As I step into the role as Chair of our distinguished Section, I am filled with gratitude and pride. It is an honor to serve such a dedicated and talented group of professionals who tirelessly advocate for families and individuals navigating some of the most challenging times of their lives. I am thankful that the ABA Family Law Section has given me the opportunity to work alongside and collaborate with some of the most dedicated and exceptional family law attorneys in the country.
When I joined the ABA Family Law Section more than two decades ago as a young attorney from a small state, I initially wondered how my legal experiences would resonate outside my jurisdiction. Having now met many of the family law attorneys in our Section who practice in states all across the United States, I am struck by the realization that “we aren’t that different.” Whether we practice in large bustling cities, rural areas, or suburbs, the issues we encounter and the concerns we hold are remarkably similar. We all share a common purpose: to uphold justice and provide compassionate, competent support to those we serve (and, don’t forget, to “never leave money on the table!”). This shared commitment is the cornerstone of our profession and one of the reasons that our Section is so strong. I hope to expand upon this perspective to encourage a collaborative environment where shared knowledge and experiences lead to better outcomes for everyone involved.
During my time as Chair, I will prioritize initiatives that promote community, inclusivity, professional development, and resource sharing. We will work together to ensure that all members have access to the tools, education, and support needed to excel in their practices and better serve the clients in their jurisdictions. By embracing our diverse backgrounds and experiences, we can learn from one another and grow stronger as a community.
A question that I often hear is “Why should I join the ABA Family Law Section?” The answer is simple: We’re here to help! Let me count the ways . . .
As family law attorneys, we grow stronger by uniting and sharing our extensive resources:
Publications. Our Section produces some of the most widely respected books addressing family law issues. The always relevant Family Advocate and the Quarterly are enormously helpful.
Education. Cutting-edge CLE conferences on relevant topics are held at least twice per year, the Trial Advocacy Institute teaches trial skills and how to prepare for litigation, the ABA website has free family law content, and monthly Caselaw Updates provide relevant family law case summaries from around the country. Speaking of conferences, by the time you read this article we will have just had our 2024 Fall CLE Conference in Palm Springs, California. Don’t forget to save the date for our 2025 Spring CLE Conference Sunday, April 6 to Wednesday, April 9, 2025, in the gorgeous and historical Greenbrier Resort in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia.
Collaborative Talents and Experience. The most effective way to network with fellow family law attorneys is by attending conferences, CLE sessions, and social events; participating in dine-arounds; and serving on committees throughout the year. Active involvement in committees or projects facilitates meaningful connections and friendships. Regardless of whether your family law issue is significant or minor, there is always an attorney in the Section who has relevant experience and can be reached for assistance by phone, email, or on the listserv.
Diversity and Inclusion. We promote and encourage diversity with our membership. We recognize the benefits of a diverse group that brings new ideas and perspectives. We want members to feel a sense of belonging in this Section. Our active Diversity Committee and the selection of Fellows are among the many tools used to reinforce our inclusion of all members.
This year, I invite each of you to join me in celebrating and strengthening our community of family law practitioners. Whether country roads or eight-lane highways take you home, we all have the same focus: supporting families and ensuring justice. No matter where we are located or the net worth of our clients, our collective experiences, knowledge, and dedication create a powerful network that supports and uplifts one another. Together, we can bridge the gap between big cities and rural areas, fostering a sense of unity and collaboration that transcends geographical boundaries.
