Morris Wilson Knepp Jacquette, P.C. is proud to congratulate our partner,
SETH D. WILSON,
as he becomes the President of the Montgomery Bar Association for 2025.
This remarkable achievement is a testament to Seth’s dedication to the legal profession, his commitment to serving others, and his leadership within the Montgomery County legal community. We are excited to watch Seth thrive in this new role and see the continued positive impact that he will bring to the MBA.
From all of us at Morris Wilson Knepp Jacquette, P.C., Congratulations, Seth! We are honored to stand with you and support you as you lead the Montgomery Bar Association.
2025 OFFICERS
Seth Wilson, Esq. – President
Colin O’Boyle, Esq. – President-Elect
Hon. Joseph Walsh – Vice President
Mary Kay Kelm, Esq. – Treasurer
Lauren Hughes, Esq. – Secretary
Lisa Shearman, Esq. – Immediate Past President
SIDEBAR COMMITTEE
Chairs
Gregory Gilston, Esq.
Franqui-Ann J. Raffaele, Esq.
Jules Mermelstein, Esq.
MBA STAFF
Hazel Bergquist, Accounting Manager
Jessica Deazle, Lawyer Referral Service and Front Office Coordinator
Jessica Gambone, Montgomery County Law Reporter Desktop Publisher
Jim Mathias, Director of Marketing, Development, and Public Affairs
Joe Schiele, Facilities
Erica Shalaway, CLE Coordinator
Sherry Sutton, Membership Coordinator
Denise S. Vicario, Esq., Executive Director
Megan Ware, Communications and Event Coordinator
Sandy Whittington, Accounting
The SIDEBAR Committee invites articles and news information of interest. Please send content to: MBA, c/o SIDEBAR Committee, P.O. Box 268, Norristown, PA 19404-0268 or email: sidebar@montgomerybar.org
The SIDEBAR Committee reserves the right to edit any material submitted and/or to omit the same from publication. Most articles are written by members for members.
New Year, New Design, Same Sidebar
INCOMING PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE UPDATES & INSIGHTS
Esq.
Montgomery Bar Association 2025 President
BUSINESS HOURS: Monday thru Friday 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
ADDRESS:
100 West Airy Street
P.O. Box 268
Norristown, PA 19401
PHONE AND FAX:
Phone: 610-279-9660
Fax: 610-279-4321 & 610-279-4846
I am very excited to have the opportunity to lead the Montgomery Bar Association in 2025! There have been so many tremendous leaders in this Association for whom I have the utmost respect. Our Immediate Past President Lisa Shearman certainly fits that bill. I thank Lisa for adeptly serving our organization with diligence, commitment, and class. Lisa will be a very tough act to follow!
The MBA has been an invaluable part of my professional life ever since joining the bar in 2003. In many ways, I feel like I have grown up in the MBA. During my first few events when I was fresh out of law school, I remember feeling out of place. From my ill-fitting suit to my lack of war stories, I wondered how I would ever fit in with a group of lawyers who seemed so connected with one another and light years ahead of me in terms of achievement. Fortunately, I stuck with it and kept coming back to the MBA because my former boss, and now longtime partner Bob Morris, encouraged me to stay involved. I joined committees, wrote articles for this Sidebar became a Young Lawyer officer, and gradually learned how to carry myself as a member of this esteemed organization. Through it all, one of the lessons I learned is that membership in the MBA, like any other worthwhile endeavor, is a function of what you put into it. The time I have put into this Association has not only allowed me to enjoy so many career benefits, but also allowed me to build friendships along the way. Now, more than 20 years later, when I enter a room at one of our events I
hardly feel out of place. I feel a sense of belonging or, as my staff tells me when I am off to another MBA event, my second home.
For 140 years, the MBA has been the professional organization in Montgomery County for lawyers and judges because of the collective efforts of our members in maximizing their involvement in this Association. The practice of law has undoubtedly changed, yet our Association retains the same value for so many of us because the MBA has evolved. During my time as a member of this Bar, our membership has made purposeful, positive changes to be a more inclusive organization. I am proud of these efforts and believe we have constructed an infrastructure that will continue to cultivate diversity and inclusion in our membership and leadership. Of course, we still have work to do and I look forward to continuing that work this year with so many of you. A feeling of belonging is the experience that all of our members should enjoy.
One of the unique aspects of our MBA is the relationship that we enjoy between the bench and bar. To that end, I want to thank the Honorable Gail Weilheimer, who has now ascended to the federal bench, for reaching out to me about a civil rights trip that many members of our bench embarked upon in 2024. Her Honor recommended the trip for our membership and we have jumped into action to schedule the same opportunity for our members this year. The trip will be from June 1st-3rd
MONTGOMERY BAR ASSOCIATION
Seth D. Wilson,
STEVEN D. COSTELLO,
INCOMING PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE continued from page 5
where our group will visit historic landmarks in Atlanta, Montgomery, Selma, and Birmingham. If, by chance, the trip is not sold out by the time you are reading this, please do not miss this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity!
Our close relationship with our bench provides the MBA with excellent growth opportunities for lawyers that participate in the MBA’s Lawyer Referral Service. As a young lawyer the LRS was a great way for me to start to develop my practice. Over the past few years I have had the pleasure of serving as the Chair of the LRS Committee during which time we have instituted changes to improve the referrals we provide to our members. This year we are rolling out a new LRS panel entitled HOPS (Helping Our Pro Ses), where we will pair lawyers with pro se litigants for arbitration matters pending in Montgomery County. With more than 50 pro se arbitrations occurring every month in our Montgomery County Court of Common Pleas, we are confident the HOPS program will provide a benefit to the court, the public and our membership. I thank President Judge Carolyn Carluccio and our court administration department for their support of this new endeavor. Please consider signing up for the HOPS program!
I also want to highlight a few of our fun events that we have scheduled this year. Dressing up in a tuxedo has never been my first choice for a Friday evening. For this year’s annual Dinner Dance we are transitioning to a Spring Fling on May 2nd where we’ll enjoy a garden party at the Morris Arboretum. Our annual event at the Norristown Zoo will be Halloween-themed on October 24th, which is sure to be a hit with our membership’s families. Perhaps the most fun will be our Annual Bench Bar Conference from September 18th-21st at the Sagamore situated on an island on idyllic Lake George. I have already heard from many members who are brimming with excitement as it will be the first time our MBA visits this fantastic location. Stay tuned for registration information and consider lessening the drive by joining us on Thursday night where we will kick the long weekend off with an arrival reception.
I look forward to serving YOU in 2025 as we continue to maximize our membership in this wonderful Association.
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OUTGOING PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE UPDATES & INSIGHTS
Lisa A. Shearman, Esq. Montgomery Bar Association 2024 President
2024 has come to a close, and so has my year as MBA President. It has been a privilege and honor to serve as the 139th President of the Montgomery Bar Association. This year flew by for me, but I thoroughly enjoyed every minute leading this Association. What stands out most to me is the true friendship and camaraderie that exists among our members and how this flows through to the respect they show each other as adversaries. We are also very fortunate to have an amazing relationship with our Bench. Our judges are always willing to share their time and expertise and actively participate in our Bar events and activities. This truly makes practicing law much more enjoyable.
A goal of my presidency was to inspire others to share their talents and to give back to the community. We created a webpage dedicated to pro bono opportunities and other volunteer activities. I was thrilled with the interest and support this initiative received. So many of you rose to the challenge, and I heard how much you enjoyed getting involved. We also presented the first Presidential Volunteer Service Awards, along with the Keystone Pro Bono Award. These awards are a way to thank and honor our members who, by their demonstrated commitment and example, inspire others to engage in volunteer service. The recognition of volunteer service also encourages a sustained commitment to civic participation and inspires others to make service a part of their lives. I thank all those who selflessly gave their time to assist others or to provide for worthy causes. While you may not have the time to devote right now, I hope when the time is right you will “pay it forward.”
The year was marked with a wide array of meetings, events, activities, and CLEs. Thank you to the Committee chairs and Section leaders for the highquality courses that you put together. Many of the CLEs were so full we needed to utilize the library for extra seating. I really appreciated the variety of course offerings, phenomenal faculty, and seeing our historic building abuzz with activity.
There were too many events to list them all, but some of my favorites included: the Ski Trip, our night at Elmwood Park Zoo, the Annual Dinner Dance, Law Day, 50-Year Member Luncheon, Jingle Mingle and of course, the Bench Bar Conference in Annapolis, Maryland.
Thank you to those who traveled to Annapolis, Maryland, this year for the Bench Bar Conference. It was a gorgeous weekend, and I was so happy to meet and spend time with our members, their families, and even some of their furry family members. A big thank you to Admiral Steve Yuseum for organizing the Past President Dinner at the Naval Academy. The highlights of the weekend included our highly decorated speaker, Admiral Nancy Lacore, and having the entire Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium to ourselves for our Saturday Night Crab Feast Dinner.
Of course, none of this would have been possible without the hardworking MBA Staff. They worked tirelessly all year, and I want to personally thank each and every one: Sherry Sutton, Jessica Deazle, Jessica Gambone, Megan Ware, Jim Mathias, Sandy Whittington, Erica Shalaway and Hazel Berquist! I am not forgetting our Executive Director, Denise Vicario, who goes above and
beyond to ensure this Bar Association is the best in the Commonwealth. I am in awe of her ability to remember everything, including the name of every member who walks in the door of our building. I truly think she does not sleep. We are so blessed to have Denise serve as Executive Director. I cannot thank her enough for her guidance, organization, humor, and, most of all, friendship.
I also want to recognize all of the leadership team, particularly, the Executive Committee, Board of Directors, Committee Chairs, and the Section Officers. The MBA Officers – Seth Wilson, Colin O’Boyle, Joseph Walsh, Mary Kay Kelm, and Justin Bayer – provided amazing support and leadership. It was a fun and interesting year serving with each of you. Thank you for all the great input, ideas, assessments, and direction you brought. I truly valued your insight, support, and friendship.
I now move on to the next leg of my journey as Immediate Past President, which I have been told is a very coveted position! I will certainly miss being President, but I leave our Bar Association in the very capable hands of Seth Wilson. He was a huge help this year, and I valued his perspective and approach to the questions and issues we encountered over the year. I am excited for his leadership and his vision as we head into 2025.
THE IMPORTANCE OF MENTORING FOR YOUNG LAWYERS
By Franqui-Ann Raffaele, Esq., Young Lawyers Section Chair
I’ve often heard that it’s always about who you know. Each year, I realize more and more how true that statement really is. As I enter my fifth year of practicing law, I’ve found how important it is to know who your mentors are.
When I was in law school, my school had a voluntary program that paired 2Ls and 3Ls with those newly entering law school. In a way, this program was designed to create a relationship between an older student and a younger student to help guide them through the rigor of this difficult and demanding program. I volunteered as a mentor in my 2L year, and I am still close with my mentee all these years later.
As I look back on my time in law school, I don’t think I truly realized how this type of program would lay out an important lesson that I wish I had known sooner.
For a young attorney, mentoring plays a crucial role in shaping your career. A mentor is someone who provides guidance, support, and practical insights into the field. They are an important resource to help you navigate a world that law school doesn’t teach you.
I can attest to the challenge and overwhelm that the first few years of private practice can bring—and I’m sure this overwhelm is just as palpable for an attorney in the public sector.
One of the greatest benefits of a mentor is the development of your professional skills—be it legal knowledge in a specific area of law, courtroom procedure and conduct, navigating ethics, or handling a difficult client. Mentors can help you manage the stresses and pressures that come with this profession. They can help you become a better lawyer.
Mentoring fosters networking opportunities—I know, I know, networking. Mentors work to build you up,
introducing you to influential individuals and firms. This network can be instrumental in finding job opportunities, building a reputation, and enhancing career growth. Mentors can also provide emotional support, helping you build your confidence and resilience as you face challenges in your career.
What Makes a Good Mentor?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer, but one key trait of a good mentor is someone who has a genuine interest in their mentee’s growth and development. They are willing to invest the time to guide their mentee through the complexities of the law, the problem, or the situation.
An ideal mentor not only provides technical knowledge and practical advice but also serves as a role model for ethical behavior, professionalism, and emotional resilience. They should offer constructive feedback, challenge their mentee to think critically, and help them navigate both the legal landscape and the intricacies of client relationships.
Above all, a good mentor is someone who listens, provides encouragement, and fosters a supportive environment where the mentee feels empowered to ask questions, make mistakes, and grow into a confident, capable attorney.
How to Obtain a Good Mentor
I wish I could offer you a tried-and-true method for finding your mentor. Sometimes it happens naturally, and sometimes a mentorship is established through luck. However, in your search, you must be proactive and strategic.
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You can start your search at your firm, within your professional network, or through your bar association. Identify potential mentors who have expertise in areas you’re interested in and demonstrate a commitment to the profession.
Attend legal events, bar association meetings, or networking gatherings to meet experienced lawyers who could offer guidance. When approaching a potential mentor, be respectful of their time and demonstrate your genuine interest in learning and growing as an attorney. It’s helpful to be clear about what you’re seeking, whether it’s advice on legal practice, career development, or navigating challenges. Building a strong, trusting relationship through consistent communication and mutual respect is key to a successful mentoring partnership.
Mentorship is a two-way street. As much as you hope to learn and grow and be a sponge for knowledge, it requires effort from both the mentor and the mentee to build an effective relationship.
While you search, even if the people you meet don’t end up being your mentor, they may become your colleague, your opposing counsel, your future business partner, or even the person who helps you land your next job. Always be kind, because sometimes it really is all about who you know.
UPDATES & INSIGHTS
THE TRIAL LAWYERS PROBLEM
By Michael J. Lyon, Esq., Trial Lawyers Section Chair
Over the past three years as a Trial Lawyers officer, I’ve often heard some variation of the following: Trial lawyers are a dying breed. The quality of lawyering has gone down. The number of people wanting to try cases has decreased. The skills trial lawyers used to possess in droves aren’t the same. Odds are, you’ve heard something like this too.
I can’t explain all the reasons why this is happening, but one unmistakable trend in Pennsylvania—and across the United States—is that we aren’t trying many cases.
According to the Administrative Office of Pennsylvania Courts (AOPC), in 2023, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania saw a total of 545 civil cases end in jury trials. This represented just 0.36% of all cases processed in Pennsylvania that year. Compare this with 2018, when Pennsylvania saw 749 civil cases end in jury trials.
The situation isn’t much different on the criminal side. In 2023, the AOPC reported a total of 1,548 criminal cases ending in jury trials, representing just 1% of all criminal cases processed. Compare those statistics with 2018, when 1,732 criminal cases ended in jury trials.
The statistics tell an undeniable story. We knew the number of jury trials was already low. Now, the numbers tell us that those figures are only getting smaller. With law school enrollments seemingly down as well, even fewer law students and young lawyers are interested in trial work. As a result, there are fewer opportunities for attorneys to gain trial experience—and fewer attorneys who even want that experience.
The question is: How do we fix it?
There are groups out there trying. In 2023, a group led by Justice Christine Donohue of the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania formed a task force that created “Project LITIGATE.” Standing for Lawyers’ Initiative to Improve Next Gen Attorneys’ Trial Experience, the project is helmed by attorneys across a wide spectrum of groups and
associations dedicated to improving trial and litigation skills.
The group developed the LITIGATE Pledge, which recognizes the increasingly difficult environment for younger attorneys seeking to develop litigation skills. It asks signers to adopt certain practices to promote, enhance, and train the next generation of trial lawyers. Among these practices are:
• Encouraging younger attorneys to participate in oral arguments.
• Having younger attorneys take active roles in the final stages of trial preparation and during trial.
• Requesting trial judges to adopt practices that encourage younger attorneys to take active roles in in-court activities.
Project LITIGATE has gained support across Pennsylvania. The Pennsylvania Conference of State Trial Judges adopted a resolution encouraging law firms to take the LITIGATE Pledge and implement the best practices supported by the project. The Pennsylvania Bar Association, as well as various plaintiffs’, defense, and criminal lawyer associations, have also offered their support for its efforts.
I encourage everyone to visit Project LITIGATE’s website (www.projectlitigate.org) to see the work the project has done. But we can do more.
Our theme for this year in the Trial Lawyers’ Section will focus on the development of trial skills, especially among younger lawyers. It is our section’s goal to ensure that the next generation can succeed in the same way that our experienced MBA lawyers excel in the courtroom.
Our programming for the year will be dedicated to this goal. I encourage all of our members to support this cause and to contribute ideas, panels, information, and content for exciting and engaging CLE panels in 2025.
What is your position at LASP?
I am a Staff Attorney working on Elder Law and Administrative Law matters. I also serve as the Pro Bono Coordinator for LASP in Montgomery County.
What do you enjoy about being the Montgomery County Pro Bono Coordinator?
As the Pro Bono Coordinator, I work with volunteers and coordinate many of our volunteer activities. Working for a legal services organization, we do our best to get good results for clients, so it is always a pleasure to have volunteers help us reach those goals. Completing outreach events is very satisfying because there is usually a great deal of planning that occurs beforehand. When we finally reach the culminating event and see clients receive the legal services they need, the work truly pays off. Working with students is particularly rewarding because it gives an opportunity to mentor and provide practical experience to law students. We have interns and student volunteers who work with us throughout the year, but summers provide more time and opportunity for students to learn.
What pro bono programs at LASP are you most passionate about? Why?
It is hard for me to mention just one program here, as so many of our projects are very impactful. We have individual case referrals for divorces, and those clients are
PRO BONO OPPORTUNITIES An Interview with Legal Aid Attorney Melina Dixon
By Kathryn Palladino, Esq., Pro Bono Committee Co-Chair and Tim Knowles, Esq., Pro Bono Committee Co-Chair
extremely grateful to receive that service. We also have the Eviction Prevention program (EPIC – Eviction Prevention & Intervention Coalition) that provides one-day representation to clients who have been served with evictions in magisterial district court. Housing is a basic need, and the clients who receive this assistance see a direct impact. We cannot solve every problem, but we do our best to help improve situations for clients. Finally, I will mention the Lawyering Together Program that we have in partnership with Villanova University’s Charles Widger School of Law. This program pairs students with a private attorney volunteer to complete a legal assignment. We currently refer expungements and Simple Wills to this program. What is great about this program is that it allows an attorney the opportunity to teach, mentor, and supervise volunteers, which is not always an option for a new attorney.
Are there any areas of law that you anticipate will need increased pro bono involvement in 2025?
Honestly, I anticipate all areas needing increased involvement and support because we have no shortage of clients. I will start with the Eviction Prevention program because landlord-tenant issues are very common; clients call and come to our office very often to address these issues. Whenever we can get attorney support for the EPIC program, we truly appreciate it. I will also mention the Lawyering Together program because not only are attorneys able to
complete a pro bono project, but they will be able to mentor future lawyers. What programs do you envision MBA and LASP collaborating on in 2025?
We have collaborated on Wills Clinics in the past, and these events tend to be successful. Sometimes we want to host a program, but we also want to ensure the experience is valuable for our clients as well as volunteers. Any event we do in the future will depend on our assessment of the urgent needs of our clients as events are proposed. I will mention that we are collaborating with the MBA for the Lawyering Together program, and we look forward to more involvement with that initiative.
What advice do you have for MBA attorneys who would like to get involved in pro bono work but don’t know where to start?
First, thank you to any potential volunteers, and of course, thank you to every previous and current volunteer. If you are considering volunteering, you can check the LASP website for activities that interest you. You can also contact me via email at mdixon@ lasp.org. We typically have individual case referral options and clinic events. Another option for pro bono service that tends to get overlooked is the option to provide training either to potential clients or LASP staff. I would be happy to discuss any of these activities with you further. We are also open to building new projects as long as the project helps to serve the interests of our clients.
UPDATES & INSIGHTS
TECHNOLOGY, ESQ.
Tips and Tricks for AI-Assisted Lawyering
By Gregory Gilston, Esq.
The Montgomery Bar Association is excited to introduce a new feature in the Sidebar magazine: “Technology, Esq.: Tips and Tricks for AI-Assisted Lawyering.” This column will explore how legal professionals can leverage artificial intelligence (AI) tools to enhance their practice, increase efficiency, and improve client outcomes. Each edition will offer practical guidance on using AI-powered technology in various aspects of legal work, from drafting documents to conducting legal research.
For our inaugural article, we will delve into a practical application of AI: using tools like ChatGPT to assist in drafting questions for direct examination. Direct examination is a critical stage of any trial or hearing, where an attorney has the opportunity to present their client’s story through witness testimony. Crafting clear, organized, and persuasive questions can be timeconsuming and detail-oriented. This is where AI can become an invaluable partner.
The effectiveness of AI-generated direct examination questions depends heavily on the quality of the prompt you provide. Think of the AI tool as a junior associate who knows how to format legal questions but needs clear instructions. The more context and detail you supply, the better the output will be.
At this point, you may be asking yourself: What does a detailed prompt look like? It is important to include the following information in your written request to the AI software:
1. Case Overview: Summarize the case’s central issue in a few sentences.
2. Witness Role: Describe the specific role and perspective of the witness.
3. Relevant Facts: Provide key facts and evidence that should be highlighted during the examination.
4. Goals of the Testimony: Clarify what you hope to establish through the witness’s testimony, such as credibility, factual accounts, or emotional impact.
5. Legal Standards or Elements: If applicable, list specific legal elements that need to be addressed to satisfy the burden of proof.
An ideal prompt for facilitating AI assistance may read:
“Assist in drafting direct examination questions for a custody modification hearing. The witness is the children’s therapist, Dr. Smith, whose evaluation supports the mother’s request for sole custody due to the father’s substance abuse and erratic behavior. Key facts include documented instances of the father’s missed visitations, positive drug tests, and the children’s expressed feelings of instability. The goal is to establish the father’s inability to provide a safe and consistent environment and the children’s need for stability.”
With such a detailed prompt, an AI tool can generate a coherent and organized set of direct examination questions, saving time and providing a strong starting point for the attorney’s final review.
While AI can be a powerful resource, protecting client confidentiality must remain a top priority. Before entering any case details into an AI platform, consider these best practices:
1. Anonymize Identifying Case Information: Replace real names with placeholders (e.g., “Client A,” “Witness B”).
2. Generalize Specifics: Avoid including exact dates, addresses, or other identifying information.
3. Use Secure Platforms: Check whether the AI platform you are using offers data privacy protection.
4. Review and Revise: Treat AI-generated content as a draft. Carefully review, revise, and tailor the output to ensure accuracy and compliance with professional standards.
It’s important to remember that AI is a tool to assist attorneys and is not meant to replace the attorney’s judgment or expertise. While AI can suggest wellstructured questions, the attorney remains responsible for ensuring that the questions align with their intended legal strategy and ethical obligations.
As the legal profession continues to evolve, embracing AI tools can provide a competitive edge, streamline case preparation, and enhance courtroom performance. Stay tuned for future editions of “Technology, Esq.,” where we will explore additional ways to integrate technology into your law practice while maintaining the highest standards of professionalism and client service.
& INSIGHTS
As companies are increasingly requiring their employees to return to the office, company leaders and human resource department personnel are hearing their workers and future talent prospects ask for programs and services that go beyond traditional benefits. Specifically, individuals are looking for those with a greater focus on benefits that will allow them to maintain and enhance their personal health and well-being.
For many workers, wellness programs offer practical solutions to modern challenges, such as managing chronic conditions, coping with mental health issues, or achieving a better work-life balance. Benefits like gym memberships, increased access to
INTRODUCING MY BENEFIT ADVISOR Workers Consider Wellness Programs a Top Priority
mental health resources, flexible work hours, the ability to work at least parttime from a remote location, increased PTO, ergonomic support, nutritional advice, a robust health care program and even on-site physical amenities like gyms are all benefits that can improve wellness and boost employee well-being.
Companies that prioritize wellness signal to employees that their wellbeing is valued, contributing to stronger loyalty and morale. Moreover, wellness programs help employees manage stress and avoid burnout, which has become especially relevant in the post-pandemic world.
In a competitive job market, wellness programs are often viewed
as a deciding factor when choosing an employer. As employees increasingly seek a holistic approach to health and well-being, these programs have become essential for attracting and retaining top talent while fostering a positive and supportive workplace culture.
The Montgomery Bar Association offers its members access to My Benefit Advisor as a solution for employee benefits, including voluntary offerings. For more information about My Benefit Advisor, visit our website at montba.mybenefitadvisor.com or contact Ray Keough at (610) 684-6932.
FROM LAW SCHOOL TO LAW FIRM The Realities of Starting Out
By Kira Shcherbakova, Esq.
“Sometimes it is a blessing to be oblivious to the difficulties of starting something new.”
— Nadia Gordynsky
I thought law school was hard – arranging babysitting for two little girls, waking up at 5 a.m., driving for 2.5 hours to a hybrid law school program in NY, spending all day Sunday listening to lectures, and then driving home another 3 hours, exhausted, only to be greeted by two very high-energy kids wanting love and attention from their completely drained mom.
Finally, I graduated and sighed in relief, thinking that now I could relax.
But no! Now I needed to take the bar exam!
I thought preparing for the bar was hard – studying for three months, wondering how many practice questions were enough (one thousand, two thousand, three thousand), doubting my abilities and legal knowledge, and feeling completely terrified of the unknown. Oh, and also juggling two little kids, two teenagers, and a husband.
Finally, the bar exam came. I took it and sighed in relief, thinking that now I could relax.
No again! Now I had to wait 2.5 months for the results.
I thought the waiting was hard. I was restless, started another business in case I failed the exam, and just didn’t know what to do with myself, believing I passed and being terrified that I failed, all at the same time. And again, taking care of a bunch of kids and a husband.
Finally, the results came, and to my great relief, I saw my name on the list. I passed the bar!
Finally, I could relax and open my law firm!
If you’ve ever opened your own firm, you’re probably chuckling, laughing, or maybe even crying. There is no relaxing when you open a firm. I prepared for it so much while in law school and then waiting for my bar results, that I reached and went well over the point of diminishing returns! I created an unbelievable amount of stress and information overload for myself and couldn’t possibly put it all cohesively together!
It has now been a month since I got admitted to the PA Bar and registered my LLC. I have been overwhelmed by all the ideas and suggestions coming my way and have been trying to do all of it. I have invested considerable amounts of money into opening the firm, getting a phone line, making a website, joining networking groups, getting an assistant (before getting any clients), and taking on other expenses that I could probably have waited to incur until later.
I have now come to realize that, for me, the best option is to pick one thing and follow it – one area of law, one mentor, one topic to learn everything about. I have been trying to do everything in the hopes of making some money to pay off the debt and ending up with nothing but a scattered mind and chaotic schedule. All of that on top of experiencing imposter syndrome, feeling completely unprepared to be a lawyer after three years of law school. (How strange! What did I pay for?) And yet, as hard as it is to start a law firm right out of law school, I know that I’m made for it and it will eventually get better.
As my very admirable friend has said about starting her nonprofit years ago and growing it into an amazing organization now, “There is always the first time we try something, when everything is a blur. There is no guarantee that it will work,” but we have to start somewhere.
UPDATES & INSIGHTS
MCAP HAPPENINGS
By Mary C. Pugh, Esq., Former Executive Director, MCAP
On September 27, 2024, MCAP hosted a 20th Anniversary GALA celebrating 20-plus years of MCAP and our CEO, Mary Pugh. Thanks to the amazing CoChairpersons, Erin O’Hearn and Erin McKee, who really know how to throw a PARTY! Also, thanks to our sponsors and MCAP leaders: Kate and Tony Imbesi, the Patriarch Foundation, Firstrust Bank, and the McKee Family Foundation. Before a sold-out crowd, a sensational magician, Ben Seidman, treated the audience with his mysterious talents that defied logic. Ever-elusive and entertaining, Matt McKee rallied the attendees to bid enthusiastically to obtain fantastic auction items and support the great work of MCAP. But the most inspiring and heartfelt moments were captured in a video of MCAP’s stakeholders and Mary Pugh’s daughters, who spoke about Mary as a passionate advocate and a loving, inspiring mother. Everyone enjoyed great food, fun, lucrative auction items, and terrific live music from EBE Sydney.
Pennsylvania Bar Association. He also served as the Executive Director of the San Diego County Bar Association, the Delaware County Bar Association, and the Deputy Director and Legal Services Director at Laurel House.
Bill is excited to lead MCAP and looks forward to working with the Board, staff, advocates, and stakeholders. “It is a great privilege for me to have been selected as
MCAP welcomes William (Bill) Baldwin as the incoming Chief Executive Officer. For those who do not know Bill, he is familiar with Montgomery County. Bill is a seasoned executive with over three decades of leadership and legal advocacy experience in both the nonprofit and legal sectors, specializing in child welfare, domestic violence issues, and pro bono work. Bill has extensive experience in legal advocacy for vulnerable groups, particularly victims of domestic violence, which aligns closely with the mission of MCAP. His leadership in legal services programs at multiple organizations involved direct representation of abuse survivors, securing funding, and collaborating with community partners. Prior to his new role at MCAP, Bill was the Deputy Director of Pro Bono Services with the
the next CEO of the Montgomery Child Advocacy Project. MCAP is an amazing program, and I am deeply committed to its mission of serving the most vulnerable, abused, neglected, and trafficked children. I look forward to building on the strong foundation laid by Mary Pugh, and I am excited to be returning to the Montgomery County legal community and beginning this new chapter of my career.
On behalf of MCAP’s Board of Directors, staff, and stakeholders, we are delighted to welcome Bill as MCAP’s Chief Executive Officer effective December 16, 2024.
Thank you! Without the support of the County Commissioners, our grant funders, all of those who donate to MCAP each year, and the hard work of our MCAP attorneys for their tireless efforts providing top-level legal services for free, none of our work would be possible. On behalf of MCAP’s board and staff, thank you for your support and commitment to keeping children safe. We wish you and your families a healthy and happy New Year. To donate to MCAP, visit our website at www.mcapkids.org.
UPDATES & INSIGHTS
THE EQUITY STOP
By Ashley Garland, Esq., Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Committee Chair
The end of a year is often busy, filled with get-togethers, holiday celebrations, and memory-making moments. Endof-year traditions often spill over into a new year as people reflect on the previous twelve months and make resolutions for the next twelve. New Year resolutions have a long and storied history, dating back at least 4,000 years to the ancient Babylonians. During their celebrations, the ancient Babylonians crowned a new king or pledged their ongoing loyalty to the reigning king, prepared to plant their new crops, and made promises to their gods—resolutions—to pay their debts and return any items they borrowed. If they kept their promises, they would gain favor in the coming year.
Although these ancient Babylonian practices were religious in nature, the idea of making resolutions for a new year is now a non-religious and widespread practice. More than 60% of people set resolutions at the top of each year, even though just 50% of them continue their resolutions through six months, and only 8% maintain them for the full year. Why do so few people stick with their resolutions? The top reasons include setting unrealistic goals, lacking concrete plans, lacking accountability, lacking true motivation to change, and unexpected life changes that make resolutions more challenging.
But don’t be discouraged; whether you set a resolution for the new year or goals throughout the year, you can be successful. Approaching your 2025 goals and resolutions with a different mindset can improve your chances of success, finding the favor and fortune people have sought since the ancient Babylonians. Here are five things you can do to increase your chances of achieving that success:
1. Set SMART goals: SMART is an acronym for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, and Time-Bound.
Ensuring your goals are SMART requires deliberate and thoughtful planning and offers the chance for for accountability.
2. Write down your goals: Research demonstrates that we are more likely to achieve the goals we write down.
3. Identify potential obstacles: While we cannot possibly predict every potential obstacle, it is important to think about what could become an obstacle so we can prepare how we will respond to it. Failing to prepare for obstacles can make progress toward goals more challenging.
4. Track your progress: Review your goals at regular intervals. This can help you identify what is going well, how you may need to adjust your plan or goals, and what steps are next.
5. Remember your why: Set goals that are meaningful to you so that you can stay disciplined and motivated even when moments are particularly difficult. Remembering why you set the goal and what you hope to achieve can help you keep your momentum.
Whether you set resolutions or goals, the purpose is the same: achieve and succeed. Pablo Picasso once said, “Our goals can only be reached through a vehicle of a plan, in which we must fervently believe, and upon which we must vigorously act. There is no other route to success.” So set your goals and resolutions, determine your plans, and believe in yourself. Wishing everyone many successes in 2025.
UPDATES & INSIGHTS
MONTGOMERY BAR FOUNDATION
By Jacqueline M. Reynolds, Esq., Montgomery Bar Foundation President
On December 9, 2025, the Montgomery Bar Foundation held its Annual Grant Reception in the library of the Montgomery Bar Association’s historic and grand building. It was a very special day because the Montgomery Bar Foundation was giving its grants, totaling $120,000, to eleven worthy organizations. The occasion was made possible because of you, the Montgomery Bar Association’s members, who donated the money to fund the grants. Thank you for your commitment to give your time and money to ensure that the citizens of Montgomery County have access to justice. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. said, “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.”
The Montgomery Bar Foundation and the Montgomery Bar Association have heeded this warning and are working together to fight injustice by helping those who are the “boots on the ground.” This year’s recipients have exemplified Seneca the Elder’s sentiment: “It is a denial of justice not to stretch out a helping hand to the fallen; that is the common right of humanity.” On behalf of the Montgomery Bar Foundation, thank you for stretching out your hand to help those who work every day to give individuals that common right of humanity: Justice.
We all donate our time and money to various organizations, and sometimes we may not understand why we are giving. Sometimes, it helps to hear the why from the organizations themselves. The below statements are from the leaders of the organizations who received grants this year. I believe the quotes show the true impact of your generosity. And, I hope that the words will inspire you to continue to give in 2025 and, perhaps, encourage someone you know to sign up for the Fellows program.
C. Shawn Boehringer, Esq., Executive Director of Legal Aid of Southeastern PA
On behalf of Legal Aid of Southeastern Pennsylvania’s staff, Board, leadership, and most importantly its clients, thank you to the Montgomery Bar Association and the Montgomery Bar Foundation for its incredibly generous
contribution to our work. We have faced challenging moments over the last 5 years addressing a pandemic, an affordable housing crisis in LASP’s service area, and crushing inflation which has disproportionately impacted those already surviving with no safety net. Additional significant challenges will present themselves in the coming years. The bar association and foundation’s commitment to furthering LASP’s mission enables us to maintain crucial services to those in need in our community when times get tough.
Robert Louis Stevenson remarked, “Don’t judge each day by the harvest you reap, but by the seeds you plant.”
The Bar’s support of LASP and other area non-profits with access to justice missions reflects favorably not only on the individual successes of its members, but on the membership’s dedication to supporting the highest ideals of the legal profession: that justice should not be delivered based on the superior resources of one party in a case and that due process for all is essential where decisions are made which will profoundly affect the lives of those who seek a court or administrative body’s assistance in resolving a dispute. We are committed to ensuring that the Bar’s seeds will blossom into a stronger and more responsive LASP and in turn, a more just community for ourselves and our neighbors.
Josh Blakesley, Executive Director of The Welcome Project PA
Funding from the Montco Bar Foundation will enable us to Widen the Welcome with community members who identify as immigrants, and those who identify as LGBT+, as we will offer wraparound services [mental health, support, legal help, etc.] for those who have been made to feel the most vulnerable and marginalized. It means the world to our community members, as they seek to belong in an increasingly divisive and divided world. Thank you, Montco Bar Foundation, for helping our grassroots organization empower and uplift the community when they need it most.
Mary Onama, LMSW, Executive Director of Victim Services Center
On behalf of Victims Services Center of Montgomery County Inc. and the many clients we help to gain access to justice, we thank the Montgomery County Bar Foundation and the Bar Association for the grant award to support VSC’s access to justice services. Access to justice gives victims of crime access to justice and facilitates their healing from the trauma of victimization.
Marsha Eichelberger, Executive Director of Family Promise Montco PA
Thanks to your donation, we can continue empowering families with children to find safe shelter and the tools they need to rebuild their lives and overcome the challenges of homelessness.
Steve Chawaga, Executive Director of Episcopal Legal Aid
The grant we received from the Bar Foundation is vital to our work in Montgomery County bringing free, in-person civil legal services to underserved communities in need. It will help to enable us to expand the number of in-person clinics we offer and the services we provide.
Alissa McBride, M.S.W, Reentry Services Director of Family Services
Family Services thanks the Montgomery County Bar Foundation for their grant to provide Critical Time Intervention case management to individuals who are returning to Montgomery County following incarceration and assist them in obtaining the resources needed for successful reentry. This includes assisting returning individuals in securing the legal documentation they require to secure benefits and funding.
Danielle Gallagher, Deputy Director of Laurel House
Laurel House deeply appreciates the ongoing support from the Montgomery Bar Association Foundation through our many years of partnership. The recent grant will help fund our Domestic Abuse Response Team (DART). Recognizing that law enforcement and healthcare professionals are often the first point of contact for domestic violence victims, our DART advocates are available 24/7 and frequently collaborate with local police departments and healthcare professionals to respond to incidents where domestic abuse victims are in crisis. This immediate response includes crisis counseling, safety planning, resource referrals, medical advocacy, assistance with the Protection from Abuse Order process, and follow-up services.
Leslie
Slingsby,
MSW, LSW,
Chief Executive Officer, Services and Operations, Mission Kids Child Advocacy Center
Mission Kids is profoundly thankful to the Montgomery Bar Foundation for their generous $10,000 grant. This incredible gift ensures that children and families affected by abuse can access the vital support and advocacy they deserve—fostering equal access to justice, protecting their rights, and providing comfort in challenging times. Together, we’re illuminating a brighter path forward for those most vulnerable in our community, and we are so grateful for the Montgomery Bar Foundation’s partnership in this important work.
Charlotte Perri, Associate, Grants & Development, SeniorLAW Center
SeniorLAW Center is grateful to continue our vibrant partnership with the Montgomery Bar Foundation. The Foundation’s generous support will enable our SeniorLAW HelpLine team to keep delivering powerful outcomes for Montgomery County’s most vulnerable older adults, providing free and highly accessible phone-based civil legal services to protect against elder abuse and exploitation, prevent eviction and foreclosure, support grandparents raising their grandchildren, address consumer issues, and assist with a broad range of other critical law and aging matters. The law has a dramatic impact on our lives, especially on those who are low-income. Aging is difficult for many; aging in poverty is devastating. We thank the Montgomery Bar Foundation for believing in justice for those upon whose shoulders we all stand.
William Baldwin, Esq., CEO, MCAP
The Montgomery Child Advocacy Project is extremely grateful to the Montgomery Bar Foundation for its ongoing support and partnership. Because of the financial generosity of the Foundation and the willingness of members of the Montgomery Bar Association to perform pro bono services on behalf of our clients, MCAP is able to fulfill its mission of providing legal representation and advocacy for victims of child abuse, neglect, and trafficking. Our MBA volunteer attorneys help to give a voice to at-risk children by donating their time, resources, and expertise. MCAP deeply appreciates its relationship with the Montgomery Bar Foundation and its generous grant which enables us to continue our critical work.
On behalf of the Montgomery Bar Foundation, thank you! We look forward to working with you in 2025 and helping more individuals obtain justice.
NEWLY CONFIRMED TO THE FEDERAL BENCH
Getting to Know Judge Gail A. Weilheimer
By Women in the Law Co-Chairs, Donna M. Marcus, Esq. and Chelsea L. Dearden, Esq.
If you ever stepped into Judge Gail A. Weilheimer’s chambers at the Montgomery County Court of Common Pleas, you would have undoubtedly noticed her vast collection of flying pigs. To most, flying pigs symbolize the impossible, but for Judge Weilheimer, they represent her steadfast belief that anything is possible. That belief has been a hallmark of her life and career, culminating in her confirmation to the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania on December 3, 2024.
Judge Weilheimer’s journey to the federal bench began as a 10-year-old, in the backseat of a car on the way to visit her grandparents in New York. She was inspired by the book Lawyers for the People and declared she wanted to be a lawyer. Her mother, recognizing her determination, created an impromptu “law school” on those car rides, tossing out topics to debate. Little did they know, those car ride arguments were laying the foundation for a remarkable legal career.
Fast forward a few years to Hofstra University, where Judge Weilheimer completed both her undergraduate studies and law degree. During her first year of law school, she landed an internship at the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Philadelphia. She knew that she wanted to be a prosecutor, and after graduating law school in 1995, she joined the Philadelphia District Attorney’s Office under Lynne Abraham. Judge Weilheimer rotated through several units before landing in the Major Crimes Unit, where she sharpened her trial skills and built her reputation as a fearless prosecutor.
In 2002, Judge Weilheimer entered private practice, where she remained until 2013. During that time, she primarily worked at Wisler Pearlstine, LLP, where she focused her practice on education law. She worked parttime, which allowed her to remain an active mom to her kids while continuing to practice law. This flexibility also opened the door to another passion: politics.
In 2003, Judge Weilheimer was elected Commissioner of Abington Township, where she served from 2004 to 2008. She also served as Solicitor for the Montgomery County
Clerk of Courts Office and lent her legal expertise to now Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro for his Montgomery County Commissioners Transition Team.
Judge Weilheimer’s ambitions didn’t stop there. In 2013, she set her sights on the bench and was elected to the Montgomery County Court of Common Pleas. Over the next decade, she served in nearly every division—Family, Criminal, Orphans’, Civil, and Competency Court. Notably, Pennsylvania’s first Competency Court, which has since been replicated throughout the Commonwealth, was created by Judge Weilheimer. Her time serving on the bench earned her respect for her legal acumen and admiration for her compassion.
Then came the big call. On July 8, 2024, President Joe Biden nominated her to the federal bench. By December, she was confirmed by the Senate, and in January 2025, Judge Weilheimer officially became a judge for the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania.
Throughout her career, Judge Weilheimer has been a fixture in the Montgomery Bar Association. She’s been instrumental in the Robert E. Slota, Jr. Diversity Internship & Development Program and founded the Annual Women in the Law Networking Event in 2019. This event was born out of Judge Weilheimer’s desire to see women helping other women advance their careers, and the networking event has grown into the Committee’s flagship event, drawing nearly 200 participants this past year.
Of course, Judge Weilheimer isn’t all business. She’s a selfproclaimed amateur matchmaker (don’t be surprised if she tries to set you up at a networking event). She’s also recently taken up pickleball with her husband and loves nothing more than a good board game night with family and friends.
While her move to the federal bench is a huge gain for the Eastern District, it’s bittersweet for Montgomery County. Her presence—both in the courtroom and at some MBA events—will be deeply missed. But if there’s one thing Judge Weilheimer has proven time and again, it’s that when you combine hard work, determination, and a dash of optimism, anything is possible.
FEATURES MBA MEMBERSHIP GIVES BACK TO THE COMMUNITY
In 2024 our firm placed a particular emphasis on supporting the youth in our community. In keeping with our yearly tradition, we fulfilled the Christmas wish lists of a family affiliated with the North Penn Valley Boys & Girls Club. We were proud to support several local sports organizations, including the Chestnut Hill Youth Sports Club, PlymouthWhitemarsh Basketball, and the Conshohocken Baseball & Softball League. We also sponsored the Upper Dublin High School annual dance marathon, which aids families with children who are battling childhood cancer. In 2025 we remain committed to making a positive impact on the next generation!
This year, The Feldman Firm, LLC celebrated #GivingTuesday and the holiday season by once again making contributions to charitable organizations. This year, the Firm has made donations to Sara’s Smiles Foundation, the Montgomery Bar Foundation, the Association for Adults with Developmental Disabilities, ProPublica, and HIAS.
Sara’s Smiles (www.saras-smiles. org), based in Meadowbrook, Pennsylvania, honors the memory of Sara Kate Burke, Jeff Feldman’s niece, by brightening the spirits of pediatric cancer patients in hospitals and care facilities around the country.
The Montgomery Bar Foundation (www.montgomerybar. org/?pg=MBFHome) is the charitable affiliate of the Montgomery Bar Association; it supports lawrelated educational, charitable, and humanitarian projects throughout Montgomery County, Pennsylvania.
The Association for Adults with Developmental Disabilities (www. aaddpa.org), based in Jenkintown, Pennsylvania, provides education, discussion, and social activities that empower special needs men and women aged 18 years and older to live more independent lives while helping to support caregivers and helping to increase acceptance of special needs in our community.
ProPublica (www.propublica.org) is an independent, nonprofit newsroom that produces investigative journalism with moral force. Its staff of more than 150 journalists are dedicated to carrying forward the important work of exposing corruption, informing the public about complex issues, and using the power of investigative journalism to spur reform.
HIAS (www.hias.org) is a nonpartisan refugee protection organization that provides vital services to refugees, asylum seekers, and other forcibly displaced and stateless persons around the world and advocates for their fundamental rights so they can rebuild their lives.
While 2024 has been a busy year at Timoney Knox, we have remained steadfast in fulfilling one of our core missions: giving back.
Timoney Knox continues its support of those that serve the community and people in need.
We continue our commitment to the Montgomery Child Advocacy Project (MCAP), which aims to prevent and address child abuse in Montgomery County through legal services, advocacy, and education. As we have for many years, we supported the Montgomery Bar Foundation Legal Aid program, whose mission is to facilitate access to justice and protect the integrity of the legal system.
Since the founding of the Kelly Ann Dolan Memorial Fund in 1976, Timoney Knox has proudly supported and served on the Fund’s Board. This non-profit organization offers financial assistance for families caring for children with serious illnesses, disabilities, and injuries. We are humbled and heartened by their impact: more than 27,000 families in crisis have received the help they so desperately need. In 2022, our firm adopted two families and provided gift cards for all family members.
The firm continues its longstanding support of the Wissahickon Trails. Timoney Knox has supported this organization since its inception, both financially and by having an attorney sitting on its board. We are proud to support Wissahickon Trails and its efforts to protect our land and waterways. They take great pride in developing this important natural asset.
The attorneys and staff at Timoney Knox also participate as Board members and volunteers for schools, non-profits and other charitable organizations.
Longevity is something we value and embrace. Our ongoing
participation in our community and with these organizations is not only deeply fulfilling but is an essential investment to building a brighter and better future.
Clarke Gallagher Barbiero Amuso & Glassman Law
Clarke Gallagher Barbiero Amuso & Glassman Law has proudly participated in the Preston & Steve’s Camp Out for Hunger for 10 years! Camp Out for Hunger, one of the nation’s largest, single-location food drives, is a partnership between Philabundance—a non-profit food bank serving the Philadelphia and Delaware Valley regions of Pennsylvania—and a local morning radio show, WMMR’s Preston & Steve.
This year the event collected over 1.6 million pounds of food.
Clarke Gallagher Barbiero Amuso & Glassman Law is honored to continue this tremendous effort and extends heartfelt thanks to our clients, friends, and families who help support this event every year!
Wisler Cares! The attorneys and staff of Wisler Pearlstine, LLP, individually and collectively, remain committed to supporting the communities in which they live and work.
Through the Wisler Pearlstine Charitable Fund, the firm was proud to support organizations across Montgomery, Bucks, Chester, Delaware and Philadelphia Counties this year including: Angel Flight East,
Breakthrough of Greater Philadelphia, Bringing Hope Home, Bucks County Opportunity Council, Chester County’s Children, Inc., Community Volunteers in Medicine, Daily Bread Community Food Pantry, Earth Wind Fire and Water, Face to Face Germantown, Families Behind the Badge Children’s Foundation, Kids Against Hunger United, The Community Coalition, The Open Link, SeniorLaw Center and Students Run Philly Style.
For the second year in a row, the firm came together to pack over 7,500 meals for Kids Against Hunger United to feed local families. Wisler Pearlstine also donated over 200 chemo care bags filled with goodies for patients at the Doylestown, Paoli and Jefferson Einstein Montgomery Hospital Cancer Centers.
This holiday season, the firm made spirits bright by collecting toys for local children and families served by the Daily Bread Community Food Pantry in Collegeville. Wisler Pearlstine also supported four area families battling a cancer diagnosis through Bringing Hope Home’s AdoptA-Family Program, helping to alleviate some of the financial stress of the holidays.
Friedman Schuman Layser, P.C. has proudly supported various charities throughout Montgomery County for decades.
This holiday season, our team came together to organize our second annual office food drive, collecting non-perishable food and household items for the Mattie N. Dixon Community Cupboard located in Ambler. This wonderful organization plays a vital role in providing essential support to families in need within our local community.
Throughout the year, our attorneys and staff also devote their time and resources to causes that hold personal significance for them and their families. Whether it’s volunteering at animal rehabilitation centers, supporting medical research, or other charitable causes, our team is committed to making a difference. Some of the organizations supported by our team include Last Chance Ranch, Bridlewild Trails, Abramson Senior Care, Jefferson Health, Philadelphia Federation of Jewish Agencies, Emily’s Entourage, Philadelphia Zoo, and the Philadelphia Ronald McDonald House. Many attorneys at our firm are also active members of the Montgomery Bar Association and continue to make annual contributions to the Montgomery Bar Foundation. These contributions help to support underprivileged children, the homeless, victims of domestic violence, and families facing hardships in Montgomery County.
All of us at Friedman Schuman Layser are incredibly grateful for the ability to give back and support various organizations within our local community each year. Wishing everyone joy and peace in the New Year!
Annual
LUNCHEON
THE MISUSE OF PROTECTION FROM ABUSE REMEDIES FOR DEFENDANTS UNDER THE PROTECTION FROM ABUSE ACT
By Gabriella T. Lacitignola, Esq.
The Protection from Abuse (PFA) Act, 23 Pa.C.S. § 6301, et seq., protects individuals who have been victims of abuse by individuals with a certain consanguinity. The Act permits broad relief (with a relatively low burden of proof) “to protect victims of domestic violence from those who perpetrate such abuse, with the primary goal of advance prevention of physical and sexual abuse.” K.B. v. Tinsley, 208 A.3d 123, 127 (Pa. Super. Ct. 2019).
As those who practice in and preside over family law matters know, the Act serves an integral function in (1) safeguarding victims, (2) curtailing abusive conduct, and (3) deterring perpetrators of abuse by providing victims with various forms of relief, such as no-contact orders and other forms of relief.
Unfortunately, courts and practitioners are also witnesses to the misuse of the Act for perceived advantage or gamesmanship in other arenas of family law litigation. When misuse occurs, practitioners and decision-makers have (perhaps little known) remedies to address the inappropriate use of the PFA forum.
One such remedy is statutory. 23 Pa.C.S. § 6117 notes, “[U]pon finding that an individual commenced a proceeding under this chapter in bad faith, a court shall direct the individual to pay to the defendant actual damages and reasonable attorney fees. Failure to prove an allegation of abuse by a preponderance of the evidence shall not, by itself, result in a finding of bad faith (emphasis added). By design, the Act permits wrongly-accused defendants to recoup not just the cost of the litigation but actual damages stemming from the wrongful accusations.
In Courtney v. Courtney, 205 A.3d 318 (Pa. Super. Ct. 2019), the Pennsylvania Superior Court addressed the meaning of “bad faith” in the Act. The Court relied upon Black’s Law Dictionary’s definition of “bad faith” as “[d]ishonesty of belief, purpose, or motive” as well as case precedent’s interpretation of “bad faith” in non-PFA matters as being “for the purpose of fraud, dishonesty, or corruption.” “Mere negligence” is insufficient. Id. at 322. However, the failure to prove an allegation of abuse, by itself does not equate to bad faith.
Another remedy for defendants is the ability to seek a contempt finding of protection order entered against them by agreement. Most recently, on October 17, 2024, in Adams v. Adams, -- A.3d ---- (Pa. Super. Ct. 2024), 2024 PA Super 240, the Superior Court noted that, pursuant to §6114.1, either the plaintiff or defendant may file a petition for civil contempt for the other party’s failure to comply with any provisions of a consent order. In this case of first impression, the Court also held that in the case of PFA orders granted on behalf of minor plaintiffs, their parent or guardian could be found in contempt of consent orders despite not being actual parties to the action. The Court explained:
[T]he trial court’s interpretation that the General Assembly intended to exclude a defendant from filing a petition for civil contempt in a PFA proceeding when a plaintiff violates a consent order agreed upon by the parties would lead to an absurd result.
Adams, 2024 PA Super 240, at *3.
The Court also found that the legislature intended to provide relief to both plaintiffs and defendants regarding enforcement of consent orders within the PFA proceedings. The Court reasoned that “[i]f [it] were to accept the trial court’s interpretation of the law in this case, a petitioner in a PFA proceeding, seeking protection for themselves or their children, could agree to a consent order and disregard its provisions as the defendant would have no remedy to seek to enforce the consent order within the PFA proceedings. We do not believe that the General Assembly intended to remove the trial court’s power to enforce its own order that it entered upon the agreement of the parties.” Id. at *4.
Ultimately, the Adams case solidifies that, pursuant to Section 6114.1 of the Act, not only can a plaintiff be found in contempt for violation of a consent agreement, but an individual filing on behalf of a minor plaintiff can as well, even though they are neither the protected person nor a party to the matter.
The Court appears to confirm the legislative goal of incentivizing both parties to comply with the statute and simultaneously prevent misuse and abuse of the remedies available to these plaintiffs. Both the statutory remedies and the analysis of Adams provide courts and practitioners with important tools for their arsenal.
RECENT CHANGES TO PENNSYLVANIA TRUST AND ESTATE STATUTES
By George M. Riter, Esq., Probate & Tax Section Chair and Elizabeth L. Ferraro, Esq, Probate & Tax Section Secretary
Over the past year certain changes to the Pennsylvania Probate, Estates and Fiduciaries Code (“PEF Code”) took effect. Three major changes impact Pennsylvania estate planners: (1) amendment to the guardianship provisions in Chapter 55 of the PEF Code; (2) amendment to the Pennsylvania Tax Reform Code of 1971 to recognize grantor trusts; and (3) enactment of the Pennsylvania Directed Trust Act.
Guardianship Statute. Act 61 of 2023 (“Act 61”) became effective on June 11, 2024. Act 61 amends Sections 5511 and 5512 of the PEF Code pertaining to the appointment of a guardian for incapacitated persons.
Act 61 further codified the premise that guardianship should be an option of last resort. Petitioners must plead and “allege specific facts demonstrating that less restrictive alternatives were considered or tried and why the alternatives are unavailable or insufficient.” 20 Pa. C.S.A. § 5511(e). A less restrictive alternative may include a trust, living will or other document, or the reliance on the health care representative statute under
20 Pa. C.S.A. § 5461, a financial power of attorney, a Representative Payee for Social Security benefits, ABLE accounts and the like. See 20 Pa. C.S.A. § 5512.1(a)(3).
Prior to ordering a guardianship, the court must make specific findings of fact that the alleged incapacitated person does not have adequate support from family or other sources, making the guardianship necessary. Practitioners must discuss the less restrictive alternatives with their client.
Under Act 61 the petitioner must inform the court if the alleged incapacitated person is represented by counsel. If the alleged incapacitated person is not represented by counsel, the court “shall appoint counsel to represent the alleged incapacitated person in any matter for which counsel has not been retained by the alleged incapacitated person.” 20 Pa. C.S.A. § 5511(a.1)(2). Counsel “shall advocate for the client’s expressed wishes and consistent with the client’s instructions, to the extent the client is able to express wishes and provide instructions.” 20 Pa. C.S.A. § 5511(a.1)(3).
Act 61 also established certification criteria for professional guardians, which are those seeking guardianship of three or more incapacitated persons.
Pennsylvania Grantor Trust Act. Act 64 of 2023 (“Act 64”) became effective on January 1, 2025. The legislation changes the Pennsylvania income taxation of certain resident and nonresident trusts. Act 64 provides:
The classes of income under Section 303 received by a resident trust, and the classes of income received by a nonresident trust from sources within this Commonwealth, shall be taxable to the grantor of the trust or another person to the extent the grantor or other person is treated as the owner of the trust under sections 671, 672, 673, 674, 675, 676, 677, 678 and 679 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986…, as amended, whether or not such income is distributed or distributable to the beneficiaries of the trust or accumulated.
Prior to January 1, 2025, the income or gain of a trust that is either distributed or credited to the beneficiary is taxable to the beneficiary or taxable to the trust. Under Act 64, the tax on the income and gain of a grantor trust may be paid by the grantor, regardless of whether it is or is required to be distributed to the beneficiaries.
For example: A grantor owns an interest in a private company and transfers a minority interest in the company to an irrevocable grantor trust for grandchildren. If the company is sold in whole or in part and the irrevocable trust participates in the sale, any capital gains tax attributable to the trust can now be paid at both the Federal and Pennsylvania Income Tax level by the grantor.
Act 64 aligns the Federal and Pennsylvania Income Tax treatment of grantor trusts, which treat grantor trusts as disregarded entities. Act 64 allows trusts to grow without the pressure of paying their own tax liabilities, where permitted and appropriate.
Pennsylvania Directed Statute. On July 14, 2024, Act 64 of 2024 implemented Sections 7780.11 through 7780.27 of the PEF Code, known as the “Directed Trust Act.” The Directed Trust Act creates three new permitted positions under trusts: (1) trust director; (2) trust director for investments; and (3) trust protector. Section 7780.12 of the Directed Trust Act sets forth several important definitions.
- A “directed trust” is “[a] trust for which the terms of the trust grant a power of direction.”
- A “directed trustee” is “[a] trustee that is subject to a trust director’s power of direction.”
- A “trust director” is “[a] person that is granted a power of direction by the terms of a trust to the extent the power is exercisable while the person is not serving as a trustee.”
- A “trust protector” is a “trust director authorized by the terms of a trust to modify one or more terms of the trust.”
Additional provisions in the Directed Trust Act further illustrate the powers a settlor may convey to the trust director, trust director for investments and trust protector, however, the terms of the trust instrument always control. Section 7780.19 of the Directed Trust Act states that the permitted positions are fiduciary in nature, a contrast from other states with similar legislation. Practitioners must also be aware of certain required notice provisions. Overall, the Directed Trust Act provides flexibility to tailor the powers to administer and modify the trust provisions to meet the changing tax and estate planning landscape.
HIRING WITH PRECISION
By Stephen Geday, Esq., Founder, EsquireX
Challenges of Growing a Law Firm
Let’s face it, it’s tough to grow a law firm. It’s fantastic when demand for a firm’s services is on the rise, but new challenges quickly emerge. Structuring a firm to keep up with that demand is a puzzle independent of acquiring clients and performing legal work. Hiring, managing, and delegating is a must, yet triggers the following questions:
“How busy are we?”
Should we just grind harder or is time to bring on more help?
Are we confident we’ll have enough work to keep them busy?
“What if they aren’t a great fit?”
Then what do we do with them?
Should I risk that commitment?
The Headaches & Costs of Hiring
A funnel of resumes lead to a variety of interviews, which in turn may or may not lead to one candidate to comfortably land on. But even with references, it’s still a leap of faith. How will this candidate perform? What is their working style? Does it mesh with the firm’s? Is the personality a match for the rest of the team? Do they stand the test of time?
Recruiters make big promises which may or may not pan out. What is guaranteed is that purportedly streamlining the sifting process comes with a hefty price. Thus, every approach has its implicit downsides.
Looking for the ‘perfect candidate’ seems inevitably time-consuming, expensive, and frustrating. But it doesn’t have to be.
Interviewing/Hiring Process
- time consuming & tedious
- limited to who’s looking
- choose, hope and see
Word of Mouth
- very isolated pool
- based largely on luck
- inheriting ‘dirty laundry’?
Recruiters
- guaranteed to be expensive
- still a sifting process
- still nebulous if it works out
Looking for the ‘perfect candidate’ seems inevitably time-consuming, expensive, and frustrating. But it doesn’t have to be.
A Smarter Approach
One solution lawyers are turning to is layering in project attorneys into their regular business model. In the process, the peaks and valleys of demand get flattened. A talented labor pool is always standing by. During the peaks, they’re seamlessly activated. During the valleys, there’s zero overhead wasted. When peaks become more frequent, the delegated work becomes constant and predictable enough that it becomes quite obvious when to convert a project worker into a full-time hire.
There’s really no way to gain assurances about any new hire other than through consistent, concerted performance. Quality of work, reliability, and personality all become obvious in time. Strengths and weaknesses reveal themselves. Rather than spending time and energy
for a leap of faith when you’re burning the candle at both ends, get work done calmly and efficiently, get to know them along the way, and weave in who makes sense when it makes sense to do so.
Fielding one or more project attorneys naturally builds confidence. Confidence to be ready to respond to demand with no unnecessary overhead commitments. Confidence in being able to perform for all new and active clients. Confidence fielding a team which larger law firms have no issues with constructing. And finally, confidence in building the right relationships along the way.
Proven Candidates
Proven relationships lead to proven candidates. Layering in competent, qualified attorneys outside your firm into your workflow relieves the pressure of finding and establishing this relationship overnight. EsquireX has thousands of attorneys all over the country in most practice areas, possessing any given skill you may need to find. Immediate project needs can be immediately solved. Successful performance establishes a reliable track record. A reliable track record is a proven candidate.
Moreover, the MBA’s partnership with EsquireX allows you to zero in on quality colleagues in Montgomery County. It’s a great mechanism to source local talent into your firm’s existing operations, whether it’s a trigger pull for excess work piling up today, or layering in the right relationships for tomorrow. Even experienced attorneys who are routinely marketable to perform work for a client off the street are just as eager to perform work for another attorney’s firm requirements of excess demand.
Devising a nimble, talent-equipped, forward-thinking workflow process is the key to avoiding the otherwise inevitable headaches of the hiring process. Tapping into a network of professionals available for work on a constant and ongoing basis and aligning that with your steady demand cycles builds the trust, confidence, and working relationships you require, and need not ever desperately search for again.
Previously known for his book The Year of Living Biblically, A. J. Jacobs now chronicles his year of trying to live by the “original meaning” of the Constitution. He quickly discovers that the authors of the Constitution, as well as the people of the new United States, differed widely in their interpretations.
As someone who teaches the Constitution, as well as recent Supreme Court decisions, to various groups of lay adults, when I saw this book, I knew I had to read it. Especially after I saw the comment by Andy Borowitz, one of my favorite satirists, who said of the book, “I don’t know how I learned so much while laughing so hard.”
Indeed, this book is full of both information and humor. Much of the humor involves his family’s reactions to the way he wants to live the year. But some deal with how he compares the provisions of the Constitution to things people might be more familiar with. For instance:
Article I reads more like the instructions to a complicated board game – like Settlers of Catan, but the players are the branches of government. When it’s Congress’s
BOOK REVIEW: THE YEAR OF LIVING CONSTITUTIONALLY BY A. J. JACOBS
Reviewed by Jules Mermelstein, Esq., author of Justice, Justice Shall You Pursue
turn, it can do any of the following: impose duties, raise an army, etc. After Congress’s turn is over, pass the dice to the president.
After discussing the way free speech was practiced, or by our current standards restricted, such as no profanity, no blasphemy, no criticism of the government or the elected officials, he points out that neither the left nor the right today would be happy with it.
For instance, truly originalist free speech would not cover political donations or spending. This would nix some Supreme Court rulings beloved by modern-day conservatives. For instance, Citizens United... This, and other rulings, have allowed for a flood of big business money to sway elections. When I spoke to Professor Campbell, he told me, “There’s no evidence that the Founders’ limited idea of free speech would cover corporations giving money to political candidates. In fact, many of them were deeply concerned about the corrupting influence of money on politics.”
On the other hand, the left would be appalled by the 1790's restrictive view of what you were allowed to
say and write about religion and government, not to mention the curbs on cussing.
There is so much interesting material, and funny material, in this book that the space I have to review it cannot do it complete justice. Among the interesting items in it is the continuing relevance of the 3rd Amendment. Another is the description by Professor Kermit Roosevelt of the University of Pennsylvania about the complete reversal of the concept of our government that the 14th Amendment (and I would add all amendments after the Civil War) represented. At our inception, people were skeptical of the federal government, having just revolted against a strong central power. States were there to protect the people against an overreaching federal government. After the 14th Amendment, the concept became that states were restricting rights and the federal government was needed to protect those rights.
As you can probably tell, I highly recommend this enjoyable, entertaining, and informative book.
MOVIE REVIEW: GLADIATOR II LAW, POWER, AND JUSTICE IN ANCIENT ROME VS. MODERN-DAY AMERICA
By Gregory Gilston, Esq.
The long-anticipated sequel to Ridley Scott’s iconic film Gladiator has finally arrived, offering a gripping tale of power, revenge, and the pursuit of justice. While the film dazzles with intense battle sequences and stunning visuals, it also delves into the legal complexities of ancient Rome, catalyzing intriguing reflection on the modern-day American legal system.
The story follows Lucius, the now-grown descendant of Commodus, as he navigates Rome’s brutal political landscape during the reign and fall of the tyrant emperor. Thrust into a world where law and power often collide, Lucius must balance his thirst for revenge with the need for justice, aided by an unlikely alliance with a former gladiator turned advocate.
One of the film’s strongest elements is its exploration of Roman legal principles, many of which laid the groundwork for today’s legal systems. Roman law was built on key concepts such as “jus civile” (civil law) and “jus gentium” (law of nations), emphasizing fairness, contracts, and property rights—principles that continue to shape modern legal practice. The following legal themes that we observed throughout the jaw-dropping sequel helped shape some of the models of modern-day legal principles we see in our current society:
1. Trial by Combat vs. Rule of Law — In the film, disputes are often settled by combat, echoing historical instances where might equaled right. However, Lucius champions the idea of due process, striving to create a Rome where disputes are resolved through legal structure rather than violence. This conflict mirrors modern debates about vigilante justice versus legal institutions.
2. Power and Legal Corruption — The film depicts Rome’s political elite manipulating the law to serve personal ambitions—a timeless issue. Lucius battles against corrupt politicians who use legal loopholes for gain, a struggle echoed in today’s world through debates on political corruption and judicial independence.
3. Citizenship and Legal Rights — The film also highlights Rome’s rigid class system, where citizenship determined legal status. Slaves and non-citizens faced limited rights, while full citizens enjoyed legal protections. Modern parallels include ongoing conversations about immigration, citizenship, and equal access to justice in democratic societies.
While viewing Gladiator II, one cannot help but see echoes of today’s legal landscape, while marveling over its cinematic accomplishments. From a legal perspective, the film’s portrayal of appeals to justice and challenges to systemic corruption resonate with current efforts to uphold the rule of law and human rights at home and abroad. From a cinematic perspective, Gladiator II succeeds not just as an action-packed saga but also as a filmic triumph. The acting is impressive, the fight scenes are epic, and the visuals are stunning.
Gladiator II is a must-see for fans of historical epics, war-time thrillers, and/or anyone interested in the enduring power of law, justice, and human resilience. Whether you are a movie buff, a history enthusiast, or a legal professional, the film offers an engaging reminder of why the rule of law matters. As the final credits roll, one has no choice but to reflect on how far society has come— and how much further we still have to go.
If you’re a fan of authentic, flavorful dim sum, Dim Sum King in King of Prussia is a must-visit spot. Tucked away in a bustling area near the King of Prussia Mall, this unassuming gem offers a delightful mix of traditional Cantonese dim sum and other flavorful dishes in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere.
Dim Sum King’s interior is simple yet inviting, with a modern twist on classic Chinese décor. The space is bright and clean, with large windows allowing natural light to flood in. It’s casual yet comfortable, making it a great option for everything from a family outing to a quick bite with friends.
As the name suggests, Dim Sum King excels in its dim sum offerings,
RESTAURANT REVIEW: DIM SUM KING –KING OF PRUSSIA, PA
150 Allendale Rd., King of Prussia, PA 19406
www.dimsumkingpa.com
By Franqui-Ann Raffaele, Esq.
with a menu featuring a variety of steamed, fried, and baked options. The dim sum is served fresh, often right from the cart or through a menu, allowing you to pick and choose exactly what you want.
During my visit, we savored a variety of dishes. We ordered a collection of different buns, including the chicken soup bun, pork soup bun, pork wonton bun, and pan-fried beef bun. Each bun had a soft, delicate dough—some encasing tender meat and others a comforting broth. They are the perfect meal for one of these cold winter nights.
We also ordered other classics, including General Tso’s chicken, scallion pancakes, and fried coconut shrimp, as well as more adventurous
dishes like pork kidney in chili sauce and pork shoulder ramen. Each dish was more delectable than the last. The menu is diverse, catering to both traditional dim sum lovers and those seeking heartier meals.
The service at Dim Sum King is attentive and friendly, with staff eager to assist you in navigating the dim sum offerings. The staff works efficiently to keep the experience smooth and enjoyable.
Whether you’re a dim sum aficionado or a newcomer to this style of dining, Dim Sum King in King of Prussia offers an exceptional experience. The fresh, flavorful dishes, welcoming atmosphere, and attentive service make it a standout in the local dining scene. It’s a place where you can enjoy a wide range of delicious dim sum and authentic Chinese dishes in a comfortable setting—definitely worth a visit for any food lover.
Montgomery Bar Association 2025 YEAR AT A GLANCE
Mark your calendar for these key Montogomery Bar Association events!
Friday, March 28, 2025 ANNUAL MEMORIAL SERVICE
Montgomery County Courthouse
Thursday, April 3, 2025 DELAWARE VALLEY LEGAL EXPO
Presidential Caterers
Friday, April 25, 2025 LAW DAY
Montgomery County Courthouse & MBA Building
Friday, May 2, 2025 SPRING FLING GARDEN PARTY
Morris Arboretum and Gardens
Saturday, May 3, 2025 NAMI WALK
Temple University – Ambler Campus
Monday, June 23, 2025 LEGAL AID GOLF CLASSIC
Green Valley Country Club
September 18 – September 21, 2025 BENCH BAR CONFERENCE
The Sagamore, Bolton Landing on Lake George, NY
Wednesday, October 15, 2025 WOMEN IN THE LAW NETWORKING NIGHT
Flourtown County Club
Friday, October 24, 2025 FRIENDS & FAMILY HALLOWEEN NIGHT
Elmwood Park Zoo
To register for any upcoming events or CLEs, visit us at www.montgomerybar.org!
Welcome New Members
Nicholas J. Alicata
Bonn Allen
Gabriela A. Amado
Amanda M. Atkinson
Bonn Vito Liong Aure
WIRETAPS Member News
Friedman Schuman, P.C. is pleased to announce that our firm will now be known as Friedman Schuman Layser, P.C., effective immediately. This name change reflects the significant contributions and leadership of Derek R. Layser, a shareholder of the firm and chairman of the medical malpractice department. For more than 40 years, our firm has been committed to providing our clients with smart, focused, and effective legal representation, tailored to meet their unique needs. Friedman Schuman Layser will continue to provide the same high level of service across all of our practice areas, including business law, commercial litigation, medical malpractice, wills, trusts & estates, personal injury, real estate, financial services, and employment law.
Friedman Schuman Layser, P.C. is pleased to announce that Neil Sarker has joined our firm’s financial services department as an associate attorney.
On November 17th Marshal Granor was honored by the Hebrew Loan Society of Greater Philadelphia with a Lifetime Achievement Award which was given for his more than 10 years of service on the HFL Board of Directors.
Hamburg, Rubin, Mullin, Maxwell & Lupin is pleased to announce that accomplished
financial services attorney
Ron L. Woodman has joined the firm as partner in the Business Law department.
Hamburg, Rubin, Mullin, Maxwell & Lupin is pleased to announce the addition of four attorneys to the firm – Brittany Ann Kane, Gabriela Amado, Grace Gelone, and Mark A. Umansky.
Mannion Prior, LLP is pleased to announce that the Firm has named John F. Higgins as a Partner in the firm.
Timoney Knox LLP is pleased to welcome Patrick M. Blair, who recently joined the firm’s Commercial and Real Estate Group in its Fort Washington, PA office.
Martin A. Heckscher, Esq. a founding partner of the Philadelphia and West Conshohocken law firm of Heckscher, Teillon, Terrill & Sager, P.C., has announced his retirement from the firm and from the practice of law effective on January 31, 2025, the day after his 90th birthday.
Sean KilKenny, Esq. has been appointed as a member of the Pennsylvania Supreme Court Juvenile Court Procedural Rules Committee for a term of six years, commencing April 1, 2025.
Morgan A. Barker
Samantha Barrett
Kirk Baumeister
Adam C. Bender
Francis Edward Bigham
Joseph P. Birmingham
Eugene Bonner
Ryan Robert Borowski
Paul R. Brazil
Jennifer W. Brennan
Jennifer M. Buono
Paul Michael Carrion
Dareus T. Chen
Sophia M. Chereisky
Luis Galindo Chiarelli
Joshua I. Chung
Dr. John Elliott Churchville
Carol L. Cingranelli
Jeffrey D. Cohen
Sarah Florence Collington
Russell T. Crotts
Leslie A. De Leon
Domenic J. Dicenso
Elise N. DiGuiseppe
Harlon (Gerry) Gerald Dobson
Oleksandra (Alex) Dorosheva, PhD
Erin F. Downing
Anastasia Dyak
David A. Earle
Lindsey K. Feeney
Kyle S. Felty
Hannah Fishman
Alex B. Frebowitz
Themistocles L Galanos, III
Grace C. Gelone
Michael S. Gill
Jessica Goralski
Brian A. Gordon
George Griffith Jr.
Kari Anne Grimsrud
Hannah Christine Guth
Julianna L. Hale
Kelly A. Hanna
Patrick J. Henry
Daniel T. Hicks
Scott C. Hofer
Zachary Hogan
Danielle M. Holliday
Dominique Holly
Daniel Hong
Geoffrey D. Hood
Kit A. Ivimey-Allen
Carey Jensen
Charles A. Jones, Jr.
Walter Jones, Jr.
Samuel J. Juliani
Laura B. Kamp
Elizabeth Plasser Kelly
Heather Kelly
Sophia Zoe Kilmer
Sawyer Branigan Kline
Samantha Kugler
Thu N. Lam
Anthony M. Lauder
Brenna Lawler
Christina Snyder Lechette
Nicholas J. Lee
Abigail Leeds
Racheal Levengood
Roxanne Y. Logan
Jose M. Lugo
Matthew P. Lynn
Keith S. Marlowe
Denise Marone
Louis Mayers
Randall McCormick
Moira McDaid
Ian James McDowell
Edgar Brubaker McIivaine
Paige L. McMillin-Goodwin
John P. McShea, IV
Elizabeth L. Melamed
David M. Melchiorre
Timothy Melvin
Jennifer Lynne McGuckinMignano
Crystal Y. Miller
Ciara Anne Murphy
Elizabeth Oquendo
Laura E. Ospina
Jordyn Pace
Maria Paratore
Luna K. Pattela
Alicia M. Pearson
Andrew R. Perrong
Danielle Phillips
William H. Pillsbury
John M. Popilock
Daniel Newcomb Purtell
Jordan M. Rand
Trenton G. Rawdan
Elizabeth A. Redmond
Keira M. Rhoat
Joseph L. Ring
Shintia Zaman Riva
Lance Robinson
Brittney L. Rodas
Jillian P. Roth
Christopher Den Rothermel
Gia Sacchetta
Gabriella Ridge Sánchez
Ashley L. Schectman-Johnson
Scott J. Schleifer
Emma L. Schurmeier
David Shafie
Kimberly E. Shields
Marc B. Shipon
Aditya Shukla
Kerry M. Silidker
Rebecca H. Simms
Kristi Ann Skok
Bryanna Y. Smith
Christopher Sperring
Sean Patrick Stevens
Raymond Szymkiewicz, III
Justin M. Tennenbaum
Carlos J. Thillet, Esq
Caleb Joshua Thomas
James E. Tone
Mark A. Umansky
Michael van der Veen
Rodney Blaine VanHorn
Renaud Jeante Vann
Kristen Lee Varallo
Joshua C. Wertheimer
Elizabeth Mary Wetzler
Dr. Gregory T. White, Jr.
Emily M. White
Peyton A. Woodward
Christopher E. Wright
Reilly Wright
Daniel J. Yarnall
Henry J. Young
Eric Zajac
Brian P. Ziff
Paige Zirrith
Javier A. Zurita
Mariah R. Zurowski
Thank You Retiring Members
Thomas F. Delaney
Claudia E. Genuardi
Martin A. Heckscher
James M. Jacquette
Robert Lankin
David W. Moneymaker
Merle R. Ochrach
Mark R. Semisch
Scot W. Semisch
