Hello OCWLA Community!

As summer comes to a close, I am reminded of the inspirational words of Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O’Connor, “Despite the encouraging and wonderful gains and the changes for women which have occurred in my lifetime, there is still room to advance and to promote correction of the remaining deficiencies and imbalances.” I remain honored to be a part of OCWLA and to work alongside other women who share a vision for equality and advancement for women in the legal profession.

Upcoming Events

Connect With Other Book Lovers: This month, our Book Club will celebrate Banned Book Week by reading a book that was banned, The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time by Mark Haddon. I am excited to lead the discussion on this zany quest of a quirky young man that reminds us to be compassionate to others. Join us on September 26, 2022, at 5:30 p.m. at Mimi’s Café in Tustin.

The Implications Of the Dobbs Decision MCLE Co-Sponsored by the OCBA: Join the discussion about the landmark Dobbs ruling and how it impacts future policy decisions. This MCLE will take place on September 16, 2022 at the Avenue Of the Arts Hotel from noon to 1:30 p.m. Our dynamic panel brings years of knowledge and expertise on Constitutional Issues, the Presidency, and the Supreme Court. Special rate for OCBA Members & Students. Register today!

Please join us for OCWLA’s Fall 2022 Philanthropy Event:

OCWLA is proud to partner with Community Legal Aid SoCal to support its Unlawful Detainer Answer Clinic on Tuesday September 20, 2022. This virtual clinic assists low-income tenants facing eviction during the COVID-19 pandemic. Volunteer attorneys will meet with clients virtually, and housing attorneys are available to provide real-time assistance for the duration of the clinic.

Interested in Running for a 2023 OCWLA Director Position?

If you are interested in running, please submit a short Candidate's Statement and photo (optional) to us by the close of business on Monday, October 10, 2022, via email: info@ocwla.org. The 2023 Slate of Director candidates will be presented to the membership via e-blast the following week. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us.

Become A Judge: Are you interested in making an impact on social equality and seeing more women on the bench? Attend the Roadways to the Bench panel on April 3, 2023. It’s never too early to start taking action to help advance women in the legal profession.

Our Fantastic August

Women Judge’s Reception: Our members had a great time celebrating the advancement of women on the bench at our annual Women Judges’ Reception.

Book Club: Shirin Forootan led our book club this month as we discussed The Lost Man by Jane Harper. This thrilling mystery gave us lots to talk about.

Get Involved!

Make An Immediate Impact: You can advance women in the legal profession, raise awareness of discrimination and bias, and support charitable organizations by becoming an Annual Sponsor of OCWLA. Sponsors receive recognition and connect with OCWLA members at several events throughout the year. Thank you for your interest in supporting this amazing organization!

Share Your Recent Achievements: We love learning more about our members! Our Featured Member Series is a great way for members to introduce themselves to the membership and share their recent accomplishments. Nominate yourself or another spectacular OCWLA member today.

Let’s Celebrate Each Other!: OCWLA’s Everyday Hero Award recognizes members of our profession who have made a positive impact in the community through their hard work, generosity, and commitment to justice. To nominate an Everyday Hero, send the nominee’s contact information and a brief description of why they are a hero to info@ocwla.org. Or fill out the form here.

Utilize Our Discussion Forum: OCWLA continues to take action that will connect members in new ways. Members can access a Discussion Forum to share referrals, mentorship, and provide professional resources. Simply log in to your OCWLA account to access the Discussion Forum.

Join Us!: We would love to have you join OCWLA! Renew your membership today to become a part of this active and dynamic group! Discounted and/or complimentary membership rates are available for judges, government attorneys, attorneys with less than five years of practice, and law students.

Become A California Women Lawyers Member: Over forty years ago, OCWLA aligned with California Women Lawyers, which in 1974 established itself as the only statewide women lawyers organization. The mission of both OCWLA and CWL is the advancement of women in the legal profession through collaboration and leadership. Join today!

Recognizing OCWLA’s Members

Welcome New Members!

Welcome Martha Geisler Patterson, Kate Corrigan, Eliana Farahat, Jane Flynn, Hannah Green, Calyn Hadlock, Leslie Leath, Tuaku Hijarunguru, Jenni Katzer, Shama Mehta, Linda Miller, Sara Montazeri Aliabadi, Mai Moua, Michelle Norris, Nina Safi, Sarah Katrina Sons Sanchez, Kholood Alshami, Shideh Balali, Jeanne Behling, Special Thompson, Jessica Arbgast, and Michelle Strowhiro. We are thrilled that you joined OCWLA! We look forward to meeting you at the next event.