Download Cover Story as a PDF.
In order to offer its members increased diversity alongside engaging networking and learning opportunities, the Orange County Bar Association proudly partners with a variety of Affiliate Bars. As such, you are invited to take this opportunity to go behind the scenes and learn more about the OCBA Affiliates directly from their leadership. Joining a relevant Affiliate Bar may improve your practice while simultaneously increasing your involvement in the Orange County legal community.
ASSOCIATION OF BUSINESS TRIAL LAWYERS, ORANGE COUNTY CHAPTER Daniel Sasse ABTL-OC, President
The Association of Business Trial Lawyers (ABTL) was founded in Los Angeles in 1973 to develop a better forum for the discussion of business trials. The ABTL is unique in providing a forum in which litigators and judges meet together to address issues important to business trial lawyers. Judicial participation in ABTL programs and events is very strong, in part because the ABTL includes all business litigators, including both plaintiff-focused and defense-focused lawyers.
The Orange County Chapter (ABTL-OC) was founded in 1998 and consists of about 700 members. The ABTL-OC provides top quality legal education programs, combined with social hours where old and new colleagues can meet with each other and with judges over a glass of chardonnay or a pint of ale. The ABTL-OC typically holds its dinner programs in February, April, June, September, and November. At its most recent program on January 31, 2018, we had a lively discussion about the legal and social impact of the #MeToo Movement. At our November 2017 event, we learned about the legal innovations and challenges of artificial intelligence and autonomous vehicles. Our March program was entitled Cannabis as an Emerging Industry: the Medical, Legal, and Political Challenges, and will be followed by our annual Robert E. Palmer Wine Tasting Dinner to benefit the Public Law Center on May 23, 2018.
In addition to its educational dinner programs, the ABTL is known across the state for its unmatched Annual Seminars. In even years, the seminar is held in Hawaii; in odd years, it is held somewhere on the mainland. This year’s seminar will take place October 10–14 at the newly renovated Wailea Beach Resort in Maui. The seminars usually draw approximately 400 individuals, most of whom are lawyers and judges from up and down the state.
ABTL-OC also is dedicated to mentoring and fostering relations with its “Young Lawyer Division” (YLD), which is defined as those practicing ten years or fewer, and organizes events throughout the year for those in the YLD. The brown-bag lunch series invites ABTL YLD members to interact with distinguished members of our local bench in an informal setting. Similarly, throughout the year, the YLD organizes “nuts and bolts” programs for our young lawyer members, happy hours, and a year-end judicial mixer. There is no cost to attend these events.
Finally, ABTL-OC is devoted to giving back to the Orange County community. Each year, ABTL-OC participates in building at least one house (often two) for Habitat for Humanity right here in Orange County. And at our November dinner program, the ABTL-OC hosts its holiday gift-giving opportunity, where attendees at the program participate by donating money to select children’s charities or by donating stuffed animals to the Orange County Superior Court’s adoption program, which offers a new stuffed animal to children on the day of their adoption.
Every Orange County litigator is encouraged to join ABTL-OC. The cost is only $110 per year, and only $85 per person if all of a firm’s litigators join. Law students can join for a special price of only $20 per year. For more information, visit our website at www.ABTL.org, or contact Linda Sampson at abtloc@abtl.org or 714.516.8106.
CELTIC BAR ASSOCIATION Susan Cameron Kelley CBA-OC, President
The goals of the Celtic Bar are to promote camaraderie amongst its membership, civility, and professionalism within the Orange County legal community, and a greater awareness of the Celtic culture and history, particularly its contribution to the law. There are seven separate Celtic nations, all of which are connected to one another by common history and culture: Wales, Scotland, Ireland, the Isle of Man (if your ancestors are from Man, your dues are waived for the first year), Galicia (in Spain), Brittany (in France), and Cornwall (in England). The Celtic people are known for their outgoing nature and their love of the written and spoken word. Not surprisingly, many descendants of Celtic immigrants have entered the legal profession. While there are many Irish-American lawyers’ groups in major cities throughout the United States, we believe that the CBA is the first attempt to gather all the Celtic clans in a single legal organization.
We meet on the third Tuesday of each month at Muldoon’s Irish Pub (through the graciousness of one of our founding members, Ronald O’Schwartz), located near Fashion Island in Newport Beach. We have a long-standing tradition that is set forth in our bylaws that meetings cannot last more than five minutes, which bylaw is strictly adhered to at all meetings.
Each year, we install our officers and recognize our Celtic Judge of the Year on Samhain Eve, which heralds the beginning of the Celtic New Year. This past year, Judge Linda S. Marks was recognized as the Celtic Judge of the Year, while past recipients include Judge Nancy Wieben Stock (Ret.), Judge Gail A. Andler (Ret.), Judge Dennis Choate (Ret.), Judge Sheila Fell, Judge James Di Cesare, Justice Kathleen O’Leary, Judge William McDonald, Judge C. Robert Jameson, Judge David McEachen, Judge Ronald Kreber, Judge Dan Pratt, Judge Franz Miller, Judge Michael Brenner, Judge Andrew Banks, Judge Lon Hurwitz, and Justice William Bedsworth.
We have organized travel seminars to Ireland, Scotland, Iceland, France, Italy, England, Spain, and Wales. We will be announcing our new next trip soon and hope to take it in October 2018. We have also had excursions to the contemporary Irish comedies, Stella by Starlight and Many Happy Returns at the Laguna Playhouse, Riverdance and The Weir at the Orange County Performing Arts Center, Thurgood at the Geffen Theater, as well as the Orange County Irish Fair, the Renaissance Faire, and Irish and Celtic movies. Guest speakers at our events have included Kerry Kennedy Cuomo, human rights activist and daughter of Robert Kennedy; the prominent Irish playwright, Bernard Farrell; and our own Judge McDonald (Ret.), all of whom adhered to the five-minute meeting rule.
Over 300 lawyers and judges have rallied to our cause. One does not have to be of Celtic descent to join the CBA. On the contrary, all we ask is that you be a member of the OCBA, have an outgoing nature, and support our organization’s goals. (Oh yes, we do have modest annual dues at $25!) For further information, please contact CBA President Susan Cameron Kelley at susan@susankelleylaw.com, or call 714-704-9232.
FEDERAL BAR ASSOCIATION, ORANGE COUNTY CHAPTER Amy Laurendeau FBA/OC, President
The FBA is the preeminent national organization for private and government lawyers and judges involved in federal practice. The organization’s mission is to strengthen the federal legal system and administration of justice by serving the interests and needs of federal practitioners, the federal judiciary, and the public.
The Orange County Chapter of the FBA covers the spectrum of federal legal practice in Orange County and focuses on presenting frequent and topical CLE programs. Local federal judges assist in planning and presenting many of the programs, provide valuable and specific insight on federal practice in Orange County, and serve on the FBA/OC Board of Directors. Programs and events provide a unique opportunity to meet federal judges and courthouse personnel, stay current on the latest developments in federal practice, and meet and learn from other federal practitioners in our community. FBA/OC has won numerous national awards as an outstanding chapter for its innovative and valuable programs and its excellent newsletter.
FBA/OC’s regular programs include: annual civil, criminal, and intellectual property practice programs on cutting edge topics; periodic “Behind the Bench” and “Behind the Glass” tours of the Ronald Reagan Federal Courthouse; and special programs with nationally recognized members of the legal community. The Chapter’s hallmark event each year, Judges’ Night, draws many judges from local and regional courts. Each summer, the organization hosts two Bench and Bar luncheon events, during which local federal judges provide valuable insights to practitioners.
FBA/OC supports the local community by hosting an annual pro bono lunch to raise awareness of the various pro bono programs in the county. Its members also support the Federal Pro Se Clinic at the Santa Ana courthouse via volunteer activities.
The Chapter’s membership spans a wide range of attorneys in Orange County, from civil to criminal, from private practitioners to corporate counsel to federal attorneys with the United States Attorney’s Office, Federal Public Defender’s Office, and other federal agencies, and includes lawyers in diverse practices, from solo offices to the largest firms. The Chapter also is committed to promoting the growth of younger federal practitioners via its Young Lawyers Division.
For more information, membership applications, or to join the FBA-OC, visit the website at www.fbaoc.com or contact FBA/OC Administration at info@fbaoc.com, or 949.608.9905 (phone and fax).
HISPANIC BAR ASSOCIATION OF ORANGE COUNTY Darrell White OCHBA, President
Since 1974, the Orange County Hispanic Bar Association (OCHBA) has advocated for a legal community that reflects the true diversity of Orange County. Our core mission is to increase opportunities for Latinos to:
The OCHBA encourages law school students with its Wally Davis Scholarships, awarded to deserving law students every year since 1995. Wally Davis scholars have gone on to work at large and small firms, in both public and private service, and several have joined the leadership ranks of the OCHBA as Board Members and Presidents.
Every year, the OCHBA’s Scholarship Fundraiser and Installation Dinner draws hundreds of leaders of the local legal community. This year we celebrated our 40th Anniversary dinner where we honored Norma García Guíllen as Attorney of the Year, Joseph L. Chairez with the Hon. Francisco P. Briseño Lifetime Achievement Award, Goodwill of Orange County with Guardián de Justicia Award, and Microsoft Corporation with our Corporate Citizen Award. We celebrated our 40th Anniversary dinner with a special recognition to our founders, Hon. Frederick Aguirre (Ret.), Hon. Francisco Briseño (Ret.), Michael J. Silvas, Wallace (Wally) R. Davis, Hon. Gregory Muñoz (Ret.), Hon. Luis A. Cardenas (Ret.), Hon. Frances Muñoz (Ret.), Hon. Richard Orosco (Ret.), Ramon Ortiz, Rudy Montejano, Robert Espinosa, Jess Araujo, Jose Ramirez, and Hon. James Perez (Ret.).
The OCHBA provides professional enrichment, mentorship and networking for its members to make a positive impact in our community and future generations of Latino leaders, attorneys, and judges. This year we celebrated the appointment of our past board member, Hon. Andre De La Cruz, to the bench. In addition, President-elect, Yolanda V. Torres was recently appointed as an OCBA board member. We look forward to more of our members taking on leadership positions and making a positive impact within our legal community.
We also provide a yearly MCLE travel seminar, and this year, the HBA travels to Barcelona, Spain. Further, the OCHBA’s mixers throughout the year have become a staple in the Orange County legal community including our Angels Game Mixer with the Orange County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, Judges BBQ, End of Summer Mixer, and Toy Drive Holiday Party.
As the OCHBA is committed to serve the community as lawyers, mentors, and community leaders, we intend to continue supporting the Santa Ana High School Legal Skills Academy, volunteering with Public Law Center naturalization workshops, providing prom dresses and career outfits to Santa Ana High School students, and much more.
If you are interested in becoming a member or learning more about the OCHBA, its Committees, its scholarships, or how to get involved, please visit www.ochba.org or email info@ochba.org.
IRANIAN AMERICAN BAR ASSOCIATION, ORANGE COUNTY CHAPTER Nesa Targhibi IABA-OC, President
The Iranian American Bar Association (IABA) was formed in 2000 in the District of Columbia. Having begun with one chapter and only four founding members, IABA has grown to include nine chapters nationwide and a membership of prominent attorneys, law students, and members of the judiciary. IABA’s chapters include: Chicago, Dallas, Los Angeles, New York, Northern California, Orange County, Phoenix, San Diego, and Washington, D.C.
IABA is a professional organization that seeks to educate and inform the Iranian American community about legal issues of interest and to ensure that the American public at large, our local representatives, and other government officials are fully and accurately informed on legal matters of interest and concern to the Iranian American community. IABA also strives to foster and promote the achievements of Iranian American lawyers and other legal professionals. IABA is an independent, non-religious, and apolitical organization. IABA is not a lobbying or advocacy group; it is primarily an educational organization and is categorized as a non-profit organization under section 501(c)(6) of the Internal Revenue Code.
The Orange County Chapter of IABA hosts many wonderful events each year, including: MCLEs that focus on the needs of our members, social mixers at a variety of local establishments, an annual Toy Drive during the holidays, community outreach events such as egg painting during spring and beach clean-up days, and an Annual Gala held in May aboard a yacht in Newport Beach that raises money for law students scholarships. Last year’s scholarship recipients attended Orange County law schools.
Each October, the membership will vote in a new Board of Directors. The Board of Directors meets monthly and is tasked with putting together the above mentioned events. This is our second full year as an Affiliate Bar of the Orange County Bar Association. One of the events that we were proud to host last year was a joint mixer with the Immigration Law Section of the OCBA. We look forward to co-hosting mixers with the other Orange County Bar Association Affiliate Bar organizations in the future.
We are also proud that this year’s Board has partnered up with pro bono clinics in Orange County and is involved in organizing events for the low-income public who require the services of pro bono lawyers.
IABA is open to all attorney members and law students, and one does not need to be of Iranian descent to join.
ITALIAN AMERICAN LAWYERS OF ORANGE COUNTY—LEX ROMANA Joseph Ferrucci IALOC, President
Our mission is to celebrate Italian culture, provide continuing legal education opportunities to members of the Orange County legal community, and create fun and festive opportunities for networking among lawyers, non-lawyers, and anyone interested in good food, good wine, and good company.
The Italian American Lawyers of Orange County—Lex Romana (IALOC) meets on the second Tuesday of each month at various Italian Restaurants throughout Orange County. Annual highlights include our January Board Installation Dinner, cooking demonstrations, and free networking events including Wine Tasting of “Grapes of Italy” and Appetizers in April, a July Bocce Tournament at Il Fornaio, and a special holiday event.
Additionally IALOC recognizes annually a member of the legal community for their outstanding lifetime legal career and support to the Italian American Lawyers of Orange County. As well as awarding scholarships to worthy law students whose Italian Heritage has influenced their choice of a legal profession.
As an MCLE provider, IALOC provides periodic CLE programs to its members, normally while enjoying a glass of wine and good Italian cuisine. In addition to these local CLE programs, IALOC has a “CLE in Italy” program, every two years, through which attendees can obtain MCLE credits while experiencing the history, food, wine, and culture available only in Italy. Having previously traveled to Sicily, Tuscany, and the Verona region, our next trip will be to Sorrento in October 2018.
The IALOC takes pride in being the premier OCBA Affiliate that places equal emphasis on the importance of legal, cultural, epicurean, and fermented contributions Italians have made to our society. We are well known for our love of Italian culture, food, and wines and believe everyone is an Italian at heart. Italians and non-Italians are all welcome and encouraged to join. Our membership has grown over the years and is currently approximately 100 members. If you love good food, good wine, good company, and periodic opportunities for CLE locally and in Italy, you qualify for membership in the IALOC!
The IALOC established its roots in the Orange County community in 1979 with Joseph D’Antony installed as its first President. Founding members also include Hon. James Di Cesare, Frank Barbaro, John DiCaro, Joseph DiVincenzo, Andrew Lachina, and Frank Terreri. The IALOC thanks all of its past presidents.
For more information on becoming a member, attending a meeting, learning about the IALOC and its history, searching our Board and Membership Directories, or getting on our CLE in Italy interest list, please visit our website at IALOC.org or contact our 2018 President, Joseph Ferrucci.
J. REUBEN CLARK LAW SOCIETY—ORANGE COUNTY CHAPTER Lance Smemoe JRCLS-OC, Chair
The J. Reuben Clark Law Society is a diverse, worldwide organization with active chapters throughout Europe, Asia, Africa, Australia, and North, Central, and South America. The JRCLS emphasizes public service, loyalty to the rule of law and to the Constitution, and appreciation for the religious dimensions in both society at large and in a lawyer’s personal life. The JRCLS Mission Statement reflects these values: “We affirm the strength brought to the law by a lawyer’s personal religious conviction. We strive through public service and professional excellence to promote fairness and virtue founded upon the rule of law.”
With approximately 150 active members, the Orange County chapter is one of the largest and most dynamic in the JCRLS. Our chapter hosts six CLE luncheons each year, an annual Religion & the Law Symposium held at Chapman University, women-in-the-law events, an annual dinner, and service events. We refer pro bono matters to our members who are interested in such opportunities.
Members of the JRCLS and their guests have recently heard presentations by Hon. Donald P. Wagner, mayor of the City of Irvine, on “Ethics and Government Service,” and by Hon. Thomas B. Griffith, U.S. Appeals Court Judge for the D.C. Circuit.
Our society is named after an eminent statesman, jurist, and religious leader who embodied the values we espouse. J. Reuben Clark, Jr. served as solicitor of the U.S. State Department and later in the JAG Officers’ Reserve Corps, earning a Distinguished Service Medal in his work for the U.S. Attorney General’s Office during World War II. He also served as Undersecretary of State, publishing the “Clark Memorandum on the Monroe Doctrine,” and then as U.S. Ambassador to Mexico. He later served in the First Presidency of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Membership in the JRCLS is open to all law students, attorneys, and judges who support our mission statement and share these values. There is no requirement to have attended or graduated from the J. Reuben Clark Law School at Brigham Young University or to be a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. All who share our mission are welcome.
Anyone interested in attending one of our luncheons or joining our organization may contact the JRCLS-OC Chapter Chair, Lance Smemoe at lance.smemoe@knobbe.com, or visit our websites at www.jrcls-oc.com and www.jrcls.org.
ORANGE COUNTY ASIAN AMERICAN BAR ASSOCIATION Jeannie Kim OCAABA, President
Established in 1993, the Orange County Asian American Bar Association (OCAABA) is proudly celebrating its 25th year as Orange County’s pan-Asian bar association. OCAABA’s objectives are to: (1) promote professional development and personal growth; (2) foster the exchange of ideas and information between OCAABA and the broader legal profession and community at large; (3) provide a forum for fellowship spanning other civic organizations; (4) promote educational and civic events and programs that enhance the community’s knowledge and understanding of, and thus appreciation for, the legal system and the profession of law; and (5) provide a vehicle for the expression of reasonable opinion arising in the Asian American community on current social, political, economic, legal, or other matters of interest or concern.
OCAABA’s dedication to its mission is embodied in its committees and sections:
The Professional Development Committee organizes MCLE programs and seminars on topics of interest to the OCAABA membership. These original programs focus on providing guidance to its member attorneys for their professional development and advancement.
The In-House Counsel Section strives to build stronger relationships among corporate and outside legal counsel through the exchange of ideas and information at networking events and programs such as the “The Three Must-Know GCs in OC” reception and “Must-Know GCs” lunch series.
The Small Firm/Solo Practice Section provides a welcoming and diverse home for solo, small firm, and general practice attorneys by offering a platform of programs, networking mixers, and general support to assist members in advancing and improving their practices.
The Pipeline Committee works with law student associations and partners with local law schools—Chapman’s Fowler School of Law, Western State, Whittier, and UCI—to provide mentorship, career panel programs, and skills workshops to our future lawyers.
The Community Service Committee organizes pro bono clinics and charitable drives each year to provide opportunities for members to volunteer on the project(s) of their choice. OCAABA is also a strong supporter of Asian Americans Advancing Justice and the Public Law Center.
The Social Committee plans and coordinates social events throughout the year. The Moon Festival Mixer and the Holiday Dim Sum Mixer have become two of our signature events, creating opportunities for students, attorneys, judges, and community supporters (including other minority bar organizations) within our membership to promote friendship and professional ties.
The Membership Committee is dedicated to expanding OCAABA’s membership base to support OCAABA’s ongoing efforts to serve the APA community in Orange County. In recent years, the Membership Committee has held bi-annual membership drives: the Fall Membership Drive and the Sushi & Sake Fest, where members can renew their annual memberships and meet candidates for OCAABA’s incoming board of directors and executive board.
The PR/Affiliates Committee focuses on outreach to OCAABA’s affiliate bars and the wider community. OCAABA partners with affiliate bars to host events throughout the year, such as a judicial reception to welcome new judges to Orange County. OCAABA also actively participates in the National Asian Pacific American Bar Association and California Minority Counsel Program to offer additional resources to OCAABA members.
The Judicial Evaluation Committee evaluates qualified judicial candidates for endorsement by OCAABA.
OCAABA’s annual installation and awards dinner offers a chance for members and friends to celebrate an evening of camaraderie. This year, OCAABA will host its 25th Annual Installation Gala on May 17, 2018 at Crevier Classic Car Gallery in Costa Mesa. As OCAABA celebrates its 25th anniversary at a new and exciting venue, it will install its 2018-2019 officers and directors; establish a memorial scholarship in honor of its founder, the late Hon. Arthur Nakazato, United States Magistrate Judge for the Central District of California, and award additional scholarships to local law students.
For more information, please visit www.ocaaba.org or email contactus@ocaaba.org.
ORANGE COUNTY CRIMINAL DEFENSE BAR ASSOCIATION Paul Meyer OCCDBA, President
The OCCDBA is the unified voice of the criminal defense bar for Orange County. The founding Board members, Paul Meyer (President), Kate Corrigan (Past President), Jennifer Keller, Gary Pohlson, John Barnett, Mike McDonnell, Al Stokke, Jack Earley, and Ed Muñoz started the association to promote the interests of the private criminal defense bar in Orange County. Ed Flores, Tom Bienert, and Ed Welbourn joined the Board and are currently serving as active members.
The OCCDBA Board members have been actively participating in courthouse meetings and providing a voice for the private criminal defense bar. The concerns and input from members have contributed to many productive changes in the Orange County criminal courts. Membership continues to grow, and great MCLE is one of the hallmarks of the OCCDBA. Expanded vision for private defense counsel and a high level of camaraderie amongst its members are highlights of the Association. Our meetings have included panel discussions with presiding and trial judges, open forums for judicial candidates, and great insights arising from those practicing trial and appellate law. In the coming year, the programs will continue to feature town-hall style exchanges with the bench and co-hosted receptions with other legal associations. The OCCDBA members range in age and experience. Seasoned attorneys offer their time and insights to younger members in a friendly and informal mentoring setting.
We meet at 5:00 p.m. on the last Thursday of the month at Original Mike’s in Santa Ana. Our dues are $150 per year, and we offer a discount to law students and investigators. Membership is now open. For further information, please contact OCCDBA President Paul Meyer, Past President Kate Corrigan, or visit our website at www.occdba.com.
ORANGE COUNTY JEWISH BAR ASSOCIATION Scott Jackman OCJBA, President
The Orange County Jewish Bar Association was founded in 2010. Our mission statement explains our purpose: “Providing a social environment that will engender comradeship among its members, building upon the foundation of thousands of years of Jewish tradition steeped in the law (Torah), fostering the application of Jewish principles and morality, committing good deeds (Mitzvot) and acts of kindness (Tzedakah) while practicing law and serving the community.”
The OCJBA gives back to the Orange County community by participating in pro bono activities with Human Options and Jewish Federation/Family Services. The OCJBA’s partnership with the Anti-Defamation League has brought the Anti-Bullying Campaign in full swing as member volunteers (and others) visit Orange County K-12 schools offering a free, nationally approved program. The sole purpose is to educate schools on how best to deal with bullying issues from both the target’s and perpetrator’s perspectives.
The OCJBA meets the first Tuesday of every month at Muldoon’s in Newport Beach, located at 202 Newport Center Drive. The OCJBA is eternally grateful to Ron Schwartz for hosting our “Schmooze and Booze” meetings. The meetings are open, and all are welcome, Jewish or non-Jewish; you do not have to be a “member” to attend.
For more information about the OCJBA or pro bono activities, please visit our website at www.ocjba.org, write to OCJBA, P.O. Box 6130, Newport Beach, CA 92658, or email Scott Jackman at sjackman@socal.rr.com.
ORANGE COUNTY KOREAN AMERICAN BAR ASSOCIATION Wade Pyun OC KABA, President
OCKABA was established in 2005 to foster professional relationships between Korean-American attorneys through business networking events, provide pro bono services aimed at addressing the needs of the Korean-American community, promote the appointment of Korean-American judges, and facilitate the efforts of Korean-American law students to navigate the transition to licensed practice. At present, the group consists of over 100 local Korean-American attorneys whose respective areas of practice cover a broad range; this group includes judges, law firm partners, in-house counsel, government attorneys, law school faculty, public interest attorneys, and solo practitioners. Even though OCKABA is comprised of 1st, 1.5, and 2nd generation Korean-American attorneys whose individual areas of practice and specialization encompass a wide range, OCKBABA members share a common vision of, and commitment to, strengthening both the Korean-American community and the broader community at large through a diverse program of business networking, mentorship, and pro bono offerings.
OCKABA’s growing visibility and membership serves to demonstrate the fact that the Korean-American community is at a unique crossroads, at a juncture when 1.5 and 2nd generation Korean-Americans are coming into their own in their professional lives and endeavors. The turnout for OCKABA’s 2018 installation dinner and awards ceremony, which took place on November 9, 2017 at Hotel Irvine, was almost 250 attendees. The honorees at this event included the Honorable Susan Jung-Townsend, and Sylvia Kim, the Orange County regional director for Asian Americans Advancing Justice (AAAJ). OCKABA also presented Community Partnership Awards to the Council of Korean Americans (CKA) and the International Association of Korean Lawyers (IAKL). Michael Yang, the founder of MySimon.com, accepted on behalf of CKA, and Peter Rho, a partner at Lee Hong Degerman Kang & Waimey, accepted on behalf of IAKL.
OCKABA’s events have been designed to bring together Korean-American attorneys and other professionals in order to find and foster ways that we can give back to the community in a manner that transcends occupational differences and generational divides. For instance, OCKABA has co-hosted several joint-events with the Korean-American Graduate Medical Association, with the aim of enlisting their participation at our pro bono clinics, so that their physician members can provide medical consultations that complement the pro bono legal services provided by OCKABA. OCKABA has also co-hosted several joint events with AAAJ, including a citizenship clinic in Buena Park this past July which was the largest Asian-community-serving citizenship clinic in the history of Orange County.
OCKABA’s community projects and initiatives include the provision of pro bono services to economically disadvantaged and underserved members of the local community. OCKABA’s pro bono clinic offerings include monthly clinics that are conducted in collaboration with its community non-profit partners: the Korean American Federation in Orange County and Korean Community services in Buena Park. OCKABA is committed to the goal of increasing its pro bono program offerings and expanding its outreach to benefit other community groups, such as the Koreatown Youth and Community Center and the Korean Resource Center. Last April, OCKABA also supported the Embrace Unity Gala, an event designed to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the 1992 Los Angeles riots; the event raised over $250,000, with all of the net proceeds divided equally among six non-profit organizations that included, among other groups, the Tiger Woods Foundation and the UCLA Office of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion.
In 2018, OCKABA will be partnering with the U.S.-Korea Law Foundation to host a day-long conference devoted to the intersection of U.S. and Korean law in an array of areas, including international human rights, intellectual property law, and international business and litigation; the 2018 U.S.-Korea Law Day, which will feature a broad range of accomplished leaders from the business and legal community, as well as the public/non-profit sector, will take place on April 28, 2018, at the regional corporate headquarters of Kia Motors America in Irvine, California.
OCKABA exemplifies the notion that the sum is greater than the parts. The community initiatives spearheaded by OCKABA are meaningful and substantive, and OCKABA’s business networking events foster strong professional relationships and personal friendships. Additional information about membership in OCKABA can be accessed at www.oc-kaba.org.
ORANGE COUNTY LAVEDER BAR ASSOCIATION Matthew Troncali OCLBA, President
The Orange County Lavender Bar Association (OCLBA) is the official association of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender (LGBT), and allied attorneys, judges, and law students in the county. OCLBA provides networking, educational, and mentorship opportunities and resources to its membership and the community with the goal of increasing the county’s participation in the broader statewide LGBT community and the visibility of LGBT issues in the county.
OCLBA launched on June 16, 2010, at a gala attended by 200 attorneys, philanthropists, business and community leaders, judges, professors, and students. The gala featured remarks by the attorneys who completed closing arguments in the landmark Perry v. Schwarzenegger case, which challenged Proposition 8 in federal court. Since then, OCLBA’s Board of Directors, which includes representatives from private practice and academia, continue to implement a robust series of bar programs. These programs include a number of highly successful events ranging from constitutional law to tax and estate planning issues facing the LGBT community, along with social events for networking opportunities.
Each summer, OCLBA’s annual Anniversary Gala honors community and legal leaders in the fight for justice and equality. OCLBA also awards its M. Katherine B. Darmer Equality Scholarship to a law student committed to LGBT issues in Orange County. At our 7th Anniversary Gala in 2017, OCLBA honored Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Dean Hansell with the OCLBA Community Leadership Award and honored Dr. Karyl Ketchum from CSU Fullerton with the M. Katherine B. Darmer Outstanding Community Service Award. OCLBA awarded the fourth M. Katherine B. Darmer Equality Scholarship to Helen Boyer, a law student at UCI School of Law.
Recently, OCLBA co-hosted a free CLE symposium on contemporary transgender legal and policy battles with UCI School of Law’s OutLaw group on March 23-24, 2018. OCLBA also hosted a Drag Brunch Mixer on April 22 and its annual Harvey Milk Day Luncheon at Bryan Cave on May 22, featuring elimination of bias CLE credit. The OCLBA’s 8th Anniversary Gala will be held July 11 in the Sky Garden at the Michelson Building in Irvine.
OCLBA seeks to serve and unite not just the LGBT community, but our allies as well. For more information, please visit www.oclba.org or email info@oclba.org.
ORANGE COUNTY TRIAL LAWYERS ASSOCIATION Geraldine Ly OCTLA, President
Formed in 1963, when plaintiffs’ attorneys gathered to share information and exchange tips and strategies with one another, the Orange County Trial Lawyers Association (OCTLA) has grown into one of the most influential Affiliate Bar organizations in Orange County. Now in its fifty-fifth year, OCTLA is stronger than ever, dedicated to promoting quality representation of consumers and employees while educating and supporting our membership. Below is an overview of the benefits that OCTLA members enjoy.
Best Networking Opportunities in Orange County: It’s no secret that OCTLA is one of the most prominent bar organizations in Orange County, and members are treated to regular networking opportunities with judges and top lawyers in the county at special events and our monthly dinner meetings.
Relevant and Interesting Educational Events: Not all MCLE educational events are created equal. OCTLA provides monthly opportunities to earn MCLE credits while learning about relevant issues from some of the greatest speakers in the state.
Informative Quarterly Magazine: From insightful interviews with Orange County Superior Court judges to practical, nuts-and-bolts articles on issues of procedure and trial skills, you will not want to miss an issue of The Gavel magazine.
Member Listserv: Some have said OCTLA’s most valuable member benefit is our improved member listserv, which allows attorney members to post questions regarding their cases and solicit immediate responses from hundreds of fellow trial attorneys.
Deposition Bank: Our attorney members also have free access to our online expert deposition bank stocked with numerous deposition transcripts. It’s like having the resources of a large law firm at your fingertips. And, coming soon, our online Motion Bank.
OCTLA Trial Watch: OCTLA’s Trial Calendar lists upcoming trials offering our members an unprecedented opportunity to observe, gain insight, and learn effective trial skills and techniques first-hand from OCTLA’s experienced trial attorneys.
Social Activities: OCTLA gives its members many opportunities to build lasting personal and professional relationships. These include our annual Columbus Day Golf Tournament, fun networking mixers including members-only Bowling Night and Angel’s Game Family Night. For those who enjoy more formal events, OCTLA delivers with its black tie Installation and Judicial Awards Program held in January each year and its annual Top Gun Trial Lawyer of the Year Awards Program and charity auction, which will be held on Saturday, December 1, 2018 at the Westin, South Coast Plaza.
All attorneys engaged in trial practice in Orange County are encouraged to join OCTLA. With benefits like these, how can you afford not to join? For more information, visit our website at www.OCTLA.org, or contact OCTLA at 949.916.9577.
THURGOOD MARSHALL BAR ASSOCIATION Denisha McKenzie TMBA, President
Thurgood Marshall Bar Association (TMBA) was founded in 2012. TMBA is a contemporary bar association committed to connect, support, and increase the Black legal community in Orange County. TMBA strives to promote diversity, professional improvement, and the advancement of justice through positive community involvement and excellence in the practice of law for the Black legal community, allies, and the community at large. Everyone is welcomed to join and encouraged to support TMBA.
This year, I am proud to serve as the President of TMBA. The leadership of the organization consists of sixteen dedicated board members who have volunteered their time to support TMBA’s mission while at the same time leading active careers in various sectors of our legal community. It is with the sincerest gratitude that I thank our 2018-2019 Board for their service, including board members Yemi Adeyanju, Daniel Alexander, Denise Carter, Justin Cruz, Lakeisha Dorsey, Kalinda Fyles, Michael Gregg, Javier Gutierrez, Desirae Hutchison, Kimberly LaSalle, Christyn Richardson, Akhil Sheth, Rebekah Thomas, Brooke Weitzman, and Caylin Young.
For the first time in the organization’s history, TMBA hosted its Inaugural Scholarship Award and Installation Dinner on January 13, 2018. We would like to thank everyone who was able to attend, sponsor, and support this event, including our spectacular sponsors Carothers, DiSante, & Freudenberger, Crowell & Moring, JAMS, Chapman’s Dale E. Fowler School of Law, Western State College of Law, Robinson Calcagnie, Inc., Littler Mendelson, Howard Law P.C., Orange County Women Lawyers Association, Hispanic Bar Association, Black Chamber of Orange County, and Diversity & Social Justice Forum. We would also like to congratulate all of our award recipients, including Judge Karen L. Robinson (Legal Excellence Award), UCI Law Assistant Dean for Admissions and Student Financial Services Jay Austin (Lifetime Leadership Award), and UCI Law Professor Michele Goodwin (Professor of the Year), and Law Student Ambassadors (Sandra Davidson, Bradford Oduguwa, Rick Reener Jr., Canon Thomas, Andre X. Webb, Christopher Williams, and Kimberlyn Young).
TMBA has many things planned for the remainder of the year. We once again will award Law Student Ambassador Scholarships to several law students within the Orange County community. Our next Scholarship Awards and Installation Dinner, where these scholarships will be distributed, will take place next year during the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday weekend. Additionally, TMBA is planning to host an event that explores issues of race and policing. Several other social and educational networking events and volunteer opportunities will also take place this year. Please get in touch with us at thurgoodmarshallbarassociation.org if you would like to get involved with TMBA and support any of these events.
ORANGE COUNTY WOMEN LAWYERS ASSOCIATION Jaimi Groothuis OCWLA, President
Over the past forty-three years, OCWLA has been dedicated to advancing women in the legal profession. We support the continued growth and development of OCWLA and its members by providing a professional network, raising awareness of discrimination and bias, and supporting charitable organizations.
In addition to helping women in the legal community, OCWLA is dedicated to donating money from its fundraising efforts to Orange County women and children in need. After a successful forty-second anniversary fundraising gala last year, this year OCWLA is in a position to make donations of over $20,000 to several important local groups this year, including WHW, Girls, Inc., Elder Law & Disability Rights Center, OCBF Project Youth, Project Hope Alliance, Hands Together, CASA of Orange County, Laura’s House, and the Collaborative Courts Foundation of Orange County. The Annual Gala is our primary fundraising event and source of our charitable giving.
Currently, our Board of Directors is hard at work planning our Annual Fundraising Gala. We are pleased to announce that this year we will be honoring our 2018 Judge of the Year to the Honorable Karen L. Robinson, Orange County Superior Court. We are also pleased to announce Andra B. Greene, partner at Irell & Manella LLP, as our 2018 Attorney of the Year. New this year, OCWLA will award the Advancement of Women Award to a firm or organization that has implemented programs to advance women in the profession. These awards will be presented at our Annual Gala Dinner in September at the Pelican Hill Resort. We will also be presenting our charitable awards to WHW and Girls, Inc. at this event.
OCWLA uses money raised through the fundraising efforts of the OCWLA Foundation to award bar stipends and diversity bar stipends twice annually to law school graduates who are studying for the California Bar Examination. In the past year, we have also provided financial support to organizations such as the Public Law Center, OCKABA, and the Thurgood Marshall Bar Association.
As a membership benefit, the OCWLA has regular MCLE lunch meetings at Andrei’s, a non-profit restaurant in Irvine. Our meetings offer quality Continuing Legal Education (CLE) programs at very reasonable prices featuring those from the bench and bar. We also hold several evening programs throughout the year, and plan to hold additional social events at affordable pricing to encourage attendance of all attorneys, including those new to the bar. We also held our annual Women Judges Reception to honor our many female federal and state judges. OCWLA is an affiliate of California Women Lawyers and National Association of Women Lawyers, offering OCWLA members steeply discounted memberships in both organizations.
OCWLA welcomes both men and women to our organization who join us in our mission statement, and we are excited for another successful year! For more information about OCWLA, view our website at ocwla.org or contact us at info@ocwla.org or 949.478.1103.