Mark Simpliciano Receives SDCBA’s Service by a New Lawyer Award
The San Diego County Bar Association has honored Mark Simpliciano of Garcia Hong Law APC with the 2025 Service by a New Lawyer Award, recognizing his outstanding commitment to service, mentorship, and community engagement within his first seven years of practice. Simpliciano’s journey is a testament to the power of representation, resilience, and giving back — values that have shaped both his life and legal career.
A Foundation Built on Community
Raised in Hawaii as a first-generation Filipino American in a large family, Simpliciano’s early experiences instilled in him a deep sense of community and a desire to serve. “That shaped me, whether it was the Filipino community or the LGBTQ+ community. It made me find my passion in law,” he reflected. Simpliciano’s path into the legal profession was also influenced by the absence of attorneys in his early life, fueling his ambition to “join the table and be a part of it” for future generations.
Leadership and Service Across Communities
Simpliciano’s dedication is evident in his extensive involvement with diversity bar organizations and local nonprofits. He currently serves as co-president of the Tom Homann LGBTQ+ Law Association, where he has championed mentorship for law students and expanded scholarship initiatives. As a director for the Filipino American Lawyers of San Diego, he played a pivotal role in organizing fundraising events to provide scholarships for underrepresented law students. His commitment extends further through his leadership in the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s “Light The Night” walk, where he leads a fundraising team supporting cancer research. In recognition of his many contributions, Simpliciano received the “Rising Star Award” from California Western School of Law in September 2024.
A Tribute To His Father’s Legacy
A pivotal moment in Simpliciano’s early career was the loss of his father during his first year as an attorney. “That genuinely taught me more about life, relationships, and how you want to be known. The reputation you want to carry — not just in the community, but in the legal world. I looked up to him for the person he was and the relationships he made,” Simpliciano shared. His father’s example continues to inspire his commitment to service and relationship-building within the legal profession.
A Full-Circle Moment
Receiving the Service by a New Lawyer Award holds deep personal significance for Simpliciano. “It makes me feel like I am a part of this community — and now a part of the table. Growing up, I didn’t know any attorneys or see leaders who looked like me. This is a full-circle moment. It’s inspiring to know that I can now be a role model for students and others considering law. I want them to know that nothing can stop you from reaching your goals-whether in law or elsewhere,” he said.
Advice for the Next Generation
Simpliciano’s advice to new lawyers is rooted in humility, gratitude, and perseverance. “This profession can be rough. The ups and downs come in waves. When I feel that way, I always try to remember my ‘why’ — my purpose, whether it’s giving back to the community or helping individuals. I try to stay grateful for where I’m at,” he explained. For those facing obstacles like failing the bar exam, Simpliciano offers encouragement from his own experience: “Never give up. Stay persistent. If this is something you are truly passionate about, you will find a way to pass. Our greatest defeat isn’t the moment we fall — it’s when we fail to rise again.”
Looking Ahead
As he looks to the future, Simpliciano remains focused on personal and professional growth. “It’s about continuing to develop and seeing how much more I can do in and outside of the legal community. I don’t have one specific goal — I just try to challenge myself every day,” he shared. He hopes his legacy will be one of connection, mutual respect, and building long-lasting relationships across the legal community.
Derek Dente is a graduate of Thomas Jefferson School of Law studying to take the next California bar exam and has set his sights on practicing tax law.