The Capital
Live From the Desk: President’s Message
We are living through an unprecedented moment in both our country and the legal industry. Democracy and the rule of law are facing challenges unlike any we’ve seen before. Law firms are navigating complex situations—making deals with the U.S. president to protect client representation, undergoing investigations into their DEI practices, and being called to reexamine their approach to the law itself. These turbulent times raise serious questions: Can our clients withstand the uncertainty, especially those working closely with the U.S. government—an institution currently being dismantled, agency by agency?
So, what does this mean for legal administrators, HR professionals, and other law firm leaders? Lawyers are not facing these challenges alone. They’re turning to us for guidance—asking what other firms are doing, how employees are managing, and how we, as leaders, are responding to a shifting landscape.
The future of law firms is uncertain if attorneys cannot continue to meet the evolving needs of their clients. That’s why now, more than ever, being ( Continued on the following page )
In This Edition:
` Live from the Desk: President’s Message
` New Members
` Chapter Member Anniversaries
` Retiree Spotlight
` Member Spotlight
` The Hidden Evidence: Why Modern Attachments Are Changing eDiscovery Forever
` Five Things to Look for in a Managed IT Service Provider
` First Impressions Matter: Elevating Corporate Experiences Through Reception and Hospitality Services
` Five Simple Breakroom Upgrades to Welcome Employees Back to the Office
` Best Practices for a Smooth Law Firm Relocation: Lessons from a 100-Person Law Firm’s Office Move
` Legislation: What’s Trending
` Hot Topics
` Upcoming Events
` Community Engagement
` Annual Meeting & Change of Gavel Wrap Up
` Meet Our Staff
` Business Partner Listing
Marie Woods, President
part of a strong, supportive professional community is essential. Our profession is uniquely close-knit. We unite in times of challenge, leaning on our network and our Business Partners, who provide invaluable insights and intelligence across the industry.
It’s this collaborative spirit that carried us through the financial crisis of 2008 and the challenges of the COVID era. We came together— not as competitors, but as business leaders. We shared best practices. We mentored new members. We helped those displaced find new
opportunities. That’s who we are, and who we will continue to be.
As I said during the Change of Gavel, after 50 years, our Chapter is at a turning point. Many of our legacy members are transitioning out, technology is transforming our work, and newer legal professionals are entering the field with different levels of engagement—all amid an uncertain future for the industry.
That’s why Chapter membership is more important than ever. I encourage each of you to renew your commitment to running
Chapter Member Anniversaries
successful law firms: attend educational sessions and Chapter events, reach out to new or unengaged members, share your insights, and listen to theirs. Consider serving on the board or as a community leader. Mentor someone just getting started.
I look forward to working with you as we grow our Chapter and shape the next generation of legal industry leaders. When we’re faced with a challenge, we rise— and we make great things happen.
Marie Woods
We enjoy recognizing our member anniversaries. We thank them for their time and the commitment they have shown to the Chapter. We are grateful to have dedicated and loyal members like them!
5 YEARS
` Emily Goodall, Operations Manager, Ballard Spahr LLP
` Claudia Strickland, Accounting/Human Resources Manager, O'Donoghue & O'Donoghue LLP
10 YEARS
` Lori T. Bernstein, Legal Administrator, Pasternak & Fidis, P.C.
` Helen Elizabeth Fiori, Office Manager, Debevoise & Plimpton LLP
` Regina Aikens, Office Administrator, Seward & Kissel LLP
` Fadley Charles, Senior Operations Officer, Patriots Law Group
` Georgie English, Facilities Manager, White & Case LLP
` Paul Pantzer, Chief Operating Officer/ Executive Director, Rees Broome
Joined between February 1, 2025-April 15, 2025
15 YEARS
` Nga Phan, Human Resources Manager, Milbank LLP
` Patrice O. Shannon, Senior Human Resources/Attorney Recruiting Manager, Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman LLP
` Donald Prater, Regional Office Administrator, Dickinson Wright PLLC
` Patricia Mysliwski, Executive Director, Rini O’Neil, PC
` Ellen Rosenstiel, Chief Human Resources Officer, Kutak Rock LLP
Retiree Spotlight
Retiree Spotlight: Cindy Conover
Please join us in celebrating the incredible career of Cindy Conover, who has officially retired after an impressive journey in the legal industry.
Throughout her career, Cindy has been a respected and dedicated presence—known for her deep knowledge, thoughtful leadership, and unwavering commitment to excellence. Her impact resonates across the legal administrative community, where she has served as a mentor, collaborator, and champion for professional growth.
Cindy Conover Office Administrator
A&O Shearman
From her early days as Office Administrator at Troutman Sanders to her most recent role as Office Administrator at A&O Shearman, Cindy’s career stands as a true testament to professionalism, integrity, and
Chapter Leadership
President
Marie Woods
Van Ness Feldman LLP
President-Elect
Joanna Hurt
Perkins Coie
Immediate Past President
Karen Lee
Carr Maloney P.C.
Secretary/Treasurer
Robert Bieber
Wilkinson Barker Knauer LLP
Secretary/ Treasurer-Elect
Linda Padron Barnes & Thornburg LLP
Vice President,
Business Partner Advisory
Fawn Elzie Kobre & Kim LLP
Vice President-Elect, Business Partner Advisory
Karen Laumoli
Wilkes Artis, Chartered
Vice President, Community Services
Ericka Brundage
Vice President-Elect, Community Services
Kimberly Santaiti-Potter Alston & Bird LLP
Vice President, Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion
Deorsay Pratt Gilbert LLP
the powerful relationships she’s cultivated along the way.
Beyond her professional achievements, Cindy’s warmth, wisdom, and sense of humor have made her an invaluable colleague and friend. She leaves behind a legacy of service, authenticity, and generosity that will continue to inspire those who’ve had the pleasure of working with her.
Congratulations, Cindy! Wishing you joy, adventure, and all the well-earned relaxation in this exciting next chapter.
Vice President-Elect, Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion
Angela Tyson
Vice President, Communications
Emmanuel Adedigba Elias Law Group LLP
Vice President-Elect, Communications
Christina Weber Munger, Tolles & Olson
CHAPTER STAFF
Staff Director
Carol Montoya
Executive Director
Paul Haaland, CAE
Director of Events
Rebecca Royal, CMP
The Capital Connection is published on a quarterly basis for members of the Capital Chapter of the Association of Legal Administrators to provide information for the education and benefit of legal administrators, law office managers, managing partners of law firms, and other law related associations. Capital Connection is not engaged in rendering legal, financial, tax counseling or advice through this publication. The contents of all articles, letters, videos, and advertisements published in Capital Connection should not be considered endorsements by the Capital Chapter of ALA nor the opinion expressed therein of any products advertised. Contributing authors are requested and expected to disclose financial and/or professional interests and affiliations that may influence their writing position. Articles and materials accepted for publication are subject to editing by the editorial team and become property of the Capital Chapter of the Association of Legal Administrators. Links to Capital Connection may not be shared without permission from the Chapter.
Join us as we learn more about Janeanne R. Gorman, Executive Director, HWG LLP. Janeanne was president of the Capital Chapter from 2023-2024.
How were you introduced to ALA?
My mentor when I began my career in legal administration suggested it as a great resource for networking.
What motivated you to join the association/chapter?
When I came to DC in 2011, I did not know anyone. Mary Sackleh, a former Chapter President who was retiring and relocating, strongly urged me to join the Chapter and she introduced me to Paula Serratore, the Chapter’s Executive Director. The rest in history!
What do you enjoy most about being a member of this chapter? Having the network of professional colleagues, many of whom have become lifelong friends of mine.
What advice would you give a new member trying to make the most of their association/chapter membership?
My advice is to stretch yourself and become active in the Community that most closely aligns with your role, attend education sessions, and also try to attend social networking events to get to know other members.
Please share a memorable experience you’ve had as part of our community?
Each year, the Toni K Allen Scholarship luncheon is so rewarding, meeting talented and motivated student scholarship recipients and their families, and honoring the memory and values that Toni K Allen valued.
What trends or changes have you noticed in our industry lately?
The world has changed over the past 5-10 years, with advanced uses of technology, hybrid work schedules and related challenges.
How do you see your involvement with the association/chapter evolving in the future?
I recently transitioned from a Chapter leadership role that was immensely rewarding I am excited for the future as I see our next generation of leaders step forward and create a new world!
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Janeanne R. Gorman, Executive Director, HWG LLP
Capital Chapter President (2023 – 2024)
What are your future goals?
On a professional basis, to keep contributing, mentoring and being a resource to colleagues.
Share a fun fact or hobby that people might not know about you. I’ve been to Pamplona for the Running of the Bulls, and I have
marched in the Philadelphia Mummers parade on New Years Day. Both intensely unique experiences!
Please share a significant milestone or achievement in your professional journey. Leadership of the Capital Chapter through changing times.
Want to be featured in the ALACC Member Spotlight?
Business Partner Spotlight
What are you looking forward to this year with the association/ chapter?
The new ideas and new energy that the 2025-2026 Board will bring forward!
The Hidden Evidence: Why Modern Attachments Are Changing eDiscovery Forever
By Christine Porras • This article originally appeared in Array’s blog, Reprinted
In my two decades working with legal technology, I’ve witnessed numerous paradigm shifts, but few as subtle yet impactful as the evolution of attachments. What once meant files physically attached to emails now encompasses a complex ecosystem of linked content, cloud references, and collaborative documents that exist across platforms.
At Array, our team has been tracking this evolution closely, and our findings reveal significant implications for legal teams and eDiscovery professionals that require innovative approaches to ensure complete and defensible collections.
THE MODERN ATTACHMENT LANDSCAPE
The shift to cloud-based productivity suites has fundamentally changed how we share information. Rather than attaching a PowerPoint file to an email, now we simply paste a link to the document stored in Google Drive, SharePoint, or other cloud repositories. This behavioral change offers numerous benefits:
` Reduced email storage requirements
` Real-time collaboration capabilities
` Version control improvements
Click here to complete the brief questionnaire. Submissions are accepted on a rolling basis. We look forward to celebrating you! allsteeloffice.com
` Simplified file management
with permission.
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Business Partner Spotlight (continued)
However, this evolution introduces critical challenges for eDiscovery. Traditional processing engines were designed for self-contained files – not interconnected document ecosystems with dynamic relationships.
THE EDISCOVERY BLIND SPOT
Imagine this scenario: a key custodian sends an email stating, “Please review the financial projections I’ve shared.” The email contains only a Google Drive link. During collection, the link is captured as text, but the document it points to—containing crucial financial data central to the case—is never collected. This scenario is far from hypothetical. In consulting with
numerous organizations, I’ve repeatedly seen these linked documents fall through the cracks during collection. Our analysis reveals that up to 35% of relevant evidence in modern communications exists not as traditional attachments but as linked references. When these links break during collection or processing, critical context is lost, creating what we call an “evidence blind spot.”
This blind spot creates several significant risks:
` Incomplete Collections: When links are processed as mere text rather than navigable pathways to content, the referenced documents may never enter the collection.
` Broken Relationships: The
parent-child relationship between an email and its linked document can be lost without proper handling.
` Reviewer Inefficiency: Without maintained relationships, review teams must manually piece together document families, dramatically increasing review time and costs.
` Defensibility Challenges: Opposing counsel may challenge the completeness of productions when modern attachments are improperly handled.
Courts increasingly expect legal teams to address modern data types comprehensively. In recent cases, judges have expressed little patience for arguments that linked documents were “too difficult” to collect or produce properly. The standard of reasonable effort now includes maintaining document relationships across cloud platforms.
THE TECHNOLOGY GAP
Traditional eDiscovery tools were not designed for this new paradigm. Most processing engines treat a link simply as text within the body of an email, rather than recognizing it as a pointer to potentially relevant content. This technology gap has created inefficiencies
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that ripple throughout the eDiscovery lifecycle:
` Additional processing time to manually track down referenced documents
` Increased review costs due to broken document families
` Higher quality control burden to verify complete collections
` Elevated risk of missing critical evidence
The technical challenges stem from several factors:
` Different platforms use different link formats and structures
` Access permissions to linked documents may change over time
` Version tracking becomes complex when documents are continually edited
` Cross-platform references (SharePoint linking to Slack, which references a Teams document) create multi-tier dependencies
BRIDGING THE GAP: MODERN SOLUTIONS FOR MODERN ATTACHMENTS
Forward-thinking technology teams are developing innovative approaches to address these challenges. Advanced solutions now offer:
` Automated Link Detection: Intelligent algorithms that identify and classify various types of document links
As collaborative tools continue to evolve, the complexity of document relationships will only increase.
across platforms using pattern recognition and contextual analysis. These systems can differentiate between a simple web URL and a document reference link requiring preservation.
` Relationship Maintenance: Technologies that preserve the connection between communications and their linked content throughout the eDiscovery lifecycle by creating persistent identifiers that maintain family relationships even when documents are exported to different platforms.
` Processing Integration: Seamless workflows that automatically process both traditional and modern attachments without manual intervention, using API connections to cloud repositories to capture linked content at the time of collection.
` Comprehensive Reporting: Documentation of linked content for defensibility and completeness verification, including detailed logs showing collection timestamps, access information, and version history of linked documents.
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Business Partner Spotlight (continued)
BUILDING A MODERN ATTACHMENT STRATEGY
For legal teams navigating this evolving landscape, developing a modern attachment strategy is essential. Consider these best practices:
` Early Assessment: Identify potential modern attachment sources during custodian interviews and data mapping. Ask specifically about cloud storage usage patterns and document sharing preferences.
` Clear Protocols: Establish specific procedures for handling various types of links and cloud references. Document your approach to modern attachments in your collection methodology.
` Provider Capabilities: Evaluate your eDiscovery provider’s ability to process,
maintain, and produce modern attachments properly. Ask for specific examples of how they’ve handled similar challenges.
` Documentation: Maintain detailed records of how modern attachments were handled to support defensibility. This should include your technical approach, validation testing, and quality control measures.
THE FUTURE OF ATTACHMENTS
As collaborative tools continue to evolve, the complexity of document relationships will only increase. We’re already seeing the emergence of new challenges with platforms like Microsoft Teams, Slack, and collaborative project management
tools where document relationships span multiple applications and repositories. Staying ahead of these trends requires ongoing education, technology innovation, and process refinement. The organizations that adapt most effectively will gain significant advantages in efficiency, cost management, and litigation outcomes.
About the Author
Christine Porras, Director of Technology Solutions, brings over two decades of experience in the legal industry to her role. She has made significant contributions to AmLaw 100 law firms, service providers, and corporations throughout her career. Christine’s expertise lies in optimizing legal processes through a combination of litigation support, workflow management, and strategic technology integration. She is adept at vetting and onboarding cuttingedge legal technology solutions, fostering strong relationships with software partners, and seamlessly integrating workflows to maximize efficiency. With her deep understanding of the legal technology landscape and her commitment to driving innovation, Christine is well-positioned to guide organizations through the transformative changes reshaping the legal industry.
Business Partner Spotlight
Five Things to Look for in a Managed IT Service Provider
By Kraft Kennedy
Are you in the process of searching for a managed IT service provider, or questioning whether you’ve partnered with the right one? Here are five things you should look for.
1 24/7/365 Service
Whether it’s a client calling from another time zone, a deadline that has the whole team up late, or the necessities of work-life balance, many organizations need roundthe-clock IT. Your provider should honor that reality.
` Look for a managed services company that can respond quickly to IT issues whenever they arise. You shouldn’t have to worry about lockedout documents, spotty remote access, or outages in the middle of the night, when you can least afford technical issues.
` Ideally, your IT partner should offer continuous performance monitoring of your network and servers, so they can remediate outages before they become disruptions.
` Support should also be available remotely, by phone, or in person as needed. Look for flexible support plans that fit the needs of the modern company.
2 Communication and Issue Tracking
Have you ever felt that IT support was wasting your precious time by transferring you between technicians, making you repeat the story behind your issue? Communication is the cornerstone of every good relationship. Here’s what it should look like between you and your managed IT service provider:
` Dedicated Team - Look for a provider that will assign engineers specifically to your account. This way, they will get to know you and your firm, take accountability for your issues, and easily keep track of them for seamless, white-glove service.
` Responses and Updates -
Transparency is key. A managed services provider should share with you its triage system, as well as expectations for response and resolution times. Your dedicated analysts should keep you apprised of the status of your issue as they work to resolve it so that you don’t have to wonder or chase
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Business Partner Spotlight (continued)
anyone for an update. Modern managed IT providers also offer a webpage where you can easily check the assigned severity and status of your issues.
3 Subject-Matter Expertise
Sometimes technical issues require deep excavation. The generalists who field (and usually resolve) incoming tickets have an impressive breadth of skills. But who can they turn to when issues require specialized knowledge?
Look for a partner that has a well-established escalation path, so your technology needs do not run into “dead ends.” The right team escalates issues internally to certified experts in the platforms organizations typically rely on:
` Microsoft Exchange
` Office 365 ` Windows
` Document Management Systems
` Cybersecurity
4 Microsoft Premier Support
Some IT providers have invested in a special relationship with Microsoft that allows them to offer clients Premier Support. This is a non-negligible perk, especially if you run Microsoft cloud platforms.
` Faster Response TimesTwice as fast than standard Microsoft support. The Premier expectation is one hour for critical issues, two for urgent, and three for those that have a minimal impact (as opposed to two-, four-, and eighthour times for non-Premier customers).
` Fast Escalation - Issues go to Level 3 engineers or higher within Microsoft. Premier Support essentially allows you to skip the line.
` Root-Cause Analysis - Get to the bottom of your issue and prevent it from happening again.
5 Security Operations Center (SOC)
Security is crucial. Partnering with a managed IT service provider that can also supply a comprehensive list of prevention and remediation services is a wise decision that is likely to prove cost-effcient. The majority of organizations do not have the resources to build out a round-the-clock security center on their own. Look for:
` Certified security analysts on staff
` Intrusion detection
` 24/7/365 security monitoring and log scanning
` Anti-virus and malware protection
` Managed backups and firewall
` Mobile device management
` Vulnerability scanning
` Endpoint tracking
` Incident remediation
Hopefully the above guidelines help you on your search. Get in touch with us to discuss how you can upgrade your IT services. We offer strategic guidance and commitment-free month-tomonth plans. Contact Kraft Kennedy at hello@kraftkennedy.com or 800-523-3081.
Business Partner Spotlight
First Impressions Matter: Elevating Corporate Experiences Through Reception and Hospitality Services
By The MCS Group
For more than 40 years, MCS has delivered dependable, high-quality support to the legal, corporate, educational, and governmental communities. We offer on-site managed services such as mail and copy, information governance, and other support functions, along with eDiscovery, records retrieval, and court reporting—all backed by a long-standing commitment to relationships and integrity. Simply stated, MCS personifies excellence. As a certified Women’s Business Enterprise, we take pride in being a trusted partner to organizations across the country.
In this article, we’re highlighting a growing trend in facilities and hospitality management: the shift toward outsourced reception and hospitality services. As more firms focus on strengthening the client experience and improving day-to-day operations, this approach is changing the way professional spaces are managed.
With hybrid work models bringing more professionals back into office spaces, every interaction matters. Reception and hospitality management services make sure your client experience is elevated from start to finish. The moment a client or visitor walks through your doors, they begin forming impressions about your company. A professional, efficient receptionist or hospitality team can set the tone for a positive experience, while a poor interaction may leave a lasting negative impression. This is why comprehensive reception and hospitality services are essential in shaping your corporate image.
OUTSOURCING: A MUST-KNOW TREND IN THE LEGAL SPACE
In today’s competitive landscape, outsourcing
reception and hospitality services has become a strategic advantage. Law firms and corporate legal departments are increasingly partnering with external providers to staff their front desks with highly trained professionals who anticipate
Realizing Potential in Every Dimension
client and guest needs, ensuring a premier level of service. This approach guarantees a polished, welcoming, and detail-oriented experience at every touchpoint, reinforcing a commitment to exceptional service. By
CBRE is proud to support the Association of Legal Administrators.
Ben Plaisted Ben.Plaisted@cbre.com
Greg Scheipers Greg.Scheipers@cbre.com
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Business Partner Spotlight (continued)
maintaining a consistent, elevated standard across all firm locations, outsourcing ensures a seamless and personalized experience for every visitor.
THE KEY BENEFITS OF COMPREHENSIVE RECEPTION & HOSPITALITY SERVICES
1 Reduced Labor Costs:
Hiring, training, and retaining in-house reception staff can be expensive. Outsourcing eliminates recruitment costs, payroll expenses, benefits, and ongoing training, converting fixed labor costs into a more predictable operational expense. It also transfers scheduling and management to the service provider, allowing the firm to focus on their core competencies.
Why Hospitality Services Matter for Your Corporate Image
Every interaction—whether through a warm welcome at reception or smooth logistical coordination behind the scenes—contributes to your company’s image. Comprehensive reception and hospitality services help create an environment that reflects your brand’s values, elevates visitor and client experiences, and ensures operational excellence at every level.
2 Efficiency through cross training: Outsourcing reception and hospitality services ensures business and service continuity by providing reliable, flexible, and well-trained support for front-office functions. With dedicated, cross-trained staff, firms can maintain uninterrupted service, regardless of vacations, sick days, or turnover. Seamless coverage ensures calls are answered, visitors are greeted, and operations stay on track without disrupting core legal activities.
3 Streamlined Operations and Workflow Support: From managing conference rooms and supplies preparing for a client event, outsourced staff provide elevated and consistent front-of-the-house experiences as well as behindthe-scenes hospitality administration.
EXPANDING THE SCOPE: BEYOND RECEPTION SERVICES
Reception and Hospitality services go beyond front desk management and call handling. They support firm operations by ensuring every aspect of the facility is expertly maintained.
Leveraging outsourced reception and hospitality services can relieve the following burdens:
` Conference room management
` Assistance with firm events
` Courier services
` Day porter services
` Concierge services
` Kitchen/breakroom management, including General housekeeping
` Supply and inventory management
` Hoteling
Learn more about The MCS Group at mcsgroup.com or contact
Ashley Anne Egan at 513-241-1375 or ashley.egan@themcsgroup.com
Business Partner Spotlight
Five Simple Breakroom Upgrades to Welcome Employees Back to the Office
Small changes that make your firm feel more comfortable, connected, and employee-friendly.
By Miller’s Supplies at Work
As teams gradually return to in-person work, finding new ways to help employees at your firm feel more comfortable and supported in their dayto-day environment. One of the most effective—and often overlooked—areas to improve? The breakroom.
Breakrooms can do more than provide a caffeine fix or a quick snack. When designed with intention, they become spaces that promote wellness, casual connection, and a more enjoyable workday. Best of all, even small upgrades can go a long way without a big price tag.
Here are five breakroom ideas you can implement quickly and affordably to create a space your team will actually want to use.
1 Upgrade the Coffee Experience
Let’s face it—coffee is part of most people’s morning rituals. Providing a high-quality coffee setup can go a long way in making the office feel more comfortable. Nespresso machines, for example, offer a sleek and easy way to provide premium coffee without needing
a full barista setup. With a range of coffee styles and the convenience of single-serve capsules, it’s a simple yet appreciated perk.
Whether you choose Nespresso or another system, adding variety and quality to your coffee offering helps employees ease back into the office routine—while also cutting down on those morning coffee shop runs.
2 Bring In Better Snacks
A stocked snack station can be a real morale booster. Whether it’s mid-morning hunger or a 3 PM energy dip, having something on hand makes the workday smoother. It doesn’t take much: think granola bars, fruit, trail mix, or even a few sweet or salty treats.
It’s a small gesture that communicates care—especially helpful when employees are adjusting to being back in the office after a long stretch of remote work.
3 Support Healthier Habits
A breakroom that reflects today’s wellness-focused lifestyles is another subtle but impactful way
to support your team. Adding options like sparkling water, herbal teas, plant-based snacks, and low-sugar alternatives allows employees to make choices that suit their routines.
One increasingly popular upgrade is the addition of a Follett ice maker, which produces soft, chewable ice that’s perfect for cold beverages. Not only does it elevate the experience for water and iced drinks, but it also adds a modern touch to your breakroom setup.
4 Make It a Social Space, Too
When thoughtfully arranged, the breakroom can become more than just a graband-go spot—it can serve as a place to connect and unwind. Comfortable seating, clean counters, and subtle design touches invite casual conversation and a few minutes of recharge during the workday.
As teams readjust to being physically together, these shared spaces become important for rebuilding everyday interactions and office culture.
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Business Partner Spotlight
5 Easy to Start, Simple to Maintain
The beauty of breakroom upgrades is that they don’t require major renovations or a long planning process. Start with what fits your space and budget, then build from there. Many solutions—like Nespresso machines or Follett ice makers— are compact and easy to install, and managing snacks or beverages can be streamlined with regular deliveries or employee input.
Even a few changes can signal to employees that their comfort and wellbeing are valued, which in turn can positively affect how they feel about being in the office.
SMALL TOUCHES, BIG DIFFERENCE
You know that thoughtful details make a difference.
Investing in a more welcoming breakroom isn’t about luxury— it’s about creating a space where people feel relaxed,
Business Partner Spotlight
refreshed, and ready to do their best work.
Whether it’s better coffee, smarter snacks, or an inviting place to take a break, the right upgrades can transform a simple room into a valuable part of your team’s everyday experience.
For more information about Miller’s Supplies at Work, contact Craig Church at 703-644-2200 x2863 or cchurch@millersoffice.com
Best Practices for a Smooth Law Firm Relocation: Lessons from a 100-Person Law Firm’s Office Move
By Courtney Leonard, Office Movers Express
Relocating a law firm presents unique challenges that require careful planning and execution to minimize disruption. One case involving a Global 100 law firm’s move to a newly constructed building in Northern Virginia offers valuable insights into ensuring a seamless transition for attorneys and staff.
ADDRESSING THE COMPLEXITIES OF AN OFFICE MOVE
For law firm administrators, a successful relocation extends beyond moving desks and chairs.
Click to hear from a seasoned legal administrator about the challenges of the move and the strategies they used to navigate them.
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Business Partner Spotlight (continued)
Key considerations include:
` Coordinating multiple shipments, including donated furniture and partner-owned items sent to private residences.
` Ensuring IT systems, including phones and networks, are operational from day one.
` Navigating construction delays and external factors that could impact move-in schedules.
In this case, building readiness was a challenge, as the space was not fully prepared at the scheduled time. Administrators should anticipate such scenarios and incorporate contingency plans to avoid unnecessary delays.
IT READINESS: A CRITICAL COMPONENT
A primary concern for any law firm move is IT continuity. The inability to set up workstations ahead of time due to construction delays required an alternative approach. The solution involved:
` Using off-site warehouse space to preconfigure IT equipment.
` Conducting inventory checks to ensure all necessary components were available.
` Coordinating logistics to allow for immediate deployment upon arrival at the new office.
By addressing IT setup in advance, the firm ensured attorneys and staff could start work immediately without downtime.
MANAGING MULTILOCATION SHIPMENTS
Law firms often relocate with a mix of new, existing, and donated assets. In this instance, excess furniture was sent to a pro bono legal nonprofit in Vienna, Virginia, while other items were transported to a satellite office in Baltimore. Proper labeling and tracking were essential to ensure each item reached the correct destination efficiently.
ENSURING A SMOOTH START ON MONDAY MORNING
For a law firm, operational downtime is not an option. Through strategic planning and adaptability, all aspects of the move were completed on schedule. Backup plans were in place to address unforeseen challenges, and flexibility was maintained to navigate lastminute developments. By Monday morning, attorneys and staff arrived at a fully functional office, with all equipment, furniture, and materials correctly positioned. The meticulous coordination ensured that the transition was seamless, allowing employees to focus on their work without disruption.
KEY TAKEAWAYS FOR LAW FIRM ADMINISTRATORS
For those overseeing office moves, a structured approach can prevent last-minute complications and ensure a smooth transition. Best practices include:
` Anticipate delays: Construction projects often run behind schedule, so build flexibility into the timeline.
` Prioritize IT setup: Consider external facilities for pre-move IT configurations to avoid firstday disruptions.
` Implement detailed inventory tracking: Clear labeling and documentation help keep multiple shipments organized.
` Maintain open communication: Coordination with movers, IT staff, and building management is crucial for a seamless move.
By applying these strategies, law firms can minimize operational downtime and transition smoothly into their new office spaces. Thoughtful preparation and contingency planning help ensure that attorneys and staff can get back to work without disruption.
See what office moving expert Jim Durfee lists as better ways to deal with unwanted office furniture: Smarter Ways to Handle Unwanted Office Furniture | Move OMX
Legislation: What’s Trending
Medicare Part D Creditable Coverage Notice to Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)
Within 60 days after the beginning of your plan year or within 30 days of the termination or material change to your prescription drug benefit, you must disclose to CMS whether the coverage is “creditable prescription drug coverage.” To access the CMS disclosure form, click here. If you don’t know whether your coverage is creditable
Hot Topics
or non-creditable, please be sure to ask your Account Manager. If your plan(s) changes from creditable to non-creditable status or from non-creditable to creditable status at your renewal, you should remember to inform any potential Medicare eligible employees or dependents of this change.
RxDC Reporting -
Due June 1, 2025 for the 2024 Calendar Year
Insurance companies and
SUMMER ASSOCIATE PROGRAMS
employer-based health plans must submit a Prescription Drug Data Collection (RxDC) report with information about prescription drugs and the plan’s healthcare spending.
If you have a full-insured plan, your insurance carrier will take care of this report for you.
If you have a self-insured or level-funded plan, you will need to submit this or work with a third-party administrator (TPA).
Nearly all of the T-14 law schools are moving their on-campus interview (OCI) programs earlier, with many now scheduled for May and June instead of the traditional late July and August. This change is driven by student and employer feedback seeking more flexibility and time for decision-making before the start of summer associate programs. Employers should prepare to engage with candidates earlier in the recruiting cycle to remain competitive in attracting top talent.
UPCOMING EVENTS
For more information and to register for these events, please visit the Event Calendar on our website. We hope you can join us!
MAY
5/18 Rooftop Cocktail Party at the ALA National Conference
5/18-21 ALA National 2025 Annual Conference & Expo
JUNE
6/3 DEI Happy Hour
6/5 Legal Operations Meeting
6/12 HR Community Meeting
JULY 7/1 DEI Community Meeting 7/10 Toni K. Allen Scholarship Presentation & Networking Lunch
Community Engagement
PERFORMANCES/ENTERTAINMENT
Passport DC (May 1 - May 31):
A month of programming across the city focuses on highlighting DC’s international culture. The Around the World Embassy Tour and the European Union Open House are annual highlights. Most events and tours can be enjoyed entirely free of charge.
WorldPride in Washington, DC (May 17 - June 8):
This year marks the 50th anniversary of Pride in
FESTIVALS/PARADES
Jazz in the Garden (May 23 - July 11):
Kick back and groove to the music at Jazz in the Garden on Fridays throughout the summer, held in the National Gallery of Art’s Sculpture Garden. An eclectic mix of DC-area jazz musicians lend a soundtrack to one of the city’s most idyllic scenes set around the sculpture garden’s central fountain. This is a free seasonal tradition that you do not want to miss.
OTHER EVENTS
Milk Tree: Pop-Up Art Installation (May 16-18, June 14-15):
The exhibit is called Milk Tree, after the prolific succulent species that Robin Bell and his partner began to propagate during the COVID-19 pandemic and now have enough to fill the windows of the Friendship Heights space that hosts the
Washington, DC. Join the momentous celebrations as the nation’s capital is painted with pride, featuring a variety of events to inspire, empower and connect the international LGBTQ+ community and their allies.
Fiesta
Asia! (May 17):
Embrace Asian Heritage Month with a day jam-packed with culture, from the performing arts to culinary delights. The annual Fiesta Asia! takes over
The National Memorial Day Parade (May 26):
Our Sacred Honor tells the story of American sacrifice from the Revolution to today along Constitution Avenue through live, on-site historical re-enactors, veterans and active duty military personnel, joined by musical performances and celebrity appearances. There will also be a National Memorial Day Concert
installation. All of the art – that is, the plants and the paintings – is for sale, and if you purchase, you’ll take a photo and become part of the exhibit too, which focuses on the ways we are all connected.
Smithsonian Solstice
Saturday (June 21):
Celebrate the official first
Pennsylvania Avenue between 3rd and 6th streets NW with exciting performances, interactive displays, flea markets and food stalls.
Kennedy Center: Home to the National Symphony Orchestra and the Washington National Opera, and hosts many other performances.
Millennium Stage: Offers free performances at the Kennedy Center.
held on the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol.
DC/DOX Film Festival (June 12-15):
The annual DC/DOX Film Festival takes place at theater venues across the District. Expect four days of visionary documentaries and conversations with the talent behind dozens of innovative and acclaimed works of non-fiction storytelling.
Saturday of summer with the Smithsonian. Institutions like the Hirshhorn, the National Zoo, the National Museum of Asian Art and the National Museum of American History will curate special projects and programs, host exciting performances and grant the rare chance to explore the museums into the evening.
Event Wrap Up
Event Wrap Up
The first quarter was busy with education sessions, community meetings, and two of our hallmark events: Annual Meeting and Change of Gavel.
Our Quarterly Networking Lunch & Annual Meeting was held on February 25, at Clydes. The annual Change of Gavel Luncheon was held March 20 at Joe’s Seafood. Both events brought together
ANNUAL MEETING
members and Business Partners for top notch networking and recognition of the outgoing and incoming chapter leadership.
Following the annual election, the approved 2025-2026 Board slate was introduced at the Annual Meeting. At the Change of Gavel, the following month, 2024-2025 president Karen Lee presented the
Click here to see more photos from the Annual Meeting.
annual President’s Awards and recognized 2024-2025 immediate president Janeanne Gorman for her years of Board service. Marie Woods, 20252026 president, outlined her goals and initiatives for the coming year and the chapter presented a donation of $5,000 to the ALA Capital Chapter Foundation in honor of Karen Lee.
CHANGE OF GAVEL
Click here to see more photos from the Change of Gavel.
2025 PRESIDENT’S AWARD WINNERS
Christina Albert
Legal Operations
Community Chair
Denise Fidura
HR Community Co-Chair
Virginia “Ginger”
Hannums
HR Community Co-Chair
Christina Weber
Small Firm
Community Chair
Meet Our Staff
The Association of Legal Administrators – Capital Chapter partners with Potomac Management Resources (PMR), an association management firm based in Alexandria, VA, for operations and meeting management support. PMR currently works with 14 nonprofit organizations, including professional and trade associations, ranging from less than 100 members to over 6,000, as well as foundations.
PMR has a staff of nine, including customer service, events, and graphic design staff. Company president Carol Montoya serves as the staff director, Paul Haaland, CAE is serving as executive director, and Rebecca Royal, CMP is the director of events. Here, we get to know a little bit about them.
Carol joined PMR’s founder in 1999 as the company’s first full time employee. In 2006, she bought all the shares in the company and became its sole principal officer. Carol is active in the review and management of all client activities and oversees the PMR staff. She has won awards for her professional work in associations, as well as for her community service. Carol is a huge soccer fan, with season tickets to both DC United and Washington Spirit. She is a board member of the Edison High School Boosters, Lee-Mt. Vernon Sports Club, and
National Capital Soccer League. She is a member of the Hood College Parents Advisory Council and the American Society of Association Executives. Carol lives in Alexandria with her husband and two pit bull mixes and has two college-aged children.
Paul joined PMR in 2024 as Account Director. He is a Certified Association Executive (the highest professional credential in the association industry) with 25 years of experience in nonprofit organizations, with expertise in operations, events, and communications. Prior to joining PMR, Paul was the Director of Conferences at the American Jail Association (AJA), where he successfully managed annual conferences, summits, event planning committee meetings, and board meetings. Paul lives in Silver Spring with his wife and two sons. He has served on class reunion committees for both his college and high school, including as committee chair on two separate planning processes. He
plays adult men’s ice hockey and is an avid reader of history and science fiction.
Rebecca joined PMR in January 2020. She is a Certified Meeting Planner (CMP), and has a Certificate in Event Management from George Washington University. Rebecca has a passion for event logistics and production, with over 15 years of experience planning meetings, conferences, tradeshows, and special events. Prior to joining PMR, Rebecca was the Director, Operations for the National Training and Simulation Association (NTSA). She managed all logistical components for meetings ranging from 100 to 800 attendees and coordinate various aspects for NTSA’s annual trade show, with 16,000 attendees, and almost 400 exhibitors in a 186,000 sq ft exhibit hall. Rebecca is a board member of the Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA) Capital Chapter. She lives in Woodbridge with her husband and two dogs, Pepper and Jack.
Carol Montoya Paul Haaland
Rebecca Royal
