FEATURING:
MAKING A DIFFERENCE IN THE LEGAL COMMUNITY...AND BEYOND
GUARDIAN AD LITEM: Help and Support Youth Involved in the Child Welfare System
HOW TO ADVOCATE FOR A CAUSE WHEN YOU KNOW YOU MIGHT BE WRONG
The Better Way To Gain More Clients
The San Diego County Bar Association’s Lawyer Referral and Information Service (LRIS) connected over 60,000 qualified clients with participating attorneys in 2023, resulting in nearly eight million dollars in legal fees earned. You could be one of those attorneys in 2024.
The public trusts LRIS as the reliable way get connected with qualified attorneys. Lawyers trust LRIS too, because we carefully pre-screen potential clients to ensure we only send you referrals that match well with your practice area.
Practically speaking, LRIS offers you the most cost-effective way to gain high-quality clients, hands down. The cost is much lower than other marketing methods, including advertising, SEO, listing/rating services, you name it (lower still with the highly-discounted LRIS enrollment fee offered to SDCBA members — your membership will immediately pay for itself).
Best of all, by participating in LRIS, you will be helping clients access quality legal services they wouldn’t find otherwise — a true win-win.
PRESIDENT'S COLUMN by Stacey A. Kartchner
LAW
COLUMN: The Importance of Fostering Community In Law School by Kylee Gwilliam
ETHICS
Whose Money Is It? When ‘Earned on Receipt’ May Not Be by Edward McIntyre
BUSINESS OF LAW: Law Firms and How You Can Support the New Generation of Associates by Gayani Weerasinghe SAN
Your success as a lawyer depends not only on determination and effort, but, equally important, the connections you make along the way. As a member of the San Diego County Bar Association, you’ll have unlimited opportunities to connect with thousands of other lawyers, judges, and legal professionals at frequent networking and educational events and on our online community listservs. You’ll also enjoy a host of memberexclusive benefits designed to help you succeed in your practice. Best of all, annual membership costs less than the cost of a typical billable hour. Connecting for success has never been more accessible.
Issue no. 6. San Diego Lawyer® (ISSN: 1096-1887) is published bimonthly by the San Diego County Bar Association, 330 A Street, San Diego, CA 92101. Phone is (619) 231-0781.
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All rights reserved. Opinions expressed in San Diego Lawyer are those of the authors only and are not opinions of the SDCBA or the San Diego Lawyer Editorial Committee. In addition, information presented in this magazine is for educational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. For your specific questions, please seek advice from counsel.
Interested contributors may submit article ideas to the editors at www.sdcba.org/SDLidea for consideration. San Diego Lawyer reserves the right to edit all submissions, contributed articles, and photographs at its sole discretion.
Co-Editors
Genevieve A. Suzuki Vaani Chawla
Editorial
Victor Bianchini
George Brewster
Michael Crowley
Jodi Cleesattle
Jenn French
Rafael Hurtado
Isaac Jackson
Edward McIntyre
Kalli Sarkin
Wilson Schooley
Andrea Warren
330 A Street, San Diego, CA 92101
Phone (619) 231-0781 • bar@sdcba.org • www.sdcba.org
Stacey A. Kartchner
President-Elect
Michelle A. Gastil
Immediate
Directors
Leslie Abrigo
Michael L. Crowley
Nicole D’Ambrogi
Jason Evans
Sarah Garrick
Nicole Heeder
Brandon Kimura
Flavio Nominati
Stephanie Pengilley
D. Elisabeth Silva
Cynthia L. Stratton
Fanny Yu
Elijah Gaglio
SDCBA Staff — San Diego Lawyer
PRESIDENT'S COLUMN BY STACEY A. KARTCHNER
Undoubtedly, I am not the first SDCBA President to proclaim that their year as president was full of excitement, challenges, and joy. It feels like just yesterday, full of anticipation and enthusiasm for the year to come that I was addressing you for the first time at Stepping Up to the Bar. And now, as I reflect on what to share with you in my last San Diego Lawyer column, the anticipation and enthusiasm have been replaced by another overarching emotion — gratitude.
This journey has been both everything I expected and nothing like I expected it to be. Inherently, the job comes with challenges and surprises — and we experienced many this year, both big and small — but I leave this position as a better leader and problem solver, and I am in awe of the strength, congeniality, and generosity of our legal community. Together, we have accomplished so much.
With the resignation of the SDCBA’s executive director in December of 2023, our first order of business was to find an executive director to lead us through our next chapter. I was honored to work as part of a special task force charged with finding our new leader. I am incredibly proud of the work we did — initially securing Interim Executive Director Dr. Crystal Trull whom I bonded with immediately. It was not uncommon for us to talk 2-3 times per day, and she greatly understood governance and the SDCBA policies, which I believe is why we walked in lock-step with one another.
In July, the Board reviewed the task force's recommendation and hired Debra Rosen, who began serving as Executive Director in August. We were able to keep all the proverbial plates spinning with Crystal at the helm, and she was an ideal interim leader for the organization, remaining until midAugust to assist in Debra’s transition.
Since the moment she was hired, Debra rolled up her sleeves and began tackling budgetary issues, promoting from within, and recruiting some fantastic individuals, including our new Marketing and Membership Director Scott Carr and our new Finance Director Anna Gallich, to ensure that the SDCBA is successful in the future. If you have yet to meet Debra, I encourage you to do so.
Another significant 2024 transition for the SDCBA was our move to our new home at 330 A Street. Our lease at 401 West A Street ended on January 31, 2024. As such, our amazingly resilient SDCBA internal team worked remotely for approximately four months as we waited for renovations to our new bar center to be completed. Their fortitude is particularly commendable, as during both transitions, they served as true ambassadors for the organization, ensuring that members continued to be served and have a seamless experience. There are not enough words to adequately explain the talent and tenacity of our internal team. I absolutely adore them, and I will be forever grateful that I was able to work alongside them through every step of this journey. The most difficult part of the end of my presidency is knowing I won't get to work with them as closely and see how much they are growing in their roles each week. I am incredibly proud of this team.
Another significant transition occurred in June of 2024 with the return of a grander scale of new attorney swearing-in ceremonies, which had changed significantly as a result of the pandemic. To fully restore and elevate the ceremonies, we proudly collaborated with Justice Judith McConnell, Chief Judge Dana Sabraw, Senior Judge Anthony Battaglia, Presiding Judge Maureen Hallahan, Assistant Presiding Judge Michael Groch, the Federal Bar Association, and other justice stakeholders. The revitalized ceremonies showed our newest colleagues how special the San Diego legal community truly is, including the successful working relationship between our bench and bar, the diversity of the attorneys and judges who practice here, and the collaboration and genuine closeness we are fortunate to share with our peers across both sides of the aisle and in all areas of practice.
Speaking of ceremonies, one of my favorite moments of the year came in September when we celebrated the SDCBA’s 125th Anniversary and welcomed everyone to our brand-new bar center. It was truly magical to see so many generations of bar leaders come together to reflect on all that we have accomplished in our long and storied history while gathering for the first time in our home at 330 A Street. We owe a debt of gratitude to the many people who worked so hard to make this event so special and one that we will remember for years to come.
I also want to express my appreciation and admiration for the Disability Justice Group within SDCBA's DEI Division, which was instrumental in effectuating lasting change through its efforts to assist disabled lawyers who need to travel the country to work on their cases. In October, the U.S. Department of Transportation ordered an airline to pay a $50 million fine for failing to provide wheelchair assistance to passengers with disabilities and damaging thousands of wheelchairs over a five-year period. The SDCBA’s advocacy efforts in support included collaborating with the late Senator Dianne Feinstein’s office, issuing public statements, and submitting proposals to local transportation agencies. It is essential that all attorneys have the ability to get from courthouse to courthouse, as well as to depositions, client appointments, and everywhere else attorneys must travel, regardless of whether they have a disability.
In addition to this success, despite the national trend of declining memberships within bar associations, by July, we had already increased our membership numbers over our membership numbers of last year. By that time, we were also able to get six of our previous 100% Club members to return after they had dropped off the list during the pandemic. In addition, we increased our non-dues revenues by over $250,000 this year through member benefit partners and sponsorships in an effort to only have to increase dues by a minimal amount this year.
In 2022, the SDCBA sold two pieces of real property under the threat of taking through eminent domain. A portion of the proceeds was used to fund our new home at 330 A Street – which enables us to save on rent. In addition, we made some substitute LLC investments, combined some events, and have been passing new policies all year that both cut expenses and increase nondues revenue. As a result, by the end of the year, we were able to cut the budget significantly to try to make up for much of the loss. There were difficult decisions to make, but the SDCBA will thrive as a result of the internal team and this Board's hard work.
Many of these victories are due in large part to the SDCBA Membership Committee, which is chaired by Leslie Abrigo and vice-chaired by Angela Medrano. The Membership Committee was selected to receive the Presidential Certificate of Recognition. The committee's extraordinary contributions this year advanced the strategic goals of the SDCBA and its mission to connect lawyers and support their success and fulfillment. Our Association has been significantly strengthened by the efforts of the Membership Committee’s dedicated and visionary efforts this past year. They have increased member engagement and created new initiatives to obtain non-dues revenues. This essential
work directly supports the SDCBA’s mission by ensuring that the Association continues to have a robust membership and remains financially sustainable and responsive to the evolving needs of our members and the legal community.
As this regular column and my presidency conclude, I would be remiss if I didn’t thank all of the friends and colleagues, old and new, who have made this year so special. In particular, I want to thank all of the SDCBA past presidents who were so generous with their advice and support, and who were willing to pick up the phone every time I called — and it was A LOT. They offered and I definitely took advantage. A very special thank you to my mentor Tom Warwick, Judge Melinda Lasater, Judge Jill Burkhardt, Judge Lilys McCoy, Heather Rosing, Jerri Malana, Todd Stevens, and the individual that gave me his ear for several hundred hours this year (without exaggeration), the amazingly wise and talented David Majchrzak. The past presidents club is truly a special group and I feel fortunate that I will be part of it soon.
In addition to thanking our incredibly awe-inspiring internal team, I want to give a special thank you to the SDCBA’s dedicated volunteer leaders — including our hardworking Board of Directors, section and committee chairs, and the incomparable New Lawyer Division Chair Elijah Gaglio and DEI Division Chair Taneashia Morrell. Our Board of Directors worked particularly hard this year and they truly helped turn the bar around so it will flourish and thrive into the future. The SDCBA’s strength and success is made possible by its collaborative membership, volunteer leaders, and extraordinarily talented internal team who are all devoted to our mission, the profession, access to justice issues, and the rule of law.
An enormous thank you to both my firm and my family for being so supportive and so patient with my schedule this past year. Being president truly takes a village. To my son, husband, and extended family, I will forever be grateful for your sacrifice and support.
As this chapter comes to a close, personally and professionally, I will always be eternally grateful for all of the amazing individuals with whom I had the privilege of connecting through this tremendous organization. We have the most wonderful members in the world. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to serve as your 2024 President.
Stacey A. Kartchner serves as SDCBA President and Senior Counsel at Klinedinst. Her practice is focused on criminal defense, professional licensing litigation, and professional liability defense. Ms. Kartchner is a past president of both the Criminal Defense Lawyers Club and the Criminal Defense Bar Association.
LAW SCHOOL COLUMN
By Kylee Gwilliam
LTHE IMPORTANCE OF FOSTERING COMMUNITY IN LAW SCHOOL
aw school can feel incredibly isolating at times, especially for out–of–state students like myself. One of my primary goals upon starting law school was to seek out individuals with whom I could identify and feel safe to express myself in a way that felt authentic. Establishing a community network in San Diego has played a vital role in the success that I have experienced during my time at USD School of Law, as well as the support of my own mental health and personal well-being. Networking is often stressed as an important job-hunting mechanism by career advisors — which I do agree with — but the relationships that one can build provide so much more than only professional opportunities.
The support that I received from my friends and mentors during my first two years of law school allowed me to thrive amidst challenges and hardships. As a 3L, it has become an important goal of mine to help foster community relationships among my younger classmates so that they may be able to develop the same meaningful connections and find the places that make them feel like they belong here. I want to ensure that everyone is reminded that they absolutely do belong here Feelings of isolation coincide with imposter syndrome. Having people in your corner that you admire staves off beliefs of inadequacy and inferiority. It also shapes your overall law school experience and improves morale.
USD’s Criminal Law Society creates ample opportunity for students, both defense and prosecution-oriented, to intermingle at professional development panels and social hours. There, students ask questions, gain insight, receive advice, offer guidance, and bond over shared experiences. I’ve seen many other such cases at other professional student organizations focused on a particular practice area. It’s at events like these where my passion for the law is reignited, and I receive the most useful advice. I cannot encourage younger law students enough to prioritize getting involved in the student organizations that feel right for them. Academics and performance are absolutely imperative areas of law school, but so are these connections.
Community is of particular importance to groups that have been subjected to stigmatization and discrimination. As the
President of USD’s Pride Law student organization, I have been given the opportunity to provide other students with the chance to connect with peers and develop their own community networks through social, professional, and educational events.
One of my favorite events to facilitate is the InterSchool Mixer that allows students from USD, California Western, Thomas Jefferson, and UC Irvine law schools to come together in a casual environment and connect. This development of connections within the greater San Diego area widens perspective and knowledge. It exposes students to different lived experiences and oftentimes new paradigms. It also strengthens a sense of unity among LGBTQ+ law professionals in San Diego.
I’ve witnessed similar trends among several identity-based student organizations, such as Asian Pacific American Law Student Association, Palestinian Association of Law Students, Black Law Student Association, La Raza, and others. I had the privilege of collaborating with these student groups to organize the Affinity “Bondfire,” a mixer for members of all affinity organizations. Being a member of an underrepresented community within the greater legal field can be daunting, and in professional spaces, it may feel as though you are the only one in the room. The unification of these individual identities at the academic level enhances camaraderie and solidarity carried into the workplace.
Law school was never meant to be something done on your own. Fostering community relations enriches collective well-being, promotes social cohesion, and enhances resilience during times of challenge. The connections that I have developed during these last few years, through my involvement in student organizations and the larger San Diego legal community, have had a really formative impact in my development as a young professional and human. These are the people that remind me of the type of lawyer, mentor, and friend that I want to be. These are also the people that I turn to when I need support and guidance. Community makes you a better lawyer.
Kylee Gwilliam is a 3L at the University of San Diego School of Law and intends on pursuing a career in public defense upon graduation this May.
ETHICS BY EDWARD McINTYRE
A recurring series where fictional characters discuss real ethics scenarios Macbeth, a long-recognized expert in legal ethics, professional responsibility, and the law of lawyering is joined by his nephew Duncan and Sara, the very bright newest member of the firm
TRUST — BUT VERIFY
Assess the Facts of Each Representation
As Macbeth, Sara, and Duncan returned to the office from lunch, Ross Bouie approached.
“Mind if I tag along? Got an issue to discuss.”
Macbeth looked around. “Let’s not talk here, Ross. Have time to join us in the office?”
With all four comfortably seated at the conference table, Macbeth started.
“Ross, the floor is yours.”
“Thanks. Got a problem that leaves me a bit uneasy.”
Macbeth gestured. “Please, go ahead.”
“Got a call from a potential client. Said he got my name from another lawyer. Who told him I was an expert in sophisticated real estate transactions. Said I was a real estate genius. Didn’t take it too seriously.”
“I wouldn’t.”
“Anyhow, said he wanted to buy a building in Nevada. I didn’t even know it was on the market. A Delaware LLC would own it. Funds from an investment partner. In the Philippines. Needed secrecy. An all-cash deal.”
“Wow. Let’s unpack that a bit. All cash?”
“He heard another investor might be interested. Figured an all-cash offer would seal the deal.”
“Sounds reasonable — I guess. What do you think?”
“I’ve seen it work in other transactions but usually after
negotiation.”
“Secrecy?”
“Same reason. Wanted to beat out others. Wanted the funds to pass through my trust account.”
“Unusual? For your practice?”
“Very. Most deals close through an escrow.”
“Source? An investor in the Philippines? What do you know?”
“That’s it. I’d get a wire transfer from an investor. Into my trust account. Then out. Buy the property.”
“Owned by a Delaware LLC. Beneficial owners?”
“Don’t know. They demand their identities be secret.”
“Doesn’t he understand you’ll keep the information confidential.”
“Told him. No go.”
“So double layer of secrecy on the real clients.”
“Yep. Two more things. He has an immediate buyer for the property. Substantial profit. A company in the Bahamas. In addition to my regular fee, if I make the deal happen, I get a bonus of 5% of that profit.”
“A lot of money is involved?”
“Hundreds of millions.”
Illustration by George W. Brewster Jr.
“You’re nervous?”
“Yep. It would be a nice piece of business. More might follow. But I don’t want to be sucked into something shady. Maybe even illegal.”
“I appreciate your concern. Rule 1.2.1 prohibits assisting a client in criminal or fraudulent conduct. Rule 1.4(a)(4) requires telling a client about limits on what we can do if a client expects assistance that violates the rules. Rule 8.4(b) and (c) provide pretty much the same about criminal and dishonest conduct.”
“My problem. I don’t know if it’s not all perfectly legit.”
“Precisely. All you have are some red flags.”
“Suggestions?”
“Yes. In August 2023, the ABA modified its Model Rule 1.16(a) — about declining or terminating a representation. A lawyer must inquire into and assess the facts and circumstances of each representation. To determine if the lawyer may accept, or continue, it.”
“Do we have that rule?”
“No. We adopted a version of 1.16 in November 2018, before this modification. Remember ABA Model rules don’t control in California. But they do offer guidance. Here, good guidance.”
Sara spoke. “There’s also ABA Formal Opinion 513. Published on August 23, 2024. It comments on Model Rule 1.16(a)’s addition.”
“Great suggestion. Let’s give Ross a copy.”
Sara slid a document across the table.
“Ross, there’s also another document you should consult. Another ABA document. Sara, do we have a copy in our ABA binder?”
With the binder open, Ross read the title: “‘Guidance for Lawyers to Detect and Combat Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing.’ Sounds heavy.”
“Actually, I found it informative. It addresses some issues you’ve mentioned.”
“How so?”
“Real estate transaction. Shell companies. Hard to identify beneficiaries. Maybe an out of character transaction. Source of funds and cash. Extraordinary legal fees. Anonymity.”
“Boy, that’s quite a checklist.”
“Not suggesting it’s not a legitimate transaction. But there are some sound suggestions in the Guidance. Things you may want to consider in doing due diligence on this potential new client. We’ll make you a copy.”
“Thanks, guys, for the guidance.”
“Anytime, Ross. Let us know what you decide.
Editorial Note: Model Rule 1.16(a); Formal Opinion 513 and the Guidance are on americanbar.org.
Edward McIntyre (edmcintyre@ethicsguru.law) is a professional responsibility lawyer.
A LEGAL ETHICS QUESTION?
(619) 231-0781 x4145
The SDCBA Legal Ethics committee is here to help! SDCBA members can call our Legal Ethics Hotline* for guidance and perspective on a variety of ethical considerations in the practice of law. Your call will be taken by a seasoned attorney with significant experience in legal ethics issues. Simply call the hotline and leave a message with your phone number, your question, and any context you can provide that can help our attorneys research your question before responding. One of our Legal Ethics Committee members will call you back to discuss your question with you. *Before calling, please read the following disclosure: https://www.sdcba.org/docDownload/47105.
THANK YOU TO OUR PATRON & FRIEND MEMBERS
The SDCBA gratefully acknowledges the generous commitment of members who support our community at the Patron and Friend membership levels. You can become a Patron or Friend member when you activate or renew your membership online, or by request at any time. For more information about upgrading, please contact mbr@sdcba.org.
Patron and Friend member lists as of December 2024
PATR O N MEMBERS
Marc D. Adelman
Alicia Aquino
Danielle Patricia Barger
Hon. Victor E. Bianchini (Ret.)
Joshua A. Birdsill
Jedd E. Bogage
Tanisha Bostick
James A. Bush
Andy Cook
Steven T. Coopersmith
Ezekiel E. Cortez
Taylor Darcy
Warren K. Den
John A. Don
William O. Dougherty
Alexander Isaac Dychter
James J. Eischen Jr.
Matthew J. Faust
Sergio Feria
Nicholas J. Fox
Pedro Bernal Bilse
James Gregory Boyd
Linda Cianciolo
Susanne de la Flor
David B. Dugan
Robert F. Egenolf
James P. Frantz
Michelle Ann Gastil
Douglas A. Glass
Alvin M. Gomez
Stephen M. Hogan
Ted Holmquist
Emily Howe
A. Melissa Johnson
Stacey A. Kartchner
Carla B. Keehn
Laila Khosroabadi
Garrison "Bud" Klueck
Genaro Lara
Kenneth Ralph Lynch
Kevin Timothy May
Hon. William McCurine, Jr.
Jillian M. Minter
Virginia C. Nelson
Deborah A. Ortega
Anthony J. Passante
Frank J. Polek
Kristin Rizzo
Ana M. Sambold
Seana Kelly Scholtemeyer
Khodadad Darius Sharif
Elisabeth Silva
David G. Sizemore
Christopher J. Sunnen
Genevieve A. Suzuki
Cassandra C. Thorson
Bill VanDeWeghe
Thomas J. Warwick
Lenden F. Webb
Jon Webster
Daniel Weiner
Andrew H. Wilensky
Timothy G. Williams
Karen M. ZoBell
FRIEND MEMBERS
Mark Kaufman
Randall E. Kay
Ellisabeth "Lis" Logans
Philip John Mauriello
Valeria Medina
Anne Perry
Kristi E. Pfister
Michelle L. Silva
Hon. Stephanie Sontag
Peter B. Tentler
Michael A. Van Horne
BUSINESS OF LAW By Gayani Weerasinghe
LAW FIRMS AND HOW YOU CAN SUPPORT THE NEW GENERATION OF ASSOCIATES
In this business of law column, I wanted to get feedback from associates at large and mid-sized law firms on what makes them feel supported as newer attorneys. Often, I hear from attorneys who leave one firm for another, citing a lack of support, visibility, or recognition as key reasons for their departure. Are these associates feeling valued and respected? For law firms, training new attorneys is a costly investment, so retention is critical. Yet, while firms may have programs aimed at retention, it's worth asking: when was the last time these programs were updated, evaluated, or tailored to the evolving needs of a new generation of attorneys?
Since the pandemic, business norms have shifted, and many firms have adopted flexible remote work policies. While not all attorneys need to be in the office daily, some firms now offer improved remote options. However, there’s a human element in in-person interactions that can sometimes better foster growth, mentorship, and camaraderie. Regardless of where work happens, it’s essential for law firms to listen to the voices of their newer attorneys on how they feel best supported. This involves creating a safe space for open dialogue, without fear of repercussions, and ensuring that a firm's commitment to diversity, inclusion, and representation extends beyond mere marketing materials. When new voices and diverse perspectives are genuinely valued, firms retain top talent and gain valuable insights into emerging expectations and experiences.
Change may not always be comfortable, but it can benefit everyone. Here’s what some newer attorneys had to say about how they feel supported within their firm environments:
“As a new lawyer, constructive feedback is essential for growth, especially when limited initial experience may leave gaps in skills. A culture of regular training, mentoring, and feedback fosters continuous learning, enhancing both the attorney’s development and the firm’s overall effectiveness.”
— Alejandro Echeverria, Attorney at Procopio
“As a mid-level, minority associate who is introverted, law firms can help foster a more inclusive and supportive culture by engaging in personal, direct conversations with associates to understand their strengths, perspectives, and
individuality. Encouraging minority attorneys to share their thoughts on cases can empower us and build a sense of belonging. While it’s encouraging to see firms financially support local affinity bar organizations, true support means partners and colleagues attending these events, actively participating, and showing genuine interest in our communities.”
— Veneeta Jaswal, Attorney at Dinsmore
“My firm fully embraces my role as a husband and father first. For example, my practice group held a dinner with spouses included, and another partner hosted a familyfriendly summer BBQ. These events, along with regular check-ins from my mentors on my workload, may not appeal to associates who aren’t married or have children, but they reflect values I care about — family comes first.”
— Alex Kat, Attorney at Snell & Wilmer
“I believe that the new generation of lawyers greatly benefits from a firm culture that allows for open dialogue between supervising attorneys and junior associates, intentional mentorship programs, and encouragement for newer attorneys to build their practical skills. For firstgeneration attorneys like myself, building an internal and external network and community can be instrumental in navigating the practice of law.”
— William Llamas, Attorney at Littler
“I was so excited to join Constangy, and it has been a joy to see how the firm’s focus on inclusivity and mentorship aligns with my career goals. For associates like myself, especially those from historically marginalized communities, having seasoned attorneys who are approachable and invested in our professional and personal growth is vital. Structured training and mentorship, along with the space to develop our legal skills, help create a welcoming environment. Open conversations about career development and personal experiences across backgrounds go a long way in helping diverse lawyers feel supported as they navigate the challenges of the legal profession.”
— Arcelia N. Magaña, Attorney at Constangy
Gayani R. Weerasinghe is a corporate and intellectual property attorney specializing in supporting entrepreneurs and life science/ technology companies. She is a former co-editor of San Diego Lawyer.
GUARDIAN AD-LITEM HELP AND SUPPORT YOUTH INVOLVED IN THE CHILD WELFARE SYSTEM
By Beth Ploesch
Who We Are and What We Do
Children’s Legal Services of San Diego, Inc. (CLS) provides legal representation for youth involved in juvenile dependency cases. CLS is appointed to represent the child by the juvenile court when a social worker files a petition alleging child abuse or neglect. As appointed counsel, the CLS attorneys serve as the attorney and guardian ad litem for the child throughout the dependency case. Typical litigation in the dependency case involves where the child lives, whether the family is getting adequate services, and also the child’s permanent plan, including reunification with family, adoption, or guardianship. In addition to representing children, CLS also represents former foster youth ages 18 to 21 who are participating in Extended Foster Care, a voluntary program to support the youth’s transition to adulthood. CLS currently represents approximately 1,700 youth throughout San Diego County.
The Problem
As part of their statutory duties, CLS attorneys must identify all of the child’s legal needs, including those that fall outside of the juvenile dependency case. Oftentimes, foster youth have legal needs including immigration filings, civil claims, SSI benefit applications, identity theft, and even inheritance/probate issues. If a minor is a teen parent, they may also need to establish paternity or custody of their child. CLS attorneys cannot act as the guardian ad litem or attorney in these types of outside legal proceedings.
The Solution — Where You Come In!
Once the CLS attorney identifies an outside legal need and informs the court, the judge looks to the pro bono San Diego County Bar Association’s Guardian Ad Litem (GAL) panel for help. The San Diego County Bar Association matches a volunteer to the case and provides the GAL with relevant information about the youth’s legal needs. The GAL then investigates the potential legal issues by reviewing information and talking to the CLS attorney who represents the child in juvenile court. If the GAL determines there is a viable legal issue, the GAL reaches out to the San Diego legal community to locate an attorney who specializes in the identified legal issue. The GAL acts on behalf of the youth’s interests while the attorney pursues legal action on behalf of the child.
Interested?
If you are interested in participating in this immensely valuable service for our youth, please contact either Beth Ploesch at BethP@clssandiego.org or Steve Wedel at SteveW@clssandiego.org.
As a GAL on the panel, you will receive in-depth training on dependency and the duties of a GAL. Additionally, SDCBA and the CLS attorneys are available to answer questions.
But Wait, There’s More!
If you’re interested in helping foster youth but looking to serve as a lawyer instead of a GAL, there are two other ways to be involved. If you are interested in either of these panels, please contact Steve or Beth.
Non-Minor Dependent (NMD) panel: Former foster youth ages 18 to 21 can participate in extended foster care. Many of these CLS clients/young adults need legal guidance or representation beyond the dependency courtroom. As a referral resource for the NMD panel, pro bono NMD lawyers act on an as-needed basis, providing pro bono legal guidance or representation about topics such as landlord tenant issues, family law issues (custody or restraining orders), employment discrimination, and criminal matters. If interested, please contact CLS to be added to the referral list.
Conflict panel: If you’re interested in practicing dependency law and representing youth involved in these proceedings, we could use your help. Conflict panel attorneys are paid by CLS to represent youth ages 0 to 21 in dependency court if there is a conflict of interest that prevents the existing lawyers from representing the client. CLS provides intensive training and assists attorneys in obtaining the certification required under the local rules.
And as a final encouragement, Presiding Judge of the San Diego Juvenile Court, Judge Ana Espana says: “Please consider these opportunities to help our San Diego foster children. As a former child’s attorney doing this work, I can
tell you it is incredibly rewarding. There is nothing better than to help these kids navigate the legal challenges that impact their lives. Through your advocacy on their behalf, you can make a real difference.”
Beth Ploesch is the Executive Director and cofounder of Children's Legal Services of San Diego
“Making a difference in our community.” This phrase is part of a mural in Barrio Logan that evokes notions of Latino history, industry, and advocacy. It wraps the Barrio Logan College Institute (BLCI) building where everyday resolve is fostered and the confidence to aspire is born. Once BLCI helps spark that determination in the lives of young students, like Milenia Rocio Quintero and Jesus Cisneros, the positive impact on the surrounding community becomes evident.
Milenia Rocio Quintero was born in Manzanillo, Mexico. As a young child, Milenia and her family migrated to the United States and settled in Logan Heights. Her mother is a self-described chismosa, a gossiper. An inquisitive woman, she was always on the hunt for the best opportunities and resources for her children. Her search yielded results when she was introduced to BLCI.
Milenia’s mom enrolled her daughters into this college preparation organization, whose mission is to break the cycle of poverty by helping students be the first in their families to go to college. To accomplish its mission, BLCI does much more than provide afterschool tutoring. It creates an environment where students are given no option but to realize the courage and power they harbor within. BLCI does it with an expectation that the student’s success is not just their own. It requires the investment and sacrifice of the student’s entire family.
When Milenia was preparing to go to high school, she set her eyes on The Bishop’s School, one of the wealthiest schools in San Diego. Milenia knew that she would be better prepared for success if she attended this prestigious academy. She filled out the application, took the required testing, and underwent interviews. Through this process, Milenia also acted as a translator for her parents. She was accepted and was provided with a good financial aid package.
MAKING A DIFFERENCE IN THE COMMUNITY...AND BEYOND
By Rafael Hurtado
Milenia then hit a roadblock. She translated to her parents that she was no longer going to be accepted because she did not have a nine-digit number. She was confused and didn’t understand why she needed this number. Hadn’t she done everything that was required? Reflecting on her dismay, Milenia uttered, “I was a little adult, but I was actually just a child.” Thankfully, BLCI stepped in.
BLCI was not going to allow the lack of a Social Security number get in the way of a bright young girl’s education. She was putting in the work. Her parents were putting in the work by cooking and delivering meals for BLCI students, being engaged in the programming, and encouraging their kids to become educated. With a team of resourceful advocates behind her, she applied for the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program and convinced the school to let her attend.
A few years later, during her senior year, Milenia had been participating in BLCI’s College Success Program, a program focused on the college application process. Milenia compiled a list of dream colleges and at the top of the list were schools in New York. She had a strong desire to explore new places and discover unknown opportunities. But in 2017, DACA was terminated (the termination was later overturned by the U.S. Supreme Court), and her dreams came tumbling down. If she went to New York, would she be trapped there? Would she be able to see her family? BLCI and Milenia’s team of supporters stepped in again. They helped her create a new list of schools closer to home, and new dreams were formed.
At the top of her new list was her “reach” school: the University of Southern California. She got in! But another roadblock: USC considered Milenia an international student, which meant that she would not benefit from in-state tuition. BLCI advocated for her and helped her prove that she was a California
resident. Once that was established, Milenia was able to receive scholarships and financial aid to fully pay for her tuition. In 2018 BLCI sent her off to USC with what Milenia describes as “a really big backpack, probably bigger than me” full of dorm supplies.
BLCI’s support for Milenia continued through college. They checked in with her, and they also called on her for help. Through the High School Program, BLCI sent groups of students to tour colleges, including USC. Milenia was proud to welcome her younger peers, guide them through campus tours, and answer questions. During her four years, Milenia threw herself into her studies and excelled. Meanwhile, her parents lost their jobs during the pandemic and the cost of living in San Diego skyrocketed. Milenia was tempted to pause her studies and help her family, but her parents insisted she continue. Ultimately, her parents made the tough decision to leave San Diego and head to the Inland Empire, where they had extended family. It was all worth it. In 2022, Milenia graduated with not only a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology, but also two minors in American Studies and Legal Studies, and a Master of Studies in Law. Milenia joined her older sister Johanny, a co-BLCI alumna and graduate of the University of California, Santa Cruz.
Today, Milenia is working as an Immigration Law paralegal, where she gets to apply her knowledge and true understanding of what her clients are going through.
Like Milenia, Jesus is deeply grateful for BLCI. When he was in 11th grade at High Tech High Media Arts in Point Loma, he was introduced to Maria, a BLCI employee. Maria shared about the programs and opportunities the organization provided. Jesus was drawn in when he learned one of the offerings was a trip to visit college campuses across California. He had never traveled far and was excited for the chance to discover new places.
As a single mother, Jesus’ mom was glad to support her son. She may not have known much about college, but she knew how to cook, clean, and encourage her son. While he was busy attending career fairs, participating in mock interviews, and studying, Jesus’ mom spruced up the BLCI office, prepared large batches of food for BLCI students, and watched her son’s confidence increase. Her gifts were not wasted. BLCI had caught Jesus just in time to make him feel like he deserved something more, and he remembers thinking that when someone
believes in you that much, “what else are you going to do but give into it?” Jesus went on to attend the University of California, San Diego, where he double majored and graduated with Bachelor of Arts degrees in Political Science and Philosophy.
Soon after college, Jesus worked for civic organizations and developed his leadership and administrative skills by serving as Deputy Director of the Lincoln Club and Regional Coordinator of Inspire to Vote. He enjoyed his work but yearned to challenge his intellect and advocate for others.
The desire to advocate was sparked during his first encounter with a lawyer. He was only a kid, but he describes the immigration lawyer helping his family as “someone who was willing to go to bat for you.” This sense of support was validated years later when he was interviewed by a law professor at a mock interview organized by BLCI. He felt encouraged by her and carried that flame with him. As a college graduate, Jesus decided to fan the flame and applied for law school. In 2019, he began his studies at California Western School of Law, where he went up to Professor Laura Padilla and thanked her for boosting his confidence. He wanted her to know that he was now following through.
Jesus made the most of his time in law school. As he reflects, “I had a plan and stuck to it.” He was selected for the California Western Law Review and published an article, was on the dean’s list, and received several awards. Jesus graduated cum laude in 2022, passed the bar exam, and is now practicing Insurance Law in San Diego. Jesus knows that his journey has only just begun. While he’s succeeded, he looks out his office window and thinks, “Do I deserve this office that overlooks downtown?” Supporters like BLCI and his loving mom remind him that he does. He knows that younger students who are in positions similar to his need the same encouragement, and he is eager to pay it forward. He’s already given back by serving as a BLCI board member, but his grand dream is to sign a check with a large amount and give it to the organization that lifted him up and gave his mom the pride of investing in her son’s future. With a plan in mind, Jesus will no doubt achieve that dream.
Rafael J. Hurtado practices environmental law as a Deputy Attorney General at the California Department of Justice
IWhy I Lawyer CLAUDIA GRASSO
grew up in the Wyvernwood projects in East Los Angeles, where I lived with my parents and three siblings until I was 18 years old. We resided in a onebedroom apartment in a tenement of 12 units where gang violence was a way of life. In the ’70s and ’80s, the gang primarily focused on protecting their barrio, however, that still meant violently.
I was an only child for the first five years of my life. Being raised mostly by adults, I could converse quite maturely and question what I did not understand until my mother either answered to my satisfaction or sternly told me to drop it. It was at this time that my mom and aunts suggested that I’d make a good lawyer, which sounded like a great career to me, though I had no idea what that meant.
I was 8 years old when our entire garage building was set on fire in the middle of the night by a rival gang. My dad suffered second-degree burns trying to unsuccessfully salvage our only means of transportation. I remember police officers and firefighters speaking to my family and being so very kind, though out of fear, no information was ever provided to them.
When I was 10 someone shot a gun into our home through our barred windows. Luckily, no one was hurt, and I was once again exposed to very kind police officers who left with no useful information but who planted a seed. Being my inquisitive self, I asked the officer why he asked us so many questions. He told me he needed the information for a lawyer called a DA who helps people who are hurt. I was intrigued. I then asked how I could get that job, and the nice officer replied, “Do well in school.”
A few months later, a gang fight resulting in the death of a teenage boy at our local junior high school caused terror in many of us. As a result, my mother took a second job and sent me to a Catholic school. I loved school, read incessantly, and talked about going to college to become a lawyer. My proud but realistic mom saw my drive but wanted to make sure I knew the score (for those of you who have read “The Outsiders,” you get the reference). She sat me down and told me that she was proud of my grades, but I had to know that she and my dad had no money to send me to college. In fact, no one in our family had ever gone to college. Undeterred, I kept working hard and became
the first in my family (including 97 first cousins) to attend college. UCLA chose me and offered a full scholarship with housing and books included. There, I volunteered at a shelter for kids impacted by abuse. This is where I fell in love with teaching and working with children.
After UCLA, I took a job teaching middle school children. I eased into the teaching part but was not prepared for the issues those kiddos disclosed: gangs, sex, drugs. Thus, two years later, I applied to a master’s program at Harvard tailored to working with at-risk children. What I did not expect was the discouragement from my extended family telling me that Mexicans did not belong there and that I’d never be accepted. I proved them wrong and loved every minute of my time at Harvard.
After Harvard, I got a job in San Diego teaching and writing curriculum for middle school children. However, three years later, it was time to chase that law job I’d been wanting since my childhood. I enrolled at the USD School of Law, got married, had a child, and graduated in three years. Now, knowing that the job I was intrigued by at age 10 was called a “prosecutor, I volunteered at the San Diego District Attorney’s Office to ensure this is where I wanted to be. One month in, two trials under my belt, including a domestic violence trial where I connected with a Spanish-speaking mom and her two children, and meeting Summer Stephan, who was to become my mentor of 21 years, I was hooked.
I’ve spent most of my career in the Family Protection Division prosecuting cases of domestic violence and child abuse, and developing a passion for working with victims, especially women and children. In 2022, Summer Stephan entrusted me with the role of Executive Director of One Safe Place, our North County Family Justice Center where, via our 107 partners, we provide wraparound services to victims of abuse. Thank you LAPD officer. I’m proud to be a Deputy District Attorney.
Claudia Grasso serves as a Deputy District Attorney with the San Diego District Attorney’s Office and Executive Director of One Safe Place: The North County Family Justice Center. She’s prosecuted numerous serious cases of child abuse and domestic violence; regularly teaches and conducts outreach and prevention in both English and Spanish; and manages the daily operations of the District Attorney’s Family Justice Center.
125 YEARS AND COUNTING — THANK YOU SAN DIEGO FOR CELEBRATING THE SDCBA!
On April 22, 2024, the San Diego County Bar Association turned 125 years old. The SDCBA was in the midst of moving to and remodeling its new home throughout most of 2024, so an in-person celebration took place in late summer. It was worth the wait. The SDCBA’s staff, members, and the legal community have made its 125th anniversary memorable, and the year is not over yet. From magazine articles about SDCBA history all year long to a soldout September 12 event packed with history and proclamations, the SDCBA’s 125th has set an energetic tone for future milestone years. As the SDCBA nears the close of its 125th year, it is important to look back and recognize the generosity that has poured into its quasquicentennial year.
Dedicated volunteers and the internal team are nearing the completion of a commemorative 125th anniversary special edition magazine packed with SDCBA stories. Many past SDCBA board members and staff, as well as community leaders, gave their time to be interviewed. From Stephanie Sontag (President 2000) to Melissa Johnson (President 2023), many of the last 25 presidents shared perspectives about each of their respective presidencies. Their personalized input shaped meaningful snapshots of each of the last 25 years.
In addition, many SDCBA members have given their time, skill, and knowledge to write various pieces that dive deeper into parts of the SDCBA’s history. Writers include George Brewster Jr., Todd Stevens, Lorena Slomanson, Sara Gold, Jerrilyn Malana, and Isaac Jackson, to name a few. Gayani Weersinghe and Michael Crowley took on the roles of lead co-editors. It is thanks to many devoted members that the SDCBA’s stories will be preserved through many diverse voices. The community — even beyond San Diego — will be able to look to this collective work not only to learn about the SDCBA, but also to see a reflection of the spirit of San Diego County’s legal community, which is one of collegiality, collaboration, and kindness.
Many of SDCBA’s signature programs launched or significantly grew within the last 25 years. The magazine will tell the story of the launch of the Diversity Fellowship Program; the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Division; and the New Lawyers Division. Readers will learn about the growth of the SDCBA’s Lawyer Referral and Information Service and the Mock
Trial Program. The magazine also includes pieces about the SDCBA’s involvement with community service programs and partnerships with affinity bar associations and law schools. Though likely still freshly etched in most of our minds, the magazine will also cover how the SDCBA navigated the COVID-19 pandemic. These stories, as well as the history of the Bar and its buildings, illustrate a community full of growth and leadership. One story that is key to the SDCBA’s success in the last 25 years is the story of the SDCBA’s internal team. The internal team has carried the SDCBA as its shape shifted from being fully volunteer-run to becoming the professionally staffed organization it is today. But the internal team’s story is mostly a story of gratitude for all those who have given their professional life to the SDCBA and its mission.
The community — even beyond San Diego — will be able to look to this collective work not only to learn about the SDCBA, but also to see a reflection of the spirit of San Diego County’s legal community, which is one of collegiality, collaboration, and kindness.
The 125th anniversary video, like the magazine, will focus on the last 25 years. The SDCBA is fortunate to have Hannah Bianchini at the helm of this project, with her experience as an executive producer in the film industry. The video team has conducted about 30 interviews, most of them in person, of past presidents and prominent leaders in the law, including judges, with each contributor reflecting on various highlights from the last 25 years. Former Director of Marketing Ron Marcus and Bianchini worked tirelessly to coordinate
these interviews efficiently with a video crew. Many of the interviews were shot inside the offices of Jones Day, which graciously provided its beautiful space to the 125th team.
Now, as the holiday season approaches, the video team continues to work on editing the script and coordinating portions of interview transcripts to tell the Bar’s stories. The video team is very excited to share that San Diego’s Mark Grant is slated to provide the video narration. Grant is a long-time sports commentator for televised San Diego Padres baseball games. Many thanks are owed to the video team for turning this video into not only something that SDCBA members can count as their history, but also something that is a part of the history of all of San Diego. The community will be able to look back to the 125th book and video for many years to come.
The SDCBA held its special 125th anniversary event at its new home at 330 A Street on September 12, 2024. Over 250 lawyers, judges, law students, and community partners registered to attend the SDCBA’s anniversary party. Debra Rosen, SDCBA’s Executive Director, officially welcomed its membership to its new home. Current SDCBA President Stacey Kartchner, with all past presidents in attendance behind her, cut a golden ribbon to symbolize the new Bar Center opening. In celebration of all that the SDCBA does for the community, both the City of San Diego and the County Board of Supervisors declared September 12, 2024, to be San Diego County Bar Association Day. A representative from the office of Nora Vargas, Chair of the Board of Supervisors, as well as a representative from the City of San Diego, announced these proclamations at the event. George Brewster Jr., Chair of the SDCBA Centennial Task Force, gave remarks
about the history of the SDCBA’s homes — from a desk drawer to 330 A Street. Rosen, Kartchner, Stevens, and Michelle Gastil, Chair of the 125th Anniversary Task Force, also gave remarks.
Events like the 125th anniversary party and commemorative books and videos require support and generosity from volunteers and supporters. Support has come in the form of time, skill, writing, coordinating, and more. The SDCBA was also showered with sponsorships for its 125th anniversary event, receiving support significantly above expectations. None of these exciting efforts could be accomplished without all of the aforementioned collective support. The SDCBA is lucky to serve such a giving community.
As Brewster indicated at the 125th anniversary event, it is not too early to think about the next milestone. Who is interested in preserving — and celebrating — the history of the SDCBA? For those who are interested, consider joining the SDCBA Bar History Committee and help maintain the SDCBA’s most treasured stories for years to come. Thank you to the SDCBA community for showing up and celebrating this exciting year. Keep your eyes and ears open for release dates for the commemorative magazine and video.
Cheers to the next 125 years!
Michelle Gastil (Michelle@GastilLaw.com) is Senior Staff Counsel for an environmental state agency. Prior to state work, she was in solo practice for several years. She served on the board of directors for Think Dignity and Filipino American Lawyers of San Diego.
SDCBA Past President Stephanie Sontag being interviewed for the 125th Anniversary Video.
Former presidents of the SDCBA celebrate the grand opening of the new SDCBA Bar Center at the 125th Anniversary Party. L to R Back Row Hon. Melinda Lasater, Marvin Mizell, Hon. Marcella McLaughlin, Hon. Loren Freestone, Hon. Aaron Katz, Heather Rosing, David Majchrzak, Richard Huver, Melissa Johnson, Wells Lyman, Monty McIntyre. (Front Row L to R ) Johanna Schiavoni, Todd Stevens, Hon. Jill Burkhardt, Jerrilyn Malana
As we wrap up the Bar’s celebration of its 125th anniversary, I think it is important to review a few lessons learned.
The history of our local bar association reminds us of our past forward-thinking leaders and provides a road map to help guide our current and future forward-thinking leaders. Because the practice of law is largely historical in nature — we are recreating past events, using prior statements of law for guidance — you’d think we would be better at preservation.
Our bar publications (DICTA, San Diego Lawyer) ARE preserved in the downtown law library, and are a treasure trove of information for those who do the physical research. We also made a good start at preserving the oral histories of our local legal legends, many of whom are now deceased. The intentions to continue this preservation have been good. But we are losing important voices.
And as a society, we are losing documentation. For the bar, its various office moves have whittled down (intentionally or not) any hope of a decent photo and document collection. Yes, everything can be digital now — and like vacation photos stored 10,000 deep on your laptop or phone, they become forgotten and/or unretrievable. In time, poof! They’ll be gone. So good on the bar for doing an updated video and book; hopefully over the next 25 years the bar can consciously set aside important photos and documents for the 150th anniversary on April 22, 2049 (save the date!).
I also wanted to wrap up the year with a confession of failures and lessons learned. After all, how can I be critical of anything if I can’t be critical of myself?
LESSONS OF HISTORY
By George W. Brewster Jr.
1. Monkey Business
Sen. Gary Hart represented Colorado from 1975 to 1987, and was the frontrunner for the 1988 Democratic presidential nomination until revelations of extramarital affairs surfaced in the press, in particular a photo from a ship named “Monkey Business.” By late 1987 he was working for a law firm in Denver, and I gave him a call.
I was a newly minted civil attorney (just out of JAG and now working with Ault, Midlam & Deuprey), and I proposed to the Law and Media Committee for the ABA’s Young Lawyer Division that we put on a show; well, a seminar, called “Privacy, Politics and the Press.” My hope was to get Harvard Law Professor Arthur Miller to conduct panel discussions, for Hart to be the lunch speaker, and for PBS to tape the whole thing. It would be held in San Diego on a date after the March Southern primaries and before the June California primary. I extended invitations to be on the panel — including Al Gore, Michael Dukakis, Jesse Jackson, Al Haig, Jack Kemp, Bob Dole, Richard Nixon, and a guy named Joe Biden (via George Mitrovich). I sought sponsorships from the bar (through then-President Dan Broderick), The Daily Transcript, Cal Western, the U-T and others. It was going to be big!
And then it wasn’t. Inviting politicians to headline something is risky business. Hart was in, and then he was out (after a surprising decision to reenter the primaries). Miller was on board, until we got his fee agreement. Biden was in, and then he was out. On and on — but, we did scrape together a decent morning program with coffee and doughnuts. It was a roundtable at Cal Western, our moderator was USD Professor Hugh Friedman, and our panel were local journalists and attorneys. PBS did not tape it. On the plus side, I got to know Hugh Friedman, and I have a letter from Joe Biden bowing out due to a Senate schedule change.
It is signed, and I choose to believe it is a legit signature (i.e., not machine or lowly staffer). So, thank you Joe!
I appreciated that old adage: Hope for the best, but plan for the worst. Especially when politicians are involved.
2. Sympathy for the Symphony
The bar has been celebrating Law Day since 1958 — generally with a week of activities. The activities changed and grew, with the main messaging focused on the rule of law and the role of lawyers in society. We had free law at the mall, Call a Lawyer on KNBC, mock trials for middle school kids, a high school oratorical competition, a poster contest, the Law Day Luncheon … events varied with each Law Week chair. For Law Week 1991, I thought it would be nice to do something for the bar membership and put together a Night at the Symphony (that year was a Rodgers and Hammerstein concert). The ticket included a light buffet and a drink at the Seventh Avenue bar center ballroom before walking down to Symphony Hall. But ha ha! Something was amiss with the catering order, and we ran out of food about 15 minutes into the event. (I saved a letter I got, which read in part: “I think by between 7:10 and 7:15 there was absolutely no food left. Besides not having dinner that I paid for, this was very embarrassing for the guests that I brought.”)
To be fair, it was a light buffet not a dinner. But our command decision in the moment was to open up the drink bar (from cash to “go for it”), and we sent a bunch of intoxicated lawyers to the concert. (Or as R and H would say, “It’s a Grand Night for Singing.”) The lesson here: always, always overestimate the food order.
3. Taken for a Ride
This should have been a great event. It was to celebrate the Law Library’s 50th anniversary; it was to help raise funds for the Courthouse Museum in Old Town, and it
was to be held at the Air & Space Museum in Balboa Park, which would be celebrating NASA’s 50th anniversary. Linking it all together, we’d have astronaut Sally Ride as our dinner speaker. Yowzah!
We booked with Ride’s people in late 2007 or early 2008, with the Law Library Justice Foundation paying the $10,000 up-front deposit to secure her attendance. The event itself was set to take place in late 2008, with a well-stocked catered dinner, music, and a really cool setting among the museum jets on display. But … the great recession hit, and members of the celebration planning committee (including a guy from the U-T and the new Law Library director) got very nervous. A speakers bureau offered up some guy named John Stamos (I didn’t watch “Full House,” and didn’t know who he was!), but ultimately the decision was to pull the plug on the event.
Everything was canceled, except for one minor detail: The Sally Ride group would not refund the speaker fee deposit of $10,000. Lots of calls later, still no refund — not half, not a penny. The Law Library, through its foundation — always struggling financially — had to eat the $10,000 loss. I was disappointed but sadder for the loss to the Law Library, which we were trying to celebrate and raise money for. In the regrets department, this is one of my top few.
Lesson learned? Well, if you have a crystal ball, don’t plan an event during a recession. But for this particular event, I still think the stars aligned and we should have gone for it. So, I guess it is true: Dream big and, sometimes, take the risk.
Thanks for this walk down memory lane, and for being my therapeutic audience.
George W. Brewster Jr. (sandbrews@aol.com) is a retired attorney after 35 years of practice, including JAG, private practice, and the last 30 with the County of San Diego, Office of County Counsel.
Calling all Legal Professionals in San Diego County!
Make an immediate impact by donating the equivalent of your billable hour rate. Your financial contribution goes further than pro bono work alone, funding critical legal services for underserved communities.
Donate the Equivalent of Your Hourly Rate ... or Whatever you Can!
Here’s how your contribution can provide access to justice:
$100: Provides counsel to a mother seeking a domestic violence restraining order, helping protect her and her family.
$200: Offers legal support to a family at risk of losing their housing, providing stability and peace of mind.
Join Us in Making a Difference
$500: Funds legal counsel for a veteran dealing with issues preventing employment, paving the way for new opportunities.
$1,000: Supports services to help a family seeking asylum stay together, ensuring they receive the support they need.
By supporting the San Diego County Bar Foundation, you become a part of something greater. You’re helping build a legal community for equality, accessibility, and justice.
Make your 2024 donation today! Scan the QR code or visit: sdcbf.org/get-involved/donate-your-rate/.
SAN DIEGO COUNTY BAR FOUNDATION YEAR IN REVIEW:
REFLECTING ON IMPACT AND LOOKING AHEAD
2024 has been a year of growth and transformation for the San Diego County Bar Foundation (SDCBF), with several new initiatives and accomplishments that reinforce our mission to increase access to justice for underserved communities in San Diego County. Through collaboration with our supporters, we continue to enhance our impact and ensure that legal services remain accessible to those who need them most.
A New Era: Enhancing Visibility and Engagement
One of the most significant milestones this year was the launch of our new website, a project led by the Communications and Development Committee. This revamped platform serves as a hub for informing the public about our work, engaging potential donors, and amplifying the efforts of the many organizations we support. Along with this, we rebranded our “Donate Your Rate” initiative (formerly “Give an Hour”) to better communicate its purpose and inspire legal professionals to contribute financially to the critical legal services that underserved communities rely on.
The Donate Your Rate initiative allows legal professionals to donate the equivalent of their billable hour, directly funding essential services like domestic violence protection, housing stability, and asylum support. By giving a donation in the amount equal to what would be billed for an hour’s work, participants make a lasting impact, providing comprehensive legal assistance to those who would otherwise face insurmountable barriers to justice.
By Megan Moore
Celebrating Excellence and Commitment
Our annual events also continue to be cornerstones of our mission. The Distinguished Lawyer Memorial (DLM) ceremony was a powerful celebration of San Diego’s legal giants. This year, we honored Betty E. Boone, Stephen G. Cline, Gregory E. Knoll, Michael “Howard” Wayne, and Ellen H. Whelan. Their contributions to the legal profession and community serve as an inspiration, and the event raised nearly $30,000 to support the Foundation’s grant programs.
Looking ahead, An Evening in La Jolla (ELJ) continues to be our flagship fundraising event, with new features like a “Wine Pull” and a newly introduced Community Impact Award. This event directly supports our grant program, ensuring immigrants, veterans, survivors of domestic violence, and other vulnerable populations have access to critical legal services. ELJ remains an essential part of how we engage with the San Diego legal community and raise the funds necessary to continue our mission.
Expanding Our Reach: New Initiatives for 2025
Looking forward, the Foundation is committed to deepening engagement with our supporters through the Friends of the Foundation initiative. This program will offer ongoing opportunities for supporters to stay involved throughout the year, not just during events, strengthening the community of individuals and organizations who believe in the importance of access to justice.
We also launched a new Annual Sponsorship program that provides sponsors the
opportunity to support the Foundation yearround, increasing visibility and impact across all our initiatives.
Making an Impact
In 2023, we awarded $390,000 to 25 nonprofit organizations that provide vital legal services in areas like refugee assistance, support for children in the legal system, and holistic approaches to legal representation that include trauma counseling and case management. With growing demand and many first-time applicants, our 2024 grant awards will be vital in order to serve the continued need and SDCBF is committed to meeting it in 2024 and beyond through strategic partnerships and philanthropic giving.
As we close out this year and look to the future, we remain dedicated to our mission of expanding access to justice for all San Diegans. We are grateful for the unwavering support of our sponsors, donors, and community members, and we look forward to continuing this important work in 2025.
Join Us in Making a Difference
To learn more about our initiatives and how you can support the San Diego County Bar Foundation, visit us at sdcbf.org. Together, we can build a stronger, more just community.
HOW TO ADVOCATE FOR A CAUSE WHEN YOU KNOW YOU MIGHT BE WRONG
By Jeremy Brown
As has often been said: to err is human. As should be more often said: to practice law is to struggle with error.
Law is no different from any other profession in that its practitioners are capable of making mistakes. Yet it is unique in that much legal work — and almost all litigation — is, at its core, about things that have allegedly gone wrong or that could go wrong, whether because a party takes a prohibited action, fails to fulfill a prescribed duty, or encounters an ambiguously worded term. In this sense, legal work serves as a constant reminder of the human capacity to, well, mess up. (There is a reason lawyers have a reputation for being pessimists.)
This constant exposure to actual errors should offer lawyers continuous reminders of the human propensity to commit errors, whether procedural (as in missing a deadline) or strategic (as in misjudging an opponent’s willingness to settle). Such reminders should, in theory, encourage modesty, circumspection, and even doubt. And in some lawyers, they may well have that effect.
However, litigators’ primary function is to serve as advocates, and effective advocacy requires confidence, whether it is sincere or performative. While litigators must disclose potential vulnerabilities to clients, in accordance with Rule of Professional Conduct 2.1’s mandate to “render candid advice,” they must, in their external communications, regularly downplay inconvenient facts and distinguish unfavorable authority to demonstrate that their position is the correct one,
regardless of any validity they see in their opponents’ arguments or what misgivings they have about their own.
Litigators may (or may not) choose to account for specific weaknesses as well as a general risk of error by modulating their tones or by offering strategic concessions, but they may not openly admit to the possibility of being wrong because, in doing so, they would impliedly admit to the possibility of the other side being right. In short, they must project an air of certainty about the correctness of their positions even if they do not believe in the concept of certainty in that instance or at all.
Of course, litigators must often advance positions they personally disagree with, on policy or ideological grounds, because those positions represent clients’ best interests. In a sense, feigning a belief in certainty is similar to feigning belief in these positions. And to the extent that it is, it affects the psyche much the same way.
Experimental studies have shown that humans instinctively seek to resolve the tension between publicly espoused beliefs and inwardly held beliefs by altering the latter so that they better align with the former. Social psychologists refer to this process as counter-attitudinal advocacy, and they have offered multiple explanations for it.
One, for example, is cognitive dissonance — that is, the mental discomfort associated with holding multiple conflicting beliefs. Another is that advocacy creates a
professional incentive to develop arguments in favor of the public position, and to discredit the arguments against it, and as a result of this incentive, humans eventually persuade themselves in the same way that they intend to persuade others.
No matter which explanation applies to a particular situation, counter-attitudinal advocacy distorts thinking. It can lead to motivated reasoning, cognitive bias, and overconfidence — in other words, mental phenomena that heighten the susceptibility to error while simultaneously distracting from the risk of error.
The result is not better or more collegial lawyering. Rather, it is more extreme positions, expressed with greater certitude, by advocates and clients more resistant to the merits of their adversaries’ positions.
Such outcomes are not desirable, but given the realities of legal advocacy, and of our own cognitive tendencies, we can never avoid them entirely. Still, there are techniques for mitigating them.
in feeling knowledgeable — that draw us toward that emotional state. Moreover, we can understand that the strength of a belief does not affect its accuracy any more than the strength of any other emotion.
Similarly, we can at least periodically contemplate our propensity to err. We can reflect on our past misunderstandings and misassumptions — and those of our friends, colleagues, and institutions.
Finally, in interacting with others, we can respect opposing views and strike a modest tone in our rhetoric. We approach litigation as if it is not an exercise in asserting a definitive personal truth, but rather in working collectively toward a broader truth, one ultimately sanctioned by a court or settlement agreement. In that sense, advocacy becomes a form of inquiry, and curiosity offsets certainty and judgment.
At least, this is my theory. But who knows: it could all be in error.
Jeremy Brown practices environmental law at the California Attorney General’s Office, where he is a supervising deputy attorney general. The views in this article are his alone and are not meant to reflect the views of the California Attorney General’s Office or its clients.
Experienced Neutrals:
Hon. Donald F. Armento, Ret. Kass-Moreno, Esq. Barker, Esq.
Robert J. Hanna, Esq.
Jim Pokorny, Esq. John Turner, Esq.
THE BACHLAWRETTE TRIAL AND ERROR: ACCEPTING UNPREDICTABILITY IN LAW AND LOVE
One of the hardest parts about practicing law is the multitude of things that are beyond our control. No matter how qualified or talented we are, we may not be selected for a new job, get that desired salary increase, or be promoted to partner. That prospective client whom we’ve been angling to retain may choose a different lawyer. After years of pretrial litigation, the jury may not rule in our favor. Disfavored outcomes are part and parcel of the profession. While these events are not necessarily reflective of our effort or talent, they can be a tough pill to swallow no matter how long we’ve been in practice.
The same can be said about the dating world. Being an affable, accomplished lawyer does not guarantee matches on dating apps, invitations for a first or second date, or immunity from inevitable “ghosting.” It also does not guarantee that the person we are interested in won’t suddenly become distant, go back to their ex, or end things because the “spark wasn’t there.” As accomplished lawyers who have been conditioned to view effort and persistence as predictors of success, we can understandably become frustrated by the lack of predictability in dating.
In both arenas, we shouldn’t castigate ourselves for our perceived failures, but neither should we throw up our arms and believe that efforts and strategy are void ab initio.
In law, even if a particular loss at trial may have been unpreventable, we can learn lessons to improve our trial strategy for the future. Losing a prospective client can offer insight into better marketing and recruitment strategies. (Or, we may have unknowingly dodged a nightmare client.) A series of failed job interviews might lead us to reassess our interviewing skills or possibly reevaluate whether the applied-for roles were truly the best fit for our talents and personality type.
The trials and errors of dating can similarly provide valuable lessons. If getting past the first few dates is the obstacle, we can evaluate whether we are showing up as our best selves on dates. As lawyers trained in the art of persuasion, we may unwittingly plead our case too hard and over persuade the other person as to how “dateable” we are. Or we can inadvertently pose too many deposition-style questions without giving room for the conversation to evolve more naturally. As a journalist and lawyer, I am personally guilty of making this mistake!
Nerves can also play a role; when we feel uneasy, we may hide behind the polished, impenetrable version of ourselves and shy away from the quirks and vulnerabilities that make us human.
Fortunately, as lawyers, we are more than equipped to succeed in high-pressure situations with the right mindset. Rather than stressing over whether we come
off as “dateable,” we can strive to be “relatable.” In these cases of first impression, we may benefit the most from relinquishing the instinct to impress so that we can truly be present and (hopefully) enjoy the experience.
Lessons can also be learned from the demise of longterm relationships. In some instances, two people might simply grow apart because the relationship ran its course. If there was a conflict of values or lifestyle, we can reflect on what our values are, whether those values have changed over time, and how we might equip ourselves to seek similar values in our next partner. If there was a personality conflict, we can assess what personality types we might be more compatible with (including any red flags to avoid in the future).
If we played any self-sabotaging role, we can reflect on the reasons for those inclinations. We might need time to heal or grow before pursuing a new relationship, and that’s ok too. And if the other person mistreated us, we can practice self-compassion and remain hopeful for the potential to set new precedent in the future.
As for me? I am still single but hopeful. I could find love next week, next year, or 21 years after the death of a life in being.
If it can’t be avoided, I may even break a few hearts along the way. So sue me.
Yours truly, The Bachlawrette
*** Sara Gold (“The Bachlawrette”) is the founder of Gold IP Law, focused on trademark and copyright law. She has published articles on intellectual property law in journals, magazines, and legal news websites nationwide. Her creative writing debut, “The Bachlawrette” series, is the winner of a 2024 San Diego Press Club award for excellence in journalism. Sara wants to thank San Diego Lawyer for this incredible publication opportunity, as well as her family and friends for their neverending support. And finally, thanks to the men who (unknowingly) served as her research subjects over the years in this sociological survey of sorts. Your participation is non-compensable, but much appreciated!
SECOND TIME CAN BE A CHARM GENTLE WITHDRAWAL FROM FULL-TIME PRACTICE
By Edward McIntryre
Rarely does a lawyer on their deathbed complain: “I wish I’d answered one more interrogatory, analyzed one more bond indenture, sorted out one more estate plan.” If you’re that rare bird, the one who lives just to work, this piece isn’t for you. If not, read on.
You’ve tried cases, done deals, made arguments, studied regulations, listened to clients, made rain, billed countless hours, put up with opposing lawyers, and dealt with judges and witnesses. You’re weary — at least to some of it. Other aspects, however, you still love. Hence, the dilemma. How do you stay involved — but just in areas you enjoy — and also have time for other stuff — travel, a cherished hobby that’s languished, family, sport, or something other than law?
Here are some tips to consider:
First, take a quiet day — at a beach, at a park, in the woods — away from the office and home. Alone. Consider what aspects of your daily, weekly, or monthly practice you genuinely enjoy. Not just recently, but over the course of your career. Give yourself permission to reminisce a bit. Think not about what you have to do but what you look forward to doing. The thing that, when it comes your way, you turn to first. The thing that is put at the top of your to-do list. The thing you have a passion for. Likely, it’s something you’re also good at — precisely because it’s your passion.
What might that be? You enjoy business or litigation strategy but not the work involved in execution. You love mentoring young lawyers, if only you and they ever have time. Some subspeciality catches your eye: legal ethics or constitutional law or SEC regulation. You like helping nonprofits recruit and vet board members. The criminal
defense has worn you down, but you love advising prisoners of their statutory and constitutional rights, or advising prosecutors of their reciprocal and ethical obligations. Whatever that passion might be, focus on it or them. But not more than two. It’s a passion, not just an advocation. Don’t worry at this oint about practicality. That comes later. Just let your imagination run. If you come up with two, pick a first and second.
Next, while still practicing as you are, consider how you might turn that passion into something you could pursue on your terms after you decide to leave the regular, active practice you’ve had for many years. You could consult, mentor, write, lecture, teach. You could become a consultant or expert witness; write that book on the area of practice you really love and know best; volunteer to teach a course on it at a local law school. Avenues will multiply as you let your imagination run. At this point, don’t let what’s practical be the enemy of what you’d like to do.
Next step. Consider whether you have a pre-lawyer profession that might fit your future. You were a journalist with a passion for First Amendment and journalism law; a CPA auditing public companies who understands and enjoys the intricacies of SEC regs; a business executive who reveled in strategy; or a former philosophy professor who taught ethics to undergraduates. Can you marry that pre-law experience to your post-full-time practice? Both to pull together strands of genuine expertise and enhance your credibility. Likely, you can.
Third, focus your current practice as best you can on the area that excites you, even if that means more pro bono work. Your goal? To hone your expertise and develop potential sources where you can engage your legal passion when you’re ready. Volunteer to write, lecture, participate
“You will have to negotiate the stepping back process. But don’t let that be a stumbling block. You have labored long; you’ve earned this opportunity to pursue what you love and have time for yourself and others.”
Have I found the “second career” I would like to pursue? If a small tickly of excitement starts to rise, you’ve nailed it.
Now you’re ready to start to put those dreams and aspirations into practical reality. First, when you’re ready, talk to your firm; work out with your partners how and when you’ll step back from your full-time practice to pursue, on your terms, the area you enjoy. You will have to negotiate the stepping back process. But don’t let that be a stumbling block. You have labored long; you’ve earned this opportunity to pursue what you love and have time for yourself and others.
in MCLE presentations, assist at a clinic, and spend time mentoring despite your workload. Let the community know you have the skills, expertise, and interest to pursue your passion. You may be able to monetize the pursuit of your passion, but that shouldn’t be the goal, at least at the start. Instead, test if you really enjoy what you think you want to pursue and develop the credentials of someone with a unique skill to offer. It may mean additional study, but studying what you love isn’t work. As you focus more
Will you be able to receive compensation for the pursuit of your special endeavor? Perhaps. Even likely. But not at the rates and with the cash flow you had when practicing full time. But isn’t that the point? Now you get to enjoy both an area of practice you really like and the life you well deserve.
I wish you every success.
Edward
McIntyre (edmcintyre@ethicsguru.law) is
a professional responsibility lawyer.
IREWIND
By George W. Brewster Jr.
THE COURTHOUSE CLOCK: A TIMELY TALE
n 2015, I wrote about the old courthouse clock (circa 1890) that once adorned the 1889 courthouse which was moved to the “new” courthouse at 220 W. Broadway in 1981. In 2015, the 220 W. Broadway court was set to be demolished, and it was uncertain where the large clockwork and casing would wind up (pun intended).
The 220 W. Broadway courthouse was torn down, and the clock disappeared. Calls to the court and to the county (which owned the clock) were time-consuming and futile. Fortunately, a Public Records Act request helped solve the mystery of time and its place.
But first, some background on the clock for those who don’t save their back issues of San Diego Lawyer. The large clock was purchased in 1890 by the County of San Diego for $420 ($15,000 in 2024 value), and it was manufactured by Seth Thomas, a Connecticut company founded in 1813 and well known to clock enthusiasts. While the company made tower clocks for buildings all over the world, very few now exist. The San Diego clock tower was designed to strike a two-and-a-half-ton bell every half hour; however, it was too loud for a courthouse and nearby hotel guests. The striking mechanism was shut down in 1919.
The clock was removed in 1939 (due to concerns over its weight on top of the courthouse), put into storage, and forgotten (except for the clock bell, which was loaned by the Board of Supervisors to the Mission San Luis Rey de Francia, and thereafter misplaced, never to be seen again). The 1889 courthouse was torn down in 1959, and the “new” courthouse at 220 W. Broadway was built in its place and opened in 1961. Sometime between 1977 and 1980, the San Diego Bar Auxiliary commissioned the National Association of Watch and Clock Collectors, Chapter 59 , to restore the old clock. The mechanism was restored, a new pendulum and clock face were constructed, and it was all placed in a cabinet 13 feet high with glass sides.
According to an article in the March 1981 DICTA Magazine, the Auxiliary had agreed to raise the funds for the restoration and cabinetry work, and they kicked off their fundraising efforts by making the Courthouse Clock the theme of their 24th Annual Fashion Show in 1981. The fundraising was successful, and once the clock was installed in the courthouse (under the happy and watchful eyes of Presiding
Judge William Yale), it became part of the regular courthouse tours conducted by Auxiliary members.
Chapter 59 continued to watch after the clock, which kept pretty good time. And then, sometime after the courthouse was closed, and thankfully before it was demolished, the clockwork and its casing left the building.
A recent PRA request produced documents of a December 2018 loan agreement between the County and the Antique Gas & Steam Engine Museum, a nonprofit and very eclectic museum located in a dozen-plus buildings on 55 acres in Vista (2040 N. Santa Fe Ave.). The courthouse clock was moved to the museum’s property and is housed in the “Assembly Building,” which is overseen by the West Coast Clock & Watch Museum. For you clock watchers, that building is open Saturdays and Sundays, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The clockwork and its casing are 10 feet off the ground in a loft (per a Dec. 26, 2020 YouTube image of it), and it is touted as a “centerpiece” of that clock museum. The narrator of the YouTube video showing the clock is the Executive Director and Curator of the museum, Ernie Lopez.
The agreement between the County and the Antique Gas & Steam Engine Museum says it is for five years. But given its size, weight, and mechanics, it is a pretty sure bet the loan is permanent (or perhaps, timeless). In the museum’s newsletter, The Igniter, a story on the courthouse clock described its removal from the courthouse, using a 12-foot-truck, two forklifts, and meticulous planning. The article describes how the forklift was delivered to the wrong address and had to be driven down Broadway to the courthouse; the dismantling of the clock in the shuttered courthouse lobby and the rebuilding of the clock and base in its new home were successful, and without any further mishaps.
In a telephone discussion with one of the museum’s docents, it was confirmed that the courthouse clock remains in the clock museum loft and, while visible, is not accessible. It is also not currently ticking, although there is hope that someday it will be a working clock again. Time will tell.
George W. Brewster Jr. (sandbrews@aol.com) is a retired attorney after 35 years of practice, including JAG, private practice, and the last 30 with the County of San Diego, Office of County Counsel.
WHAT TO DO WHEN... YOU OVER COMMIT
By Julie T. Houth
Lawyers are known to be very busy in every aspect of their lives. No matter how much you prepare or plan, it is completely possible to take on more than you can chew. So, what do you do when you overcommit yourself? Stay calm, stay organized, ask for help, and try to honor as many commitments as possible while postponing others.
Staying Calm and Organized are Key
It is so important to stay calm. This is easier said than done, given all the stressors in our lives, but it’s true. A calm mind helps us focus and solve problems. As lawyers, we know this to be true. Calmly look at your calendar to see what you can and cannot reschedule. It is also important that your calendar is accurate in terms of your commitments, including work deadlines and events. Include alerts and reminders if that helps you stay on track. Your calendar should show you the bigger picture of all your commitments, and you’ll know if you’ve double booked yourself on a certain day or time.
Ask for Help
A lot of lawyers pride themselves on getting things done on their own. It’s not necessarily a bad thing, but sometimes, you just need help. The workload can be too much. Life can be too much. Know that you are not alone, even if it seems like you are at times. When you feel overwhelmed with your workload or with your commitments in general, see if you can delegate tasks or events to others. Literally, ask for help. People cannot read your mind. Sometimes, you have to actually ask for help and that’s okay. There will be times when you ask for help and you don’t get it. You’ll need to assess that situation differently, but you won’t get to this step if you don’t ask for help first.
Try to Honor Your Commitments
There will be times you will need to grind, and over commitments will be made frequently. You will need to push through those times. You’ll survive, but try to prevent those times from occurring regularly. In the future, learn to say no to certain things. This can prevent you from over-committing to certain tasks or events. Again, sometimes over commitments cannot be avoided, but we’re lawyers. We’re the masters of adaptability, and we really can survive almost anything including over committing to things!
It is important to honor your commitments because, as lawyers, our reputation is everything. If you can keep your word, do it. Lawyer life is hard. It’s not for everyone.
Julie T. Houth is an associate attorney at Thomas Quinn practicing maritime law and a past co-editor
2024 RED BOUDREAU TRIAL LAWYERS’ DINNER
By Robert Mardian
More than 400 members of the San Diego legal community attended the 40th Annual Red Boudreau Trial Lawyers’ Dinner on October 19, 2024, at the U.S. Grant Hotel to raise money for Father Joe’s Villages in support of their children’s programs. The Red Boudreau Trial Lawyers’ Dinner is named after respected San Diego attorney Maurice “Red” Boudreau, a founding board member of St. Vincent de Paul Village and longtime friend of Father Joe Carroll.
Each year since 1990, the Red Boudreau Trial Lawyers’ Dinner has honored one San Diego trial lawyer who exemplifies the highest standards of civility, integrity, and professionalism with the prestigious Daniel T. Broderick III Award. At this year’s dinner, 2023 Broderick Award honoree Robert Juskie presented trial attorney Benjamin Bunn with the 2024 Daniel T. Broderick III Award.
Since 2023, the Red Boudreau Trial Lawyers’ Dinner has also honored one current or former Judge in San Diego in recognition of their outstanding contributions to the San Diego legal community over the course of their career. This year, the Honorable Frederick L. Link (Ret.) presented the Pillar of the Legal Community Award to the Honorable Steven R. Denton (Ret.).
The Red Boudreau Trial Lawyers’ Dinner was emceed by Red Boudreau Trial Lawyers’ Dinner Chairperson Brian Rawers. The event also featured a presentation by Deacon Jim Vargas, regarding the incredible work being done at Father Joe’s Villages as San Diego’s largest provider of services for the homeless of San Diego County.
On the heels of this year’s successful event, preparations are already underway for next year’s 41st Annual Red Boudreau Trial Lawyers’ Dinner, to be held on October 11, 2025, at the U.S. Grant Hotel. Please mark your calendars now!
Robert C. Mardian III is a partner at Sullivan, McGibbons Crickard & Associates LLP and is Chair of the 2025 Red Boudreau Trial Lawyers’ Dinner Committee.
2024 Broderick Honoree Benjamin Bunn and past Honoree Robert Juskie
L to R Dennis Schoville, Hon. Steven R. Denton, Mike Neil
Stacey Kartchner and Hon. Victor Bianchini(ret.)
Castro, P.C.
Attorneys & Counselors
DISTINCTIONS
The following members of our community were recently honored for their achievements. If you achieve a professional success, feel welcome to submit it to bar@sdcba.org for inclusion in an upcoming issue of San Diego Lawyer
Employment law firm Nukk-Freeman & Cerra, PC was presented with the “MVP Award” from the National Association of Minority and Women Owned Law Firms (NAMWOLF) at the organization’s annual meeting in Atlanta, Georgia on September 17. The MVP Award recognizes a NAMWOLF law firm member for its outstanding achievement in advancing NAMWOLF’s mission of promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion by fostering the relationship between preeminent minority and women owned law firms and corporations and public entities. Nukk-Freeman & Cerra has a growing office in San Diego, in addition to offices in New Jersey and New York.
SAN DIEGO LAWYER ACCOLADES!
The San Diego Lawyer Committee is immensely proud to announce that our writers took home six awards from various categories at the San Diego Press Club's 51st Annual Excellence in Journalism & Scholarship Awards ceremony. Co-Editor of San Diego Lawyer Vaani Chawla and the SDCBA marketing team attended the awards ceremony.
Rewind columnist and cartoonist George W. Brewster Jr. received an honorable mention for his editorial cartoon, "Chatbot Dress for Success...Or Else." He also won second place for his profile, "David Gill Marks 50."
Vaani Chawla received an honorable mention for her article, "Attorney Asylee: The Story of Hamid Razi," which told the incredible story of Hamid Razi's journey to the United States with his family.
Past SDCBA President Melissa Johnson won third place for her article, "Was There Honor in My Service?" which shared her experience in the Air Force and how it affected her self-image as an LGBTQ individual.
Sara Gold won third place for her column, "The Bachlawrette," which is always an insightful and clever edition to each of the SDL issues.
Marketing Manager Attiba Royster won third place for his cover design, "AI and the Law." Royster is responsible for the design of each magazine, from graphics to layout, and deserves all the praise.
Congratulations to all our incredibly talented contributors! Thank you for sharing your insights, skills, and life stories with our wonderful membership.
PHOTO GALLERY
HOLIDAYS AROUND THE WORLD
The 2024 Holidays Around the World event was hosted at our brand new Bar Center for the very first time, and the turnout was fantastic! Approximately 16 tables were occupied by various legal groups and were overflowing with delicious food. Thank you to the San Diego legal community for coming together to make this event possible!
L to R: Coleman Alguire, Mark Simpliciano, Ted Holmquist, Shawn P.K. Houston
Lara Deitz, Marco Garcia
Janet Nguyen, Danielle Mai, Eric Marshall
James Hurt, Diana Cohen
L to R Christine Shumacher, Barbara Treash-Osio, Elizabeth Gray
Nicole Heeder and Cynthia Stratton
PHOTO GALLERY
EVENING IN LA JOLLA
Thank you to everyone who joined the SDCBF and had a marvelous time at the annual Evening in La Jolla event. Each year, the ELJ event supports the SDCBF's grant program, providing millions of dollars in funding to over 50 legal aid and public interest organizations throughout San Diego County. Thanks to the participation of the legal community, the 2024 event was a great success, raising over $122,000 for essential justice services.
L to R: Kristin Rizzo, Anna Romanskaya, Tom Becker
Yadeth Estrada and Micaela Rodriguez Tovar
THANK YOU 100% CLUB 2024 2024
The San Diego County Bar Association wants to thank all of the San Diego law firms, public agencies, and nonprofit legal organizations that have provided SDCBA membership to 100% of their attorneys in 2024. Your commitment to the San Diego legal community is greatly appreciated.
100% Club member list as of October 2024
Allen Matkins Leck Gamble Mallory & Natsis LLP
Allen, Semelsberger & Kaelin, LLP
Ames Karanjia LLP
Antonyan Miranda, LLP
Appellate Defenders, Inc.
Astuno & Associates, APC
Atkinson, Andelson, Loya, Ruud & Romo
Beamer, Lauth, Steinley & Bond, LLP
Beatrice L. Snider, APC
Bender Kurlander Hernandez & Campbell, APC
Best Best & Krieger, LLP
BioMed Realty Trust, Inc.
Blackmar, Principe & Schmelter APC
Blanchard Krasner & French
Bobbitt, Pinckard & Fields, APC
Brierton Jones & Jones, LLP
Buchanan Ingersoll & Rooney PC
Burke, Williams & Sorensen, LLP
Burton Kelley, LLP
Butterfield Schechter LLP
California Western School of Law
Case Harvey Fedor
Casey Gerry
Chalifoux, Brast, Thompson & Potocki APC
Christensen & Spath LLP
Cohelan Khoury & Singer
Dean Gazzo Roistacher LLP
Devaney Pate Morris & Cameron, LLP
Dietz, Gilmor & Chazen, APC
District Attorney’s Office of San Diego
Donald R. Holben & Associates, APC
Duckor Metzger & Wynne ALC
Fennemore
Ferris & Britton, APC
Fisher Phillips LLP
Fitzgerald Knaier LLP
Flanagan Law, APC
Fleischer & Ravreby
Gatzke Dillon & Ballance LLP
Genesis Family Law, APC
Goodwin Brown Gross & Lovelace LLP
Green Bryant & French, LLP
Greene & Roberts LLP
Grimm, Vranjes Greer Stephan & Bridgman LLP
Gruenberg Law
Haeggquist & Eck, LLP
Hahn Loeser & Parks, LLP
Hegeler & Anderson, APC
Henderson, Caverly & Pum, LLP
HHJ Trial Attorneys
Higgs Fletcher & Mack LLP
Hoffman & Forde
Hooper, Lundy & Bookman, PC
Horton Oberrecht & Kirkpatrick, APC
Hughes & Pizzuto, APC
Judkins, Glatt & Rich LLP
Karen D. Wood & Associates
Kennedy & Souza, APC
Klinedinst PC
Koeller Nebeker Carlson & Haluck LLP
Kriger Law Firm
Legal Aid Society of San Diego, Inc.
Lincoln Gustafson & Cercos LLP
Macdonald & Cody, LLP
McCloskey Waring Waisman & Drury LLP
McDougal Boehmer Foley Lyon Mitchell & Erickson
Miller, Monson, Peshel, Polacek & Hoshaw
Mintz
MoginRubin LLP
Moore, Schulman & Moore, APC
Musick, Peeler & Garrett LLP
Neil, Dymott & Hudson, APLC
Niddrie | Addams | Fuller | Singh LLP
Noonan Lance Boyer & Banach LLP
Office of the Carlsbad City Attorney
Office of the Public Defender
Office of the San Diego City Attorney
Pettit Kohn Ingrassia Lutz & Dolin PC
Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman LLP
Preovolos Lewin, ALC
Procopio, Cory, Hargreaves & Savitch LLP
Quarles
Robberson Schroedter LLP
San Diego Unified Port District
San Diego Volunteer Lawyer Program, Inc.
Schor Vogelzang & Chung LLP
Schwartz Semerdjian Cauley Schena & Bush LLP
Seltzer|Caplan|McMahon|Vitek ALC
Sheppard, Mullin, Richter & Hampton LLP
Shustak Reynolds & Partners, PC
Siegel, Moreno & Settler, APC
Singleton Schreiber LLP
Solomon Minton Cardinal Doyle & Smith LLP
Solomon Ward Seidenwurm & Smith, LLP
Stark & D'ambrosio LLP
Stokes Wagner, ALC
Sullivan, McGibbons, Crickard & Associates, LLP
Thorsnes Bartolotta McGuire LLP
Tresp, Day & Associates, Inc.
Walsh McKean Furcolo LLP
Webb Law Group, APC
Weitzen Phillips Samuth & Sinex LLP
Winet Patrick Gayer Creighton & Hanes ALC
Wingert Grebing Brubaker & Juskie LLP
Wirtz Law APC
Witham Mahoney & Abbott, LLP
Withers Bergman LLP
Wright, L'Estrange & Ergastolo
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