Trial Lawyers Section Update

By Aimee L. Kumer, Esq., 2022 President, Trial Lawyers Section

On December 1, 2022, the Trial Lawyers’ Section programming for 2022 came to a close with a festive holiday celebration at the Blue Bell Inn. We also used the occasion to honor this year’s Trial Lawyer of the Year, John McMahon. John is a widely-respected criminal defense attorney who never shies away from tough cases and is known for both his skill and collegiality, and is a founder and lead proponent of the Montgomery Bar’s meditation program. His selection as Trial Lawyer of the Year this year – a result of multiple nominations and endorsements – was a tribute to his dedication to his clients and the profession, and his service to this Bar and the wellbeing of its members.

Speaking of wellbeing – earlier in the Fall, John McMahon and Marc Steinberg addressed the Section at our October meeting regarding the benefits of meditation. Although a few members may have attended with the expectation of discussing the benefits of mediation, everyone came away with a greater understanding and experience of meditation and how it can improve their emotional balance, their focus, and their general wellbeing. John and Marc spoke compellingly about the ways in which meditation has enhanced their health and their professional satisfaction, and about their personal practices. They concluded the meeting by leading us all in a meditation, offering us a welcome “reset” for the afternoon.

Unfortunately, the final installment in our “For Trial Lawyers” CLE series had to be postponed to January – but members should register for, and look forward to, an informative presentation on Immigration Law for Trial Lawyers on January 17 at 12pm at the Bar Building.

This scheduling setback notwithstanding, it has been an incredibly rewarding experience to serve as President of the Section this year. I am thankful that many of you lent your talents to informative and enjoyable CLE programming that has, I hope, enhanced your practices. And I am grateful that so many of you came out for our events this year, in our “welcome back” to the Bar, so that we could once again experience the collegiality and vitality for which this Bar is known. I look forward to seeing you all in 2023.