July 2026

Here-Say

July 2026

Membership News | Articles | Important Announcements | Featured Events

A Letter from the Executive Director: Reflecting on Our First Six Months

In this issue's letter, Executive Director Alma Robles reflects on a productive first six months - modernized member services, new social and MCLE programs, and deeper ties across San Mateo County's legal community - and looks ahead to the rest of 2026.

Membership News

Apply Now: The 2026 Nancy de Ita Scholarship

Applications are now open for the 2026 Nancy de Ita Scholarship - SMCBA's investment in the next generation of attorneys committed to a more inclusive legal community. Apply by July 3, share with a student who should know about it, or contribute to the fund to keep this opportunity growing.

Your SMCBA Membership Comes With Summer Savings

Your SMCBA membership includes TicketsatWork - a free marketplace of discounts on travel, attractions, and everyday purchases. Register with code SMCBAR18, claim your welcome gift, and make the most of summer savings.

Law Students, This One's for You: Scholarships, Internships, and a Night With the Judges

Three summer opportunities for law students: the Nancy de Ita Scholarship (apply this month), internship openings with the San Mateo County Private Defender Program and District Attorney's offices, and a chance to meet the bench in person at Judges' Night on August 27.

Be on the Lookout: A New Series for the Business Side of Your Practice

This fall, SMCBA is launching a new multi-session series on the business side of running a practice - from hiring and financials to operations and succession planning. Dates and registration coming soon!

Articles

Tech Budgeting for Small Firms: Planning for 2027

Setting your firm's 2027 tech budget starts with one honest audit. Here's how to decide what to invest in, what to phase out, and how to build a plan that reflects your priorities.

Handling the Unexpected: Business Continuity Planning for Law Firms

Illness, emergencies, and unexpected absences hit small firms hardest. A simple business continuity plan - mapping your single points of failure, documenting access, and arranging coverage - keeps your practice running when you can't be there.

Financial Clarity as Wellness: Personal Budgeting for Lawyers

Financial stress is a quiet wellness issue for many attorneys. Trading dread for clarity through a short, regular money check-in and one focused goal can ease the anxiety that follows you home.

DEI Sidebar - Access for All: Marking the ADA This July

The Americans with Disabilities Act, signed July 26, 1990, transformed access to employment, public spaces, and the courts. A look back at the movement behind it, the changes it brought, and what its promise means for access to justice today.

Important Announcements

A Professional Home Base - Right Across from the Courthouse

SMCBA is offering private offices for lease at 333 Bradford Street, across from the Superior Courthouse in downtown Redwood City. With six private offices, shared reception and kitchen, on-site storage, and 24/7 access, it's an ideal professional home base for solo practitioners and firms needing prep, meeting, and work space just steps from court.

Featured Events

Escape to Paradise: Judges' Night 2026

Judges' Night 2026 - "Escape to Paradise!" - lands August 27, 5–8 PM at Pinstripes San Mateo. Connect with the bench outside the courtroom, support your bar association, and enjoy a night built for our legal community. Tickets and sponsorships are open now.

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