Whether you cheered on your favorite soccer team or barbecued like I did, I hope everyone had a joyful and safe Fourth of July weekend as we commemorated the 250^th anniversary of America’s independence. 

This month, WLALA proudly sponsors the Los Angeles County Unity Bar’s 2^nd Anniversary Celebration taking place on July 17, 2026 at the California Yacht Club in Marina Del Rey, which includes special guest Judicial Appointments Secretary Luis Céspedes and LACUB honoree Honorable Bryant Yang. Tickets are available here.

A hearty congratulations to all recent appointees to the bench including WLALA Past President Jennifer Romano as well as LACBA Past President Sarvenaz Bahar and JABA Past President Gary Tokumori, to name a few. WLALA, a member of the Los Angeles County Unity Bar, is committed to equality, fairness, and ensuring the judiciary reflects the diversity of California and the individuals they serve, while maintaining the integrity of the legal system, judicial independence, and the rule of law. 

We stand behind Honorable Yvette Verastegui, Supervising Judge of the Criminal Division of the Los Angeles Superior Court, against the recent attacks by the Los Angeles District Attorney’s Office on the exercise of judicial discretion afforded to judges by the California Constitution. As Justice Sonia Sotomayor so aptly stated, “We have to ensure that the courts are fearlessly independent, that we understand that our obligation is to protect the rights given to us under the Constitution.”

As lawyers, we have a duty to use our voices to speak up against attacks on any independent branch of government, promote fairness and integrity in the judicial system, and ensure access to justice for all.  On July 29, 2026, WLALA’s Young Lawyers Committee proudly presents, Persuasive Speaking for Women Lawyers: In and Out of the Courtroom. Whether you’re a new lawyer or a seasoned attorney, we invite you to sign up for this program led by John Snow, Director of Legal and Trial Training at the Los Angeles City Attorney’s Office. More information on WLALA’s events can be found here.

Lastly, we hope you’ll save the date for WLALA’s 2026 Installation and Awards Dinner taking place on Friday, September 18, 2026 in Hollywood.  Join us for an enchanting evening as we honor Genie Harrison Law Firm, Women of Signature Resolution, and Catherine Lhamon. Sponsorship opportunities are available now. We hope to see you there.

With Gratitude,
Farah Tabibkhoei
President, Women Lawyers Association of Los Angeles