CLA eNews

As the legal economy grows more complicated and lawyers and clients look for new ways to finance legal work, lawyers in many fields have fashioned new forms of fee arrangements as an important part of their client relationships.  Whenever a lawyer enters into a fee agreement with a client, but especially when adopting a non-traditional approach, lawyers must consider whether their agreement complies with the State Bar Act and Rules of Professional Conduct.  One consideration for lawyers proposing alternative fee agreements for transactional work is whether their arrangements with their clients constitute contingency fee agreements – something traditionally thought of only in connection with litigation.  Read more

It’s in the news. It’s addressed in the law. And it’s vital to the legal profession. The “it” are technology advancements, particularly those involving Artificial Intelligence (AI). As legal professionals, how do you navigate these increasingly complicated developments— from forensics and document review to broader practice innovations—to make the best decisions for your practice needs? Read more

It is often said that women are the backbone of society.  Without women, there would be no society at all.  I was raised by a beautiful strong Black woman who instilled in me the values that have guided me throughout my life.  I have also been mentored by numerous wise women of all different Read more

More than 250 students and their teachers converged on California’s State Capitol for California Legal Pathways Collaborative’s (CLPC) Legislative Day held on February 27, 2025. Sponsored jointly by California Lawyers Foundation (CLF) and CLPC, this annual event offers high school students a special opportunity to engage with political leaders, judges, attorneys, and others in the legal profession. The goal of the day-long gathering is to inspire a diverse legal future. Read more

This article highlights the ethics advisory opinions that were issued during 2024 by the California Lawyers Association’s Ethics Committee (“CLAEC”), 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”), and the California Supreme Court’s Committee on Judicial Ethics Opinions (“CJEO”), as well as recent changes in the State Bar Act, and other regulatory law affecting the conduct of attorneys licensed in the State of California. Read more

More than 39 million residents call California their home. It has the largest population in the nation, and the fifth largest economy in the world. In fact, the 22 smallest states in the US combined have a population about the size of California. Read more

Women now represent 44% of all attorneys; we’re everywhere. It all started with Clara Shortridge Foltz. When Clara was just 15 years old, she eloped with an Iowa farmer 10 years her senior. By her 25th birthday, Clara was living in San Jose, California with her five children, abandoned by her husband who took what little money they had saved. The year was 1875. Read more

Writing appellate briefs can be difficult even for the most seasoned attorneys. But for self-represented litigants, the challenge can be overwhelming. Read more

The statistics are sobering. In its most recent annual Diversity Report Card (make this a hyperlink), the State Bar of California shares the numbers that while nearly 37 percent of people living in California identify as Hispanic or Latino/Latina, only six percent of attorneys identify in this same demographic. Read more

I am excited to invite you to participate in the CLF Classic Charity Golf Tournament, "Fairways to Justice", hosted by the California Lawyers Foundation (CLF) on Thursday, April 17, 2025, at the prestigious Pelican Hill Golf Club in Newport Coast, California. This premier event brings together legal professionals, business leaders, and supporters for a day of exceptional golf, networking, and philanthropy—all in support of CLF’s mission to promote access to justice and civic engagement. The proceeds from this tournament directly support CLF’s vital programs, including the California Legal Pathways Collaborative (CLPC), which provides mentorship, resources, and hands-on experiences to help students pursue legal careers. Additionally, funds raised will go toward scholarships for high school students, empowering the next generation with opportunities to further their education and contribute to their communities. By participating in this event, you are making an investment in the future of the legal profession and helping create pathways for students to achieve their goals. To make this event a success,we need both golfers and sponsors to join us on the course! Sponsorship opportunities are available at various levels, providing valuable exposure for your firm or business while demonstrating a commitment to strengthening legal education and access to justice. Individual and team golf spots are also available, offering a fantastic day on one of California’s most beautiful courses while supporting an important cause. Spots are limited, and we anticipate a strong turnout, so we encourage you to register early. To sign up as a golfer or sponsor, or to learn more about how you can get involved, please visit https://calawyersfoundation.org/clfclassic/. Thank you for your support of the California Lawyers Foundation. We look forward to seeing you on the green for an unforgettable day! Best regards, Jeremy M. Evans President, California Lawyers Foundation Immediate Past President, California Lawyers Association  400 Capitol Mall, Suite 650 Sacramento, CA 95814 Read more