William H. Mergner Jr., co-managing partner at Leary, Bride, Mergner & Bongiovanni, was sworn in Thursday as president of the New Jersey State Bar Association at its annual meeting and conference.

Chief Justice Stuart Rabner swore in the new president and the executive board of the NJSBA. Outgoing President Timothy F. McGoughran told the assembled members of the association that Mergner is thoughtful, smart and passionate, and that he will be a steady hand at the helm.