Spring renewal: May we continue to grow

Stronger together: justice, community, and purpose in full bloom

2025 May

Spring has officially sprung, bringing with it a renewed sense of energy, growth, and forward momentum. Just as the season symbolizes fresh starts and new opportunities, our work at OCTLA is in full bloom.

A highlight of the season was our annual Palm Springs Seminar, which took place on May 2nd and 3rd at the Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa. In partnership with CAOC and CAOIE, this event delivered top-tier legal education in a beautiful setting, while also giving our members the chance to connect, collaborate, and recharge. The energy, engagement, and camaraderie throughout the weekend reaffirmed the strength of our community and our shared commitment to justice.

Bringing hope to children battling cancer

As we returned home inspired and invigorated, we were also reminded of our greater purpose – giving back. This year, OCTLA is proud to support the Jesse Rees Foundation – NEGU (Never Ever Give Up) as our chosen charity. NEGU’s mission to bring hope, joy, and encouragement to children battling cancer has deeply resonated with our members. Founded in memory of Jessie Rees, whose courageous spirit lives on through the foundation’s signature “JoyJars,” NEGU continues to uplift families across the country with compassion and positivity.

We invite everyone – whether you joined us in Palm Springs or not – to support NEGU in any way you can. Together, we can make a powerful difference in the lives of children who need it most.

Advocacy and innovation

April brought a focus on both advocacy and innovation. On April 7th, OCTLA co-hosted a special “Nightcap at the Capitol” mixer at Cafeteria 15L alongside our friends at Capital City Trial Lawyers Association. This lively evening offered a great opportunity to connect with fellow advocates before heading into a day of legislative action. The next day, April 8th, OCTLA members joined trial lawyers from across the state in Sacramento for CAOC’s Justice Day, where we met with legislators to advocate for the rights of injured Californians. It was a powerful reminder that our work doesn’t stop at the courthouse steps – our voices are also essential in shaping policy and protecting access to justice for all.

On April 26th, our MCLE program titled, “The Tech You Need to Practice Law in 2025: From Intake to Trial and How AI is Changing Everything” featured an exceptional panel of speakers: Nicole Lahmani, Esq. of Lahmani Law, Minh Nguyen, Esq. of Nguyen Lawyers, ALC, and Jonathan Shin, Esq. of Shin Law Group. Each speaker brought a unique perspective on how emerging technologies – especially artificial intelligence – are transforming the way we practice law. From improving client intake processes to streamlining litigation and trial preparation, attendees walked away with practical tools and forward-thinking strategies to elevate their practice in today’s rapidly evolving legal landscape.

The Charity Golf Tournament June 6

As we continue to embrace innovation and growth, we’re also looking forward to connecting with our members outside the courtroom. One of our most anticipated social events of the year – OCTLA’s Annual Charity Golf Tournament – will take place on June 6, 2025, at Oak Creek Golf Club in Irvine. This event is always a fantastic opportunity to unwind, network, and enjoy a day on the greens with colleagues and friends. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or just in it for the camaraderie, we encourage everyone to join us for a memorable day.

MCLE events return June 26

While we typically host monthly MCLE events, we will be taking a brief pause in May to accommodate our spring seminar schedule. Our MCLE programming will return on June 26th at The Park Club, where we’ll continue our commitment to delivering timely, practical, and high-quality legal education for our members. We look forward to seeing many of you back in person for another engaging and informative evening.

Top Gun nominees accepted through July 31

Looking ahead, we have a full calendar of events planned for the rest of the year, including engaging MCLE programs, fun and interactive social events, and of course, our signature Top Gun Trial Lawyer of the Year Awards Gala & Silent Auction, taking place on November 22, 2025. Nominations for Top Gun & Young Gun Trial Lawyer of the Year are being accepted through July 31, 2025. This celebrated event not only honors the outstanding trial lawyers in our community, but also serves as a major fundraiser to support NEGU and its inspiring mission. We are proud to use this platform to raise funds and awareness for the children and families NEGU serves, and we hope you will join us in making this year’s Top Gun Gala our most impactful yet.

As we move further into the year, I’m continually inspired by the dedication, generosity, and resilience of our OCTLA community. From professional development to charitable impact, every event and initiative we take on reinforces our shared mission: to protect the rights of those harmed by the wrongdoing of others – and to support one another in that pursuit. Spring may be a season of growth, but the seeds we’re planting now will continue to bear fruit all year long. Thank you for being part of this journey, and for helping OCTLA thrive with purpose, passion, and the belief that we are always Stronger Together.