Very Law is proud to announce that founder Ryan D. Very, Esq., has been admitted to the Pittsburgh Hay-Sell American Inn of Court. This membership reflects Ryan's dedication to advancing the legal profession and aligns with the values that have guided our Pittsburgh law firm since its founding.

What Is the American Inns of Court?

The American Inns of Court is the oldest and largest legal mentoring organization in the U.S. Rooted in the English Inns of Court tradition of legal apprenticeship, the organization's mission is to foster excellence in professionalism, ethics, civility, and legal skills. Members work to advance and civilize the practice of law through example, education, and mentoring.

The organization brings together judges, seasoned attorneys, and newer practitioners in a collegial atmosphere designed to pass wisdom from one generation of lawyers to the next. For Ryan, joining this distinguished community represents a professional milestone and a personal honor.

The Pittsburgh Hay-Sell Chapter

The Pittsburgh Hay-Sell American Inn of Court holds a special place in the region's legal history. Founded in January 1993 by Karen Shichman Crawford, Esq., with the support of U.S. Magistrate Judge Amy Reynolds Hay, the chapter quickly became a cornerstone of Pittsburgh's legal community. Following the latter’s passing in 2010, the chapter was renamed in her honor.

The chapter has produced distinguished legal leaders, including two recipients of the prestigious A. Sherman Christensen Award, which recognizes exceptional leadership in the Inns movement. Its success also inspired the creation of three additional Inn chapters throughout Pittsburgh, cementing the region's commitment to legal excellence.

A Perfect Fit for Very Law's Values

Ryan's admission to the Hay-Sell Inn is a natural extension of the principles that define Very Law. The firm's core values of being dedicated, smart, trusted, caring, and thorough mirror the Inn's emphasis on professionalism and ethics. Very Law's belief that "justice is in the details" aligns directly with the organization's commitment to civility and legal skill.

At Very Law, every client receives a personalized approach built on care, empathy, and transparency. These same qualities are central to the mentoring relationships fostered within the American Inns of Court. By joining this organization, Ryan reinforces his commitment to continuous growth and service to the Pittsburgh community.

Continuing a Family Legacy

Ryan's involvement in the Hay-Sell Inn also honors the legacy of his grandfather, Donald L. Very. Donald was a respected Pittsburgh attorney who served as president of the Allegheny County Bar Association in the late 1970s. He expanded the Lawyer Referral Service and authored The Legal Guide to the Family, believing that the law should be clear, accessible, and belong to the people it serves.

Donald was known for bridging the gap between law and everyday people. He mentored younger attorneys, listened before speaking, and reminded colleagues of their shared humanity through his participation in the Bench-Bar Conference's "Big Show" performances. His philosophy that lawyers should be both rigorous and approachable lives on through Ryan and Very Law today.

What This Means for Clients

For clients of Very Law in Pittsburgh, Ryan's membership in the Hay-Sell Inn means access to a legal team committed to the highest standards of excellence. The relationships and professional development gained through this organization enhance our Pittsburgh law firm’s ability to deliver results across all practice areas, including civil litigation, criminal defense, family law, and estate planning.

If you are seeking counsel that combines advocacy with integrity, Very Law welcomes you. Schedule a consultation today and experience the commitment that defines everything we do.