Why joining a CAALA committee matters

Strengthening advocacy, community, and the future of consumer justice

2026 February

The true engine of CAALA is its committees: the place where ideas become action, where members shape the direction of the organization, and where leadership is cultivated. Joining a CAALA committee is more than a professional opportunity; it is a commitment to strengthening the civil justice system, uplifting the plaintiff’s bar, and ensuring that the voices of injured consumers are heard.

Below is an overview of CAALA’s major committees, what they do, and the goals they have advanced for the organization and the broader legal community. Visit www.caala.org under About > Committees to join.

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Committee (DEI)

The DEI Committee promotes diversity within CAALA and the legal profession, ensuring the organization reflects the communities it serves. It supports events and initiatives that advance inclusion and builds alliances with minority bar associations. The DEI Committee hosts programs that highlight diverse leaders and issues, strengthens partnerships with minority and affinity bar associations, and advocates for inclusive practices within CAALA.

Education Committee

The Education Committee develops CAALA’s MCLE programs, excluding major conferences like CAALA Vegas. It meets regularly to create innovative, high‑quality educational content for members. The Education Committee designs MCLE programs and webinars, identifies emerging legal issues and training needs, and ensures members receive top‑tier continuing education.

Judicial Pipeline Committee

The Judicial Pipeline Committee works to empower CAALA members to apply for the state and federal bench. Its mission is rooted in the belief that equality on the bench is essential to justice. The Judicial Pipeline Committee educates members about the judicial application process, provides resources and mentorship for prospective judges, and encourages attorneys from diverse backgrounds to pursue judgeships.

Legal Support Staff Committee

This committee focuses on programs and benefits for CAALA’s legal support staff members. The Legal Support Staff Committee develops training and resources for paralegals and staff, strengthens the professional community for support personnel, and ensures staff have access to CAALA benefits.

Membership Committee

The Membership Committee drives recruitment, engagement, and retention. It advises on member benefits and develops initiatives that support the plaintiff attorney community. The Membership Committee welcomes new members and fosters engagement, identifies members’ needs, and proposes new benefits, and strengthens CAALA’s community and culture. 

New Lawyers Committee

The New Lawyers Committee supports the next generation of trial lawyers through education, mentorship, and networking opportunities. The committee organizes skills‑focused programs for lawyers in their first ten years of practice, hosts workshops on depositions, motion practice, trial skills, and case strategy, and provides “nuts‑and‑bolts” trainings tailored to new practitioners navigating California civil litigation.

Political & Legislative Committee

The Political & Legislative Affairs Committee leads CAALA’s advocacy efforts in Sacramento and beyond. The committee monitors legislation affecting consumer rights, public safety, and access to justice; collaborates with the Consumer Attorneys of California (CAOC) and allied organizations; and mobilizes members to take action when critical bills arise. Its work includes analyzing proposed legislation, coordinating grassroots outreach, and educating members about the legal and political landscape.

Vegas Committee

The Vegas Committee plays a significant role in shaping CAALA’s signature annual convention in Las Vegas, ensuring high‑quality programming and an exceptional member experience. The committee’s work spans months of planning and coordination, ensuring the convention delivers exceptional education, meaningful networking, and a memorable experience for thousands of attendees.

Wellness Committee

The Wellness Committee promotes resources and initiatives that support members’ mental, physical, and emotional well‑being. The committee develops programs that address stress management, burnout prevention, and emotional resilience; hosts workshops and discussions on mindfulness, work‑life integration, and coping strategies for high‑pressure litigation environments; shares resources that normalize seeking support and encourages members to prioritize their mental health; promotes healthy routines that support stamina and long‑term well‑being for trial lawyers; and creates opportunities for members to connect in supportive, non‑litigation settings.

Women in Law Committee

The Women in Law Committee fosters community among women trial lawyers and creates programming that elevates leadership and professional growth. The committee hosts networking events and small‑group gatherings that foster connection and support; facilitates mentorship opportunities between seasoned trial lawyers and women early in their careers; builds a strong, inclusive community where women can share experiences, challenges, and strategies for success; and develops programming focused on trial skills, practice development, and career advancement for women.