July 2025

Here-Say

July 2025

Membership News | Classified Ads | Articles | Important Announcements | Featured Events

A Message from the Associate Executive Director: Stay Connected, Stay Involved

Discover how to make the most of your SMCBA membership in this midyear message from Associate Executive Director, Alma Robles. Explore new ways to connect, grow, and contribute—through sections, committees, MCLEs, or the Preferred Annual Supporters program.

Membership News

Honoring Dennis Zell: SMCBA Member of the Quarter

The San Mateo County Bar Association is proud to recognize Dennis Zell as our Member of the Quarter. With over 25 years of civil litigation experience, Dennis is a respected leader in the legal community, known for his appellate expertise, dedication to mentorship, and outstanding public service. As Chair of the Appellate Practice Group at Hoge Fenton and a longtime contributor to SMCBA programs, Dennis exemplifies professional excellence and a deep commitment to community impact.

Juneteenth Celebration Brings Together Community and Colleagues

Our Juneteenth celebration on June 18 brought together over 90 attendees for a powerful afternoon of connection, reflection, and community. Read on to see how our office honored this important day and the values it represents.

Lead. Connect. Inspire. Join the 2026 SMCBA Board of Directors

Ready to grow your leadership and make an impact? Apply now for the SMCBA 2026 Board of Directors and help shape the future of our legal community - applications are due by July 15, 2025.

Membership Benefit of the Month: Summer Fun with Tickets at Work

Looking for a fun and affordable summer getaway? Check out this month’s featured member benefit, Tickets at Work, offering exclusive discounts on top attractions like SeaWorld, Busch Gardens, and Knott’s Berry Farm for you and your staff.

Classified Ads

Unlock The Ideal Office Space For Your Legal Practice!

Looking for a prime office space in Downtown Redwood City? 333 Bradford Street—located in the same building as the San Mateo County Bar Association—offers a newly renovated, ±2,525 SF suite with high-speed fiber internet, free conference room access, and included parking, just two blocks from Caltrain—perfect for law firms and legal professionals seeking a prestigious, well-connected workspace.

Articles

Legal Workflow Automation: Freeing Time for High-Value Tasks

Discover how to make the most of your SMCBA membership in this midyear message from Associate Executive Director Alma Robles. Explore new ways to connect, grow, and contribute—through sections, committees, MCLEs, or the Preferred Annual Supporters program.

Improving Client Experience: Service Strategies That Drive Referrals

Looking to grow your legal practice without ramping up your marketing budget? This article explores how enhancing the client experience, from clear communication to thoughtful follow-up, can turn satisfied clients into your most powerful referral source.

Digital Detox for Attorneys: Reclaiming Your Time Off

Feeling tethered to your inbox even on days off? This article offers ideas to help attorneys set practical tech boundaries and embrace small digital detoxes to reduce burnout, improve focus, and truly reclaim their time off.

Important Announcements

San Mateo County Court Alerts Residents to Rising “Jury Duty” Scam

Scammers are impersonating court officials to target San Mateo County residents with fake jury duty violations and threats of arrest. Learn how to spot these scams and protect yourself and your community from fraudulent demands.

Help Us Help You: Member Surveys Now Open

We want to hear from you! Your feedback in our upcoming member surveys will help shape the resources, programs, and support we offer. Keep an eye on your inbox and let us know what matters most to you.

SMCBA Closed on July 4 in Observance of Independence Day

The San Mateo County Bar Association will be closed on Friday, July 4, in observance of Independence Day. We wish all our members a safe and enjoyable holiday!

New Court Reporter Internship Program Launched

The San Mateo County Superior Court has launched a new paid Court Reporter Internship Program, offering hands-on courtroom experience to aspiring court reporters. This eight-week opportunity allows participants to shadow professionals across various case types while developing real-world transcription skills.

Call for Nominations: The Les Williams Diversity Award

Nominations are now open for the 2025 Les Williams Diversity Award until September 13, 2025, honoring individuals or organizations that champion diversity and inclusion in San Mateo County’s legal community. Help us recognize those who embody the legacy of Les Williams - submit your nomination today!

Calling Volunteers: Join the Probate Division as a Judge Pro Tem

The Probate Division of the San Mateo Superior Court is urgently seeking volunteer judges pro tem to assist with mandatory settlement conferences. Minimal training is required, and participants will have the chance to shadow the Hon. Susan L. Greenberg.

Featured Events

Celebrating Women Trailblazers in the California Courts of Appeal

Join us on July 29 for an inspiring evening honoring seven groundbreaking women in California’s Courts of Appeal. This event is approved for 1.0 hour of Elimination of Bias MCLE credit - don’t miss this powerful celebration of leadership and equity.

Earn Your Mediator Certificate This Fall—Five Saturdays of Live, Interactive Training

Looking to expand your conflict resolution skills this fall? Don’t miss this immersive, five-week Mediator Certificate Training—an interactive, highly regarded program designed to equip legal and business professionals with real-world mediation tools and techniques.

Digital Contents