Friends, Colleagues, and Veterans,
This Veterans Day, I carved out some time to revisit the history of what was originally Armistice Day and to look through old artifacts from family members who served in the U.S. Navy and Air Force. A day of remembrance does not feel complete without reflecting on those we love who answered the call to serve.
By: Edward J. McIntyre
Lawyers representing clients about to face a jury need to know as much as possible about potential jurors so they can intelligently decide whom to excuse and whom to risk having serve.
By Katie Parker
Associate Clinical Professor, USD School of Law
It’s October, and in our beautiful city that means the pumpkin spice is flowing and the calaveras are glowing. As we celebrate Halloween and Dia De Los Muertos, it is a wonderful opportunity to appreciate the multi-cultural canvas that makes San Diego America’s finest city.
Scripts You Need for Those Difficult Conversations
Legal Life: The Trials, Tribulations, and Triumphs of the Everyday Attorney” is your monthly invitation to laugh, commiserate, and connect with the real stories behind life in the law.
In a recent conversation between San Diego County Superior Court Judge Michael D. Washington and his longtime mentee, Derek Dente, the two reflected on the transformative power of mentorship and how these relationships shape legal careers and personal growth. Their discussion, candid and filled with practical advice, offers unique insight into what it truly means to walk alongside someone on their professional journey. What follows are highlights from their exchange, capturing Judge Washington’s heartfelt philosophy on what real mentorship looks like and why it matters in and beyond the courtroom.
By Alara T. Chilton
This article discusses key ethical considerations for lawyers when using artificial intelligence (AI)[i], particularly generative AI[ii] tools, to respond to discovery. Consider the following conversation between two friends who are solo-practitioners: Miguel, a consumer rights attorney incorporating AI[iii] into his practice, and Maria, a business litigation attorney who has been researching a lawyer’s ethical obligations under the Rules of Professional Conduct and the State Bar Act when using AI.
By Koryn Sheppard
In October, the festive spirit of “trick or treat” fills the neighborhood. Beyond the candy and costumes, this playful phrase offers a reminder to enhance your mental well-being. Before the holiday season sweeps us into its whirlwind of activity, let’s explore some “tricks” for self-care and “treats” for ourselves and others.
By Valerie Silverman Massey
The California Rules of Professional Conduct (Rules) serve as the ethical backbone of legal practice. These Rules establish the minimum standards required to avoid disciplinary action, but they are not synonymous with best practice. The distinction between compliance and excellence is subtle yet critical — especially in a profession where reputation, trust, and client outcomes hinge on more than just rule-following.