D.C. Bar

Join the D.C. Bar Lawyer Assistance Program and Virginia Judges and Lawyers Assistance Program on March 25 to learn how to start conversations with colleagues about their mental health, build trust, and offer support for a healthier, more resilient legal community. https://bit.ly/4ktUZgI

Join the D.C. Bar Corporate, Finance, and Securities Law Community for a critical discussion on defending diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility efforts. Experts will explore challenges and strategies to advance #DEIA in the face of opposition. https://bit.ly/3Xuehsy

On the latest episode of Let's Brief It, Vesna Harasic, a distinguished partner at Wiley, discusses the importance of gender diversity in the legal profession. With a wealth of experience and a passion for inclusivity, Vesna shares her journey to leadership, discusses the hurdles women face in law, and offers actionable insights on how the legal community can evolve to be more diverse and equitable. Listen now. https://bit.ly/3Zil5dW

Moot Court Reflections: A Humbling and Inspiring Experience (emphasis on humbling!) As President of the D.C. Bar, I had the incredible honor of serving as one of the final judges for this year’s D.C. Cup Moot Court Competition—a premier event showcasing some of the brightest law students in the District. And let me tell you… it reminded me exactly why I am NOT a litigator! 😅 I sat alongside Senior Judge Phyllis Thompson of the D.C. Court of Appeals and D.C. Solicitor General Caroline Van Zile, two brilliant legal minds. Together, we had the nearly impossible task of deciding a winner in a well-argued case involving an expensive engagement ring dispute—an issue with no direct precedent in D.C. At the time, we weren’t allowed to know where the litigants studied (to prevent bias), but I later learned it was The Catholic University of America, Columbus School of Law vs. The George Washington University Law School. Catholic edged out GW in a razor-thin decision, but both teams were exceptional. Their command of case law, legal reasoning, and quick thinking under pressure was beyond impressive. What I Learned: *I am absolutely no match for these students in a courtroom. Their ability to cite case law from across the country and respond on their feet was a masterclass in advocacy. *I have a new respect for the complexity and demands of being a judge. The preparation required for each case, along with the ability to rapidly process complex information and arguments and question those arguments, is incredible. *D.C. is home to some of the best law schools in the country, and this competition showcased just how bright the future of the legal profession is. *Serving as a judge in this competition is far different than my day job at the National Association of State Treasurers—but also a rewarding reminder of why we, as attorneys, do what we do. *It reminded me of how important associations are in serving their current members and helping to develop a pipeline of new members. Here’s a photo of me pretending to be a real judge for an evening. Congratulations to all the students who participated at every level! Your dedication, professionalism, and advocacy skills were inspiring. Thank you to the D.C. Bar, the amazing judging panel, and the teams from Catholic and GW for making this an unforgettable experience. https://lnkd.in/e8diufzZ #DCCup #MootCourt #LawStudents #FutureOfTheBar #DCLaw

⚖️ Thank you to the D.C. Bar's Washington Lawyer magazine for publishing my personal take on #loneliness in the #legal profession. For their "Newly Minted" column, spotlighting advice from one junior #lawyer to another, I focus on cultivating #wellbeing amidst the pressures of isolation, competition, and long hours in our work. I hope my reflections can help others struggling with loneliness and hoping to build professional community and support. Toward that end, I invite you to connect with me here on LinkedIn if I can support you!

FREE FOR MEMBERS: Small law firm partnerships can be like marriages—full of promise but complex in practice. Join us on March 27 to get insights on key considerations, potential pitfalls, and how to set the right foundation. https://bit.ly/3XmAEjA

Join the D.C. Bar's exclusive journey to Ireland from October 16-22, 2025. Explore Dublin and Belfast with colleagues and friends with exceptional programming and expert-led tours. Register now to secure your spot. https://bit.ly/4ir7eZq

Join us April 25, 2025, at the biennial Judicial & Bar Conference. The D.C. Bar has joined with the Courts to host the Judicial & Bar Conference, a gathering of judges, legal leaders, and professionals focused on addressing the challenges and opportunities shaping the legal profession. Secure your spot today and join the leaders shaping the next chapter of law and justice. https://lnkd.in/eVw3-EeG #JBC2025

FREE FOR MEMEBERS: Join us as Dave Ross, litigation partner at Garris Horn LLP, weighs in on key considerations, potential pitfalls, and best practices for small firm partnerships. https://bit.ly/3XmAEjA #DCLawFirms #SmallLawFirms

MEMBERS: Join us on March 10 for a free workshop highlighting law firm client transactions, bank accounts, and expenses. Build and enhance your expertise in fee agreements with the help of our award-winning Practice Management Advisors. https://bit.ly/43eqbtW #DCLawFirms #SoloLawPractice #LegalFees