California’s Largest Volunteer Bar Association Announces New Board Officers: Lawyers Recognized For Legal Expertise In Private And Public Sectors

SACRAMENTO, CA  (July 1, 2025) –  California Lawyers Association (CLA) announced today it has elected six new distinguished officers to serve on the organization’s Board of Representatives. CLA is the largest volunteer bar association in the state, with over 50,000 members, including public and private sector practitioners, ranging from newly admitted attorneys, to nationally and internationally renowned lawyers, prestigious legal experts, as well as Superior and District Court judges and justices. The officers-elect will assume their responsibilities in September 2025, after being sworn in by Chief Justice of the California Supreme Court, Patricia Guerrero.

“I am grateful to CLA’s Board for electing such a diverse, dedicated, and knowledgeable slate of officers,” says CLA’s CEO, Chris Nguyen. “I look forward to working with the new officers to further our mission and serve our members.”

The newly elected officers practice in a broad array of legal specialties including: litigation, antitrust and unfair competition, environmental, intellectual property, tax, and real property. They work for both private practice and government entities.

“Terrance Evans is a nationally recognized trial lawyer who has a stellar record of arguing successfully for his clients. He is also a leading advocate for civil rights, racial justice, and the rule of law. I am certain Terrance will continue to build on the work our leadership has started to impact change and make a difference for the legal profession and the communities we serve,” says Betty Williams, current CLA President. “Working alongside Terrance is an honor and an invaluable experience. Terrance Evans is the perfect next President for CLA.” Evans, who is Black, will be the first person of color to serve as President of CLA.

The new leaders will help direct CLA’s mission to promote excellence, diversity, and inclusion in the legal profession and fairness in the administration of justice. The organization’s volunteers dedicate countless hours each year.

“We are the leading advocacy organization for all lawyers in California,” explains Evans, who was recently honored by Law.com with its 2025 Distinguished Leader Award. “We provide the educational gateway for all areas of practice for all lawyers, at all levels. We are the voice for California lawyers with respect to any proposed rules or legislation impacting the practice of law in California. We also work closely with the California Judges Association on important issues impacting the Rule of Law and access to justice and fairness for all people in California.”

A top priority on CLA’s agenda is to continue to strengthen relationships with the state’s affinity bars and local bar associations. “We provide opportunities for lawyers to be important partners,” Evans notes.

Each incoming leader brings unique legal knowledge and experience to CLA’s Board:

• President: Terrance J. Evans, Partner, Duane Morris LLP
• Vice President: Jill Manning, Founder, The Manning Law Firm, and a Neutral at JAMS
• Chair: Jessi Fierro, Senior Attorney, California Air Resources Board
• Vice Chair: Mark Leonard, General Counsel, Sunsweet Growers Inc.
• Treasurer: Myriam Bouaziz, Director, California Office of Tax Appeals
• Secretary: Elizabeth Blair, Founder, Blair Law

To learn more about California Lawyers Association, please visit: https://calawyers.org/