September 2025

Here-Say

September 2025

Letter from the Associate Executive Director

As 2025 winds down, Associate Executive Director Alma Robles shares reflections on the year and calls on our legal community to reimagine what it means to give back. From mentorship to innovation, this is a message you won’t want to miss - read Alma’s full letter to see what’s ahead for 2026.

Membership News

Barristers Member of the Quarter: Alison Youssef

We’re thrilled to honor Alison Youssef as our Barristers Member of the Quarter—a compassionate and skilled attorney whose global perspective and client-centered approach make a lasting impact. Her dedication to estate planning and community service exemplifies the heart of our profession.

Get Involved: Spotlight on Three SMCBA Committees Making an Impact

Looking to make a deeper impact in the San Mateo County legal community? This article spotlights three Bar Association committees - Community Affairs, Budget & Finance, and the Committee for Professional Equality - and shares ways to get involved. Our committees are designed to help you grow, give back, and shape the future of the profession.

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Contract Attorney Available for Legal Research/Writing

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Articles

Client Portals and Online Intake: Improving Client Communication

Is your firm still relying on email chains and paper forms? Discover how client portals and online intake tools can streamline communication, reduce client stress, and free up your team’s time - all while making your firm look more modern and professional.

Building a Sustainable Law Firm Culture: Managing Burnout and Retention

Burnout and turnover don’t have to be the norm in law firm life. This article explores practical, high-impact ways firms can build a healthier, more sustainable culture that supports retention, performance, and long-term success.

Building Resilience: Techniques for Attorneys Facing Constant Pressure

In a profession defined by pressure, building resilience is essential for long-term well-being. This article offers practical strategies like mindset shifts, healthy coping habits, and connection to help attorneys navigate stress with greater clarity, balance, and confidence.

Important Announcements

Help Inspire the Next Generation: Support the 2026 Mock Trial Program

The 2026 San Mateo County Mock Trial Program is just around the corner, and we’re calling on attorneys and judges to help bring this powerful educational experience to life. Whether you volunteer as a scorer or presiding judge, your time and insight can make a lasting impact on the next generation of legal minds.

Featured Events

Continuing the Conversation on CCP §231.7 and Jury Selection (Part 2)

The San Mateo County Bar Association’s Committee on Professional Equality invites you to an engaging and thought-provoking program on Wednesday, September 24 at noon that continues the vital conversation around jury selection reform in California. Whether you’re a seasoned legal professional or just beginning your practice, this is an opportunity to deepen your understanding of a transformative legal development that will impact civil proceedings starting in 2026.