timely discussion of artificial intelligence in legal practice.
A major theme running throughout the issue is that fulfillment in later life is not necessarily tied to grand adventures or dramatic achievements, but often to purpose, service, mentoring, and appreciation for experiences already gained. Several contributors challenge the traditional notion of a “bucket list” as merely a checklist of destinations or accomplishments. Instead, they encourage readers—particularly senior lawyers—to think about meaning, contribution, relationships, and continued intellectual engagement.
Among the feature articles, Sheldon Finkelstein’s “A ‘Bucket List’ Asks the Wrong Question” argues that fulfillment often comes from valuing present experiences rather than constantly pursuing future goals. Gary Muldoon’s “A Hole in My Bucket” describes how retired attorneys can continue contributing to society by mentoring younger lawyers and engaging in community service. Mark Ashton’s “Excursions into Nearby Worlds” explores the discovery of new interests and identities beyond the legal profession after retirement. Collectively, these essays portray retirement not as withdrawal, but as transition and reinvention.
The issue also includes more introspective contributions. Stephen M. Terrell’s “Perceptions of the Bucket” reflects on a life already filled with meaningful accomplishments, while David Z. Kaufman’s “The Anti-Bucket List” humorously examines experiences one may wisely avoid. Another lighter feature, “A Bucket List of Songs,” by Michael J Richmond compiles music associated with aspirations and unfinished dreams. The editorial board additionally gathers perspectives from multiple contributors in “Bucket List? Yes, Maybe, No,” offering a range of personal reactions to the idea itself.
One of the strongest professional pieces in the issue is Norm Tabler’s “An Invaluable Learning Experience.” Tabler recounts a memorable constitutional law examination administered by the legendary Columbia Law School professor Herbert Wechsler. The article emphasizes concise legal writing, disciplined preparation, and analytical clarity, qualities that remain essential in legal practice despite technological change. The essay ultimately becomes a meditation on legal craftsmanship and the enduring importance of thoughtful writing.
Particularly notable for lawyers and legal information professionals is Jeffrey M. Allen and Ashley Hallene’s article, “What Attorneys Need to Know About Agentic AI.” The article addresses emerging forms of AI capable of acting more autonomously than earlier generative systems. The authors stress that these technologies require caution, oversight, and continued human judgment. Their discussion reflects growing awareness within the legal profession that AI can enhance productivity and research capabilities, but also raises ethical, competency, and reliability concerns. The article’s emphasis on collaboration between technology and professional judgment aligns closely with current debates surrounding AI-assisted legal research, interpretability, hallucinations, and professional responsibility.
The issue also highlights the broader activities and priorities of the ABA Senior Lawyers Division. In “The Great Experiences of SLD,” Chair Robert L Brown discusses expanding educational programming, CLE webinars, lawyer transition initiatives, and travel opportunities for senior attorneys. The article underscores the Division’s continuing effort to foster community, lifelong learning, and active engagement among experienced members of the profession.
Overall, the April/May 2026 edition of Experience Magazine presents a thoughtful blend of professional reflection, retirement transition, mentorship, wellness, continuing purpose, and technological adaptation. It speaks not only to lawyers approaching or living in retirement, but also to legal professionals interested in how experience, wisdom, and evolving technology intersect in modern legal life. For law librarians and legal information professionals, the issue is especially relevant because it combines discussions of lifelong learning, professional identity, concise legal communication, and the growing role of AI in legal practice and legal research.
OUTLINE OF ISSUE. (ABA members can read entire issue by signing in at READ THE ISSUE).