AAML President’s Message – March 2025

Spring has sprung, March has gone mad and clocks have jumped (except in Tucson)! Thanks for reading the March newsletter and staying connected!

I hope all who attended the Midyear Meeting at the JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort & Spa in Costa Rica have jumped into investing in the practice! Fellows praised the dynamic CLE sessions (produced by an excellent committee led by Elisha Roy) that challenged us to dive into practice management and invest in our clients, our people and ourselves.

The House of Governors strategically discussed AAML educational programming and demonstrated a willingness engage in a new way of governing. The Admissions Task Force, led by Tom Sasser, unveiled their in advancing a more streamlined, efficient admissions framework. (The taskforce will be hosting a town hall on April 14, for Chapter Leaders to share their insights — more information below.)

The meeting event also provided meaningful opportunities for networking and relaxation, all set in a Pura Vida time zone. I have so much appreciation to all who attended, because everyone present contributed to the success of the meeting.

Now that Spring is officially here, have you sprung to action? I have been reflecting on current events affecting our profession, clients and the community at large. On March 3, the American Bar Association (ABA) issued a powerful call to action, urging lawyers to stand united in defense of the rule of law, to reject efforts that undermine our profession, and to stand up to actions that “tip the scales of justice” to deny access to others. As family law practitioners, we have a duty to uphold legal principles and protect the integrity of the system — even when it requires courage. The ABA call to action aligns with our Bounds of Advocacy, recognizing that our words and actions have a lasting effect on our client’s perception of justice. We must be free to represent our clients without fear of retribution. We must remain obligated to advocate for the laws that help families. I hope we all embrace the challenge to stand up — through advocacy, education and pro bono work (view Your Foundations at Work below)!

Now that March is almost in the rear-view mirror, it is time to sign up for spring and summer AAML programs. I look forward to seeing you at the National Family Law Conference in Dallas from May 15-17. Early bird registration ends Monday, April 7 and a 10% discount is available if a Fellow brings a (non-Fellow) buddy. This year we are offering a special pre-conference session demystifying the national exam and application process. The National Family Law Conference is an AAML signature program in its infancy, and its success is dependent on Fellows getting the word out in their communities and then showing up to network and elevate the practice.

Following NFLC, June brings back the Institute for Family Law Associates — you can find out more about these programs on the website!
In sum: Enjoy the longer days, stand up and do some pro bono work, either sign up or send an associate to the National Family Law Conference — and Go Cats!