Author: Stephen F. Deatherage
Scouters who work as attorneys are often asked by Scouts, “Should I go to law school?” After discussing the pros and cons, some Scouts decide that law school is the right path for them. But the mentorship they enjoyed in Scouting can feel distant as they transition to this new phase. Enter Smitty Harrison—an Eagle Scout from South Carolina—who had an idea: creating a network of established Eagle Scout attorneys to mentor young Eagle Scouts who were headed to law school. Thus was born the Legal Eagles of the Indian Waters Council in South Carolina.
Now, the mentorship enjoyed in Scouting follows the Eagle Scout to law school. But Legal Eagles doesn’t just connect mentors and mentees; it also fosters the values of leadership and service that are central to both Scouting and the legal profession. Through Legal Eagles, Scouts are provided guidance, networking opportunities, and inspiration as they embark on their legal journeys; and importantly, Legal Eagles has given Indian Waters Council a way to reach out to BSA Alumni who are attorneys so they can give back to a program that had such a positive impact on their development.
But Legal Eagles do more than just mentor Eagle Scouts who are in law school. This past January, Legal Eagles hosted its fourth “Law Merit Badge Day” in Lexington, South Carolina. Law Merit Badge Day is an event where lawyers, judges, law enforcement professionals, and law students come together to give Scouts from South Carolina and across the Southeast an introduction to the legal system. According to Smitty, “Many attorneys are unable to commit to being a Scoutmaster, but they are willing to teach a requirement of the Law Merit Badge or assist with sponsoring an event.” And because of their help with Law Merit Badge Day, Scouts have opportunities to practice mock trials before real judges, discuss complex legal issues, and learn about the importance of law and civic responsibility. Through these experiences, Scouts learn the basics of the legal system, the rights and responsibilities of citizens, and the role of law in protecting the community—and gain a better understanding of whether a legal career (whether as an attorney or law enforcement professional) is the right career choice for them. And by combining hands-on learning with fun activities, Law Merit Badge Day helps Scouts understand and appreciate the rule of law while fostering a deeper appreciation for the rule of law and community involvement. Oh, and they earn the Law Merit Badge too!
As Smitty said when asked about Legal Eagles, “As a Scouting America Alumni, I feel that we have an obligation to give back. After all, someone helped us along the way. Now it is our turn.” Thank you, Legal Eagles, for exemplifying the leadership and commitment to service that are central to the Scouting ethos. Your mentorship efforts and Law Merit Badge Day are truly inspirational!
