Message From the Chair
– Anna McKim
You’re going to be seeing a lot about 1974 in the coming months. Certainly, 1974 was noteworthy for events like the resignation of President Nixon, the Rumble in the Jungle, and the premier of Happy Days. Add to that list the first ever Advanced Family Law seminar. That’s right- AFL is celebrating 50 years, and we’re going to give this momentous occasion the celebration it deserves. You won’t want to miss it!
We are also starting a brand-new bar year, and your Family Law Section is already making the absolute most of it. I am honored to have the opportunity to serve as Chair, but I am especially thankful because it gives me a front-row seat to all the amazing efforts of Section volunteers. The executive team had our planning meeting in May, and the committees are off and running on new and existing projects.
Section Report
After decades of service, Georganna Simpson has edited her final Section Report. Her countless hours, perfectionist effort, and tenacity in procuring timely content have contributed to and improved all our practices through the years. After 20 years, Jimmy Verner is also concluding his “Family Law From Around the Nation” column. We are incredibly grateful for their contributions! We’re also grateful to Patrick Wright and Beth Johnson for being brave enough to follow in Georganna’s footsteps to become the next editors of this Report.
Leadership Class
Even with a short window between the announcement of this new program and the application period, 37 attorneys applied for the 8 available spaces for the first ever Family Law Section Leadership Class! The council and planning committee are thrilled that our members are as excited about this new opportunity as we are. Congratulations to those selected!
Updated Publications and Website
The Section has two updated publications available. Thanks to Charla Bradshaw for her work on the new downloadable 2024 edition of Fast Guide to Family Law- Checklist for Everyday Practice and to Heather King and her team for the new downloadable edition of the Predicates Manual 6.0. These publications can be found in the SHOP on our website.
And while you’re there, you’ll find contact information for Executive Officers and Council Members, easy links for CLE opportunities, and other timely Section news.
Family Law Essential Seminars
The Pro Bono Committee, chaired for the past year by Kevin Segler and Mary Evelyn McNamara, planned the Family Law Essentials seminars. This spring, these were held in and chaired by the following: Abilene (Kim Watson and Danny Webb), Gainsville (Sarah Darnell and Christina Hollwarth), Conroe (Kevin Segler and Adam Dietrich), San Marcos (Mary Evelyn McNamara and Aaron Reimer), Victoria (Amy Rod and Rocky Pilgrim), and Wichita Falls (Laura Fidelie and Lauren Melhart). Many thanks to the volunteers who prepared and presented the programs. Next spring, even if you don’t live in a rural community, you can get involved by volunteering to speak. Or, find a seminar near you and receive free CLE by agreeing to take a couple of pro bono cases from the local Legal Aid sponsors. These seminars have become an incredible tradition of the Section, and planning for next year will begin soon.
CLE Save the Dates
State Bar Annual Meeting: Family Law 2024
Hilton Anatole, Dallas * June 21, 2024
Course Directors: Emily Miller and Ryan Bauerle
Emily and Ryan have prepared a great course for anyone attending Annual Meeting.
Advanced Family Law
Marriott Rivercenter, San Antonio * August 5-8, 2024
Course Directors: Kevin Segler and Sallee Smyth
101 Course – August 4, 2024; Course Director: Sara Darnell
Advanced is always an amazing and jam-packed week, but the 50th
anniversary… Legendary.
New Frontiers
Hilton Asheville Biltmore Park * October 17-18, 2024
Course Director: Kim Naylor
This Lubbock girl is all about finding some fall trees. Add incredible legal scholars, food,
art, and hiking in a premier October destination?? Yes, please.
Family Law Advanced Trial
Omni Royal Orleans, New Orleans * December 12-14, 2024
Course Director: Kelly Fritsch
This course is known to sell out, so tell your friends, reserve your spot, and
laissez les bons temps rouler.
Mark your calendars, find a place to get involved, and let’s have an amazing year!
Anna McKim
Chair, Family Law Section