SanDiegoBlawg

Tagged: #newattorneys

For the Record

Pending Generative AI Legislation — Proposed Amendment to the State Bar Act and Code of Civil Procedure section 128.7

By Ed McIntyre, Esq.

This topic will not go away: misuse of generative AI producing hallucinated case citations and quotations. As of early February 2026, there have been more than 600 judicial decisions across the United States in which judges have criticized, sanctioned—including some hefty monetary sanctions—and in some instances, referred lawyers to relevant disciplinary authority. California has contributed more than its fair share to that total. Read More

For the Record

SDCBA NLD’s February 2026 For The Record: Message from the Vice Chair

By Robert
Shawhan, Esq.

Hello SDCBA New Lawyer Division,

I know many of you – but for those I have not yet met – my name is Robert Shawhan, and I am the new Vice Chair of the San Diego County Bar Association New Lawyer Division. I am excited to serve another year on the Board and look forward to supporting you through programming, networking opportunities, and other resources that help foster a tighter-knit legal community. Last year, I was proud to help organize many of our events, including the Gulls Hockey Game Watch, the Summer Soiree, the Beach & Bonfire Networking Meetup, and the 4th Annual Naughty & Nice Sweater Holiday Party, where we collected blankets and clothing for people who are homeless through the local agency PATH. Read More

For New Attorneys / For the Record

Ethical Pitfalls of Billing Two Cases Simultaneously: A Cautionary Guide for New Lawyers

Ethical Pitfalls of Billing Two Cases Simultaneously: A Cautionary Guide for New Lawyers

By Stacy Plotkin-Wolff

Imagine you are in court for a Case Management Conference regarding Client A’s case. The court has a busy calendar, and Client A’s case is well into the docket. To stay productive, you open your laptop and start drafting a discovery motion for Client B. After waiting for an hour and a half, Client A’s case is finally called and you spend just a few minutes on the court appearance. When you return to the office, you bill Client A for one and a half hours for a “court appearance” and Client B for one hour of “motion drafting.”  Read More

For New Attorneys / For the Record

Navigating MCLE Requirements for Newly Barred California Attorneys

Navigating MCLE Requirements for Newly Barred California Attorneys

By Stephanie S. Germani, Esq.

As newly admitted attorneys in California, understanding and fulfilling Minimum Continuing Legal Education (MCLE) obligations is critical to maintaining an active license and avoiding disciplinary action. Recent updates to the State Bar’s requirements — including new fees for previously free programs — demand careful attention. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of compliance strategies, free credit opportunities, and recordkeeping protocols to ensure seamless adherence to these evolving professional responsibilities. Read More

For New Attorneys / For the Record

Ask The Mentor

Ask the Mentor

Introducing a new feature in For The Record: “Ask the Mentor” by attorney Lesa Christenson, CFLS. With nearly four decades of legal experience and a reputation for integrity, mentorship, and client advocacy, Attorney Christenson brings her practical wisdom directly to our readers. Each month, she’ll tackle the real questions and challenges faced by new and seasoned lawyers alike, offering candid advice and actionable tips for navigating the complexities of legal practice. Whether you’re stepping into the courtroom for the first time or looking to sharpen your professional skills, Attorney Christenson’s column is designed to support your growth and confidence as a legal professional. We’re excited to welcome her voice and expertise to our newsletter community.

ASK THE MENTOR Read More

For New Attorneys / For the Record

Atticus the Legal Beagle: Your New Friend at the Bar

Atticus the Legal Beagle: Your New Friend at the Bar

Atticus

Hello there, fellow members of the legal pack! My name is Atticus, and I’m wagging my tail with excitement to introduce myself as the first-ever plush mascot the San Diego County Bar Association’s Lawyer Referral and Information Service. I attended my first official event on June 3 at the Swearing-In Ceremony for newly admitted California attorneys, and I couldn’t be more thrilled to be part of this wonderful legal community! Read More