Carving a New Lane for FLEXCOM

By Leslie L. Abrigo, CFLS
Chair, CLA Family Law Executive Committee (FLEXCOM), 2025–2026

This year, FLEXCOM is carving a new lane. It is one that unites expertise with advocacy and emphasizes the influence of thought on the law that shapes interpretation and legislation. As Chair for 2025–2026, my vision is to strengthen FLEXCOM’s role as both a thought leader and a unifying force in California family law. Through collaboration, subject-matter specialization, and legislative engagement, we are creating a space where practitioners, judges, and policymakers can work together to advance the practice and improve the administration of justice.

When the Family Law Section of the California Lawyers Association (CLA) separated from the State Bar, FLEXCOM inherited both a proud legacy and a challenge: visibility. Many in the family law community are unaware of our continuing work or confuse it with other bar organizations. This year’s initiative aims to change that by showcasing FLEXCOM’s unique position as a bridge between the profession and the policies that define it.

From Regional Roots to Subject-Matter Expertise

FLEXCOM has long relied on standing committees to bring diverse perspectives to the table. Historically, those committees were regional. This year, FLEXCOM transitions to a subject-matter model, which is a structure used successfully across other CLA sections, to create consistency, clarity, and deeper collaboration statewide.

This evolution transforms our committees into focused working groups, and what I will call a “think-tank light”. These committees will concentrate on the most essential topics in family law. Each committee will review and analyze legislation, propose new ideas for reform, and produce practical deliverables such as CLE programs, publications, or policy papers that directly impact the practice of family law.

The Committees

FLEXCOM’s new subject matter standing committees are organized as follows:

• Juvenile Dependency (Chair filled)
• Adoptions & Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) (Chair filled)
• Domestic Abuse & Protective Orders (Chair filled)
• ADR & Settlement Innovation
• Child Custody, Parenting Plans & Minors’ Counsel
• Financial Issues: Support, Income & Attorney Fees
• Property, Reimbursements & Tracing
• Procedure & Evidence
• Access to Justice
• Technology & Innovation
• Ethical Legal Practice

We are currently seeking chairs for the open committees listed above.

The Role of a Standing Committee Chair

Each Standing Committee Chair serves a three-year term and plays a key role in shaping the statewide dialogue on family law. Chairs are expected to:

• Convene at least four meetings per year (virtual or in person);
• Participate in three FLEXCOM meetings annually, including two legislative review sessions in March and April;
• Lead the committee’s legislative review and research efforts on their subject matter area of expertise;
• Identify and pursue one “passion project” each year such as a CLE, article, or policy initiative.

Meetings may be held remotely, and travel for in-person meetings is reimbursable under CLA policy. More than an administrative role, the Chair position is a platform for leadership, mentorship, and influence. They are a way to shape the laws that govern our work and to ensure that family law practitioners have a strong, credible voice in statewide policy.

Get Involved

For more information or to apply to serve as a Standing Committee Chair or Vice Chair, visit the official Standing Committee Application page.

To stay connected with FLEXCOM’s work, upcoming events, and legislative updates, visit our page.

Together, we can carve a stronger, more connected future for California family law.