CLA eNews

The California bar licensing renewal period is between February 1 and March 31, 2026.  This is also CLA’s prime recruitment period. I want to take this opportunity to ask each member to help get the word out and recruit new members.  Read more

The laws that govern California are not written in a vacuum. They are shaped by advocates, experts, and engaged professionals who bring their real-world experience to the Capitol. Each spring at Legislative Day, CLA members gather in Sacramento to make their voices heard and directly engage lawmakers who shape our profession’s future. Read more

I review a LOT of leadership books. I want to be a better leader in my professional and volunteer roles, and I want to help others in these realms improve their leadership skills. Read more

February 2026 marks the 100th anniversary of the origins of Black History Month in the United States.  The Father of both Black History and Black History Month is Carter G. Woodson (“Dr. Woodson”), who was born in 1875 to formerly enslaved Black parents.  Read more

Laura Wilkinson’s career in antitrust law has spanned more than two decades and a variety of practice types. From her beginnings at the Federal Trade Commission to her time in private practice before settling in at PayPal as in-house counsel, Laura has seen it all. Read more

The New Radicals, arguably a one-hit wonder 1990s band, is famously known for its song, “Get What You Give.” The tune remains popular as a significant part of pop rock culture and continues to receive countless downloads annually on a variety of music platforms. The song’s theme centers on idealists and the world they enter. Read more

There are certain professions considered callings. Teachers and lawyers are among them. Read more

New Lawyers Section Chair Daniel Cheung learned how to argue his case at an early age, according to his parents. “My mom tells me that when I was in the 4th grade, we were having a fight, as kids do, and I objected to her, which is so embarrassing,” he said with a laugh. “But I think I always just gravitated toward law and government, and that’s what I ended up pursuing in grad school.” Daniel, who is the proud… Read more

Swearing-in ceremonies mark a milestone moment for new attorneys, symbolizing both the culmination of years of study and the beginning of a professional journey in law. In December 2025, California Lawyers Association leaders were on hand at several law school ceremonies across the state to welcome the newest members of the bar, celebrate their achievements, and introduce them to the benefits of CLA membership. For leaders like Ireneo Reus, Anthony Lai, and Max Roemer, attending these ceremonies offered an opportunity to connect with new attorneys, reinforce the supportive community of California lawyers, and ensure that every graduate feels seen, celebrated, and prepared to step confidently into their careers. Read about their experiences below. Read more

CALIFORNIA ETHICS ANNUAL REVIEW 2025 Written by Neil J Wertlieb* This article highlights the ethics advisory opinions that were issued during 2025 by the California State Bar’s Committee on Professional Responsibility and Conduct (“COPRAC”), the American Bar Association’s Standing Committee on Ethics and Professional Responsibility (“ABA”), the Los Angeles County Bar Association Professional Responsibility and Ethics Committee (“PREC”), and the California Supreme Court’s Committee on Judicial Ethics Opinions (“CJEO”), as well as recent changes in the California Rules of Professional… Read more