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

San Diego Law Library Welcomes First Female Director in 135-Year History: Gina Catalano Charts New Course with Innovation and Community Focus

The San Diego Law Library, a cornerstone legal resource approaching its 135th anniversary, has appointed its first female director in its long history. Gina Catalano, who brings a unique background as both a practicing attorney and veteran law librarian, stepped into her new role this month with ambitious plans to blend technological innovation with traditional library services while strengthening community partnerships. Her appointment marks a historic milestone for the institution while promising exciting developments for attorneys and self-represented litigants alike. Read More

Message from the Board: “Just Show Up”

Howdy NLD Members,

My name is Robert Shawhan, and I’m a proud native of Nevada—born in Las Vegas and raised in the Carson Valley, where I split time between the neon lights of Sin City and the rugged charm of ranches, the snowcapped Sierra Mountains, and the ever blue Lake Tahoe. Read More

Focus on Civility Early in Your Practice

As new attorneys, you should set the standard early in your career to practice law in a manner that promotes civility. What does that mean? Be nice, argue your points calmly, and freely provide relevant facts. I would argue (calmly) that this will serve you well in establishing your professional reputation, will lead to success in your practice, and will help you maintain a low stress level. Oh yes, one more thing: civility is the law you must abide by as a licensed attorney. Read More

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