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
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
New Attorney Spotlight: Stella Gerson Champions Inclusion in Law
By Bobbie Medina
When the tools of your profession suddenly change, how do you adapt? For Stella Gerson, staff attorney at the San Diego Volunteer Lawyer Program and vice president of the Tom Homann LGBTQ+ Law Association, it has meant forging a new path in advocacy and leadership.Read More
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
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
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.
Freedom Lit the Room: Reflections from the For The Innocent Gala
By Claudia Salinas
On May 1, 2025, attorneys, advocates, community members, freed clients and their families gathered for the For The Innocent Gala. The event highlighted stories of wrongful conviction survivors, celebrated legal victories, and honored contributors to The Innocence Center’s mission.Read More
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
