When Will They Ever Learn: Attorneys Continue To Misuse Generative AI

The use of generative AI has not only introduced efficiencies in the practice of law, but also major risks. Much has been written about these benefits and risks; the American Bar Association and the State Bar of California have provided major guidance to attorneys to avoid those risks; and courts impose sanctions when those risks are realized, yet attorneys continue to use generative AI in preparing briefs with resulting blatantly incorrect statements of the law. This article is intended to provide both a reminder of the ethical risks when generative AI is misused but also the ill- consequences which may befall attorneys who misuse generative AI. Read More

For the Record Monthly Column: Legal Life: The Trials, Tribulations, and Triumphs of the Everyday Attorney

Welcome to “Legal Life: The Trials, Tribulations, and Triumphs of the Everyday Attorney,” a new monthly “For The Record” column. This collaborative effort brings together the voices of our New Lawyer Division members to share the real, unfiltered experiences of life in the legal profession. Read More

Message from the Board

Hello. Greetings. Salutations.

My name is Varun Sabharwal. I’m a former public defender recently turned civil defense attorney, and a Member at Large for the San Diego County Bar Association’s New Lawyer Division. It is very nice to meet your epistolary acquaintance, and report on the upcoming events for our Spring season.  Read More

Public Defenders: We Don’t Thank You Enough!

March is National Criminal Justice Month—a time to reflect on the causes and consequences of crime, as well as strategies for prevention and response. But as we recognize this month, let’s also acknowledge a critical piece of the justice system that often goes overlooked: the people fighting to ensure fairness for those who would otherwise stand alone. Read More

The Overlooked Diversity: Addressing Ageism in the Legal Profession

By Stephanie S. Germani, Esq.

In a society where diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives are increasingly prominent, one form of discrimination remains largely overlooked: ageism. The recent webinar “Dialogue on Diversity: The Overlooked Diversity—Age,” hosted by the San Diego County Bar Association, shed light on this critical issue within the legal profession. The discussion highlighted the challenges faced by senior lawyers, the value they bring to the table, and the importance of integrating age into DEI frameworks. Read More

Message from the Vice Chair

Happy February New Lawyer Division Members! My name is Lilly Glenister and I am humbled to be serving this year as the Vice Chair of the San Diego County Bar Association’s New Lawyer Division.  Read More

Avoiding Malpractice: Dangers in representing more than one client in the same matter

Lawyers new to the practice of law often are approached by potential clients, including friends and family members, about forming a business entity for more than one client or to represent two individuals in the same automobile accident. The reason usually given is that the clients want to save money by having one lawyer. Sometimes the referral comes from a close friend or family member, where the friend or family member knows and trusts the lawyer. Read More

Tips from the Bench: Hon. Judy S. Bae — “Life is Not About the Destination but the Journey”

From Certain to Uncertain Career Path

Life is not so much about the pre-planned destination but is about the journey that leads us to where we were meant to be all along. The Honorable Judy S. Bae’s legal career path to becoming a lawyer and a judge is a testament to this maxim. Judge Bae grew up in Redlands, California and was raised by two physicians who worked at local teaching hospitals.  As a young Asian American student, talented in the sciences, and with educated and supportive parents, it was almost pre-destined that Judge Bae would follow in her parent’s footsteps and become a physician. Read More

Bags N’ Brunch 2025: A Community Service Event with Lasting Impact

On Saturday, February 8, 2025, the San Diego County Bar Association’s New Lawyer Division (“NLD”) partnered with the San Diego Urban League Young Professionals (“SDULYP) for the second annual Bags N’ Brunch—an inspiring day of community service, connection, and empowerment. This year’s event not only continued a meaningful tradition but also expanded its impact, bringing together volunteers dedicated to making a difference in the lives of individuals experiencing hardship. Read More

For the Record Monthly Column Legal Life:
The Trials, Tribulations, and Triumphs of the Everyday Attorney

Welcome to “Legal Life: The Trials, Tribulations, and Triumphs of the Everyday Attorney,” a new monthly “For The Record” column. This collaborative effort brings together the voices of our New Lawyer Division members to share the real, unfiltered experiences of life in the legal profession. Read More