Q3 Magazine 2025 by northcountybar

NORTH COUNTY LAWYER Magazine

Published by the North County Bar Association

Phone: (760) 758-5833

E-mail: info@northcountybar org www.northcountybar.org

P.O. Box 2381, Vista, CA 92085

Board of Directors

Suzanne Skolnick, President

Jess Booth, Vice President

Erica Bloom, Vice President

Rima Khoury, Vice President

Angela Medrano, Director

Katharine Tremblay, Director

Ed Burns, Director

Carmela Birnbaum, Director.

Avneet Sidhu, Director

Hon Harry Powazek (Ret ), Director

Alan Mansfield, Director

Reid Chambers, Director

Gary Cunneen, Director

Staff:

Camden Retzlaff, Executive Director

Our mission is to promote professional excellence, camaraderie, philanthropy, and community outreach.

2025 SUSTAINING MEMBERS

To be a "Gold" or "Silver" Sustaining Member, a member pays the regular dues for the appropriate category, plus an additional $500 or $250 per year. Members are recognized in each North County Lawyer Magazine publishing and on the bar's web page.

Gold

Edward Burns, James Bush, Darwin Bustarde, Paul Camp, Howard Franco, Michael Friedrichs, Thomas Grimes, Robert Jackson, Michael Klein, Daniel Martin, Jodi Schnoebelen, Debra Streeter

Silver

Lesly Adams, Erica Bloom, Melissa Bustarde, Amber Crothall, Susanne De La Flor, Carline Fonseca, Rich Gaines, Russell Kohn, David Larkin, Gregory Lievers, Sue Loftin, Reid Kelly, Jacqueline Skay, Joseph Stine, Nicole Varela, Herbert Weston, Tanya Weston

Caron Calabrese, Esq., Editor

Camden Retzlaff, Executive Director

Editorial Committee:

Lesly J Adams, Esq , Darwin Bustarde, Esq , Ruth Marvin Webster, Esq., Bill Kamenjarin, Esq., Larry Campitiello , Esq., and Stephanie S. Germani, Esq.

The North County Lawyer Magazine is published quarterly by the North County Bar Association. Subscriptions, articles, photos and advertising should be submitted to: North County Bar Association, P O Box 2381, Vista, CA 92085 or info@northcountybar org, or (760) 758-5833

The subscription rate for non-members is $40 per year. Deadline for submissions is the 10th of the month prior to publication The North County Lawyer reserves the right to edit all submissions.

L

When I first moved to California from Maryland, I was often asked if I miss the changing of the seasons and the falling of autumn leaves I did not, insisting that I would prefer consistent spring-like weather year-round. After 22 years in San Diego, I now know that we do, indeed, have a change of seasons, however more subtle. It comes with just the slightest chill in the air, followed by the hot winds of the Santa Ana, and then a sort of settling in for winter. The changing of seasons here may have more to do with the behaviors and habits of our inhabitants. Less hiking and bike-riding, more nose-to-thegrindstone quiet working to pass the time until we resume the outdoor living that is why we live here. (For the record, the only weather phenomenon I really miss about the East Coast are the rainstorms with thunder and lightning )

In this issue, we take an important look at access to justice in North County, and a re-cap of Law Day, during which so many of our legal volunteers assist the community by offering guidance on legal issues to our residents. We finish the update to Civil Law in California for 2025 (thanks again to Wayne Templin for this 3piece, in-depth article!) and learn about employee benefits for small firms. This is an apropos time of year to consider the effects of lawsuits on the emotional well-being of both attorneys and our clients explored in a thoughtful piece by Linda Vazin.

And while I always lament the end of summer, I remember that "[t]here is a harmony in autumn, and a lustre in its sky, which through the summer is not heard or seen." — Percy Bysshe Shelley

President’s

The North County Bar Association hosts numerous events throughout the year that focus on enriching our members’ professional development. Whether it is an insightful educational seminar or a networking mixer, opportunities for our members to grow professionally abound. One skill set that the NCBA has mastered is fusing professional growth opportunities with good, clean, fun. Shining examples of fun events that bring our North County legal community together both professionally and personally are the NCBA’s first annual Pickleball Tournament which was held on August 9th, and our upcoming September 26th annual Golf Tournament

Our inaugural “Paddle and Precedent” pickleball tournament was a smash hit—literally. The event served up plenty of laughs Players of all levels of experience participated, some more aggressively than others – but all had fun and finished the day sharing great food provided by Dang Brothers Pizza. Notable mentions go to championship winners Scott and Judge Victor Torres and our 2 nd place finishers Anahit Urfalyan and Kent Bloom Judge Torres proved he can dominate the court, whether wielding his gavel in Department 22 or his pickleball paddle at the El Camino Country Club. Now that we know who our ringers are, perhaps the NCBA should challenge the San Diego County Bar Association to a match? Whether it was a carefully placed dink, a bold lob, or simply the camaraderie between colleagues, the NCBA’s Pickleball tournament highlighted the fun of healthy competition outside the courtroom. By the end of the day, the unanimous verdict was clear:

pickleball may be new to our calendar, but it’s already earned its place as a tradition worth continuing. The NCBA also extends our gratitude to the Consumer Law Group of California and Alan Mansfield for their generous sponsorship of the event and to Katharine Tremblay for her tireless efforts in organizing the tournament.

Our upcoming annual Golf Tournament on September 26th will include the fan-favorite raffle where everyone leaves with a prize. The tournament will be held at The Vineyard in Escondido, which boasts a scenic landscape of verdant wetlands, stunning mountain vistas, and plenty of water hazards. So, for players matching my caliber of golf prowess, be sure to bring extra golf balls! Players of all levels attend and participate in the NCBA tournament, and because we use a scramble format where the best shot of the foursome is used at each hole, there are opportunities for everyone in the foursome to contribute to the team’s final score The NCBA Golf Tournament is the perfect way to meet members of our North County legal community in a fun environment that promises to provide lasting memories, whether you win or lose.

As these events show, the North County Bar Association thrives when our members come together on the court, on the course, and in the courtroom of ideas Each program we host is designed not only to sharpen our professional skills, but also to strengthen the friendships and collegiality that make our community unique. I encourage every member to take advantage of these opportunities, step out from behind the desk, and join us. Whether you’re swinging a paddle, a club, or simply shaking hands at a mixer, your presence makes a difference. Together, let’s continue to build a Bar Association that is as dynamic, inclusive, and fun as the people who make it possible

Suzanne Skolnick 2025 NCBA President

A brief glance at legal management systems . Abriefglanceatlegal managementsystems.

WHATLAW PRACTICE SOFTWARE ISRIGHT FORYOU? WHATLAW PRACTICE SOFTWARE ISRIGHT FORYOU?

ByRuthMarvinWebster ByRuthMarvinWebster

IfIf you’re like most of us, “get organized” figures near the top of every year’s list of New Year’s Resolutions (right after lose weight and get more exercise, of course). And if you’re a practicing attorney, that usually means better time management.

Nagging daily administrative tasks often consume the lion’s share of an attorney and their staff’s daily workload, often leaving them (and you) stressed out and overwhelmed. But with the help of the right legal practice software, many of those pesky – but oh so crucial -duties can be automated, leaving you to practice law. Because after all, wouldn’t we all rather spend our workday focusing on the things that really matter like constructing an elegant legal argument or strategy than worrying if a filing deadline has slipped between the cracks or whether the balance due has been properly calculated?

The best legal software solutions can simplify case matter management by automating calendaring and billing as well as offering the flexibility of being able to work from anywhere. It can also improve cyber-security and help with compliance of regulatory requirements. In fact, technological competency is now so important that the American Bar Association has mandated such requirements which have been adopted in 28 states to date.

A recent Blue Hill Research study also found that attorneys regularly save more than eight hours a month when using management software, which the majority were able to turn into more billable hours. That is why the global legal software market size is growing at a rate of about 12 percent. Valued at $0.4 billion last year, the market is projected to reach over $2.2 billion by 2032.

Yet despite the overwhelming data that technology can make us better, many of us older (often sole practitioners) often say “no thanks” to legal software solutions, complaining that the software on the market is just too costly, a terrific drain on resources (especially at the beginning) and just plain frustrating

But the fact remains that firms employing technology are more efficient and that the good legal software leaves attorneys more time to focus on things that really matter and giving them a competitive edge over others who dismiss technology Or in other words:

HAVE YOU CONSIDERED THESE? HAVE YOU CONSIDERED THESE?

CLIO MANAGE - approved by many bar associations and designed for law firms of all sizes.Itiscloud-based.

COSMOLEX – a cloud-based law practice software that helps with calendars, email, documents, billing and payments.

FILEVINE – has more than 50,000 users. Widely used. Undisclosed pricing but offers a core program and three modules. Particularly good for small and midsized firms.

IMANAGE – integrates with Microsoft 365. Particularly good for larger firms. Suitable for managing large volumes ofsensitivedocuments.

LAWCUS – made for all sized firms. Allows configuration rule-based triggers to automate specific repetitive tasks. Has insightful reports andpowerfuldashboards.

MERCUS – highly customizable and suitable for firms of all sizes. Configurable solutions. Also offers batch scanning, tiered calendaring systems, autopopulation of court forms and documents, predictive searching. Offers bank-gradesecurity.

Experts suggest that the first step before purchasing any software is to sit down with the entire office to identify areas that can be best automated or at least, streamlined. In other words, what software features would be the most helpful to you and your practice? Would allowing attorneys, clients and/or staff access to services or meetings remotely enhance collaboration? Do you have particular concerns over online payments, email encryption or cyber-security? Are routine tasks such as calendaring, document generation and billing goggling up your time? How important are features like conflict-checking or court-forms in your practice? Are you interesting in generating analytical reports? Would marketing features or web development services be helpful? Or maybe what you need is a so-called all-in-one system?

Then look at the legal software options on the market and find out how the new software would integrate in your existing systems or tech stacks? What level of maintenance and support are required and how invested/tech savvy are the individuals who will be using the software? Consider how the system will be able to grow with your team?

Compare costs. What are initial, up front costs and/or monthly fees? Are there early cancellation fees? Does the software provide customer support? Training? Webinars? Is it recommended by bar associations or firms? Request demos and free trial periods. Read reviews and get references from other law firms using the software which can help you make an informed decision.

Finally remember that new habits take time to master. Be patient with yourself and your team. And always remember that with the right technology, you are certain to free up hours better spent to help you succeed – professionally, financially and personally – but nothing is without limitations.

ByRuthMarvinWebster

MYCASE – a cloud-based law practice management software that’s affordable and full-featured. Relatively unique feature is one-bill policy. By paying one fixed price, you get access to all features. Also offers custom webdevelopmentservices.

PRACTICEPANTHER – a law practice management softwarethat’sgoodforsmall tomedium-sizedfirms.

ROCKETMATTER – a cloudbased law practice management software with dashboard.

SIMPLAW – good user support. Clients can request new matter through portal. User interface not sophisticated.

SMARTADVOCATE – best for personalinjuryspace.

SMOKEBALL – simplifies the management process. Automatically tracks your activity and time and enables you to store your contacts, documents and emails. Primarily known for legal billingsoftware.

Lawsuits, the Nervous System, and the Missing Piece in Client Advocacy

Anyone who has ever been through a lawsuit especially a contentious divorce knows it isn’t just a legal event. It’s a life event. It hijacks your sleep, your thoughts, your nervous system, and in many cases, your ability to make sound decisions. And yet, the legal world rarely addresses this truth.

What if attorneys had the power to support not just their clients’ legal interests, but their emotional and physiologicalresilienceaswell?

In this article, I explore a missing but vital dimension of client advocacy: helping clientsstabilizetheirnervous

systems during litigation With over three decades of experience in somatic healing, breathwork, and trauma-informed coaching, I’ve seen firsthand how critical this support can be in legal outcomes. Clients who feel grounded and safe are more capable of clarity, collaboration, and self-advocacy.

Attorneys who understand this can become true advocates for their clients’ lives, not just their lawsuits. Legal Conflict HijackstheNervousSystem

To the brain and body, a lawsuit can feel likealife-threateningsituation.

Initially,thisstressresponse may produce focus and urgency. But over time, the constant anticipation of conflict, fear of financial loss, or anxiety about an uncertain future wears down the system. Clients begintoexperience:

Brainfogandinabilityto concentrate

Increasedirritabilityand emotionaloutbursts

Sleep disruption and adrenalfatigue

Physical symptoms like jaw tension, digestive upset,orchronicpain

and gentle trauma-release exercises, she started sleeping again. She stopped panicking before court dates. Her choices became more aligned with her long-term values, rather than fear-driven reactions. Eventually, she workedwithherattorneyto reach a settlement that prioritized peace of mind overperpetualbattle

One client of mine let’s callherAnna cametome during the sixth year of an intensely adversarial divorce.Thelegalfeeswere astronomical (over 9 million dollars). But what had taken an even greater toll was her health. Anna hadn’t slept properly in months and was constantly sick. She would change her legal strategy weekly, constantly secondguessing herself. Her attorney was skilled, but frustrated by the indecision.

IAnd although she had a therapist, it didn’t help much with the tension she felt in her body, her throat, shoulders and gut were in aconstantstateoftension.

Once Anna began somatic work,includingbreathwork

The Somatic Layer of Healing

Somatictherapyaddresses what traditional talk therapycan’talwaysreach: the way trauma lives in the body.

Whenapersonexperiences emotional overwhelm whetherfromchildhood

conditioning or current legal stress the body storesthoseexperiencesas tension, numbness, or even illness.Weseethisplayout in clients who can’t make decisions,whofreezeunder pressure, or who collapse into emotional exhaustion mid-case.

Somatic healing helps clients:

Reconnect with their breath and body signals

Release held tension from chronic stress or trauma

Access clarity through nervous system regulation

Rebuild internal safety and emotional resilience

Through breathwork and techniques like NeuroLinguistic Programming (NLP), clients can shift out of the reactive survival states that litigation often triggers. The goal is not to makeanyoneperfect.It’sto help them return to their center—where decisions come from clarity, not chaos.

WhyThisMatterstoAttorneys

Legal outcomes are deeply influenced by a client’s ability to stay regulated and engaged in the process. A clientstuckinfight-or-flightmay:

Pushforunrealisticgoalsfueledbyangerorfear

Constantlychangetheirmind,derailingprogress

Struggletoretainkeyinformationorfollowadvice

Makeimpulsivedecisionstheylaterregret

Whenattorneysrecognizethesepatternsnotas"difficultclientbehavior"butasnervous systemdysregulation,theyunlockanewlevelofcompassionandstrategy Encouraging clients to seek somatic support is not just good ethics it can be smart case management.

Imagineaclientwhoentersmediationcalm,grounded,andcapableofcompromise.Or one who can finally sleep and stop obsessively texting their legal team. These are not minorimprovements;theychangethepace,tone,andtrajectoryofthecase.

ANorthCountyPerspective:ConsciousLawyeringinaSpiritualLandscape

There’s something unique about North County San Diego. It’s a region steeped in wellness,healing,andconsciousness.It’sthebirthplaceofSelf-RealizationFellowshipand hometocountlessyogacenters,mindfulnesscommunities,andsomaticpractitioners.

AttorneysherehavetheopportunitytopracticewhatIcall"consciouscounsel."

Consciouscounselmeans:

Treating clients as whole people,notjustlegalcases

Recognizing the emotional traumainherentinlitigation

Building a referral network of trustedwellnessproviders

Choosing long-term wellbeing overshort-termwins

This isn’t about abandoning legal rigor. It’s about adding a layer of humanity that often gets lost in adversarialprocesses.

WhatAttorneysCanDoNow

Ifyou’reanattorneyreadingthisandwonderinghowtobringthisperspectiveintoyour work,hereareafewsmallshiftsthatcanmakeabigimpact:

Acknowledge the stress out loud. Simply validating that the legal process is stressful canhelpclientsfeelseenandunderstood.

Collaborate across disciplines. Reach out to wellness professionals and explore how youcanworktogethertoserveclientsmorecompletely.

Build in emotional check-ins. Ask your clients how they’re sleeping, eating, and managing.Ifthey’redysregulated,considerpausingorreorientingstrategy.

Practice trauma-informed communication Be mindful of tone, pacing, and pressure Smallgesturesofempathygoalongway.

Final Thoughts: The Future of LawIsIntegrative

We are living in a time when clients are craving more conscious, compassionate professionals in every field. Law is no exception. If you want your work to stand out, if you want to create lasting impact, consider supporting clients not only in winning their case but in rebuilding their lives.

Helping a client come out of litigation with their health, identity, and peace intact is a rare and noble offering. But it is possible. And it starts with understanding how trauma shows up in the body, and how somatic support can make the difference between surviving a lawsuit and truly healingfromit.

When we bridge the worlds of law and healing, we don’t weaken our professional power we deepen it. And in doing so, we usher in a new era of legal practice where success is measured not only by what’s won on paper, but by what’s preserved in theheartandbody.

Linda Vazin is a Breathwork and Somatic Coach with over 35 years of experience helping clients regulate their nervous systems, release stored trauma , and step into empowered decision-making. She has two studio locations in Cardiff and La Jolla, CA To learn more , visit www breathbodyconnection com

BRIDGING THE JUSTICE GAP

WHATTHELATESTSTATEBARSTUDYREVEALSABOUTACCESSTO JUSTICEINNORTHCOUNTY

By:StephanieGermani,Esq.

The State Bar of California’s 2024 “Justice Gap Study” has delivered a sobering assessment of civil legal need in the Golden State: Despite a robust legal economy and nearly 200,000 active attorneys statewide, 75% of California households across all income groups faced at least one civil legal problem in the past year, yet most struggled to obtain the legal support they needed. This represents a dramatic increase from the 55% of households that experienced civil legal problems in 2019

The crisis is particularly acute in North County San Diego, where systemic barriers and infrastructure gaps compound the challenges identified in the statewide study. Unlike other regions, North County lacks Small Claims or Unlawful Detainer courts, forcing residents to travel to downtown courthouses for these essential services. For low-income residents, this geographic barrier becomes insurmountable when coupled with the digital divide that prevents reliable access to remote court proceedings

TheStatewideCrisis:NumbersThatTellaStory

The 2024 study reveals an alarming erosion in the justice system’s accessibility. While the prevalence of civil legal problems has increased substantially, Californians now seek legal help for just 18% of their problems overall, down from 32% in 2019 Even for problems that substantially impact their lives, only 29% of Californians receive legal assistance.

NorthCounty’sUniqueChallenges

Perhaps most troubling, the justice gap now cuts across all economic strata. Between 72 and 75 percent of households in every income group experienced at least one civil legal issue in the past year, with little variation based on income level This finding challenges the traditional assumption that the justice gap primarily affects only the poorest Californians.

The most common legal problems span health, housing, and employment issues, affecting Californians regardless of their economic status. Yet when faced with these challenges, 85% received no or inadequate assistance, a figure that has remained unchanged since 2019 despite the growing scope of legal need.

North County San Diego faces a perfect storm of access barriers that exemplify and amplify the statewide crisis. The region’s geographic isolation from the Central Courthouse and the San Diego Law Library creates fundamental obstacles for residents seeking justice.

CourtAccessBarriers

The closure of Small Claims departments in North County in 2017 forced all small claims cases to be filed and heard at the Central Division in downtown San Diego For residents in Vista, Oceanside, Carlsbad, and surrounding communities, this means traveling more than 30 miles to access basic civil justice services. Similarly, unlawful detainer (eviction) cases must be handled downtown, creating additional hardship for tenants facing housing displacement.

The Superior Court’s North County location in Vista handles criminal, civil, family law, and other matters, but the absence of small claims and unlawful detainer jurisdiction creates a two-tiered system where North County residents face greater barriers to accessing certain types of civil justice.

TheDigitalDivideChallenge

While courts have increasingly moved to remote hearing options using platforms like Microsoft Teams, this technological shift has created new barriers for low-income residents The assumption that everyone has reliable internet access, compatible devices, and technological literacy excludes many of those most in need of legal services.

As the 2020 The California Commission on Access to Justice study noted, just 55% of low-income Californians had broadband subscriptions at home, and many lack the smartphones or computers necessary for effective video conferencing. In North County, where WiFi isn't universally accessible and data plans may be limited, remote court appearances can become another form of exclusion rather than inclusion.

ResourcesUnderPressure

The Legal Aid Society of San Diego operates in North County, providing critical services to low-income residents across the region. However, the State Bar study documents that legal aid organizations report being unable to adequately service 63 to 70 percent of the legal problems that people bring to them.

With North County home to over 1.2 million residents, the scale of unmet need is staggering.

TheCareerPipelineCrisis

A significant driver of the justice gap is what researchers term “public interest drift.” The phenomenon where law students who enter school intending to pursue public interest careers ultimately choose other paths The State Bar’s research found that 49% of students who begin law school with public interest intentions ultimately pursue other careers.

The primary culprit is overwhelming educational debt: 81% of law students at ABA-accredited California schools graduate with debt, with a median burden of $147,000 in 2019. For students who “drifted” from public interest careers, debt levels were 40% higher than those who remained committed to public service, according to the “Findings from the 2019 California Law Student Survey.”

This debt crisis disproportionately affects students of color, who are more likely to carry educational debt and face higher debt burdens While 22% of white students reported not taking out law school loans, only 9% of Black and Latinx students could say the same. Among those with debt, Black and Latinx students carried median debt loads 26% higher than their white counterparts

InadequateSupportSystems

Despite the existence of Loan Repayment Assistance Programs (LRAPs) and federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF), many students lack confidence in these safety nets. The federal PSLF program has a troubling track record. As of 2019, only 1,216 out of 102,051 applications were approved.

Among California law students interested in public interest careers, only 27% were aware of their law school’s LRAP and 68% were aware of PSLF This knowledge gap, combined with skepticism about program effectiveness, contributes to career decisions driven by debt rather than calling.

InnovativeSolutionsEmerging

Despite these challenges, North County and San Diego County are developing innovative approaches to bridge the justice gap.

CollaborativeCourtPrograms

The San Diego County District Attorney’s North County Branch has pioneered several innovative justice programs, including the Juvenile Diversion Initiative, which prioritizes diversion options for youth instead of filing criminal charges. This program keeps young people out of the formal justice system while addressing underlying causes of harmful behavior.

The county has also established specialty courts including Mental Health Court, Drug Court, and Veterans Treatment Court, providing targeted interventions that address root causes of legal problems rather than simply processing cases.

Technology-EnabledServices

California Western School of Law’s Access to Law Initiative represents an innovative model for expanding legal services. The program supports recent graduates entering solo or smallfirm practice through an 18-month training program that includes business planning, client development, and case management training. In exchange, participating attorneys provide 100 hours of pro bono or low bono service annually, often through free legal clinics

This model addresses both the career pipeline problem and the service delivery gap, providing new attorneys with business skills while expanding access to legal services

OneSafePlaceNorthCounty

The North County Family Justice Center provides a comprehensive approach to serving crime victims, offering legal services alongside social services, victim advocacy, and other support services under one roof. This co-location model reduces barriers for vulnerable populations who might otherwise struggle to navigate multiple service providers.

Looking Forward: Actionable Recommendations ImmediateSteps

Court Access: The Superior Court should explore options for restoring limited Small Claims and Unlawful Detainer jurisdiction to North County, potentially through designated hearing days or expanded remote hearing capabilities with enhanced technological support.

Digital Equity: Courts and legal aid organizations should partner with libraries, community centers, and other public spaces to provide “digital legal access points “where residents can participate in remote hearings with technical support and private spaces

Transportation: Legal aid organizations should explore mobile legal clinics and partnerships with public transit agencies to reduce geographic barriers to legal services.

ProfessionalBarResponse

The San Diego County Bar Association and North County Bar Association have responded to the justice gap through expanded pro bono programs and legal aid initiatives. The SDCBA operates several programs including:

Guardian Ad Litem Program for child protection cases

Access to Appellate Justice Program for self-represented appellants

Servicemembers Civil Relief Act assistance for military families

The San Diego County Bar Foundation's "Donate Your Rate" campaign encourages attorneys to contribute the equivalent of their billable hourly rate to fund legal aid services, recognizing that financial contributions can sometimes have greater impact than individual pro bono hours.

MovingForward

The State Bar’s 2024 Justice Gap Study confirms what many North County residents already know: Our civil justice system is failing to meet the needs of ordinary Californians across all income levels. In North County, geographic barriers, court closures, and the digital divide compound these statewide challenges. Yet the study also points toward solutions. From innovative legal incubators to community-based service delivery models, from paraprofessional licensing to debt relief for public interest attorneys, pathways exist to bridge the justice gap.

The question is not whether we can afford to implement these solutions, it’s whether we can afford not to As the State Bar study makes clear, the justice gap affects not just the poorest Californians but families across the economic spectrum When three-quarters of households face legal problems but fewer than one in five receive adequate help, we face not just individual tragedies but a systemic crisis that undermines the rule of law itself.

For North County, with its unique challenges and innovative spirit, the path forward requires both immediate practical steps and long-term systemic reform. By addressing court access barriers, investing in technology equity, expanding legal aid resources, and developing new models of legal service delivery, the region can become a laboratory for justice innovation that serves not just its own residents but provides a model for communities across California and beyond

The justice gap is not inevitable, it’s a policy choice The State Bar study provides the roadmap; now comes the harder work of building the bridge.

The Evolving Landscape of Employee Benefits: What Small Law Firms Need to Know

For solo practitioners and small law firms, offering competitive employee benefits can feel like a daunting challenge. Many small firms assume that robust benefits are only within reach for large law firms with extensive resources. However, the landscape of employee benefits is evolving, and new options are making it easier for small businesses to attract and retain top legal talent without breaking the bank.

WHY EMPLOYEE BENEFITS MATTER MORE THAN EVER

In today’s competitive job market, offering a wellrounded benefits package is essential for attracting and keeping skilled professionals. The workforce has shifted its expectations, valuing not only salary but also health benefits, retirement plans, and work-life balance options. According to a 2023 survey by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), 60% of employees consider benefits a major factor

in accepting a job offer, and 80% say they would choose better benefits over a pay increase. For small law firms, investing in employee benefits isn’t just about recruitment it’s about reducing turnover, improving job satisfaction, and boosting overall firm productivity. Fortunately, there are more affordable and flexible benefits solutions available now than ever before.

Latest Trends and Options in Employee Benefits

1. Level-Funded Health Plans

A growing number of small businesses are opting for level-funded health plans, which combine the predictability of a traditional health insurance plan with the cost savings of a self-funded model. These plans allow small firms to pay a fixed monthly amount, with potential refunds if claims are lower than expected. This model provides more control over healthcare spending while maintaining financial stability.

2. Flexible Work Benefits: Paid Time Off and Remote Work Stipends

Attorneys often work long hours, making work-life balance crucial. Many firms are now offering unlimited paid time off (PTO) policies or flexible vacation policies to enhance employee satisfaction. Additionally, providing stipends for remote work expenses, such as home office setups or co-working space memberships, can be a valuable perk that improves employee productivity and job satisfaction.

3. Retirement Planning Options: 401(k) Plans and SIMPLE IRAs

Retirement benefits are a key consideration for employees evaluating job opportunities. Small firms may find traditional 401(k) plans challenging to administer, but newer options like pooled employer plans (PEPs) and low-cost SIMPLE IRAs provide easier and more affordable ways to offer retirement benefits. Matching employee contributions, even at modest levels, can go a long way in demonstrating long-term investment in employees’ financial security.

4. Lifestyle Spending Accounts (LSAs)

A newer and highly flexible benefit option gaining traction is the Lifestyle Spending Account (LSA). Unlike traditional benefits, LSAs allow employers to allocate funds for employees to use on a variety of wellness-related expenses, including gym memberships, mental health services, financial planning, and even childcare. These accounts are highly customizable, enabling law firms to tailor offerings that fit the unique needs of their employees. LSAs provide a great way to support overall well-being while giving employees control over how they use their benefits.

5. Voluntary Benefits: A Cost-Effective Way to Expand Offerings

Voluntary benefits allow employees to select additional coverage options at group rates without adding significant costs to the employer. Popular voluntary benefits include:

Legal insurance (a valuable offering for law firms)

Disability and life insurance

Pet insurance

Student loan repayment assistance

Identity theft protection

By giving employees the power to choose from a range of options, firms can cater to diverse needs without significantly increasing overhead costs.

6. Mental Health and Well-Being Programs

The legal profession is notorious for high-stress environments, making mental health support more critical than ever. Many small firms are investing in Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) that provide confidential counseling, financial advice, and legal support services. Additionally, wellness programs that include gym memberships, mindfulness apps, or in-office yoga sessions can contribute to a healthier work environment.

How to Build the Right Benefits Package for Your Law Firm

Given the wide range of available benefits, small firms should take a strategic approach when designing their packages:

1.Survey Your Employees – Understanding what benefits matter most to your team can help prioritize offerings that will have the greatest impact.

2.Set a Realistic Budget – Work with an insurance broker who specializes in small businesses to identify cost-effective options.

3.Consider a Tiered Approach – Offering a mix of core benefits (e.g., health insurance, retirement plans) and voluntary benefits (e.g., legal insurance, wellness perks) allows employees to customize their compensation package.

4.Stay Informed on Regulations – Employee benefits are subject to legal requirements that vary by state and federal laws. Consulting with benefits experts ensures compliance and helps avoid costly penalties.

5.Communicate and Educate – The best benefits package is only effective if employees understand how to use it. Regularly update employees on available benefits and encourage participation in wellness programs.

Where to go for Help

At SSA Insurance Services we specialize in helping small law firms navigate the everchanging landscape of employee benefits. We understand the challenges that solo practitioners and small firms face, and we work closely with our clients to design costeffective, customized benefits packages that meet both business and employee needs. Whether you're exploring LSAs, or voluntary benefits, our team can provide expert guidance and tailored solutions to ensure your firm remains competitive in attracting and retaining top legal talent.

Small law firms and solo practitioners may not have the same budget as large firms, but they do have access to increasingly flexible and innovative benefits solutions. By leveraging new options like level-funded health plans, LSAs, and voluntary benefits, firms can provide valuable employee perks without straining their finances. Investing in employee benefits ultimately leads to better retention, enhanced workplace morale, and a more competitive edge in the legal industry. For law firms looking to explore tailored benefits packages, working with an experienced insurance broker can simplify the process and help find the best solutions for both the firm and its employees. The key is to start small, stay informed, and remain adaptable to the evolving needs of today’s workforce.

Reach out to us today to learn how we can help your firm build a benefits package that makes a lasting impact.

If you have any questions or would like more information on how to enhance your benefits package, feel free to reach out to SSA Insurance Services at 760-203-4293 or service@ssainsuranceservices.com.

Written by Stephanie San Antonio

Stephanie San Antonio, founder of SSA Insurance Services, is an insurance broker with over 20 years of experience, dedicated to enhancing employee benefits Contact Stephanie at 760-203-4292 or email her at stephanie@ssainsuranceservices com

Since 2013 SSA Insurance Services has been helping organizations of all sizes to promote and protect the health and wellness of their most important asset: their employees Stephanie San Antonio and her team do this by working with employers to design, implement, and maintain a company culture that is in line with their mission and values, and building a comprehensive benefit package that attracts and retains their top talent. Call SSA at (760) 203-4299 for a complimentary benefits package review, to make sure your group health plan is in compliance, and for help with establishing a wellness program for your employees to keep them healthy, happy and engaged.

Law Day 2025

Access To Justice

North County Bar Association in Partnership with the San Diego County Public Library, the San Diego Law Library and the Legal Aid Society of San Diego Brings a Day of Free Legal Service to the Public

Law Day was a success again this year. People needing access to legal services were lined up outside the doors before the start of the event and the pace never stopped. On May 6, 2025, over the course of six hours in the Community Room of the Vista Branch of the San Diego County Library, thirty-five volunteer attorneys plus many interpreters and subject specialists gathered to help 98 people on 116 separate matters. Our volunteer attorneys tackled a wide range of topics, including divorce, child custody, support orders, immigration, landlord-tenant disputes, access to housing benefits, wills, trusts, probate, conservatorship, contract disputes, property disputes, business formation, bankruptcy, criminal matters, expungements, employment law issues, injury lawsuits, and access to federal and state benefits.

North County Lawyer Editor, Caron Calabrese, Esq , and Law Day participant

We offered these consultations in English and Spanish with translators also standing by to help in Vietnamese, Russian, Turkish, Azerbaijani, French, and Italian. People seeking help came not just from San Diego County but also from Orange, Riverside, and San Bernardino Counties

Our volunteer attorneys helped people focus their issues, answered questions, suggested self-help steps, and referred people to free and low costs resources for follow up People came in with problems and left with answers and a plan. Most participants told us how grateful they were for this service and some even

Law Day V Members T DiMare, Esq

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Law Day i

Volunteer Attorneys (End of Article For Names):

This event could not happen without all the attorneys who donated their time and expertise. Our North County Bar Association attorneys volunteered in large numbers. We also had volunteer attorneys from many other bar associations who turned out to help. Several attorneys signed up for the entire six-hour day. Some attorneys who signed up for a few hours stayed well beyond their shifts. Many of the bilingual attorneys, when not working in their own topic areas, kindly lent themselves to other attorneys as interpreters.

Law Day

Volunteer Attorneys and NCBA Members

Law Day 2025

Volunteer Interpreters (End of Article For Names)

We estimate that approximately 30% of those served during Law Day were Spanish speaking. Some years we have more, and some years we have an influx of different languages such as Russian or Vietnamese, so we try to be prepared. Our bilingual attorneys and interpreters were key to that effort.

San Diego County Library

Law Day Volunteer Attorney and NCBA Director, Alan Mansfield, Esq., with Law Day patrons

San Diego Law Library (SDLL)

Kenia Shi, ably assisted by Claire Silverstein, both reference librarians with the San Diego Law Library, staffed the Intake Table for the entire day. Working in both English and Spanish, Kenia and Claire performed miracles assessing what legal topic(s) the patrons’ needs fell into, getting the patrons to the correct topic tables and even taking time to help patrons who had reading difficulties by reading documents to them. Cheryl Weeks-Frey, retired SDLL reference librarian and Nicole Gigliotti, current SDLL reference librarian, staffed the Resources Table. This is where patrons stopped on their way out to learn what free and low-cost resources are available to them on the issues identified by the consulting attorneys as well as by Cheryl and Nicole.

The SDLL’s director, Gina S. Catalano, participated in the behind-the-scenes organizing for Law Day and promoted the event through SDLL’s web site and social media. SDLL also provided generous financial support for the event that allowed us to print large-format posters and to feed the attorneys with light snacks. Thank you, SDL

Kenia Shi, Claire Silverstein, Cheryl Weeks-Frey, and Nicole Gigliotti, staffing the Resources Table at Law Day 2025.

Law Day 2025

Legal Aid Society of San Diego (LASSD)

This year, the Legal Aid Society of San Diego again kindly donated the time and expertise of three highly experienced attorneys for the entire day. Lorena Slomanson, LASSD’s Outreach and Community Relations Manager, rolled up her sleeves and jumped in to answer questions (in English and Spanish) regarding landlord-tenant issues, public benefit issues, and which free and lowcost legal help resources are available on various topics around the County She also helped with the triage efforts at the Intake Table and interpreted for other attorneys on a wide variety of topics She was, as always, a human Swiss Army knife. Bobby Case, LASSD’s Fair Housing Center Supervising Attorney, handled a wide variety of landlord tenant questions including very specialized Section 8 housing issues Finally, Ceci Ambrosio, a member of LASSD’s immigration law team, answered immigration questions. LASSD also promoted Law Day widely via its social media. Thank you, LASSD.

California Rural Legal Assistance (CRLA)

Mimi Ford and Jose Olivera, attorneys with CRLA, provided crucial assistance to patrons in housing and public benefits issues. They worked in both English and Spanish. The CRLA also helped promote Law Day by passing out flyers at various community events. Thank you, CRLA.

BobbyCase, Esq . IreneStewart, esq .

Lorena Slomanson,Esq .

Las Valientes

Dr. Ana Serrano, Director of Las Valientes, a nonprofit dedicated to assisting the survivors of domestic violence, was with us all day. She assisted where needed on family law and related matters. As always, she was a font of knowledge about resources and a voice of calm and kindness when our patrons needed it. She was assisted by Sarahi Sanchez. Thank you, Las Valientes.

Law Day 2025

North County Bar Association (NCBA)

The NCBA’s Pro Bono committee worked hand-in-hand with SDCL, SDLL, LASSD, and CRLA for several months prior to the event in order to make sure it came together and ran smoothly. Co-Chairs

Irene Stewart and Erica Bloom, along with members Alan Mansfield, Jess Booth and Judge Harry Powazek (ret.), as well as our President Suzanne Skolnick and our Executive Director Camden Retzlaf, worked behind the scenes contacting volunteers, aid societies, bar associations, civic entities, and referral services

They also brainstormed ways of promoting the event and generally assembled the pieces that became Law Day Irene, Erica, and Alan all served as volunteer attorneys at Law Day Judge Powazek lent his expertise as a sounding board for the family law attorneys that day. Suzanne assisted at the Intake and Resources desks as well as oversaw the volunteer attorneys. Thank you, all

Suzanne Skolnick, Esq. 2025 NCBA President Carmela Birnbaum, Esq. NCBA Director

Irene Stewart, Esq. NCBA ProBono Chair Past NCBA Director LRS Director

Hon. Harry Powazek, (Ret.) NCBA Director

Darwin Bustarde Esq. 2024 NCBA President

Caron Calabrese, Esq. NCBA Magazine Committee Chair & Editor

Law Day Volunteer Attorney and past NCBA Director, David Rubin, Esq , with Law Day patrons

Last, but certainly not least, thank you to Kimberly Stucker, Branch Director, San Diego Superior Court, North County Division, and to the Family Law Facilitator’s Office at the Vista Courthouse. Ms. Stucker permitted our flyers to be circulated widely at the courthouse The FLF handed out and posted our flyers Thank you Lawyer Referral Service, North San Diego County (LRS)

The LRS Foundation made a generous grant which paid for many, many color copies of the event flyers. This helped us get the word out about the event to the non-social-media-using public. In addition, the LRS promoted our event by circulating our flyers widely to members of the public who contacted the LRS searching for attorney help. Thank you, LRS.

The Participants’ Comment Cards from the Event Say it Best:

North County Superior Court Branch Director Stucker and Family Law Facilitator Office (FLF)

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“We want to thank

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“[Attorney] was very helpful She answered all of my questions and was very thorough in her explanations.”

"Thank you so much for this opportunity. "

detail. This

the communityunderstand certain processes. Thank you!!” “I thought it was very helpful and professional, and answered my questions. [attorney] + [attorney], [attorney], [attorney] + [attorney] all did a great job. [Intake Table] were both great, friendly, and very he Suggestions: nice to hav clinic twice

The Bottom Line

This service allowed a large number of people who would not otherwise be able to afford an attorney to speak with one for free. This service gave people a chance to right wrongs, to protect themselves, and to protect their families. Thank you to the entire legal community and beyond for all your support in putting on Law Day. Well done.

Irene E. Stewart, Esq.

Irene E Stewart, founder Law Offices of Irene E. Stewart, representing injured clients for over 20 years in nursing home injuries, insurance bad faith, medical device failure, injury on property, and car accidents

Volunteer Attorneys

Ceci Ambrosio

Lisbette Balthazar

Carmela Birnbaum

Erica Bloom

Darwin Bustarde

Caron Calabrese

Bobby Case

Nick Cohenmeyer

Amber Crothall

Dawn Hall Cunneen

Gary Cunneen

Susan Curran

Michael Curran

Thomas Fischer

Mimi Ford

Golnar Fozi

Stephanie Germani

Sherry Gilbey

Kenny Glatzel

Paula Goforth

Jerry Hansen

Stephan Hoover

Debra Leffler Streeter

Maurizio Mangini

Alan Mansfield

Carrie Nolan

Maria Nunez

Jose Olivera

Harry Powazek

Dave Rubin

Ione Rummery

Liz Silva

Suzanne Skolnick

Lorena Slomanson

Irene Stewart

Laura Talamantes

Wayne Templin

Silvina Tondini

Elizabeth Van Thiel

John Wilschke

Law Day Committee

Erica Bloom (NCBA), Jess Booth (NCBA), Gina S. Catalano (SDLL), Mimi Ford (CRLA), Alan Mansfield (NCBA), Judge Harry Powazek (Ret.) (NCBA), Jennifer Runge (SDCL), Suzanne Skolnick (NCBA), Kenia Shi (SDLL), Lorena Slomanson (LASSD) Irene Stewart (NCBA)

Irene Stewart, Esq. is the Co-Chair of the NCBA Pro Bono Committee. She can be reached at istewart@istewartlaw.com.

Nicole Gigliotti

Kenia Shi

Claire Silverstein

Cheryl Weeks-Frey Volunteer Attorneys

Volunteer Translators and Specialists

Dr. Ana Serrano

Director Las Valientes & Spanish translator

Sarahi Sanchez Las Valientes & Spanish translator

Jamilla Del Mistro

Translator Russian, Turkish, Azerbaijani

Binh (“Bing”) Huynk

Translator Vietnamese

By Wayne Templin, Esq.

CIVIL LAW UPDATE FOR 2025

LANDLORD-TENANT HIGHLIGHTS

Tenancy: securitydeposits (2024 Cal. Legis. Serv. Ch. 280 (A.B. 2801))

AB 2801 amends CivC § 1950 5 regarding security deposits This bill limits, among other things, claims against a tenant or the security for materials or supplies and for work performed by a contractor, landlord, or landlord's employee to the amount necessaryto restore the premises to the condition it was in at the tenancy's inception, exclusive of ordinary wear and tear

For tenancies that begin on or afterJuly 1, 2025, landlord is required to take photographs ofthe unit immediately before, or at the inception of, the tenancy. Beginning April 1, 2025, landlord is required to take and provide photographs within a reasonable time after possession ofthe unit is returned to landlord, but before any repairs or cleanings for which landlord will make a deduction from or claim against the security deposit, and within a reasonable time after such repairs or cleanings are completed

Short-term rentals: disclosure: cleaning tasks (2024 Cal. Legis. Serv. Ch. 510 (A.B. 2202))

AB 2202 adds Bus & Prof C § 17568 8 re short-term rentals Operative July 1, 2025, a place of short-term lodging, an internet website, application, or other similar centralized platform, or any other person is required to disclose any additional fees or charges that will be added to the total price to be paid, or other penaltythat will be imposed, ifthe consumer fails to perform certain cleaning tasks at the end ofthe stay

Implied Covenant of Quiet Enjoyment Establishing breach: See Campbell v FPI Mgmt , Inc (2024) 98 CA5th 1151, 1166-1167 property owner that accepted federal funds for low-income tenants created “holdover tenancy” byterminating tenancy with 3-day notice instead of legally required 30-days' notice, depriving tenants of rights pursuant to covenant of quiet enjoyment

Landlord's statutorydutyto change locks upon request of tenant victim of abuse orviolence (eff. 1/1/25): Effective January 1, 2025, landlords have a statutory dutyto change the locks upon the request of certain “eligible” or“protected”tenant victims of abuse or violence (as defined)

Civil liabilityof owner underTenant ProtectionAct for excess rent payments: Owners who demand, accept, receive, or retain any rent payment in excess ofthe maximum allowed by CivC § 194712 may be liable to those tenants in a civil action for injunctive relief, damages, attorney fees, and treble damages In an action for injunctive relief, it is presumed that the tenant suffered irreparable harm. [New Civ.C. § 194712(k)]

Immunityre use of recreational trails and access roads: See Helm v City of Los Angeles (2024) 101 CA5th 1219, 1226-1231 trail immunity barred pedestrian's claims where, when trying to access trail to lake, he tripped over wire cable stretched between wooden posts to prevent vehicle access

Owner/relative occupancy: The CivC § 1946 2 provisions regarding termination based on owner/relative occupancy have been amended and expanded [New and amended CivC § 1946 2(b)(2)(A)(i), (iii), (iv), (v), (vi)] & (vii)]

Substantiallyremodel: Atenant is not required to vacate for intent to demolish or substantially remodel on any days where the tenant could continue living in the property without violating health, safety, and habitability codes and laws New requirements for written notice terminating a tenancy on this basis apply [New CivC § 1946 2(b)(2)(D)(iii), (iv)]

CIVIL LAW UPDATE FOR 2025

Owner liabilityfor materialviolation of Civ.C. § 1946.2, injunctive relief: An owner who attempts to recover possession ofthe unit in material violation of CivC § 1946 2 may be liable to the tenant in a civil action for actual damages, in the court's discretion, reasonable attorney fees and costs, and treble damages upon a showing that the owner acted willfully or with oppression, fraud or malice Additionally, a punitive damages award may be entered for the benefit ofthe tenant against the owner The Attorney General, city attorney or county counsel may seek injunctive relief [New CivC § 1946 2(h)]

Notice exception under ProtectingTenants at ForeclosureAct of 2009: See Campbell v FPI Mgmt , Inc (2024) 98 CA5th 1151, 1164-1165 landlord providing subsidized housing pursuant to federal statute was required by statute to provide 30 days' notice oftermination oftenancy but could also, 27 days later, provide three-day notice and opportunityto pay under CCP § 1161(2) before terminating tenancy for nonpayment of rent

Exemption for mobilehome park tenancyterminations repealed eff. 1/1/25: Effective January 1, 2025, the exemption for access to case records under CCP § 1161 2(e) for mobilehome park tenancyterminations is repealed [Amended CCP § 1161 2]

Dismissal and retention of jurisdiction (eff. 1/1/25): Effective January 1, 2025, significant amendments to CCP § 664 6 become operative ]

Limitation on master calendar rule for telephone assignments byclerk: See Lorch v Sup Ct (Kia Motors America, Inc ) (2024) 101 CA5th 1266, 1275, 1277 master calendar rule was not triggered by court clerk's voicemail re judge assignment for trial purposes and where parties were not notified assigning judge was acting as master calendar judge

Postjudgment fees incurred to enforce judgment: See Nash v Aprea (2023) 96 CA5th 21, 32 lease provision authorizing prevailing party attorney fees not to exceed $1,000 was merged into and extinguished by judgment in tenants' favor, thus allowing postjudgment attorney fees award of $27,721 incurred in enforcing judgment under CCP § 685 040

CIVIL LAW UPDATE FOR 2025

MORE ODDS AND ENDS

AB 3013, Maienschein. Courts: Remote Court Reporting.AB 3013, Maienschein. Courts: Remote Court Reporting.

This bill would authorize, beginning July 1, 2025, the Superior Courts ofthe Counties ofAlameda, Contra Costa, Los Angeles, Mendocino, Monterey, Orange, San Bernardino, San Diego, San Joaquin, San Mateo, Santa Clara,Tulare, and Ventura to conduct pilot projects to studythe potential use of remote court reporting to make the verbatim record of certain court proceedings

AB 3100, Low Assumption Of Mortgage Loans: Dissolution Of Marriage AnActToAdd Section 2951ToThe Civil Code, RelatingTo Mortgage Loans.

This bill would require a conventional home mortgage loan originated on or afterJanuary 1, 2027, and secured by owneroccupied residential real property containing 4 or fewer dwelling units with multiple borrowers to include provisions to allow for any ofthe existing borrowers to purchase the property interest of another borrower on the loan by assuming the seller’s portion of the mortgage under specified circumstances ifthe assuming borrower qualifies for the underlying loan, as determined bythe lender

SB 1061, Limón. Consumer Debt: Medical Debt.AnActToAmend Sections 1785.3, 1785.13, 1786.18,And 1788.14 Of,AndToAdd Sections 1785.20.6And 1785.27To,The Civil Code,ToAmend Sections 1371.56, 1371.9, 1797.233,And 127425 OfThe HealthAnd SafetyCode,AndTo Amend Sections 10112.8And 10126.66 Of,AndToAdd Section 10112.75To,The Insurance Code, RelatingTo Consumer Debt. This bill would prohibit a consumer credit reporting agency or an investigative consumer reporting agency from making a consumer credit report or an investigative consumer report containing information about medical debt, as defined The bill would prohibit a person who uses a consumer credit report in connection with a credit transaction from using medical debt listed on the report as a negative factor when making a credit decision

SB 1217, Glazer. Pet Insurance.AnActToAmend Sections 12880And 12880.2 Of,AndToAdd Sections 12880.7And 12880.8To,The Insurance Code, RelatingTo Pet Insurance.

This bill would require an insurer to disclose if it reduces coverage or increases premiums based on the age ofthe covered pet or a change in the geographic location ofthe insured, as well as if it requires a medical examination to effectuate coverage or imposes a waiting period The bill would authorize the issuance of a pet insurance policythat excludes preexisting conditions or imposes a waiting period, if specified criteria are met

SB 1286, Min Rosenthal Fair Debt Collection PracticesAct: Covered Debt: Commercial Debts AnActToAmend Sections 1788 1, 1788 2, 1788.10, 1788.11, 1788.12, 1788.13, 1788.14, 1788.14.5, 1788.15, 1788.16, 1788.17, 1788.18, 1788.20, 1788.21,And 1788.22 OfThe Civil Code,And ToAmend Section 100001 OfThe Financial Code, RelatingTo Debt Collection.

This bill would recast provisions to expand the scope ofthe provisions to additionally prohibit debt collectors from engaging in unfair or deceptive acts or practices in the collection of covered commercial debts, as defined, entered into, renewed, sold, or assigned on or afterJuly 1, 2025, and to make conforming changes

Wayne Templin practices landlord-tenant law, real property disputes, business disputes, contractor issues, personal injury, and more. He can be reached at (760) 743-0222

Summer Reading Recommendations

Presumed Guilty

Book by Scott Turow

Presumed Guilty is the latest of several novels by trial lawyer Scott Turow Rusty Sabich, a retired judge is living in a rural predominantly white community with Bea, his wife to be, who has an adopted black son, Aaron who is in a turbulent relationship with Mae the daughter of a local prosecutor. Aaron is on probation for drug possession and living under their supervision.

Mae’s erratic behavior and substance abuse cause a breakup, but after a while Aaron decides to go on a camping trip with Mae, who he wants to marry. While camping, she gets high on drugs and a heated argument ensues with the result that Aaron hitchhikes home. Mae doesn’t return home and is later found dead. Aaron is arrested and charged with murder.

As the trial date approaches Rusty acquiesces to the pleas of Bea and Arron’s that he take over the role of Defendant’s Attorney in the trial The Prosecuting Attorney is Hiram Jackdorp He is a caricature of a veteran prosecutor, who is seeking a conviction regardless of whether that would be just The courtroom scenes are masterfully portrayed with gripping intensity Will the jury provide justice for Aaron, who is presumed guilty?

Reviewed by: Bill Kamenjarin, Esq.

After Oz: A Novel by Gordon McAlpine

Gordon McAlpine’s After Oz is a dark, inventive literary mystery that imagines an unsettling aftermath to Dorothy’s legendary journey. Set in 1896 Kansas four years before publication of L. Frank Baum’s classic, After Oz follows Dorothy after the storm we know so well as she becomes entangled in a murder investigation. Branded unstable for her fantastical stories of a magical land, Dorothy now faces murder charges after acknowledging that she “melted” a wicked witch – which coincides with the apparent murder of the town’s mysterious spinster.

Enter Dr. Evelyn Grace Wilford, a psychoanalyst from the East Coast and the fictional cousin of journalist L. Frank Baum. Dispatched to Kansas to evaluate Dorothy’s mental state, Dr. Wilford soon finds herself drawn into deeper mysteries. As she unravels Dorothy’s past and her unsettling accounts of Oz, disturbing secrets emerge that blur the line between delusion and reality. What begins as a clinical assessment morphs into a layered exploration of trauma, memory, and myth

McAlpine masterfully fuses psychological drama, historical fiction, and literary metafiction With rich period detail and noir undercurrents, readers drawn to reimagined classics and intricate mysteries will find After Oz both compelling and thought-provoking

Theft by Abdulrazak Gurnah

I don’t think the women in my book club were particularly thrilled when the votes were counted last month I know I wasn’t Books by Nobel Prize winners have been known to be difficult to finish. Or even start for that matter. Take James Joyce, Han Kang and Hans Transtormer et al. But Theft by Abulrazak Gurnhah did not disappoint We all adored it Awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 2021, the Swedes said that they chose Abdulrazak Gurnah "for his uncompromising and compassionate penetration of the effects of colonialism and the fate of the refugee in the gulf between cultures and continents.” And while many of Gurnah’s previous works have dealt with big issues like colonialism, violence and war, this book – his latest – is smaller in scope and more intimate in detail.

The novel is set in 1980s Tanzania and tells the coming of age of three teenagers: the handsome and educated Karim who is moving up in the world, Fauzia, an epileptic school girl with whom Karim falls in love with and marries and Badar, a dutiful servant boy who is wise beyond his years

The Guardian called it “a quietly powerful demonstration of storytelling mastery” and The Irish Times said it was yet “another glittering tapestry of a novel from a master storyteller of our times ” The New York Times called it “ a satisfying melodrama with an engrossing climax,” which I think is an understatement.

Calling this novel a family melodrama is selling it short It is in no way melodramatic and the characters are drawn with so much depth, they feel completely true to life. It is a small, quiet book about simple people just trying to get by and find a measure of happiness in a poor Muslim country scared by colonialism It found it a real page-turner, beautifully written and quite profound

Reviewed by: Ruth Marvin Webster, Esq.

Reviewed by: Dave Branfman, Esq.