Making a Difference: NLD News and Award Nominations - BAR BULLETIN

Bar Bulletin


Posted on: Jan 1, 2025

Making a Difference: NLD News and Award Nominations

By Heather Maloney

Did you know? Each year the New Lawyer Division (NLD) accepts nominations from the legal community for the New Lawyer of the Year award. Do you know a new lawyer who has been practicing for less than 10 years whose contributions to the legal profession are exemplary? Do you know a new lawyer who goes above and beyond in their practice? If so, consider nominating them today to recognize their exceptional mentorship of new attorneys! Nominations can be submitted online via the KCBA website in the New Lawyers Division section or using the handy QR code located here.

Happenings: November and December were busy months for the New Lawyers Division. On November 12th the NLD hosted a social event at the Fox in a Box Escape room. At the event, participants were divided into teams and worked together to solve puzzles leading to their escape. On December 5th, the NLD hosted a CLE with presenter Judge Paul Crisalli. Judge Crisalli provided a wealth of information absolutely necessary to a new litigator—from how the King County Superior Court is organized, to what you can expect in a courtroom, to what the judges expect from lawyers. He also answered questions from attendees on hot topics like the effect of AI on the courtroom. On the same date, the NLD hosted Toys, Tacos and Trivia in conjunction with our fundraiser for Mary’s Place. Over $600 was raised through the NLD website. Others purchased toys and donated them directly to Mary’s Place. 15 people attended the event and were divided into 3 teams for a trivia challenge spanning pop culture and Mary’s Place facts! Fun was had by all!

Coming Up: Looking ahead the NLD will be hosting a “Transition from Law School to Practice” law school luncheon on January 22nd at the University of Washington Law School. Here, lunch will be provided while students submit questions and listen to a panel of new lawyers provide insights, tips and tricks for students interested in learning more about this transition. A similar event is in the planning stages for the Seattle University School of Law closer to the Spring. Additionally, the NLD will host the ever popular virtual Speed Networking event in February. Consider attending virtually to meet both new and experienced attorneys looking to meet others and extend their networks! Look for information to sign up for Speed Networking on the KCBA website and/or in your inbox.

Finally, plans are underway for our biggest event of the year, the Spring Soiree. This event is open to all NLD members and is a great opportunity to gather and socialize with both new and experienced attorneys as well as to honor the candidates for the Mentor of the Year award and watch the award presentation. Mark your calendars and plan to join NLD events to mix, mingle and get involved in the NLD community!

Heather Maloney is a member of the NLD Board of Trustees and an Associate Attorney at the Dellino Family Law Group. If you have questions about NLD activities, Heather can be reached at hmaloney@dellinolaw.com.