CWL Newsletter May 2018 - Conference Edition

Page 1

CALIFORNIA WOMEN LAWYERS N E W S L E T T E R MAY & JUNE 2018 1

CWL N E W S L E T T E R


Letter from the CWL President Renée Galente

We’re

halfway through 2018.

We’ve also had reason to celebrate. This year, CWL’s theme is #SheroesInAction. In October, at the beginning of our Board year, I issued a call to action. I asked you to hug your loved ones. To line up the new job that makes you happy. To spend the afternoon with your child and eat ice cream. To run for office. To adopt the puppy. To pat yourself on the back. To take a long, hot bath. To ask for the raise you’ve earned. To seek judicial appointment. To do that thing that you’ve always wanted to do, but haven’t …. Have you? It is so easy to be complacent. It is so easy to be comfortable. But as our recent Annual Conference keynote speaker Jan Kang, Chief Legal Officer of Chronicle, said, “I challenge you to rise up and do something outside your comfort zone. Even if it’s small. Small steps lead to giant outcomes.” Join me this year in taking one step that makes us uncomfortable. Let’s see what happens together. Many women out there are already making it happen. This year, a record number of women are running for office. Per NPR , a record 309 women are running for seats in the House (against 1,103 men). That number is a nearly 90 percent increase over 2016’s numbers! Each year California Women Lead publishes statewide reports on the status of women in California government. In 2017 in California, women made up only 31 percent of the 482 city councils. Fifty-six cities in California have no women serving on their city council. There is one city council with an all-woman council. (Go Blue Lake in Humboldt County!) Only one city in the 10 largest cities

CWL N E W S L E T T E R

in California has a woman serving as mayor – Oakland Mayor Libby Schaaf. In the state legislature, women made up only 22 percent of the legislative body. Of California’s eight statewide offices, only one is occupied by a woman – State Controller Betty Yee. History was made this year with the election of the first woman and first LGBTQ Senate President Pro Tempore Toni Atkins. She also became the first Assembly speaker to be elected Senate leader in 146 years. She was only the third woman elected as Assembly speaker. Women are out there taking chances, and making change. Does that sound exciting? If the answer is “YES!” please join CWL in San Diego on June 22 at the Women’s Museum of California for our national award-winning program Elect to Run. This program allows attendees the opportunity to hear from candidates, elected officials, and organizations who provide tools and support for running for office, in an intimate setting. As an added bonus, Senate President Pro Tempore Toni Atkins will be our keynote speaker.

continues on the next page


One of my favorite CWL memories comes from the inaugural Elect to Run program, where a candidate shared with the group that when she feels like she needs some extra confidence, she dons WonderWoman underwear to make her feel like a superhero. I loved that share so much that I went out and got some WonderWoman underwear for myself, and I do wear it whenever I need that extra “oomph.” When I’m not wearing superhero underwear, I am proud to say that I get strength from this group of bold, strong and wise women and allies that makes up CWL. I am grateful to the women who founded and nurtured the organization over the past 44 years, so that I could reap the benefit of their work in my practice and in my life. Thank you to those “mothers” of CWL. Happy Mother’s Day to ALL women out there – each of you nurture others, and all are moms in one way or another. Happy Father’s Day to the men of CWL. Thank you for partnering with us in our mission to advance women in the law and society. Happy Pride Month! Love is love is love. CWL is proud to stand for LGBTQ equality as part of our standing legislative priorities. Yours in Action,

Renee Galente 2018 CWL President

3

CWL N E W S L E T T E R


CWL

NEWSLETTER MAY & JUNE #9 2017-18 CWL Board Officers CWL President Renée Galente CWL President-Elect Amee Mikacich Immediate Past President Chris Chambers Goodman First Vice-President Jessica L. Rowe Second Vice-President Naomi Dewey Secretary Michelle Ialeggio Treasurer Summer Selleck Editors Amelia Burroughs - Janssen Malloy LLP Jodi Cleesattle - California Department of Justice Assistant Editor Vanessa Henderson Editorial Designer David Blue Garrison Additional Photography Pexels, Pixabay and Stocksnap CWL was chartered in 1974. It was organized “to advance women in the profession of law; to improve the administration of justice; to better the position of women in society; to eliminate all inequities based on sex; and to provide an organization for collective action and expression germane to the aforesaid purposes.” The purposes are limited to purposes meeting the requirements for exemption provided in Section 2370le of the Revenue and Taxation Code and Section 501(c) (6) of the Internal Revenue Code as the statutes may be amended from time to time. Thank you to all the authors in this issue for sharing with us their time and expertise. If you have an idea for a future article, please contact Vanessa Henderson at the CWL office at newsletter@cwl.org Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in these articles are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of CWL. For more information on CWL or this newsletter, please contact the CWL office at 916.930.9020 or visit the website at www.cwl.org.


Editor’s Note Jodi Cleesattle Summer is almost here, and CWL has a full schedule of events to lift you up, inspire you, and get you to aim high. In this issue, we’ll bring you everything you need to know to plan the perfect summer travel schedule for #SheroesInAction. The statewide primary election is fast approaching, and if you’ve been picturing your name on the ballot, check out CWL’s Elect to Run. The half-day program, set for June 22 in San Diego, will provide insider tips on running for office and features a keynote speech by State Senate President Pro Tempore Toni Atkins. Just for in-house counsel, CWL’s In-House Counsel Network begins its Puzzle Series in June, with an event on the Google campus in Sunnyvale. Read about the four-part series of programs and the Napa Valley retreat that will bring together in-house counsel to network, share ideas, and have fun. We’re pretty sure wine will be involved, too. Judicial receptions in San Francisco and Los Angeles in July and August will honor the winners of this year’s Rose Bird Memorial Award and Joan Dempsey Klein Distinguished Jurist Award. Join judges and friends to celebrate our CWL members on the bench. And while you’re reading about and checking out photos from the successful CWL Annual Conference that wrapped up in San Francisco in early May, save the date for the Annual Dinner set for September 13 in San Diego. You can read about other recent happenings, too – like Lobby Day at the Capitol, the Whiskey & Bites tasting event in Los Angeles, CWL’s endorsement of Alameda County District Attorney Nancy O’Malley in her race for reelection, and the winner of the CWL scholarship named in O’Malley’s honor. Finally, June is LGBTQ Pride Month, and we’re proud to share news from CWL affiliate Lawyers Club of San Diego, which has a new LGBTQ Committee (upgraded from a task force that formed a year ago). Committee chair Kimberly Ahrens writes about why the committee was formed and what it does. She also shares an article that makes a great explainer on gender identity and pronouns. Don’t forget to send us news of your recent awards or recognitions. We’d like to give you a shout out in the next issue of CWL News.

CWL N E W S L E T T E R


CWL Member News CWL is proud of the work its members do on behalf of our organization and the profession, and we believe in sharing your achievements. Please help us share your news. In this edition, we’re thrilled to share the recognition given to several CWL members. Ariel Brownell Lee CWL affiliate governor Ariel Brownell Lee, a family law solo practitioner in Walnut Creek, recently passed the California State Bar Legal Specialist Examination in Family Law. This is an important first step towards becoming a certified specialist. Ariel is president of the Women’s Section of the Contra Costa County Bar Association, and represents that association on CWL’s board of governors. Lawyers Club of San Diego The National Conference of Women’s Bar Associations (NCWBA) will honor CWL affiliate Lawyers Club of San Diego with a special Advocacy Award at the 2018 Women’s Bar Leadership Summit in August. Lawyers Club is being recognized for galvanizing its members and the public with its Solutions Summit, which provided solutions and tools to address sexual harassment, sexism, and bullying in the workplace. The NCWBA created the one-time Advocacy Award to spotlight Lawyers Club’s Solutions Summit, and a similar Advocacy Summit organized by the Women’s Bar Association of Massachusetts.

CWL N E W S L E T T E R

“Your Solutions Summit was innovative and moved the Committee,” according to NCWBA Awards Committee co-chairs Leigh-Ann Durant and Karen Scanlan. “It was a compelling example of how a women’s bar could harness the passion and zeal of its members and channel it into positive, meaningful change in society. While other bar associations may have wondered whether they could make any meaningful differences in connection with the #MeToo movement, your organization sprang into action with its Solutions Summit which provided tangible solutions and tools to address sexual harassment, sexism, and bullying in the workplace, demonstrating what a difference women lawyers can make via their advocacy efforts.” Both bar associations will be honored at the Women’s Bar Leadership Summit in Chicago in August. Let us lift you up. Tell us when you’ve won an honor or award or attained a special achievement. Contact us at newsletter@cwl.org.


7

CWL N E W S L E T T E R


Voting for CWL District Governor Elections Closes June 14 Current CWL members are encouraged to vote in the election for CWL Board of Governors before voting closes June 14 at 5 p.m. Eligible members should have received an email with a link to vote in their districts – either place of residence or principal business office. District Governor seats that are up for election in 2018 are: DISTRICT 1 (ONE SEAT): Butte, Colusa, Del Norte, Glenn, Humboldt, Lake, Lassen, Mendocino, Modoc, Nevada, Placer, Plumas, Shasta, Sierra, Siskiyou, Sutter, Tehama, Trinity and Yuba Counties DISTRICT 3 (ONE SEAT): Alameda, Contra Costa, San Mateo and Santa Clara Counties DISTRICT 4 (ONE SEAT): San Francisco and Marin Counties DISTRICT 5 (ONE SEAT): Fresno, Inyo, Kern, Kings, Madera, Mariposa, Merced, Mono, Monterey, San Benito, San Joaquin, Santa Cruz, Stanislaus and Tulare Counties DISTRICT 6 (ONE SEAT): Riverside, San Bernardino, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara and Ventura Counties DISTRICT 7 (FOUR SEATS): Los Angeles County DISTRICT 8 (ONE SEAT): Orange County DISTRICT 9 (ONE SEAT): San Diego and Imperial Counties For questions, contact the CWL office at (916) 930-9020 or by email at info@cwl.org.

CWL N E W S L E T T E R


9

CWL N E W S L E T T E R


CWL Foundation Selects 2018 Scholarship Winner BY CHRISTINE CHAMBERS GOODMAN CWL is pleased to announce that the winner of the 2018 CWL Foundation Nancy E. O’Malley Scholarship is Edrina Nazaradeh, who graduated from Pepperdine University School of Law in May. Nazaradeh is a first-generation American who was deeply affected by her parents’ stories of seeking asylum in the United States amidst the Iranian Revolution. “I was always determined to pursue a career that encapsulated my love for reading and writing, and my desire to serve the underrepresented and overlooked,” she said. Nazaradeh graduated from Archbishop Mitty High School in San Jose, and received her B.A. in Political Science at the University of California, San Diego. When she began studying at Pepperdine Law, she knew that a legal career “embodied the perfect intersection of [her] strengths and passions.” She was an active member of Pepperdine’s Women’s Legal Association and Advocates for Public Interest Law, and she sought out opportunities to work for justice for women and children around the world. Nazaradeh served as a summer legal intern in the Philippines with International Justice Mission, where she worked with a team of local prosecutors to rescue children from online sexual exploitation and prosecute the perpetrators. She also traveled to Uganda with Pepperdine’s Sudreau Global Justice Program, where she helped to train local prosecuting and defense attorneys in the process of plea bargaining, and facilitated two conferences centered on the advancement of women and protection of children from sex trafficking.

CWL N E W S L E T T E R

Nazaradeh also worked as a certified law clerk at the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office, in both the Juvenile and Sex Crimes divisions, where she grappled with the plight of women and children in the local community, and sought “tangible ways to better serve them.” She said these experiences inspired the article she published in the Pepperdine Law Review, “There Is No Such Thing as a Child Prostitute: Why Decriminalization Is Only the First Step in California,” 45 Pepp. L. Rev. 189 (2018), which she said “explores the implications of California’s recent law decriminalizing prostitution for minors, and urges California lawmakers to consider a more comprehensive and developed approach toward rehabilitating and enhancing the lives of minor victims of prostitution.” Upon graduation, Nazaradeh will clerk for the Honorable Elizabeth K. Dillon of the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Virginia. “I hope to work as a prosecutor after my clerkship, and intend to become a powerful voice in the fight against sex trafficking of women and children,” she said. CWL congratulates Edrina Nazaradeh, who truly embodies the spirit of the CWL Foundation Nancy E. O’Malley Scholarship.

Christine Chambers Goodman is president of the CWL Foundation Board and the immediate past president of CWL. She is a Professor of Law at Pepperdine University School of Law.


Edrina Nazaradeh

11

CWL N E W S L E T T E R


CWL Members Attend Successful Lobby Day at State Capitol & CWL Establishes 2018 Legislative Priorities BY SABRINA ASHJIAN CWL members partnered again with the National Council of Jewish Women-California (NCJW CA) for their fantastic two-day lobby day event in Sacramento April 25 and 26. The event began with training seminars on each organization’s priority bills, followed by a keynote presentation by State Sen. Hannah-Beth Jackson. Jackson expressed thanks for last year’s Lobby Day efforts regarding her New Parent Leave Act (SB 63), which passed. She explained some of her legislative efforts for 2018, including comprehensive workplace sexual harassment reform with SB 1300. Jackson shared why she believes in trying to shift the paradigm and change the culture to achieve equity in the workforce regardless of age, sexual orientation, gender, and more. “Women make up 50 percent of the population,” Jackson said. “We deserve to be in seats of power and not just serving the meal.”

Lobby Day’s second day began with more than 100 women from the partner organizations flooding the State Capitol and meeting with dozens of legislators and aides. The meetings were informative, productive, and inspiring, and advocates finished the day riding high on the excitement of their advocacy work and empowered to continue these efforts throughout the year. CWL just determined its 2018 legislative agenda. CWL advocates for bills that are aligned with its priority issues of reproductive justice, violence against women, human rights and equality, court funding and access to justice, and economics. This year, CWL is supporting: SB 937. Existing law requires employers to provide a reasonable amount of break time to employees to express milk for the employee’s infant child. The current state of the law also requires employers to make reasonable efforts to provide the employee the use of a room other than a toilet stall. This bill would require a lactation room or location to include certain features, including access to a sink and refrigerator. The proposed legislation also would prohibit an employer from discharging or retaliating against an employee for exercising her rights under these provisions. More Info Here

Jackson also discussed her proposal for encouraging equitable gender representation on corporate boards with SB 826. She shared the statistics that women make up 70 percent of consumer goods and services purchases, but occupy only 15.5 percent of seats on corporate boards. Jackson said companies see increased productivity and profitability when women serve as critical members on their SB 224. The law currently establishes liability for sexual boards. harassment when the plaintiff proves, among other things, “When we talk of changing a corporate culture, it starts at that the there is a business, service, or professional relationship between the plaintiff and defendant. This bill the boardroom,” Jackson said. would include the titles “investor, elected official, lobbyist, The first day concluded with a powerful presentation by director, and producer” among those listed persons who Los Angeles high school students of The Talk Project, a may be liable to a plaintiff for sexual harassment. peer-to-peer sexual violence awareness program for high More Info Here school students. Please visit www.changethetalk.org for continues on the next page more information on this riveting program.

CWL N E W S L E T T E R


CWL board member Sabrina Ashjian (left) joins State Sen. Hannah-Beth Jackson and CWL past president Patricia Sturdevant for Lobby Day.

13

CWL N E W S L E T T E R


AB 2282. The law presently prohibits an employer from relying on the salary history information of an applicant for employment as a factor in determining whether to offer an applicant employment, or what salary to offer an applicant. The law also currently prohibits an employer from paying any of its employees at wage rates less than the rates paid to employees of the opposite sex for substantially similar work. This bill would authorize an employer to make a compensation decision based on an employee’s current salary as long as any wage differential resulting from that compensation decision is justified by one or more specified factors, including a seniority or merit system. More Info Here AB 2124. This bill would authorize and allocate funds for up to 11 District Attorney offices that employ a vertical prosecution methodology for the prosecution of human trafficking. More Info Here AB 900. This bill would clarify human trafficking victims’ eligibility to receive compensation from the California’s Victim Compensation Board (VCB) for economic losses incurred as a result of their trafficking. Currently, human trafficking victims, like other victims of violent crime, are able to recover crime-related expenses, such as medical and mental health services or relocation costs, from the VCB. However, most trafficking victims—unlike other victims—cannot receive compensation for lost income suffered as a result of the crimes committed against them. This bill would allow for such recovery. More Info Here If you are interested in working with the Legislative Committee, there plenty of opportunities to get involved as members write letters of support, attend hearings, provide testimony, and meet with legislators across the state. Please contact the Legislative Committee at legislative@cwl.org

Sabrina Ashjian serves on the CWL Board of Governors as District 5 Governor, representing Fresno, Inyo, Kern, Kings, Madera, Mariposa, Merced, Mono, Monterey, San Benito, San Joaquin, Santa Cruz, Stanislaus and Tulare counties. She is a deputy district attorney in the Consumer Fraud & Environmental Protection Unit at the Fresno County District Attorney’s Office.

CWL N E W S L E T T E R


15

CWL N E W S L E T T E R


CWL Endorses Alameda County DA Nancy O’Malley CWL has endorsed incumbent Nancy O’Malley, a past president of CWL, for Alameda County District Attorney in the race set for June 5. “CWL established a scholarship to honor Nancy for her dedication and commitment to promoting CWL and protecting all women and children in our society,” CWL president Renee Galente said. “Choosing to endorse her in this upcoming DA race was a natural for CWL.” O’Malley was the first woman ever elected District Attorney of Alameda County, and she has served in the post for the last eight years. She is known for being a fair and vocal advocate for women, the elderly, children, and persons with disabilities. She is also known for her aggressive response to human trafficking through the H.E.A.T. watch program, a collaboration of prosecutors, police, service providers and communities in the fight against human trafficking. “Nancy has proven herself in so many ways,” Galente said. “The people of Alameda County will be well served to have her continue in her role of district attorney.” In endorsing O’Malley, CWL joins U.S. Senators Kamala Harris and Dianne Feinstein and hundreds of local elected officials and organizations within Alameda County.

CWL N E W S L E T T E R


17

CWL N E W S L E T T E R


Annual Conference Offers Inspiration & Networking BY WENDY KROG CWL members and friends carried the momentum of the #metoo movement as they gathered for MCLE programs, inspirational speakers, and the celebration of the Judith Soley Lawyer as Citizen Award at CWL’s annual conference May 4 in San Francisco. Speakers and programs focused on balancing work/life commitments as general counsel, having your voice heard in the courtroom, building your professional brand online, and more at the conference, which focused on a theme of “Inspiration, Achievement and Recognition – Rise by Lifting Others.” The conference featured two powerhouse keynote speakers. Employment attorney Beth Mora gave an innovative breakfast talk urging us to find confidence to present our genuine selves and to lift up our peers to build a network of strong, confident lawyers. Lunch speaker Jan Kang, Chief Legal Officer of Chronicle, inspired us by sharing her personal story and her techniques for overcoming invisible obstacles and ingrained perceptions to move from “I can’t” to “I will!” The conference wrapped up with a reception honoring CWL past president Pearl Gondrella Mann with the 2018 Judith Soley Lawyer as Citizen Award. Mann, a CWL life member who served as president from 2005 to 2006, was honored for her leadership in the legal community as well as her extensive volunteer work and ongoing contributions and commitment to the community at large. Mann has had a solo practice for more than 30 years, focusing on elder law, probate, and estate planning and, previously, on civil litigation and criminal appeals. Throughout the day, conference attendees heard from insightful speakers and participated in dynamic conversations in two tracks of MCLE sessions.

CWL N E W S L E T T E R

In Building Your Professional Brand Online, Tracy Hughes, Senior Deputy District Attorney at the Orange County District Attorney’s Office, moderated an exciting conversation centered around unlocking the power of social media and online branding to take your firm’s marketing to the next level. The panelists – CWL president Renee Galente, founder of Galente Law APC; Jeannine Yoo Sano, partner at White & Case, and Lisa Turbis, Marketing Counsel for Splunk, Inc. – each gave practical advice and real world tips to improve online presence and brand recognition and stand out from the crowd. The panel also discussed the importance of understanding and following ethics rules in cyberspace. During the GC Roundtable: The Leadership of Women and Rising in the Ranks, seasoned general counsel provided an in-depth look at moving through the levels of a company’s legal department. The panelists – Michelle Banks, senior advisor and executive coach at Barker Gilmore LLC; Amy Fox, head of legal at Oculus VR; and Eleanor Lacey, senior vice president and general counsel of Sophos, Inc.; and moderator Lloyd Johnson, founder and executive director of the Women’s In-House Counsel Leadership Institute and founder of the Minority Corporate Counsel Association – gave invaluable insight into the unique challenges general counsel face in balancing work and life, especially when the needs of the company can demand attention at all hours of the day. Politics was the focus of Getting Involved: State & Local Government as a Passion or Profession, which featured Sausalito City Council member Susan Cleveland-Knowles; Alameda County District Attorney Nancy O’Malley; and former San Jose Mayor Chuck Reed; and moderator Ahtossa Fullerton, partner at Wasacz Hilley & Fullerton LLP. The panel provided a well-rounded view of preparing for and running for elected office, whether it be in a $20,000 race or a million-dollar campaign.

continues on the next page


19

CWL N E W S L E T T E R


Panelists shared their striking-out-on-their-own stories during the program on Making Your Mark: Taking an Entrepreneurial Approach at Every Stage of Your Career. The speakers – which included Naomi Dewey, a partner at Buynak Fauver Archbald & Spray; Mujdah Rahim, founder of the Law Office of Mujdah Rahim; and Amanda Riddle, partner at Corey, Luzaich, de Ghetaldi & Riddle LLP – shared their fascinating career trajectories and how they each ended up in leadership at their law firms. They were open and honest about the challenges they face, including the often-difficult balance of supporting female attorneys and running a successful business. A common thread throughout the panel was the importance of mentorship and sponsorship, both in the impact it had on the careers of the panelists, as well as the role it plays in training the next generation of attorneys. Susan Formaker, Presiding Administrative Law Judge in Los Angeles for the Office of Administrative Hearings, moderated an impressive panel for A Courtroom of One’s Own: Women Taking Control of Their Courtroom Presentations. The speakers included Contra Costa County District Attorney Diana Becton; San Francisco Superior Court Judge Tracie L. Brown; trial lawyer Theresa BowenHatch; and Justice Marla J. Miller of the California Court of Appeal, First District, Division Two. The panel examined how implicit biases can be reflected in the diminished participation of women attorneys in the courtroom and considered how women can address potential bias and gain increased experience as lead counsel in litigation and trial. The panel also discussed some of the ways legal offices and organizations can make institutional changes to increase the participation of women in the courtroom, and the panel considered tools women attorneys can employ to ensure their voices are heard as effective advocates. Alan Exelrod, Of Counsel with Rudy Exelrod Zieff & Lowe LLP and Melinda Riechert, partner with Morgan Lewis & Bockius LLP, led by moderator Dorothy Chou Proudfoot, Administrative Law Judge with the San Francisco Rent Board, took on the thorny issues of Sexual Harassment Law in the #metoo Era: From the Newspapers to the Courts. They discussed recent changes in the approaches and outcomes in sexual harassment law and provided insight from the plaintiff’s and defense sides of sexual harassment litigation. In the program on Rainmaking/Networking: Finding Your Passion and Making It Work For You, life coach Arezou

CWL N E W S L E T T E R

Kohan, together with the founding partners of Oleander Law Partners, Neda Mansoorian and Catherine Bechtel, provided invaluable tips and tricks in how to market yourself and your abilities as your genuine self, focusing on listening to clients’ needs, and the importance of maintaining a strong and healthy client relationship. Start-up advisor and veteran general counsel Olga Mack gave a dynamic presentation on From C-Suite to Boardroom: What You Can Do Today to Become a Board Member, focusing on how women can get positions on boards of all types. Mack presented the chilling statistics on how few women serve on boards, then dove into why the disparity exists and what women can do to change it. While the focus of the session was on getting more women in boardrooms, attendees walked away with a deeper understanding of how important it is to have more women on the boards of the corporations and government agencies that affect our daily lives CWL thanks the sponsors of the Annual Conference: Gold Sponsors Corey, Luzaich, de Ghetaldi & Riddle and White & Case; Silver Sponsors Hopkins & Carley, CEB, and HSNO; Bronze Sponsors Trial by Woman, Aaron Riechert Carpol & Riffle; and Donor Sponsors Dagne Dover, MM. LaFleur, and Tieks by Gravrielli. Wendy Krog, a litigation attorney with the Silicon Valley law firm Hopkins & Carley, represents CWL sister bar association Santa Clara County Bar Association Women Lawyers Section.


21

CWL N E W S L E T T E R


Jan Kang gives an inspiring – and funny – keynote presentation at the CWL Annual Conference.

CWL N E W S L E T T E R


Pearl Gondrella Mann accepts the 2018 CWL Judith Soley Lawyer as Citizen Award.

23

CWL N E W S L E T T E R


Orange County Women Lawyers’ Association president Jaimi Groothuis.

CWL N E W S L E T T E R


Betty Fracisco presents the Judith Soley Lawyer as Citizen Award to Pearl Gondrella Mann.

25

CWL N E W S L E T T E R


Orange County Women Lawyers’ Association president Jaimi Groothuis and Pearl Gondrella Mann.

CWL N E W S L E T T E R


CWL board member Suzette Torres.

27

CWL N E W S L E T T E R


THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS GOLD SPONSORS

SILVER SPONSORS

BRONZE SPONSORS

MEDIA SPONSORS Orange County Women Lawyers Association Women Lawyers of Sacramento Marin County Women Lawyers San Mateo County Bar Association Women Lawyers Section Lawyers Club of San Diego Women Lawyers Association of Los Angeles Contra Costa County Bar Association Women Lawyers Section

DONOR SPONSORS Dagne Dover MM.LaFleur Tieks by Gravrielli

CWL N E W S L E T T E R


29

CWL N E W S L E T T E R


CWL Affiliate Lawyers Club of San Diego Launches LGBTQ Committee – Capturing the Benefits of Diversity through Creating Inclusive Environments BY KIMBERLY AHRENS Research shows the benefits of having diverse leadership are immeasurable and include more innovative ideas, productivity, and positive morale. But, achieving inclusion requires efforts to create a space where diverse people and voices feel welcome, valued, and respected. Diversity focuses on the ways people are different from one another and how to ensure the whole includes diverse parts, whereas inclusion focuses on embracing differences and making all people feel respected, supported, valued and welcomed. It’s from the lens of inclusion that Lawyers Club of San Diego looked at how to create a more inclusive environment for women who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and ally members of the legal community. The solution, a new Lawyers Club LGBTQ Committee launched to identify, acknowledge and address the unique challenges faced by its members. In creating the LGBTQ committee, Lawyers Club captures the benefits of diversity by creating an inclusive environment, acknowledging LGBTQ women face unique challenges, and openly affirming support of its LGBTQ members and the community. Members of the committee report they feel welcomed, valued, and heard. At the same time, Lawyers Club benefits by enhancing its relationship with LGBTQ law students, attorneys and judges, while gaining different perspectives for programming, new members and networks, and an expanded pipeline of diverse leaders.

CWL N E W S L E T T E R

As an additional benefit, the committee advances the status of women in society by educating members of the legal community about what obstacles LGBTQ women face. Lawyers Club members, in turn, extend that knowledge to the clients, coworkers, and litigants they encounter. Lawyers Club encourages other CWL affiliates to explore whether they can benefit from incorporating a LGBTQ committee into their infrastructure, gaining exposure to new members, networks, opportunities and perspectives while affirming their support of their LGBTQ members.

Kimberly Ahrens is chair of Lawyers Club of San Diego’s LGBTQ committee and an incoming director on the Lawyers Club Board of Directors. She is the founder of The Ahrens Law Office, where she represents victims of harassment, discrimination, and sexual assault, and employees with other employment law issues.


31

CWL N E W S L E T T E R


She, He, They, Ze: What Do They Mean, and Why Does It Matter? BY KIMBERLY AHRENS CWL members – especially those who interact frequently with millennials or have teenage children – may have noticed the increasing use of what may seem like unusual pronouns. Individuals may use “they/them/theirs” as singular pronouns, or adopt neutral pronouns like “ze/hir/hirs,” “xe/xym/xyrs,” or “ey/em/eirs.” Modern dictionaries recognize the use of the singular “they,” whether to identify non-binary people or simply when gender isn’t specified. Even the AP Stylebook, the style authority used by news media outlets, officially recognized the singular “they” in 2017, although it has not yet sanctioned the use of ze, xe, and similar neutral pronouns in news articles. But before sorting through all the varieties of gender pronouns, one should address a common misconception – that gender identity and sexual orientation are the same concept. They are not. They are two separate and distinct components of personal identity. Gender identity is how we inwardly see and outwardly express our gender, and sexual orientation is who we are attracted to. Understanding the difference between gender identity and sexual orientation highlights why it is important to use pronouns that correspond to the person’s gender identity. Using the correct pronoun respects an aspect of a person’s identity and acknowledges gender diversity.

CWL N E W S L E T T E R

Gender Identity – Beyond Male and Female Those who identify as the gender they were assigned at birth are considered “cisgender.” So, a person who was identified as female at birth and still identifies as female is cisgender. A person who identifies as strictly male or strictly female is gender binary, whether or not they identify with the gender assigned to them at birth. Gender non-binary is an umbrella term that refers to someone who does not identify as only male or only female. A non-binary person can be gender-fluid, genderneutral, transgender, or simply a person who does not conform to the idea that gender is binary. Gender-fluid people have a gender identity that is not fixed and may vary over time, while gender-neutral people identify as having no gender – not male, not female, and not a mixture of male and female. Gender-fluid is different from gender-neutral because fluidity means the person identifies with a gender, but may switch back and forth between genders. Gender-neutral people do not identify as either male or female. A transgender person is someone who does not identify with the sex they were assigned at birth.

continues on the next page


33

CWL N E W S L E T T E R


Navigating Pronouns Binary pronouns include “she/her/hers” and “he/him/his.” Some non-binary and transgender people feel comfortable using binary pronouns. On the other hand, non-binary, or gender-neutral, pronouns include, “they/them/theirs” and “ze/hir/hirs,” “xe/xym/xyrs,” and “ey/em/eirs.” The majority of non-binary people use the singular “they,” but some prefer alternative pronouns. How to know which pronouns to use? Ask. Politely asking “which pronouns do you prefer?” is a good habit to develop. It shows respect, conveys welcome, and fosters inclusiveness. And those are concepts everyone can appreciate.

Kimberly Ahrens is chair of Lawyers Club of San Diego’s LGBTQ committee and an incoming director on the Lawyers Club Board of Directors. She is the founder of The Ahrens Law Office, where she represents victims of harassment, discrimination, and sexual assault, and employees with other employment law issues.

How to Be Pronoun Savvy 1. This may go without saying, but referring to a person as “it” is offensive and derogatory. 2. Don’t assume, and don’t be afraid to ask. “What pronouns do you use?” and “What are your preferred pronouns?” are completely acceptable questions to ask. 3. Volunteer your own pronoun preference when introducing yourself as a way to encourage awareness and acceptance. Even if you think your pronouns should be obvious. 4. Use name tags with pronoun preferences or include a space to fill in pronoun preference. 5. Use gender-neutral words to describe people – for example, “folks,” “friends,” and “guests,” instead of “ladies,” “gentlemen,” and “guys.” 6. Use the person’s actual name instead of pronouns. 7. Realize a person’s preferred pronouns may change. 8. Unintentional mistakes are okay! Just apologize and correct.

CWL N E W S L E T T E R


35

CWL N E W S L E T T E R


Toni Atkins, First Woman to Lead State Senate, to Speak at CWL’s Elect to Run BY MICHELLE IALEGGIO CWL will host its award-winning Elect to Run program in San Diego June 22, with a morning line-up of elected officials and campaign experts and a dynamic keynote presentation by California Senate President Pro Tempore Toni Atkins. The non-partisan Elect to Run program, which will be held from 8 a.m. to noon at the California Women’s Museum in Liberty Station, was developed and organized by CWL to educate and encourage women to run for public office. The program, which is limited to 60 attendees, will begin with a breakfast presentation by San Diego City Attorney Mara Elliott, followed by two panels addressing the mechanics of running for office and insider tips on how to successfully serve once elected. The first panel, “Empowered to Run for Office: The Ins and Outs,” features San Diego City Council member Georgette Gomez, political consultant Eva Posner, and campaign treasurer Stephanie Sanchez. The second panel, “Election Success: Being of Service as an Elected Official,” features Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Patricia Titus, California State Assembly member Todd Gloria, and former San Diego City Council member Marti Emerald.

CWL developed the Elect to Run program, which received the 2016 Outstanding Member Program Award from the National Conference of Women’s Bar Associations, in an effort to increase the numbers of women in elected office. The statistics on women in public office are disappointing. In 2018, only 106 of 535 seats in Congress are held by women. Only 23 women currently serve in the Senate, and 83 women hold seats in the House of Representatives. The numbers of women in statewide offices are just as bad. Women hold only 25.4 percent of seats in state legislatures; only six out of 50 governors are women; and women hold only 70 statewide elective executive posts nationwide. The program is $35 for CWL members, $50 for nonmembers, and free for law students. CWL thanks the sponsors who are supporting the 2018 Elect to Run program: Event Sponsor Sheppard Mullin; Breakfast Sponsor Casey Gerry Schenk Francavilla Blatt & Penfield; and Co-Sponsors Run Women Run, the National Women’s Political Caucus of San Diego, and Emerge California. For more information and registration information Click Here

Atkins will give the keynote speech, wrapping up the day’s events. Atkins is the first woman and the first openly LGBTQ person to lead the California State Senate. She was elected to the Senate in 2016 and elected by her colleagues to serve as president pro tempore in January 2018 after her first year in office. Atkins previously served in the State Assembly from 2011 to 2016, where she was elected by her colleagues to serve as Assembly Speaker in 2014. She served on San Diego City Council from 2000 to 2008, and is the first lawmaker from San Diego to be elected to either speaker position.

CWL N E W S L E T T E R

Michelle Ialeggio serves on the CWL Board of Governors as secretary and District 9 Governor, representing San Diego and Imperial counties. She is a San Diego County deputy district attorney.


ELECT TO RUN

8:30 a.m. – 8:40 a.m. Welcome Remarks

ELECT TO RUN FRIDAY, JUNE 22, 2018

8:40 a.m. – 9:10 a.m. Morning Speaker: San Diego City Attorney Mara Elliott

9:15 a.m. – 10:15 a.m. Panel 1: Empowered to Run for Office: The Ins and Outs: San Diego City Councilmember Georgette Gomez, Political Consultant Eva Posner, Campaign Treasurer Stephanie Sanchez 10:15 a.m. – 10:25 a.m. Break

WOMEN’S MUSEUM OF CALIFORNIA 2730 Historic Decatur Rd #103 San Diego, CA 92106

An award-winning program designed to educate and encourage women to run for public office, to connect with women who have run for office, as well as those who support women to run so you are ready to run.

KEYNOTE SPEAKER

10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. Panel 2: Election Success: Being of Service As An Elected Official: California Superior Court Judge Patricia J. Titus, California State Assemblymember Todd Gloria, Former San Diego City Councilmember Marti Emerald 11:35 a.m. – 11:55 a.m. Keynote: California Senate President Pro Tempore Toni Atkins 11:55 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Closing Remarks

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA SPONSOR

EVENT SPONSOR

SENATOR TONI ATKINS President Pro Tempore of the California State Senate

NOTABLE PANELISTS

Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge Patricia J. Titus California State Assemblymember Todd Gloria San Diego City Attorney Mara Elliott San Diego City Councilmember Georgette Gomez Former San Diego City Councilmember Marti Emerald Political Consultant Eva Posner Political Campaign Treasurer Stephanie Sanchez

BREAKFAST SPONSOR

CO-SUPPORTERS Run Women Run National Women’s Political Caucus of San Diego Emerge California 37

ELECT TO RUN

8:00 a.m. – 8:30 a.m. Check-In & Registration

CALIFORNIA WOMEN LAWYERS 5TH ANNUAL

ELECT TO RUN

SCHEDULE

www.cwl.org

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

CWL N E W S L E T T E R


IN-HOUSE COUNSEL CONNECT AT WHISKEY & BITES CWL’s In-House Counsel Network hosted its signature Whiskey & Bites event April 26 at the Line Hotel in Los Angeles. The intimate and exclusive event, set in a lush garden oasis in the heart of LA, was open only to in-house counsel, who learned about and tasted whiskeys hand-selected by the hotel’s expert bartenders, while noshing on delicious charcuterie and appetizers. Attendees had the opportunity to connect with other women in-house counsel and to learn more about CWL’s unique In-House Counsel Network, which organizes an annual series of programs, the Puzzle Series, exclusively for in-house counsel to get together to share ideas and discuss issues specific to in-house practice. “As in house counsel myself, I really appreciate this opportunity to meet and network with other women in-house counsel,” said Alison Kleaver, a CWL board member and one of the event’s co-chairs. “Whiskey & Bites is one of my favorite In-House Counsel Network events because it’s unlike any other in-house counsel event. I really enjoyed my whiskey education and had a lot of fun talking with my fellow attendees about our favorite whiskeys and why we liked them. I also met some new in-house counsel in my field and I’m looking forward to getting to know them better.” CWL thanks event sponsor Haynes Boone and its Women’s Initiative Committee for its generous support of this program and the In-House Counsel Network.

CWL N E W S L E T T E R


39

CWL N E W S L E T T E R


A Place to be Inspired and Share Stories of Resilience – In-House Counsel Network Kicks Off Signature Puzzle Series Program BY SUZETTE TORRES CWL’s In-House Counsel Network kicks off its third annual Signature Puzzle Series Program on June 7, with the first of a four-part series of programs that brings together women in-house counsel to share ideas and common goals and discuss issues that affect women in in-house legal departments. CWL offers the Puzzle Program as a forum exclusively for in-house counsel, allowing them to build their own unique network of resources and support. Participants are encouraged to attend each session, and those who attend at least two of the sessions will be invited to the exclusive retreat held in Napa Valley in October. The June 7 session, hosted at Google’s offices in Sunnyvale by Google’s Legal Diversity & Inclusion program, will include the MCLE presentation “#MeToo: A New Paradigm for Employers,” by employment lawyers Melinda Riechert, a partner with Morgan Lewis & Bockius LLP, and Bram Hanono, Associate General Counsel for Labor & Employment at Facebook. The second session, set for July 26 at Box, Inc. in Redwood City and sponsored by Fisher Phillips, will feature an MCLE presentation on “A New Day for Equal Pay” by Wendy Coates, a partner with Fisher Phillips in San Francisco, and Kristen Nesbit, a partner with the firm’s Los Angeles office. The third session will be held August 23 at TOTO Concept 190 in San Francisco and is sponsored by Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati. The fourth session is set for September 18 in Southern California, with more information to come. Registration is now open for these events.

CWL N E W S L E T T E R

The Puzzle Program concludes with an exclusive retreat set for October 12-13 in Napa Valley. CWL specifically chose this location to help stimulate the area’s economy a year after the devastating Napa Valley fires. Retreat attendees will hear from local women business owners, who will share their experiences in getting past the hardship of the fires and rebuilding their lives and businesses. Attendees will also participate in a General Counsel Roundtable discussion and enjoy a Trivia Night presentation by Haynes and Boone LLP. White & Case is the Gold Sponsor of the retreat. CWL thanks the sponsors of the 2018 IHCN Puzzle Series – White & Case; Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati; and Fisher Phillips. Sponsorship opportunities are still available for the Puzzle Series and retreat. Past Puzzle Series programs have been sponsored by McManis Faulkner; Hopkins & Carley; Haynes and Boone LLP; Jackson Lewis PC; Munger Tolles & Olson LLP; Miller Sabino & Lee Legal Placement Services; Cooley LLP; and Latham & Watkins LLP. For more information about the Puzzle Program, visit CWL online or contact IHCN chair Suzette Torres at sztorres@nat.com.

Suzette Torres serves on the CWL Board of Governors as District 4 Governor, representing San Francisco and Marin Counties. She is Vice President Regional Counsel for North American Title Company.

continues on the next page


41

CWL N E W S L E T T E R


SESSION 1 GOOGLE • JUNE 7, 2018 GOOGLE, INC. - SUNNYVALE, CA 6:00 PM - 8:30 PM

2018 PUZZLE PROGRAM

Featuring Melinda S. Riechert & Bram Hanono Melinda: Partner- Employment Group, Morgan Lewis Bram: Associate General Counsel, Labor & Employment, Facebook

#MeToo: A New Paradigm for Employers 1hour MCLE credits

The Puzzle Program brings together in-house counsel from across the state to build relationships over a four-part series covering sensitive issues, shared experiences, and common goals in a confidential intimate setting. The program culminates with an exclusive, invitation-only Retreat to share respective conclusions, reflections and best practices. SESSION 2 JULY 26, BOX INC SESSION 3 AUGUST 23, CONCEPT 190 SESSION 4 SEPTEMBER 18, SO-CAL TBD Contact IHCN Chair, Suzette Torres For More Information • sztorres@nat.com


SESSION 2 JULY 26, 2018 BOX, INC. - REDWOOD CITY, CA 6:00 PM - 8:30 PM

2018 PUZZLE PROGRAM

Featuring Wendy McGuire Coats & Kristen Nesbit Wendy: Partner & Appellate Counsel, San Francisco, Fisher Phillips Kristen: Partner, Los Angeles, Fisher Phillips Exclusive Gold Sponsor

A New Day for Equal Pay 1hour MCLE credits

The Puzzle Program brings together in-house counsel from across the state to build relationships over a four-part series covering sensitive issues, shared experiences, and common goals in a confidential intimate setting. The program culminates with an exclusive, invitation-only Retreat to share respective conclusions, reflections and best practices. SESSION 3 AUGUST 23, CONCEPT 190 SESSION 4 SEPTEMBER 18, SO-CAL TBD Contact IHCN Chair, Suzette Torres For More Information • sztorres@nat.com

CWL N E W S L E T T E R


CWL N E W S L E T T E R


2018 CWL Signature Events June 7 IN-HOUSE COUNSEL PUZZLE PROGRAM SESSION 1 The four-part Puzzle Program builds relationships in teams of in-house counsel women covering sensitive issues, shared experiences and common goals in a confidential intimate setting. Session 1 features Melinda Riechert, Partner, Employment Group, Morgan Lewis, and Lena Ryan, Associate General Counsel, Labor & Employment, Facebook, discussing “#MeToo: A New Paradigm for Employers.” Mountain View June 22

ELECT TO RUN CWL’s award-winning non-partisan program that seeks to educate and encourage women to run for public office. This year’s keynote speaker is President pro Tempore Toni Atkins. Women’s History Museum of California, San Diego

July 13

NORTHERN CALIFORNIA JUDICIAL RECEPTION CWL will present the Rose Bird Memorial Award to Hon. Claudia Wilken, Senior U.S. District Judge for the Northern District of California. San Francisco, Lieff Cabraser Heimann & Bernstein, LLP

July 26

IN-HOUSE COUNSEL PUZZLE PROGRAM SESSION 2 Box, Inc., Redwood City

August 17

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA JUDICIAL RECEPTION CWL will posthumously honor Hon. Beverly Reid O’Connell, who was a U.S. District Judge for the Central District of California, with the Joan Dempsey Klein Distinguished Jurist Award. Los Angeles City Hall, Bradley Tower, 26th Floor

August 23

IN-HOUSE COUNSEL PUZZLE PROGRAM SESSION 3 Concept 190, San Francisco

September 13

CWL ANNUAL DINNER CWL’s Annual Dinner celebrates each step made towards gender equity during the year, honors women in the legal profession, and highlights the achievements of CWL and its members. Past speakers include Sen. Wendy Davis and Janet Napolitano. Mingle with friends and colleagues at the CWL Foundation Silent Auction preceding the dinner to help fund the Nancy E. O’Malley Scholarship, which recognizes a deserving California law student whose prior and current activities and future plans demonstrate a commitment to issues affecting women and/or children in the community. Sheraton San Diego Hotel & Marina

September 18 IN-HOUSE COUNSEL PUZZLE PROGRAM SESSION 4 Southern California October 12-13 IN-HOUSE COUNSEL PUZZLE PROGRAM RETREAT CWL’s In-House Counsel Puzzle Program culmination, this retreat is invitation-only. Napa/Sonoma

45

CWL N E W S L E T T E R


Celebrating CWL’s Mothers We gratefully acknowledge the women lawyers whose passion for the advancement of women contributed to the establishment and leadership of California Women Lawyers. Those women include: Carol Agate Edna R.S. Alvarez Dagny Winkler Andreassen Blanche C. Bersch Hon. Rose E. Bird (dec.) Betty Bryant Jeanette Christy Judith E. Ciani Arlene Colman-Schwimmer Hon. Patricia Yim Cowett (ret.) Georgia Franklin-Shutan Joanne M. Garvey (dec.) Sue Hone Judith G. Kleinberg Janice E. Koll Hon. Lucy Kelly McCabe Judith G. McKelvey (dec.) Olga A. Miller Ruth Rymer Miller Marjory Winston Parker Barbara Price Hon. Roberta Ralph (dec.) Lynn Schenk Candis Scott Carol Ruth Silver Mary-Louise Smith Fay Stender (dec.) Karen Pedersen Stevens (dec.) Diane Wayne Dr. Elizabeth Yahn Williams Norma Zarky (dec.) Since its formation, CWL has been nurtured and cared for by numerous women such that we continue to thrive today. We send a special thank you to the Past Presidents of CWL: 1974: Joanne M. Garvey (dec.) & Hon. Roberta Ralph (dec.)(Co-chairs, Organizing Committee) 1975: Hon. Joan Dempsey Klein (ret.)

CWL N E W S L E T T E R

1976-1977: Judith G. McKelvey (dec.) 1977-1978: Hon. Barbara ‘Barnhouse’ Johnson (ret.) 1978-1979: Melodie M. Kleiman (dec.) 1979: Hon. Isabel R. Cohen (ret.) 1979-1980: Hon. Barbara T. Gamer (ret.) 1980-1981: Marjorie Randolph Holmes 1981-1982: Eileen Cochran (dec.) 1982-1983: Susan R. Stockel 1983-1984: Christine Curtis 1984-1985: Hon. Meredith C. Taylor (ret.) 1985-1986: Pamela J. Jester 1986-1987: Patricia A. Shiu 1987-1988: Pauline A. Weaver 1988-1989: Janice Kamenir-Reznik 1989-1990: Hon. Marjorie Laird Carter (ret.) 1990-1991: Doris Coleman (dec.) 1991-1992: Anne D. McGowan 1992-1993: Hon. Angela M. Bradstreet 1993-1994: Lisa E. Brandon 1994-1995- Dawn M. Schock 1995-1996: E. Jean Gary 1996-1997: Vivian Kral 1997-1998: Grace Emery (dec.) 1998-1999: Gillian M. Ross 1999-2000: Nancy Hoffmeier Zamora 2000-2001: Carol Copsey (dec.) 2001-2002: Belynda Reck 2002-2003: Andrea Carlise 2003-2004: Candace Carroll 2004-2005: Hon. Marguerite D. Downing 2005-2006: Pearl Gondrella Mann 2006-2007: Angela J. Davis 2007-2008: Karen Goodman 2008-2009: Jean Pledger 2009-2010: Nancy E. O’Malley 2010-2011: Jennifer Webber 2011-2012: Patricia Sturdevant 2012-2013: Eliza Rodrigues 2013-2014: Neda Mansoorian 2014-2015: Wendy Behan 2015-2016: Kelly Robbins 2016-2017: Chris Chambers Goodman


47

CWL N E W S L E T T E R


“CWL means sisterhood and a safe place; mentoring and being mentored; lifting our voices and having them heard. I spent my time in CWL leadership to walk the walk and talk the talk, to be the example I want to encourage for the future of the legal profession.” Chris Chambers Goodman

CWL N E W S L E T T E R

“I was proud to testify as the then-president of CWL at the confirmation hearing of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. We were the only women’s bar association to testify. After discussing her decisions that shaped the law on gender equality and her writings on choice I said the following, ‘It is therefore , Mr. Chairman, particularly apt that the appointment of one who has paved the way for women’s equality as the second woman Justice on the Supreme Court should symbolize a historic departure from the tokenism that has traditionally existed in the appointment of women to positions of power. ... The appointment will take this nation a giant step forward in shattering the glass ceiling.’ At that moment, I knew that the voice of CWL had contributed to the historic confirmation of our nation’s second woman Supreme Court Justice.” Hon. Angela Bradstreet

“CWL was formed with two primary goals in mind: (1) to help women lawyers achieve greater opportunity in the profession (including having more women on the bench) and (2) to assist other women achieve greater opportunity in their lives and to help eliminate existing injustices. I am proud to say that CWL has made many meaningful strides in helping to achieve both of these goals with ‘more to come.’ Hurrah for CWL!” Hon. Louise Renne


Celebrating CWL’s Mothers

“CWL opened my eyes to the true meaning of a sisterhood for change. When I had an opportunity to attend one of CWL’s board meetings many years ago as a guest, I knew I had found my village. I discovered amazing, whip-smart, funny, extremely accomplished women, who were down-toearth and welcoming. I wanted to learn everything I could from this group, and I set about doing just that. Over the years, CWL also gave me the opportunity to learn about true leadership, about actively listening, and about building consensus through an open mind and an open heart. In CWL, I found an inspiration and energy to do better and to be better. That inspiration gave me the confidence and strength to rise as a leader within the organization, and ultimately to have the honor of becoming its president. For all of these reasons and more, I will always have a deep love and loyalty to this great organization, and will do my level best to support it in any way I can.” Neda Mansoorian 49

“CWL means to me the opportunity to collaborate with like-minded individuals and make a difference on important issues affecting women and children. Because it is a statewide organization which speaks for thousands of members and has headquarters in Sacramento, CWL is uniquely well situated to promote and succeed with an advocacy agenda. During my two years as president, CWL supported passage of two bills which increased women’s access to comprehensive healthcare, and continued to focus on combating human trafficking, an issue spearheaded by Nancy O’Malley during her presidency. We supported Proposition 35, drafted by Nancy, which increased penalties for traffickers, and helped obtain passage of another bill requiring certain businesses to post notices, including hotline numbers, to increase awareness of trafficking and provide help to victims. This kind of work is gratifying to me both personally and professionally, and the lasting connections I’ve made through CWL continue to result in

significant accomplishments. For example, in 2011, I presented the Fay Stender Award to Hannah-Beth Jackson, who four years ago was the author of the strongest equal pay bill in the nation, requiring equal pay for “substantially” equal work. CWL, participating in the legislative agenda of A Stronger California, the historic collaboration of the Legislative Women’s Caucus and many women’s organizations, and partnering with the National Council of Jewish Women, lobbied to obtain passage of that bill. It changed the landscape in California and has now been replicated in 41 states, enhancing the financial security of women and families nationwide.” Patricia Sturdevant

CWL N E W S L E T T E R


THE 2018 CALIFORNIA WOMEN LAWYERS 44th

ANNUAL DINNER AND S I L E N T A U C T I O N SEPTEMBER 13, 2018 5:30 p.m. No-Host Reception 7:00 p.m. Dinner SHERATON SAN DIEGO HOTEL AND MARINA 1380 Harbor Island Dr, San Diego, CA 92101 COME HELP US CELEBRATE… The achievements of California’s notable female judges and lawyers. For more information or for registration information, please visit our web page at

www.cwl.org or contact us at info@cwl.org or 916-930-9020.

CWL N E W S L E T T E R


CWL Member Benefits THE CWL LISTSERV CWL is all about connection, contacts and camaraderie! As the only statewide bar association dedicated to advancing women in the law and society, we are uniquely situated to connect our members and provide a strong network across a large distance. Our Listserv allows professionals from around the state to network and exchange ideas, make referrals, discuss best practices, survey peers on various issues, or get information for appearances, depositions or trial in different locations. CWL will also share job openings and pertinent information it receives with its membership through this Listserv. Our members, minus members of the judiciary, have been opted in to the Listserv. The default setting is that each member will receive a daily digest of emails sent. If you are an active member and are not receiving the digest and want to please let us know! Contact info@cwl.org. CEB DISCOUNTS FOR CWL MEMBERS CWL is proud to offer a member benefit from our partner, Continuing Education of the Bar, publisher of hundreds of practice guides, digital resources, and CLE programs. CWL members receive a 10 percent discount on CEB’s “OnLaw Titles” and “Essential Forms Judicial Council Forms.” To claim this benefit, you must be a CWL member! Join and we’ll share our top secret code with you! In addition to these great discounts, CWL and CEB will be partnering to provide MCLE webinars on topics relevant to California Women Lawyers members. These webinars will be available at discounted or no cost to CWL members only! Keep an eye out for updates on scheduled webinars on CWL’s Member Benefits page.

51

CWL N E W S L E T T E R


SAVE THE DATE SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA JUDICIAL RECEPTION AND PRESENTATION OF THE JOAN DEMPSEY KLEIN DISTINGUISHED JURIST AWARD

PRESENTED POSTHUMOUSLY IN HONOR OF JUDGE BEVERLY REID O’CONNELL, U.S. DISTRICT COURT, CENTRAL DISTRICT OF CALIFORNIA

AUGUST 17, 2018 5:30PM - 7:30PM

LOS ANGELES CITY HALL BRADLEY TOWER, 26TH FLOOR

CWL N E W S L E T T E R


SAVE THE DATE NORTHERN CALIFORNIA JUDICIAL RECEPTION AND PRESENTATION OF THE ROSE BIRD MEMORIAL AWARD PRESENTED TO

HON. CLAUDIA WILKEN, UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT, NORTHERN DISTRICT OF CALIFORNIA

JULY 13, 2018 5:30PM - 7:30PM

LIEFF CABRASER HEIMANN & BERNSTEIN 275 BATTERY STREET, 29TH FLOOR SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94111

53

CWL N E W S L E T T E R


WLALA Celebrates GOOD Guys Women Lawyers Association of Los Angeles sponsored a sold-out program on WLALA’s GOOD Guys April 18. The program, which was inspired by the National Conference of Women’s Bar Association’s GOOD (Guys Overcoming Obstacles to Diversity) Guys program, was designed to break the impasse in women’s advancement by engaging men in the conversation about the promotion of women and diversity in the legal profession.

Affiliate Events

The WLALA GOOD Guys program featured panelists included (from left): Gilbert Wright, Special Assistant at the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office; Daniel Olivas, Senior Assistant Attorney General at the California Attorney General’s Office; Michael Amir, co-founder of Doll Amir & Eley; Steve Bardwil, Chief Counsel at Walt Disney Studios; Matthew Umhofer, Partner at Spertus, Landes & Umhofer; and Rahul Ravipudi, partner at Panish, Shea & Boyle, with Los Angeles County Deputy District Attorney Jessica Kronstadt, secretary of WLALA, who moderated the program.

CWL N E W S L E T T E R


WLAC Gives 4 Bar Stipends at Spring Reception Women Lawyers of Alameda County gathered for their Spring Reception May 16, awarding four $1,000 stipends for law grads preparing to take the July 2018 California Bar Exam. The stipends, funded by the Margaret A. Gannon Legal Education Stipend Fund, were awarded to applicants demonstrating involvement with civic and community activities, a commitment to advancing women’s causes, a connection to Alameda County, good grades, and great writing ability. The reception was held at Laurel Bookstore in Oakland.

WLAC president Bentrish Satarzadeh (center) joins the winners of the bar stipends.

Alameda County Superior Court Judge Tara Desautels gives remarks at the WLAC Spring Reception.

55

Affiliate Events

WLAC board member Leslie Levy joins WLAC past president Lise Pearlman and current president Bentrish Satarzadeh at the Spring Reception.

CWL N E W S L E T T E R


Affiliate Events Black Women Lawyers Association of Los Angeles 43rd Annual Scholarship Fund-raiser and Awards Luncheon June 2, 2018, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Marina Beach Marriott 4100 Admiralty Way, Marina Del Rey For info

Orange County Women Lawyers 2nd Annual OCWLA Membership Mixer at Pelican Hill June 6, 2018, 5:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. Great Room Social Lounge, Resort at Pelican Hill 22701 S. Pelican Hill Road, Newport Coast For info:

8th Annual Young Lawyers’ Summer Soirée August 25, 2018 Information TBA For info

OCWLA’s Monthly Book Club Meeting June 25, 2018, 5:30 p.m.-6:30 p.m. The Boat Runner, by Devin Murphy Mimi’s Café, 17231 E. 17th St, Tustin For info:

Contra Costa County Bar Association – Women’s Section Annual Luncheon – “Navigating Gender Bias in Negotiation, Mediation, and the Courts: Tales and Tips from Seasoned Practitioners and Judges” June 27, 2018, 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Maria Maria 1470 North Broadway, Walnut Creek Speakers: Hon. Ellen James (Ret.), Hon. Anita L. Santos, and Renee Livingston For info Fresno County Women Lawyers Monthly MCLE Luncheon June 27, 2018, 12 p.m.-1 p.m. The Palms 7550 N. Palm Ave., #101, Fresno For info Lawyers Club of San Diego Lawyers Club 2018 Annual Dinner June 7, 2018, 5 p.m.-8:30 p.m. Marriott Marquis – San Diego Marina 333 W. Harbor Drive, San Diego Keynote Speaker: Former U.S. Attorney General Loretta Lynch For info General Counsel Luncheon June 21, 2018, 12 p.m.-1 p.m. Westin San Diego 400 West Broadway, San Diego For info 26th Annual Golf Tournament June 29, 2018, 12 p.m.-8 p.m. Riverwalk Golf Club 1150 Fashion Valley Rd., San Diego For info Marin County Women Lawyers Check for events here

CWL N E W S L E T T E R

Elimination of Bias MCLE Luncheon – “Promoting Equity: The Influence of Unconscious Gender Bias” July 13, 2018, 11:45 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Andrei’s Conscious Cuisine 2607 Main Street, Irvine Presenter: L. Song Richardson, Dean and Professor of Law, UC Irvine School of Law For info: OCWLA’s Monthly Book Club Meeting July 30, 2018, 5:30 p.m.-6:30 p.m. Ready Player One, by Ernest Cline Mimi’s Café, 17231 E. 17th St, Tustin For info: 43rd Annual OCWLA Gala September 13, 2018, 5:30-9 p.m. Resort at Pelican Hill 22701 S. Pelican Hill Road, Newport Coast For info: Queen’s Bench Bar Association Working Attorneys Mothers’ Mixer June 5, 2018, 12 p.m.-1 p.m. Trucker Huss One Embarcadero, 12th Floor, San Francisco For info: San Mateo County Bar Association Women’s Lawyers’ Section For upcoming events visit here Santa Barbara Women Lawyers For upcoming events visit here Truckee-Tahoe Women Lawyers Women in Business Networking event May 23, 2018 For info:


Women Lawyers Association of Los Angeles A Conversation with Chief Justice Tani Cantil-Sakauye and Associate Justice Carol Corrigan: “We Have All Been There: Dealing With Discrimination and Mistreatment in the Legal Profession” June 4, 2018, 5:30 p.m. Taix 1911 Sunset Blvd., Los Angeles For info: WLALApalooza 2018 Silent Auction Fundraiser June 20, 2018, 6:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m. Omni Hotel Los Angeles 251 S. Olive St., Los Angeles For info:

Women Lawyers of Sacramento September Luncheon September 27, 2018, 12 p.m.-1:15 p.m. Lucca Restaurant 1615 J Street, Sacramento For info: October Luncheon – Domestic Violence Awareness Month October 25, 2018, 12 p.m.-1:15 p.m. Lucca Restaurant 1615 J Street, Sacramento For info: Women Lawyers of Ventura For upcoming events visit here

“Grease” at the Hollywood Bowl June 30, 2018, 6 p.m. Hollywood Bowl 2301 N. Highland Ave., Los Angeles For info: WLALA Summer Golf League July 7, 2018; August 4, 2018; September 1, 2018 Golf Lesson: 9:30 a.m.; First Tee Time: 11 a.m. The Lakes at El Segundo 400 S. Sepulveda Blvd., El Segundo For info: 2018 WLALA Awards and Installation Dinner September 20, 2018 Information TBA For info: Women Lawyers of Alameda County 2018 Minority Bar Coalition Mixer July 12, 2018, 6 p.m.-9 p.m. Everett & Jones 126 Broadway, Oakland For info: Annual Judge’s Dinner October 4, 2018, 5:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m. Scott’s Seafood 2 Broadway, Oakland Keynote Speaker: Marina Park, CEO of Girl Scouts of Northern California For info:

57

CWL N E W S L E T T E R


Renew Your CWL Membership for 2018! CWL is the only statewide bar association dedicated to the advancement of women in law and in society. Join CWL and make a difference - for yourself and the community. What you can expect with your membership: •

CWL statewide network

Leadership training and opportunities

Annual (MCLE) Conference

Legislative advocacy for the advancement of women in law and society

Judicial evaluations

Lifelong friendships

• One-of-a-kind award winning programs including So, You Want to be a Judge?, Elect to Run and the In-House Counsel Puzzle Program •

Amicus activity

BE A PART OF SOMETHING BIGGER

CWL N E W S L E T T E R


59

CWL N E W S L E T T E R


ADVERTISE IN THE CWL NEWSLETTER!

Each digital issue of the California Women Lawyer’s newsletter is shared with over 4,000 people across the U.S. This digital publication connects industry experts to relative legislation news, valuable events for networking and professional development as well as opinion editorials from CWL leaders and members. Space is limited, ad space is determined first come, first serve. All ads subject to approval by CWL.

Quarter Page $250

Full Page Ad $500 • • •

8.5”W x 11”H Full Color Interactive Links To Your Website, FB, etc.

• • •

4.25”W x 5.5”H (Must Be Vertical) Full Color Interactive Links To Your Website, FB, etc.

Half Page Ad $375 • • •

4.25”W x 11”H (Must Be Vertical) Full Color Interactive Links To Your Website, FB, etc.

6 issue bulk rate available” ($2000, 1500, 1000)” CWL Affiliates receive a 15% discount on any advertisement.

GENERAL AD & LOGO SPECIFICATIONS PDF/300dpi Art Only Full-page display (vertical) 8.5”W x 11”H - full dimensions Half-page display (vertical) 4.25”W x 11”H - full dimensions Quarter page display (vertical) 4.25”W x 5.5”H - full dimensions Business card (horizontal) 3.5”W x 2”H - full dimensions Logos must be sent in an eps or vector file format.

CWL N E W S L E T T E R


Advertisement Opportunities For The Annual Dinner Onsite Program

rnia CalifoLawyers n e m o W t

TS

THE CALIFORNIA WOMEN LAWYERS PRESEN

41s

AL ANNUER N DINTN AUCTIO

N & SILE

ay, Thursd

ERENCE

2015 CWL ANNUAL CONF

Pathways to Equality & Success

015

er 8, 2

Octob

May 8, 2015

Burling ame, CA

riott m Mar Anahei eim, CA Anah

THE FUTURE IS FEMALE INSPIRE INFORM ILLUMINATE

CWL CONFERENCE 1 APRIL 7, 2017 ANNUAL CONFERENCE San Diego, CA2017 CWL

AD DESIGN SPECIFICATIONS: PDF/300dpi art

Full-page display (vertical) $1,000 8.5”W x 11”H - full dimensions Half-page display (vertical) $500 4.25”W x 11”H - full dimensions Quarter page display (vertical) $300 4.25”W x 5.5”H - full dimensions Business card (horizontal) $150 3.5”W x 2”H - full dimensions Logos must be sent in an eps or vector file format.

Reach hundreds of our attendees with your ad! 61

CWL N E W S L E T T E R


CALIFORNIA WOMEN LAWYERS N E W S L E T T E R Thank you to our Annual Sponsors: Statewide Bronze Sponsor T R I A L

B Y

W O M A N Northern California Gold Sponsor

Southern California Title Sponsor

Annual Newsletter Sponsor

Learn about all of our Annual CWL Sponsorship Opportunities HERE

www.cwl.org

CWL N E W S L E T T E R


Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.