1/1/2025 - Happy New Year! - Here-Say

Message from the Incoming President, Kenneth Linthicum

A new year brings a fresh vision and gratitude from the newly appointed President of the San Mateo County Bar Association. Discover key upcoming events, opportunities for involvement, and a renewed commitment to respect, diversity, and excellence—click through to read his inspiring message.

San Mateo County Superior Court Selects Chad L. Peace As Its New Court Executive Officer

Chad L. Peace, Director of Justice Court Services for Harris County, Texas and Judge of Municipal Courts in Montgomery County, Texas has been selected as the new Court Executive Officer for the San Mateo County Superior Court.

Expanding Access for Limited English Proficient Litigants: Understanding Rule 1.300

Discover how California’s Rule 1.300 ensures that Limited English Proficient (LEP) litigants can fully participate in court-ordered programs and services. Learn about the new resources, including forms, tip sheets, and multilingual materials, designed to foster greater language access and inclusivity in the courts.

Member Benefit of the Month - Tickets at Work

Discover exclusive discounts on top attractions and entertainment through Tickets at Work, a benefit included with your membership. Learn how you can save big on theme parks, vacation destinations, and more!

Legacy Scholarship

Invest in Your Future with the Legacy Scholarship! Don't miss this opportunity and apply today, but before the deadline of Jan. 6, 2025. View the flyer for more information!

Welcome New Board of Directors

We are excited to welcome the 2025 SMCBA Board of Directors, a talented group ready to lead us into a legendary year ahead! Incoming President Kenneth R. Linthicum, Vice President Robert Samuel Cashen, Treasurer Angelica Maria Ayar, and Secretary Irene Y. Fujii will guide our association with vision and dedication. Joining them for 3-year terms are Sherrie S. Friedman, Maria Gabriela Guraiib, and Eric Hove, bringing diverse expertise to the team. Additionally, Incoming Former Barrister President Anderson Lam will offer invaluable experience. We look forward to an exciting and successful year ahead under their leadership!

2025 Membership Renewal & Opportunities

On behalf of the San Mateo County Bar Association (SMCBA), we would like to extend our heartfelt thanks for being a valued member of our community this year. Your support and engagement play a crucial role in making SMCBA the vibrant and dynamic organization it is. As we look ahead to 2025, we hope that you will continue your membership with us!

Dream Big First, Then Set Your Goals: A Guide for Lawyers and Law Firm Owners

Ready to set goals that truly matter in the year ahead? Discover how dreaming big first and then creating a plan to support your vision can take your law firm from just getting by to truly thriving.

Maximizing Profitability Through Optimized Bookkeeping and Financial Processes

Discover how to streamline your law firm’s bookkeeping and financial processes to boost profitability in today’s competitive landscape. Learn how strategic billing, key financial metrics, and automation can help you capture more value from every hour worked.

Make the Most of Your Year: How Law Firms Can Leverage Calendaring for Greater Success

Gain control of your firm’s growth and productivity by mapping out the entire year before the rush sets in. Learn how strategic calendaring can turn your annual goals from distant dreams into everyday reality.

Important 2025 Updates to CA State Bar Agency Billing

Agency Billing updates for the 2025 renewal cycle have been released - find all the details in this article! Please note that the renewal cycle opens on February 1, 2025 and closes on March 30, 2025.

County Extends Gun Relinquishment Task Force, Enhancing Enforcement of Firearm Restrictions

The San Mateo County Board of Supervisors extended funding through November 2026 for a task force that removes firearms from individuals legally prohibited from possessing them, improving enforcement of gun relinquishment orders. This effort, involving the District Attorney’s Office, Superior Court, and local law enforcement, aims to enhance public safety and prevent firearm-related violence.

Mock Trial Invitation

2025 Mock Trial Competition

This competition is only made possible by the contribution of our beloved legal community. Click below to check out the times and dates that help is needed!

Community Law Night Needs You

Community Law Night offers members of the general public the benefit of a free one-on-one legal consultation over the phone. You can volunteer from home! Attorneys Needed in the following areas: CIVIL, FAMILY LAW, PROBATE, & ESTATE PLANNING. To sign up, call the Law Library at (650) 363-4913

San Mateo County’s eService: A Convenient Way to Serve Court Documents Online

Discover how San Mateo County Superior Court's eService platform simplifies the process of serving court documents online, saving you time and effort. Click in now to learn how to securely access and manage case materials with just a few simple steps.

Funky Credit Days XXX

Mark Your Calendars! 11 credits in hard-to-earn areas will be offered, as well as a bonus training with Sarah Allen. MCLE Group 1 (A-G) must report their credits to the State Bar by February 1, 2025, so don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to stay on track! 

Installation of Officers & Annual Meeting

The 2025 Installation of Officers and Barristers & Annual Meeting is a distinguished event celebrating the leadership of the incoming Board of Directors and Barristers' Section Board. This evening will feature the swearing-in of new officers and the presentation of the Memorial Awards, which recognize exceptional contributions to the legal community. Opportunities are available to sponsor the event. Don't miss out, reserve your spot today!

Journey to Holland

The San Mateo County Bar Association is partnering with California Metro Bar Associations to invite you to join our exclusive journey to the marvelous Holland! Your exclusive program features: The Hague including visits to Keukenhof, Kinderdijk and Rotterdam. [Optional 2-night extension in Amsterdam. Costs for CLE Abroad may be tax deductible (please consult your accountant).]

BAWLN Annual Retreat

Women lawyers from all practice areas, from both sides of the aisle, mediators, and judges will converge in Northern California for the weekend. This is a weekend retreat with plenty of opportunity to develop relationships, learn from amazing speakers, and enjoy some leisure time.