LACBA News

LACBA is committed to supporting our community during the devastating fires impacting LA County. We are providing resources, including updates on court closures, legal assistance, and a members-only emergency listserve to facilitate communication and support. LACBA is also organizing efforts with leaders and legal professionals to explore ways to assist those affected. 

As we bid farewell to 2024, I want to thank you for your support of LACBA and take a moment to reflect on the year that passed and the one ahead. I find myself more contemplative than usual because this new year marks the midway point in my tenure as LACBA’s President...I can say without hesitation that my favorite part has been having a front row seat at various LACBA events and meeting many of you in person or virtually.

Our dear friend and LACBA member, Seth M. Hufstedler, passed away on Dec. 20 at the age of 102, following 74 years of active practice that included serving as the association's president in 1969. 

A Message from Presiding Judge Tapia – Last month, former Presiding Judge Samantha P. Jessner passed me the gavel, marking the beginning of my two-year term leading the nation’s largest consolidated trial court. This role represents both the greatest challenge of my career and the privilege of a lifetime. Our partnership with LACBA is one we deeply value, and I am honored to use the first Quarterly Update to share a glimpse of the road ahead. 

A pervasive lack of lawyer civility has long been a matter of concern. Former Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O’Connor observed: “…[A]ttorneys have been spotted exchanging invectives and even engaging in shoving matches in front of various court clerks’ offices, an image that that recalls the description of modern-day litigation as ice hockey in business suits.”

On February 20, 2025, CFJ hosts its 3rd Annual Community Impact Awards Reception to honor the dedication of its project volunteers. Save the date for this cocktail reception and awards ceremony at the Jonathan Club in downtown LA. Help us recognize the exceptional volunteers who have contributed to CFJ's mission.

The California State Bar has extended CLE deadlines. The deadline for last names A-G is now March 29, 2025. New specialty requirements are also in place. LACBA’s latest CLE 360 packages cover all required credits with streamable, quality programs that can help you get compliant fast. 

Stop me when this sounds familiar: Judge X calls a case and Mr. Y is the opposing counsel. The judge says “I just need to make a disclosure about Mr. Y. He made a financial contribution to my last judicial campaign. I believe I can be fair and impartial in this case.” Judge X then asks if you if want to say anything or if you have any questions.

LACBA is proud to spotlight the Southern California Chinese Lawyers Association, a LACBA Affiliate since 1987.

CFJ Deputy Executive Director Diane Trunk appeared on ABC7 News during October’s Pro Bono Week to discuss the positive impact of providing free legal services to those in need. She highlighted that over 90% of low-income individuals lack access to legal services, forcing many to go without proper representation.