From the president

Welcome to the Northern California Chapter of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML).

The Northern California Chapter is one of the longest-standing and most active Chapters in the AAML. The members of our Chapter are considered leaders at the state and national levels of family law. Our Fellows have served in the AAML as president of the national academy, president of the national foundation, national governors, editors of the AAML Journal, and members of numerous national committees.

In California, our Fellows serve as leaders in the state and county bar associations across Northern California. We testify before the California Legislature regarding new laws and contribute legal briefs on important family law cases to California’s Courts of Appeal and Supreme Court. Designation as a Fellow in the AAML requires being at the forefront of the family law bar and establishing a record of leadership in family law practice.

Our Northern California Chapter hosts an annual symposium in Napa, California, open to the public. At the Symposium, AAML Fellows, family law judicial officers, and other invited speakers present cutting-edge family law topics. In addition, participants enjoy receptions, group dinners, and the incomparable Napa Valley. Our 2023 Symposium will be held in person at the Meritage Resort and Spa in Napa, CA, from May 5 – 7, 2023. 

Our Chapter is devoted to helping new family law attorneys become more knowledgeable members of our family law community. We host a trial practicum every other year, where emerging family law attorneys can hone their trial skills for family law trials. The event culminates with mock trials, usually held at the San Francisco courthouse. Our next practicum is planned for October 2024.

Our Fellows have established mentoring groups in nearly every Bay Area county, meeting monthly with newer family law attorneys to discuss the practice of family law. We also have established a mentoring group specializing in Diversity and Inclusion. Please email our Chapter Administrator at admin@aamlnorcal.org if you would like more information about participating in a mentoring group.

We encourage you to explore our website. You will learn more about AAML and find comprehensive biographical information on each of our Northern California Fellows. You will also find information about the continuing legal education programs that we sponsor, as well as our history of extensive community outreach and charitable contributions.

Thank you for giving us a chance to introduce you to the Northern California Chapter of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers. It is our privilege to be at your service.

Regards,

Michèle M. Bissada

2022 AAML NorCal President