Have you ever wondered why entrance to our profession takes the path it does? The historical context for the current licensing system is largely traceable back 101 years to the 1921 Report of the Special Committee to the Section of Legal Education and Admissions to the Bar of the American Bar Association chaired by Elihu Root. That was a time when there was only a single transcontinental telephone line, most Americans were still getting their first phone, Route 66 was just being planned, and the primary form of mass transportation was via train or ocean liner. As such, legal problems and customs were naturally more colloquial, and the rules, consequently, presumed that a lawyer would practice law only in and about one state. Accordingly, there was likely little discussion about uniformity in standards or reciprocity in admissions. Read More

Whether working on a case with a client or as part of volunteer service, I spend a lot of time in meetings. I love when meetings go smoothly. There is consensus regarding what priorities should be and the solutions we should employ to achieve our objectives. No feelings are hurt; the organization moves in the direction that everybody wants. The discussion goes quickly. And I get home sooner to see my wife and kids. Read More

Tomorrow, our directors will meet to select two people to be appointed to fill vacancies on our board. It really is a wonderful opportunity. Each fall, our membership does a fantastic job of selecting outstanding lawyers to join our ranks. I have had the privilege of being able to work alongside existing friends and to meet several new people. Each has been extraordinary. But there is one challenge in that task. When a third of the board is being replaced and there is a fairly large field of candidates to choose from, there is sometimes difficulty in figuring out what the overall composition of the board will be. Read More

At the San Diego County Bar Association’s judicial reception last week, I enjoyed the opportunity to talk with a lot of my favorite colleagues in our legal community, as well as to meet some new faces. Some who particularly impressed me were several first-year law students. They not only attended the event, but also significantly engaged with other guests. When I was a law student, that gregarious approach with members of the bar was not in my nature. Maybe, back then, I felt it was too hard to find common ground, or maybe I just did not then realize the importance of it. But the concept of this being a profession that is most effectively practiced by those with strong, established relationships is one that has been reinforced seemingly every day of my career. Read More

In a few days, we will celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. The holiday can trigger several potential topics that are relevant to our profession. Those could conceivably include different historical views about whether a governmental entity’s celebration of such a holiday involves an inappropriate co-mingling of church and state. Or we could consider the impact that an activity often associated with the day — alcohol consumption — has had on our profession, something that ironically yields some sobering thoughts. But, for me, it also serves as a reminder to celebrate the American immigration story. Read More