Becoming A Fellow

AAML NorCal Fellows are leading voices in the most critical issues in California Family Law. Our academic programs and professional networking provide unparalleled opportunities to upgrade expertise while raising the level of Family Law practice.

Membership in the AAML is widely recognized by practicing attorneys as a benchmark of the highest quality professional acumen among Family Law practitioners in Northern California. The local chapter interviews potential Fellows, and AAML National approves their applications.

Benefits Of AAML Fellowship

Prestige

• Professional Recognition
• Immediately substantiate your professional competence and elevate your profile compared to other family lawyers
• Inclusion in the Academy’s online Lawyer Finder
• Use of the words AAML Fellow on your letterhead
• Use the AAML logo in your email signature and on firm’s
• Use the AAML logo on firms website (ONLY if all lawyers are AAML Fellows)

Professional Development

• Accelerate your professional development and anticipate future growth opportunities
• Discounted Academy Annual and Midyear meeting registration fees
• Unparalleled networking with the best family lawyers nationally to help advance your career and client base
• The best in Continuing Education (CLE)
• Reduced price and free access to online Webinars – all of which are recorded and available for on-demand

Publications

• The influential Journal of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers, which provides in depth analysis on relevant topics in family law
• Opportunity to be featured in both the AAML Monthly Newsletter and AAML weekly update e-mail
• Ability to secure custom book marks with all books purchased from AAML Bookstore

Professional Camaraderie

• The highest quality referrals
• Learn from the best in family law and share your experiences
• Access to local chapters, stay in touch through social functions and make local connections
• Ability to join one or more of the committees devoted to various areas of focus

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for membership, you must meet the following requirements:

• Member of the California Bar for seven years
• At least 75% of practice devoted to Family Law for at least the last five years.
• Exceptions are made for attorneys practicing in geographic areas where this is not feasible.
• If an attorney devotes 90% of their practice to Family Law, the 10-year requirement may be reduced to 5 years.
• Must be certified as a Specialist in Family Law by the California Board of Specialization
• Substantial trial experience in Family Law litigation
• Special consideration is given to candidates with a demonstrated ability to settle cases without the need for trial.
• Candidates must demonstrate the highest standards for character and ethics in their legal community.
• Successful evaluation by the Board of the National AAML
• Successful interview with the admissions committee of the NorCal Chapter
• For more information on the AAML’s Standards for Admission is available when applying.

Apply to become a fellow by clicking below, and filling out the pre-application form on the national AAML website.