President’s Message
By: Edward J. Fanning, Jr., Esq.

 

One of our top priorities for my year as President is for the NJDA to continue to provide first-rate in CLE while at the same time helping our members build their practices in these challenging economic times. I am happy to report that we are off to an excellent start. In November alone, we held two truly exceptional seminars with record-setting attendance. Marie Carey assembled an all-star lineup of Superior Court judges and private practitioners for our Women and the Law Seminar. The panelists discussed candidly the unique challenges and opportunities faced by female attorneys, including building professional relationships, trial advocacy considerations, business development, the importance of professionalism, and perspectives on the difficult work-like balance. It was an enlightening and engaging discussion showcasing various viewpoints from the bench, seasoned practitioners, and young lawyers. The positive energy and camaraderie in the room were incredible. Not surprisingly, the reviews for the seminar were truly exceptional.

Not to be outdone, on November 22, Chad Moore moderated a terrific Auto Liability Seminar featuring Mike Marone and Rich Williams discussing bad faith case law and proposed legislation, and Rob Luthman leading an interactive discussion regarding which medical expenses are “boardable” at trial. As an added bonus, we were able to co-sponsor this seminar with the Insurance Council of New Jersey. Their members also came out in large numbers for this seminar, which provided an opportunity for our NJBA members to spend valuable time with our ICNJ friends and colleagues. Again, the reviews were off the charts. I would like to extend a heartfelt thanks to Marie Carey, Chad Moore, all of our distinguished speakers, and our sponsors for presenting these excellent seminars to you.

As we move into the holiday season, I invite you all to join us for our upcoming Holiday Party on Tuesday, December 13 at 6:30 p.m. at Tumulty’s in New Brunswick. In the spirit of giving, our Young Lawyers Committee has designated Community Hope as our charity for this event. Community Hope is a great organization that provides therapy, counseling and support for homeless veterans and victims of mental illnesses. As always, it promises to be a lively, festive and fun evening in support of a worthy cause.

As we move through the holidays and into the New Year, please keep an eye out for further information on our annual Trial College, which has established itself as one of the premier trial advocacy training programs in the state. On February 13, 2012, our breakout groups will be occupying several courtrooms at the Union County Courthouse for this intensive hands-on trial advocacy workshop. Whether you are just starting out or have been practicing for decades, this unique CLE program is for you. Demand for this seminar is always very high so please be sure to reserve a spot early.

Best wishes for a wonderful holiday season and a happy, healthy and prosperous New Year!

Ed Fanning