CLA

Dear Members, Staff, and Supporters of CLA: I am honored that our Board of Representatives has elected me to serve as the next Chair of the California Lawyers Association (“CLA”).  During my term as Chair, I will work to strengthen CLA by growing our 18 amazing sections, which include (in alphabetical order): Antitrust and Unfair Competition Law, represented by Jill Manning; Business Law, represented by Neil Wertlieb; Criminal Law, represented by Alan Yochelson; Environmental Law, represented by Jessi Fierro; Family… Read more

The inaugural California Legal Pathways Collaborative Symposium (CLPC) successfully highlighted law academy teaching teams, advisory councils and student scholarship.  CLPC, the California Lawyers Foundation’s pathway pipeline project, turned 1 year old during this Symposium.  Although the High School Law Academy project started in 2010 in a partnership with the State Bar of California and the California Department of Education, the high school academies (2016-2023) had been a component of the California LAW Pathway that connected the high school pipeline through… Read more

“The Landscape of Artificial Intelligence in the Legal Profession,” was a featured presentation at CLA’s Annual Meeting and leadership Conference on Saturday, September 7th. Speaking to hundreds of CLA members, an esteemed panel of lawyers, judges, and consultants shared their thoughts on the fundamental concepts of AI, the most recent advances in the technology, and how machines which “think like humans” impact the legal profession. Read more

Yosemite. It is a rare and special place. Granite mountains, wildflower sprinkled meadows, stands of giant sequoias, and the world famous Half Dome intertwine to create one of the most magnificent places on earth. Read more

Four inspiring high school students were recognized at the California Legal Pathways Collaborative (CLCP) Law Academy Symposium on September 21st for their academic achievements in government and law. Held at UC Law San Francisco, the honorees received the prestigious Ruthe Catolico Ashely Scholarship award from among dozens of nominees. Each winner was presented with a $1,000 scholarship and plans to pursue a career in law. Read more

I don’t think you would argue with me when I say that, “business as usual,” doesn’t apply to CLA. We are thinkers and innovators in the legal profession, and I doubt that two days ever look the same for any of us. Read more

What happens when you get more than 150 lawyer leaders together for a day of planning, networking and learning?  You make new friends, gain insight, and construct new plans to better serve CLA members, the legal community, and beyond.  Read more

Over 160 enthusiastic 5th grade students and their teachers from Franklin Elementary School and Hellyer Elementary School in Santa Clara County joined with 45 judges and attorneys to engage in a fun and interactive civic learning program during CLA’s Annual Meeting and Leadership Conference in San Jose on Friday, September 8th. Read more

You're invited to the 2025 annual meeting! Read more

Lawyers must ensure their nonlawyer staff acts consistently with the lawyer’s professional obligations. This starts with hiring and avoiding conflicts of interest and continues throughout employment. This program will elaborate on lawyers’ obligations in hiring and training nonlawyer staff appropriately, with a focus on confidentiality, conflicts, and marketing.   Read more