It is my great honor to step into the position of Chair of the Litigation Section of the California Lawyers Association (CLA) and follow in the footsteps of so many impressive leaders who have paved the way before me. The Litigation Section’s mission is, in part, to promote excellence in all areas affecting dispute resolution and the protection and preservation of the independence of a high-quality judiciary. I would add a commitment to promote and support diversity in the practice of law in California and to build a collaborative culture within the community to create greater access to and opportunities for justice. Of late, we have experienced far too much of the opposite and in fact it seems there is no advanced democracy in the world more divided over important social, racial and gender issues than the United States. As lawyers we have been uniquely trained to think analytically, weigh facts and evidence, rely on the rule of law and to move the needle towards just ends. Keeping our legal skills sharp and our legal communities strong are the greatest contributions we can make to ensuring our rule of law retains its vitality and that the equality and dignity of all persons remains a possibility.

To that end, we embrace the following tenets of the CLA strategic pillars:

Deliver exceptional member experiences that enhance professional capabilities. The Litigation Section is committed to providing top quality professional educational programs presented by some of the best lawyers and judicial officers in the state. Watch for information about the California International Arbitration Week (March 13-17, 2023), Litigation and Appellate Summit (May 4-5, 2023), Pathways to the Bench, and much more outstanding programming in 2023.

Champion diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in the California legal community through training, advocacy, affinity bar partnerships, and education to positively impact the future of the profession. The Litigation Section’s commitment is to promote a diverse and inclusive culture through increased access to educational programs and collaboration with affinity bar associations. We further commit to learn about, celebrate and respect our respective differences, leverage these dynamic set of experiences and points of view to ensure access to opportunities for members of historically excluded and marginalized communities in the California legal profession. We aim to ensure all voices are valued and heard in our profession thus creating a more representative and equitable litigation bar.

Strengthen and unify the CLA Community to create a culture of collaboration and partnership, while respecting the unique strengths and supporting the work of our CLA Sections and other components. This work starts at home and our home is CLA. This year we work to leverage our collective power and vision to ensure that we are the premiere statewide voluntary bar association of choice for California attorneys based in large part on the value, service and commitment to inclusivity that we provide to our members.

The Litigation Section is committed to these ideals and beyond as we step into the new year with a commitment to going further and stronger together with all of you!

Mary McKelvey is a partner and trial attorney at Polsinelli who litigates for national and global clients. She serves as the Immediate Past President of Women Lawyers of Los Angeles.