It has been said that we live in a culture that exalts youth and minimizes older people. While this is true, it is inconsistent with the way I look at aging.  It has been my pleasure and privilege to get to know some older people who are truly remarkable.

I was interested to hear about Donald Spero.1  Born in 1931, he received his J.D. in 1962 and practiced in Chicago for 33 years.  In 1995, Mr. Spero came to Florida and passed the Florida Bar Exam.  He was 64.  He wrote an article for The Florida Bar Journal in 2014 when he was 83.

A prolific author, he has authored over 40 articles and more than one book, all while practicing as a mediator with the Florida Mediation Group.  He became Board Certified in Labor and Employment Law in 2001.  This a process whereby the applicant must pass a test and be recommended by lawyers and judges.  To maintain his certification, Mr. Spero obtained 75hours of CLE credit in Labor and Employment Law.  He was recertified in 2016.

“I enjoy writing.”  Spero explains. “I love the law.”  He remarked that he admires Justice Ginsburg, and the vigorous schedule she keeps.  “She’s very impressive,” he quipped, “but she’s also two years younger than me.”

At age 86, Donald Spero has been married to Patricia for 53 years.  They live in North Palm Beach where Mr. Spero continues to practice, write, arbitrate labor and employment matters and work on his recertification application.  “When I recertify in 2021, I will be 90 years old.”

In the time he has been given, Mr. Spero has accomplished much.  He provides a model for those who wish to remain professionally active as they grow older.

by Patrick Gaffney

by Patrick Gaffney


1 Parts of this blog were taken from:  The Capstone, News and resources for board certified attorneys and those seeking certification, Volume 1, No. 1, Fall 2017