05/2012 Marble Columns - New Haven County Bar Association

NHCBA
Encouraging Each Other to Excellence…
T h e N e w H a v e n C o u nt y B a r A s s o c i a t i o n
WE’RE BACK!
Y
A Note from Jonathan J. Einhorn, Editor
ou may have wondered where we’ve been since the last issue;
between staff changes and an office move, our beloved
Newsletter sat dormant.
This May 2012 issue looks back over the last six months and
includes the farewell columns of last year’s Bar President Charlie
Reed and Foundation President June Gold, along with photos from
the 2011 Golf Tournament and Annual Dinner.
The Committee is still angling for the ultimate return of the
Newsletter in mailed hardcopy, or a combination of hardcopy and
Internet-based news feed, but the electronic PDF version will have
to do for now, yet another victim of the economy.
If you have news to share or a column to submit, the next
deadline is June 1. As editor, I welcome people’s comments and
input (einhornlawoffice@gmail.com). Our newest staff member,
Leah Campbell, at lcampbell@newhavenbar.org or (203)562-9652
x11, coordinates the newsletter these days. 3
Celebrating at Winter Gala 2012
Vol. XViI, No. 1 MAY 2012
Winter’s Hot Topic Was MCLE
T
he Minimum Continuing Legal Education issue has been
sent to Chief Justice Chase Rogers and the Judicial Branch
for evaluation. The current proposal as presented by the Connecticut
Bar Association to the Rules Committee has been tabled.
Background:
Starting in Spring 2011, the Connecticut Bar Association began
promoting once again to other bars and subsequently the Rules
Committee the adoption of its proposal first presented in 2007 for
a Minimum Continuing Legal Education program for the lawyers
of Connecticut. In January 2012 the CBA amended its proposal.
Between the February and March Rules Committee meetings,
various positions were heard on the issue. In the end, the CBA’s
proposal was tabled in favor of the formation of a Judicial Branch
task force or commission to evaluate and report on the need for
MCLE, and if favorable, how it would be implemented and identify
sources of funding.
During the past few months the New Haven County Bar
Association took an active role soliciting feedback from its
members. It discovered an overwhelming majority opposed
MCLE. The bar’s findings were submitted to the Rules
Committee, and both NHCBA MCLE Task Force Chair Victor
Bolden and President Irene Jacobs made presentations opposing
MCLE to the Rules Committee.
What follows is a “Guest Column” President Jacobs wrote for
the Connecticut Law Tribune, published March 19, 2012, three days
prior to the March meeting of the Rules Committee. It provides a
good overview of the view of the NHCBA on this issue.
Continued on page 10
inside this issue
Join New Haven Lawyer Finder.................3
NHCBA Honors Its Veterans.....................5
Gala Committee and NHCBF Board members gathered to celebrate the success
of the 2nd Annual Liberty Bell Winter Gala. Pictured are (front row L-R) Shari
Shore, Joy Avallone, Patricia Kaplan, Jennifer DelMonico and Carrie Witt;
(second row L-R) Steve Jacobs, June Gold, Kim Zarra Wieler and Fred Leaf;
and (last row, L-R) Howard Levine, Dan Burns, Katie McColgan, Foundation
President Cheryl Heffernan, and Jim Craven. Read more on page 17.
Chief Justice Headlines
Pro Bono Summit.................................5
2nd Annual Liberty Bell Winter Gala....17
Resources for Members.........................23
1
President's Column
A Busy Year
by Irene P. Jacobs
I
Marble Columns
published by the
New Haven County
Bar Association
Vol. XVII, No. 1, May 2012
Newsletter Committee
Jonathan J. Einhorn, Editor
Andrew S. Knott, Assistant Editor
Honorable Anthony V. DeMayo
Patricia Neilsen
Thomas B. Pursell
2011-2012 Officers
Irene P. Jacobs, President
Sung-Ho Hwang, President-Elect
Robert C. Hinton, Treasurer
Howard K. Levine, Secretary
Victor A. Bolden, Assistant Secretary
John M. Parese, Assistant Treasurer
Charles P. Reed, Immed. Past President
NHCBA Staff
Carolyn B. Witt, Executive Director
Martha J. Messier, Program Coordinator
Leah Campbell,
Communications Coordinator
Josephine Costello, Admin. Assistant
Rosalie Morgan, Law Student Intern
Please submit materials or comments to:
The New Haven County Bar Association
P.O. Box 1441
New Haven, CT 06506-1441
Tel (203) 562-9652
Fax (203) 624-8695
E-Mail: NHCBAinfo@newhavenbar.org
Web: www.newhavenbar.org
Next issue(s) deadline:
Summer: June 1/ Fall: August 15
Design: Elaine Piraino-Holevoet/PIROET
Connect with us!
2
t is indeed my
honor
to be President of
the New Haven
County Bar
Association during
this very busy year.
Faced with
the challenges of
a difficult economy, we are working hard
to provide services which will encourage
attorneys to become members of the
county bar association and which will
encourage members to participate in the
activities we offer.
We’ve moved into new offices on
Orange St., providing our staff with
desperately needed work space and
also providing our members with two
comfortable conference rooms for their use.
We’re expanding our Internet
presence, revamping our website, opening
a Twitter account, and launching
“NewHavenLawyerFinder.com”, an
economical way for attorneys to establish
and maintain an online referral and
marketing web page.
We’re holding receptions to attract new
members in the Meriden-Wallingford area
and along the shoreline.
We’re reaching out to other
professionals, with our especially successful
Young Lawyers Section’s Young Professional
events.
We’re serving the public, with our
Young Lawyers Section’s Horn of Plenty
and Toys for Tots donation drives and
the Public Service Committee’s ongoing
diaper bank collections, clothing
collections for work re-entry programs,
monthly opportunities to work in a local
soup kitchen and providing educational
programs in local schools activities.
We’re continuing our commitment
to provide ongoing education to our
members, adding our recent and successful
Masters’ Series “Tactics from the Trenches”
to our extensive curriculum of Continuing
Legal Education courses.
We’re representing the positions of
our members in issues that directly affect
our practices. After the results of our
Minimum Continuing Legal Education
Continued on page 23
Editor's Column
How to Coax an Objection
from Reluctant Counsel
by Jonathan J. Einhorn
S
ometimes
you have to
stand up for what
you believe in, and
sometimes you just
have to stand up.
I represented
Willie Nunley in a
capital murder case,
charged under RICO, as he was part of a
drug ring, operating out of Father Panik
Village in Bridgeport. He was alleged to
have brutally murdered two people at the
housing project. Willie was about 6 foot
six inches, 350 pounds, and was aptly
nicknamed “Man” by the other residents.
When he came out of his apartment, the
other residents went back inside. He had
threatened my previous counsel with a shot
“upside the head” if he didn’t withdraw
from the case. (The attorney was only too
happy to withdraw.)
Trial proceeded painfully, with
eyewitness after eyewitness testifying as to
the murders. This is a brief excerpt of the
cross-examination of a nurse living near a
parked car where one victim was shot:
Q: There was no street light near the
incident you describe, so you
couldn’t see my client do anything
at that location, could you?
A: Mr. Einhorn, your client shot Mr.
Smith in the head.
Q: You said he shot the victim from
the driver’s side door, but you were
in a building on the other side of
the car.
A: Mr. Einhorn, your client shot Mr.
Smith in the head.
Q: No further questions, thank you.
The late Judge Peter Dorsey presided
over the trial in U.S. District Court in
New Haven, with the cases tried against
all five defendants together. It was a
Continued on page 6
L
Join New Haven Lawyer Finder!
ast year the NHCBA announced the anticipation of a new
online referral and marketing service, New Haven Lawyer
Finder, and we are thrilled to say it launched on February 1st!
New Haven Lawyer Finder (NHLF) is an online service that
provides Internet visibility to NHCBA member participants,
capturing clients who are looking for a local lawyer online.
When prospective clients click on NHLF, they click through
a few selections to find a lawyer that meets their needs – and can
even browse among different attorneys. These listings (similar to a
mini-website) tell clients about the attorney’s background and how
to contact to the attorney.
The NHCBA’s intent is to create in the Greater New Haven
area the foremost online consumer resource for finding local
lawyers and other legal information. The public will be able to find
participating attorneys through personalized listings that allow users
to select an attorney who best meets their needs.
The NHCBA is already well known in the community. People
know – and trust – the NHCBA as a resource. By listing on
Lawyer Finder, bar members will be part of a bank of attorneys who
consumers know they can trust and respect. The LRS Committee
welcomes all NHCBA members interested. However, while
there was a good initial sign up, the Committee would like more
attorneys to make the site even more robust and credible.
The following practice areas particularly need a few more
attorneys: general litigation, small business formation, malpractice
(both medical and professional), social security, bankruptcy,
employment (plaintiff ), education and special education,
NHCBA Expanding Outside of
Downtown City Limits
F
or the past year the bar association has been promoting
special receptions in the Meriden/Wallingford area and,
more recently, on the Shoreline. This is all towards a goal of creating
viable, self-organized Sections for the attorneys of these areas.
The NHCBA’s Membership Committee is overseeing this
expansion process. The only requirement to participate is
membership in the NHCBA -- there are no extra section fees. The Bar hopes to develop Steering Committees in each area to
assume the responsibility of organizing a few events a year based
on the expressed interest of the local attorneys. The activities
could range from just social events to lunches, CLEs, public
service projects, guest speakers, or whatever would support the
local legal community.
The Shoreline Steering Committee is just getting under
way, with over 12 volunteers to date. The Meriden/Wallingford/
Cheshire area committee is still in formation but with good karma
coming its way.
If you work or reside in these areas and are interested in
learning more, please contact the NHCBA’s Communications
Coordinator, Leah Campbell, who would be very happy to answer
any questions you may have regarding these new Sections. She
can be reached via e-mail at lcampbell@newhavenbar.org or in the
office at 203.562.9652. Please help bring back bar association activity in the Greater
Meriden and Shoreline areas! 3
immigration, adoption/surrogacy, real estate, consumer protection,
environmental, and workers compensation.
Don’t wait – visit the website, www.newhavenlawyerfinder.com,
and click on the JOIN NOW button at the bottom of the home
page.
Cost is $150/month, charged automatically to your credit card,
or receive one month free by paying $1,650 up front. Fee includes
two areas of law, which can be changed at any time during the one
year commitment.
For more information, call the Bar Center office at 203-5629652 or email LRS Coordinator Martha Messier at mmessier@
newhavenbar.org or LRS Committee Chair John Parese at jparese@
buckleywynne.com. 3
Check us out at www.NewHavenLawyerFinder.com
Upcoming
CLE SeminarS
Coming Soon! Dates TBA
• Preparing for Change: Business Succession
• Forensic Engineering: Developing Causation from Scene Investigation
• Focusing On Your Law Firm’s Financial Future: Building A Business Plan
• Committee for Sale
• Using Experts in Civil Cases
Cost is $55 for members, $85 for non-members,
and $15 for law students & TAC members.
Advanced registration preferred.
The NHCBA is an accredited provider
of New York MCLE.
3
Guest Column
Toot, Toot
I
by William F. Dow, III
t was a good day. A client came in to
hire me on a good-sized criminal
case. Decent fee. Staff gets paid this week.
Good news for a slow August.
“How did you come to hire me,” I say. “Well, we looked at your webpage on the
Internet,” they said.
Well, I say to myself, it’s not like the old days.
There was a time when the way to get clients was either good
word of mouth from a satisfied customer—try that one on for size
in a criminal practice—-or getting your name in the paper.
These days nobody under 65 reads the paper or, if they do, all
they learn from page 2 of the Elm City’s esteemed daily is which
previously unknown celebrity has (a) impregnated his former
girlfriend, (b) been arrested for DUI, or (c) made some ethnic slur
that has caused furor among 2/3rd’s of Facebook subscribers.
No, apart from advertising (about which our delusional editor
repeatedly opines in this periodical), your webpage is where it’s at.
That’s what brings in the clients. The better you present yourself,
the more people come in.
This necessarily involves a good bit of tooting your own horn,
beating your breast and other forms of self-aggrandizement that
offend most of those blessed with a modicum of common sense
and decency. Creating a webpage is like the now-disreputable noincome verification loans: an invitation to lie.
Well, yes, Disciplinary Counsel keeps an eye on this stuff,
but in reality they’re too busy chasing around members of our
profession who, in one form or another, have fleeced those who
have been beguiled by their websites.
How, then, to best present ourselves? There are always the
objective, cold hard facts — “Attorney X recently won a verdict of
$2.1 Million in a soft tissue injury case;” “Attorney Y has settled a
class action suit for a gazillion dollars”, etc.
It’s harder, though, if a large part of your practice is in the
criminal arena. For those of us who travel that pathway, our
successes are most often gauged by the familiar “A Small Defeat
is a Big Victory” yardstick. Oh sure, there are the occasional trial
victories (I seem to remember winning a Disorderly Conduct
trial back in the late ’90s), but for the most part it is the disasters
avoided that count as victories.
Do you, then, recount on your website that jacklighting case
in Bantam that was continued 27 times until the State’s only
witness moved and the case was nolled? And, if so, in order to
impress the reader, do you describe it as “Attorney Z recently
convinced a prosecutor to drop all charges in a highly-publicized
shooting case.”
How about that DUI case where you stand next to your client
in court, say next to nothing, and she is admitted into the Alcohol
Education Program after obtaining a Work Permit from DMV on
a form you provided. I suppose the rules of good website practice
compel you to say “He also successfully secured a dismissal for a
client charged with DUI and, in doing so, secured for his client
the right to operate her vehicle so she could continue to support
her family.”
Even harder, I suppose, are those cases you actually do take to
trial where the jury acquits on three counts of a ten-count
Continued on page 6
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NHCBA Honors Its Veterans
T
he NHCBA held a special
Veteran’s Day Ceremony
on Thursday, November 10,
2011 at G.A. 23 to re-dedicate
a World War II commemorative
plaque that was recently
restored. The wooden plaques
list the names of members of
the NHCBA who served in
WWII. NHCBA President Irene
Jacobs and New Haven Superior
Court Administrative Judge
Brian Fischer led the ceremony.
Attendees included attorney
veterans and family of the
plaque veterans. The New Haven
Independent online newspaper ran
a great story, see details at
www.newhavenindependent.org. 3
Chief Justice Headlines
Pro Bono Summit
by Jennifer Wilcox
Upper left: Judge Fischer greets attendees. Above top: Member veterans
recognized by President Jacobs. Bottom: Jacobs with Waterbury attorney Paul
S. Bialobrzeski (L), who underwrote the cost of this project, and artist Frank
Argenta, who did the restoration.
Helping Ronald McDonald House
I
n March, the Pro Bono Committee of the New Haven County
Bar Association sponsored a very successful “Pro Bono
Summit of New Haven” with presentations by Chief Justice Rogers,
Judge Bright, New Haven Legal Assistance and members of the
local bar. The Summit was intended to capitalize on the success
of the statewide Pro Bono Summit held in Hartford in October,
which drew approximately 130 attendees and featured members of
the judiciary, law firm leaders and corporate counsel. New Haven
attorneys were reportedly underrepresented at the statewide summit,
so the Pro Bono Committee organized a New Haven-specific event
to draw attention to the need for pro bono services, and to help
remove some of the perceived barriers to doing pro bono work. The
Pro Bono Summit of New Haven was held at Ben Tara restaurant
and was free of charge to attendees, thanks to the generosity of
sponsors Wiggin and Dana, Littler Mendelson, Koskoff Koskoff &
Beider, and Yale New Haven Health System. More than 45 lawyers
were in attendance, as well as representatives of local groups utilizing
pro bono services, and all ate, drank and learned about the many
resources available to encourage pro bono work, including the new
pro bono portal at http://probono.ctlawhelp.org.
For further information about the Pro Bono Committee,
contact Chair Jennifer Willcox at Jennifer.Willcox@ynhh.org. 3
Last July, the New Haven law firm of Lynch, Traub, Keefe and Errante sponsored
a “Christmas in July” toy drive to benefit the New Haven Ronald McDonald
House. The firm collected an abundance of toys and also raised $3,500 for the
house. Pictured delivering the toys to the Ronald McDonald House from L-R
are: Steve Errante (attorney), Marisa Bellair (attorney), Joyce Riccitelli (nurse
consultant), Thais Zwicker (paralegal) and Lou Rubano (attorney).
5
Guest Column, continued from p. 2
Even harder, I suppose, are those cases you actually do take
to trial where the jury acquits on three counts of a ten-count
indictment and the poor client still ends up in jail. Or the ones
where the prosecutor asks for ten years and your client, happily,
takes six from a lenient judge. How does the spin-meister
massage that one?
Then there are the graphics. Pictures of gavels? Courthouses?
Movie-set worthy empty courtrooms? They’re all available.
Catchphrases? “Reasonable Doubt for a Reasonable Price.”
“We’re there when you need us most.” “Successfully representing
clients throughout Connecticut since the invention of the iPad.”
And let us not forget the attorney photos. Where do you
find an IT Houdini who can digitally hide the jowls, brighten
the teeth, and transform your Larry the Cable Guy into George
Clooney? They’re out there. And I guess the name of the game
is to find them and use them so your comely visage appears
right there next to the other exaggerations about your legendary
exploits.
I have to go now. I’m told there’s a photo session scheduled
and I have been directed to apply Max Factor #9 to my age spots.
I’m advised that, once posted, new clients will be beating down
the doors here at 350 Orange Street. 3 Calling All Golfers – 7th Annual
NHCBA Golf Tournament – August 6, 2012!!!
Editor’s Column, continued from p. 2
circus! The clients and their lawyers sat knee to knee around two
tables, formed into an L. We took turns questioning witnesses
and objecting to the government’s painful but highly effective
presentation of the evidence.
At one point, a few weeks into trial, one of my co-counsel
stood up and made some frivolous objection to a government
question of a witness. Willie leaned over (and down) to me and
directed, “Einhorn, you object.” I replied naively, “Willie, there’s
nothing to object to.” He then picked up a pen from the table and
said, “Either you stand up and object or I’ll stab you in the leg
with this pen.”
His point was clear. I jumped up and said, “Objection, your
honor.”
Judge Dorsey, obviously watching and enjoying the encounter,
inquired “And what’s the basis of your objection, Mr. Einhorn?”
I smiled weakly and said, “Give me a minute, I’ll think of
something, your honor.”
Whereupon Judge Dorsey turned to the confused jury and
said with a big smile, “That’s just boyish enthusiasm.” They
laughed, and I sat down. All seemed safe for the moment.
Willie was subsequently convicted but did not receive the
death penalty. I hear he is doing “hard time” in a penitentiary in
Louisiana these days.
In future cases I have subsequently tried to gauge the relative
animosity of my clients before parting with pens for their use at
trial. 3
Please visit www.newhavenbar.org
for additional details.
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NHCBA Golf Tournament 2011
The NHCBA thanks Stratton Faxon for its generous sponsorship, along with
RBC Wealth Management – Dinner Sponsor
Tee Sponsors
Citi at Work – Lunch Sponsor
Robson Forensic, Inc. – Beverage Sponsor
AT&T – Driving Range Sponsor
Rimkus Consulting Group, Inc. – Cart Sponsor Prizes and raffle items provided by:
Charles P. Reed, Esq. – Longest Drive
GoFor Services, Inc. – Closest to Pin
Webster Bank – Men’s Closest to Pin
Del Vecchio Reporting Services – Women’s Closest to Pin
ABC Printing Buckley & Wynne Carmody & Torrance CATIC Chiarelli Law Firm, LLC Citi at Work
Country Club of Woodbridge Jacobs & Dow, LLC.
Koskoff, Koskoff & Bieder MedAllocators
Niziankiewicz & Miller Reporting Services, LLC.
Pioneer Adjustment Service, Inc. Charles P. Reed, Esq. Stratton Faxon Vital Signs Insurance Webster Bank Wiggin and Dana
7
Past President's Column
Working for You
A
by Charles P. Reed
s I reflect on the past year as
President of the New Haven County
Bar Association 2010-11, I am pleased
to report that the Association completed
some long-term projects, continued daily
operations with strict cost controls and, most
importantly, made strategic investments for
the future. We are adapting to challenges
created by the severe economic conditions
and paradigmatic shifts in the practice of law. As a Bar association
that has been supportive of local lawyers for over two centuries,
we hope to always be there to respond to the needs of lawyers as
circumstances change in the future.
This year, we launched the new NHCBA website, after much
work by the bar staff under the direction and leadership of the
Information Technology Committee chaired by Josh Hecht and
Chris Nelson. I encourage members to visit the site and use it to
learn of bar association activities, register for events and view the online photo gallery. We had an exceptional response from members
who sat for photographs for the new online member directory – the
vendor actually stayed an extra week – and all of this took place at
no cost to the bar association.
We reconvened the committee on Minimum Continuing Legal
Education (MCLE), chaired by Victor Bolden and last chaired
in 2008 by me, to help fashion a response to the CBA’s renewed
push for MCLE. Although opinions are divided about the need for
MCLE and the proper form it should take if adopted, you should
know that we play an active role in the process and continue to
convey the opinions of our members.
A big change was put into motion during the summer when
the NHCBA came to the end of its lease in the Gold Building and
decided to move. The new bar association office in the historic
Lomas & Nettleton building on Orange Street in New Haven offers
more conference rooms and class room space for the NHCBA to
use for CLE programs, meetings, but especially use by the members.
We negotiated this new location during the last year and obtained a
very favorable rental rate and more space to replace the old crowded
office. An Open House was held on April 19 to welcome our
members to the new office.
The LRS Committee, chaired by John Parese, Jr. and Claudette
Narcisco, investigated and received approval from the NHCBA
Executive Committee to launch the NHCBA’s New Haven
LawyerFinder.com on-line attorney referral service. This service will
allow members to promote their practices for a flat monthly fee
through a listing on an on-line platform sponsored by the NHCBA.
This will provide our members with a web-based marketing portal
at much lower cost than a website and a more effective one than
a static web page. The NHCBA will spend some resources and
devote staff time to support the implementation and growth of this
platform. We are among the first few metropolitan bar associations
in the country to adopt this innovative platform originally
developed by the Columbus Bar Association.
The famous Gov. Henry Dutton desk, restored by the NHCBA
in 2007 for the Charter Centennial historical exhibition, has been
installed for public display in the New Haven Law Library at New
Haven Superior Court. I thank Judge Anthony DeMayo and John
Parese, Sr. for their dedication to this project.
The credit for all of the year’s hard work and success belongs to
the people who did the work, which includes your committees and
chairs, the NHCBA board of directors and officers, and association
staff, especially Carrie Witt, who in spite of very great personal
challenges, has selflessly and tirelessly worked for the betterment
of this organization. There is no need to take my word for it,
just ask any of her colleagues at the National Association of Bar
Executives, where she recently concluded her year as President of
that organization to rave reviews.
It has been a pleasure serving as your President, and I extend
my thanks to my predecessor, Rick Roberts, who did such a fine job
and to my successor, Irene Jacobs, who I am confident will provide
strong leadership to this organization. 3
8
LNad 3.5x2 50146ol.indd 1
2/16/11 4:45 PM
NHCBA News Briefs
“LEGAL LINES” CALL-IN EVENT
HELPS COMMUNITY
NHCBA OFFICE WELCOMES MS. CAMPBELL
The NHCBA is delighted to welcome new
staff member Leah Campbell. Leah is the
new Communications Coordinator and
is staff liaison to the Newsletter, Public
Relations, Information Technology,
Membership and CLE committees,
Young Lawyers Section, and the Bar
Foundation. She joins us after working
in the international event planning and
other marketing arenas. Leah is in the office full-time, so please feel
free to email her at lcampbell@newhavenbar.org and make her feel
welcome! 3
On October 19, 2011, the
George Crawford Black Bar
Association in collaboration
with the New Haven County
Bar Association, sponsored
a “Legal Lines” free callin legal advice program.
Hosted by Wiggin and Dana, the event was a way for members of
both organizations to give back to the community. Pictured from left
to right are attorney participants Lucas M. Watson, John DiManno,
Sheldon Smith and Pia M. Pyles (Event Organizer). 3
NEW BAR CENTER LOCATION
The NHCBA’s administrative offices moved in late December to
171 Orange Street, Fl. 2, New Haven, 06510 – the Lomis Nettleton
building at the corner of Orange and Court Streets. (General mail
should still be directed to P.O. Box 1441, New Haven, 06506-1441.) The move came as the result of 1) the lease being up, 2) the need for
more space, and 3) the desire to lower rent costs.
The new office is almost double the size of the old space, and is
much more member-friendly in that the NHCBA now offers use of
two conference rooms: large (12 people) and small (4 people). These
rooms are available for member use and rental – FREE if less than
90 minutes!
The office is conveniently located directly behind the Federal
and Bankruptcy Courts, so please share the conference room rental
information with colleagues and out-of-state counsel. 3
JUSTICE CLARENCE THOMAS RETURNS
TO LEGAL AID ROOTS
Pictured are U.S. Supreme Court
Justice Clarence Thomas and
NHLAA’s Executive Director
Patricia Kaplan at a private
luncheon held in justice’s honor on
December 14, 2011 at Adrianna’s
Restaurant in New Haven. Justice
Thomas spoke in a relaxed way to
over 45 attorneys, judges and other guests about his internship at New
Haven Legal Assistance before and while he was a student at Yale Law
School, and the lasting, touching impact it made on his life. 3
2011 Memorial Service
I
NHCBA Annual Summer Outing
Thursday June 28, 2012 – 4:30-10:00 pm
at The Owenego Inn, Branford
Cost: $55 members / $85 non-members
$40 New Haven Young Lawyers Section,
TACs members, summer associates & law students
RSVP online or call the NHCBA Office at
(203) 562-9652.
by Jonathan J. Einhorn
n a year with only six deceased members of the NHCBA, their
family and colleagues remembered them at the annual
Service of Remembrance on November 3. The event was chaired by
Dick Jacobs, as in the past, who introduced the speakers.
Administrative Judge Brian Fischer gave opening and closing
remarks. Recently installed NHCBA President Irene P. Jacobs spoke
briefly. Also in attendance were the Superior Court judges and
referees sitting in New Haven.
Martin Cruz was memorialized by his friend and fellow public
defender Richard Emmanuel, and Judge Terry Zemetis eulogized
his friend and former partner Joseph Delaney, who was one of the
giants of the New Haven Bar.
Former West Haven Probate Judge Mike Heffernan spoke of his
brother, the late Gerry Heffernan, and Ken Mulvey was eulogized
by his friend and former partner David Crotta. Ken was very active
in sports programs in Guilford, aside from being an excellent
defense lawyer.
The late Judge John Ottaviano, Jr. (“Johnny O” as he was
affectionately known to the bar), was memorialized by his daughter
Carla Ottaviano. Among other things, Judge Ottaviano was an
ardent bowler. Ron Scherban also passed away in 2010, a New
Haven native who attended Hillhouse and whose office was on
Orange Street. 3
9
Committee Chair Roster
T
2011-2012 Committees & Programs
he NHCBA acknowledges and thanks the following members
who volunteer their time and energy to keep the committees
of the bar active and contributing to the local legal community. Any
member who is interested in joining a committee should feel free to
contact the chair.
Committee appointments are for one year, starting October 1,
2012. Nominations (or self-nominations) for leadership positions
are encouraged and should be submitted to Executive Director
Carolyn Witt by June 30, 2012. 3
Bankruptcy
Kenneth Lenz
(203) 891-9800
Ken@lenzlawfirm.com
Publicity
Carolyn Kone
(203) 772-2600
ckone@bswlaw.com
Continuing Legal Education
Eileen Becker
(203) 265-2035
ebecker@lflaw.com
Stacy E. Votto
(203) 787-2000
stacy@sev-law.com
CLE Nuts & Bolts Series
Laura Smith
(203) 498-4400
lkirby@wiggin.com
Patrick G. Hughes
(203) 361-1253
phughes@pghugheslaw.com
Court Relations
Patricia Nielsen
(203) 503-6800
Patricia.Nielsen@jud.ct.gov
Howard K. Levine
(203) 777-5501
hlevine@carmodylaw.com
Criminal
Mark L. Goodman
(203) 782-9241
mcnamara.and.goodman@snet.net
Environmental/Land Use
[open]
Family Law
Margot Kenefick Burkle
(203) 315-7000
mburkle@MWLLC.us
Susan Nugent
(203) 787-6711
SNugentLaw@gmail.com
Information Technology
Joshua D. Hecht
(203) 772-0070
jhecht@chsm-law.com
Chris R. Nelson
(203) 772-0073
chris@nelsonlawct.com
Lawyer Referral Service
John M. Parese
(203) 776-2278
jparese@buckleywynne.com
Legal/Medical
Stuart C. Johnson
(203) 777-5501
sjohnson@carmodylaw.com
10
Membership
Maria Chiarelli
(203) 288-7961
maria.ch@sbcglobal.net
Scott A. Leventhal
(203) 865-3123
scott@ltlaw.com
Mentor Program
Brad Saxton
(203) 582-3200
brad.saxton@quinnipiac.edu
Meriden Section
[new - open]
New Haven Paralegals
[open]
New Haven Women Attorneys
Eileen Jenetopulos
(203) 453-2324
attyjenetopulos@comcast.net
Margot Kenefick Burkle
(203) 315-7000
mburkle@MWLLC.us
Real Estate
Bruce R. Peabody
(203) 772-4400
bruce.peabody@winnicklaw.com
Solo/Small Firm
[new - open]
Special Events
John M. Parese
(203) 776-2278
jparese@buckleywynne.com
*Annual Dinner
Sung-Ho Hwang
(203) 624-2811
sh@hwanglaw.com
*Golf Tournament
Ryan Scully
(203) 250-2000
rscully@nuzzo-roberts.com
New Haven Young Lawyers
Patrick Hughes, President
(203) 361-1253
phughes@pghugheslaw.com
Joshua Hecht, President -Elect
(203) 772-0070
jhecht@chsm-law.com
Newsletter
Jonathan J. Einhorn, Editor
(203) 777-3777
einhornlawoffice@gmail.com
Andrew S. Knott, Asst. Editor
(203) 271-3031
andrewknott@knottlaw.com
REPORTING & VIDEO
Nominating Committee
Charles P. Reed
(203) 265-2035
creed@LFLaw.com
2010
Pro Bono
Jennifer N. Willcox
(203) 688-9966
Jennifer.Willcox@ynhh.org
Public Service
Philip G. Kent
(203) 624-9830
PKent@susmanduffy.com
Joy Avallone
(203) 996-5327
Joy.Avallone@gmail.com
249 Pearl Street
Hartford, CT 06103
(860) 549-1850
(800) 852-4589
*Service of Remembrance
Richard L. Jacobs
(203) 777-2300
rjacobs@jacobs-jacobs.com
Steven D. Jacobs
(203) 777-2300
steve@jacobs-jacobs.com
*Summer Outing
Giovanni Spennato
(203) 503-6811
giovanni.spennato@jud.ct.gov
Katherine McColgan
203-230-2500
katie@farverandheffernan.com
Tax
Martin Goldberg
(203) 543-9750
mgoldberg03@yahoo.com
Trusts, Estates & Probate
Elizabeth (Beth) Leamon
(203) 772-7704
eleamon@murthalaw.com
T
Annual Dinner 2011
his year’s annual dinner was held at Anthony’s Ocean View to the legal profession; is held in high esteem and regard by
in New Haven where we were able to enjoy the company,
clients, colleagues, and the judiciary; practices with the highest
the food and an amazing view! Overlooking the water at
ethical and professional standards” and who has been in practice
sunset and with plenty of space for everyone to mingle. A
for at least forty years. William H. Prout, Jr. gave the tribute.
cocktail party and dinner were enjoyed by over 350 people.
Also recognized were the outgoing NHYL President, Chris
The NHCBA installed its officers for the
Nelson; incoming Foundation President
2011-2012 year: Irene P. Jacobs (Jacobs
Cheryl Heffernan; and new Honorary
& Jacobs) as President, with Sung-Ho
Members Francis X. Dineen, Adam
Hwang (Law Offices of Sung-Ho Hwang)
Mantzaris and Richard J. Parrett.
as President-Elect, Robert C. Hinton
The NHCBA is grateful to dinner
(Hinckley, Allen & Snyder LLP) as
sponsors LexisNexis, ISI New England
Treasurer, Howard K. Levine (Carmody &
Insurance, LawPay Merchant Credit Card
Torrance) as Secretary, Victor A. Bolden
Acceptance Program, Citibank, and GoFor
(Corporation Counsel, City of New
Services, as well as the 2011 Leadership
Haven) as Assistant Secretary, and John
Circle fi
rms:
M. Parese (Buckley & Wynne) as Assistant John A. Keyes (L), Yale Sappern Civility Award recipient
Champion: Koskoff, Koskoff & Bieder;
with William J. Doyle, recipient of the Lifetime
Treasurer.
Patron: Carmody & Torrance, Jacobs
Achievement Award
John A. Keyes, Judge of Probate,
& Dow, LLC., Wiggin & Dana, LLP.;
District of New Haven, received the Yale
Advocate: Hinckley, Allen & Synder, LLP., Loughlin FitzGerald,
Sappern Civility Award, which recognizes a New Haven area
PC., Nuzzo & Roberts, LLC., Quinnipiac University School
lawyer, judge or court staff person who strives for excellence; is
of Law; Supporters: Garcia & Milas, Jacobs & Jacobs Littler
courteous to clients, colleagues, Court and staff; and helps others
Mendelson, PC., Parrett, Porto, Parese & Colwell, PC., The
by listening and providing guidance. William F. Dow III, long
Chiarelli Law Firm The Gallagher Law Firm, Winnick, Ruben,
time friend and colleague of Keyes’, gave the tribute.
Chambers Hoffnung & Peabody, LLC.; and Friend: Donahue,
William J. Doyle, a retired partner at Wiggin and Dana,
Durham & Noonan, PC GoldLaw, LLC., Law Offices of Sung-Ho
received the Lifetime Achievement Award, which highlights a
Hwang, LLC Levy, Leff & DeFrank, PC The Pellegrino Law Firm,
local attorney or judge who “has made outstanding contributions Reid & Riege, PC., Stratton Faxon. 3
11
WHY THE NEW HAVEN COUNTY BAR ASSOCIATION
OPPOSES MCLE PROPOSAL:
In 2007, the Connecticut Bar Association unveiled a proposal
for Minimum Continuing Legal Education. The New Haven
County Bar Association reviewed the proposal, surveyed its
members and discovered that seventy-five percent (75%) of the
survey’s respondents opposed the CBA’s 2007 proposal. The
proposal was presented to the Rules Committee of the Superior
Court, which decided not to vote on the issue at that time.
In May of 2011, the CBA informed leaders of the NHCBA
that it intended to resubmit its proposal to the Rules Committee.
Once again, the NHCBA MCLE Task Force reviewed the proposal
and conducted a survey of NHCBA members. The Task Force
concluded that the 2011 CBA proposal had not changed from the
2007 proposal. A little more than seventy-seven percent (77.1%) of
the respondents in the 2011 survey opposed the MCLE proposal,
similar to the seventy-five percent (75%) who opposed it in 2007.
The CBA presented its MCLE proposal to the Rules Committee
on October 24, 2011. The Rules Committee tabled discussion
of the proposal, pending input from regional and specialty bar
associations. The NHCBA MCLE Task Force submitted its analysis
of its surveys and the basis for its opposition to the 2011 CBA
proposal to the Rules Committee.
At the February 27, 2012 meeting of the Rules Committee, the
CBA presented a revised proposal. After committee members expressed
concerns about the need for and costs of the program, and the lack
of input from the “rank and file” members of the CBA, the Rules
Committee put the revised proposal on its March meeting agenda.
So, what does the New Haven County Bar Association think
is wrong with the CBA’s revised proposal? First, the need. The
CBA has failed to identify a particular problem that its MCLE
proposal would solve. In support of its proposal, the CBA merely
asserts the fact that a large number of states have MCLE programs
in place. It fails, however, to provide any statistical support that
the establishment of MCLE in any of these states has made any
difference in any aspect of the quality of law practiced in those
states.
Second, the cost. The proposal contains no projected start-up
cost and no projected operating budget. The proposal merely states
that an MCLE Commission would be created and funded by initial
and annual fees collected from “Accredited Sponsors,” including
“the Connecticut Bar Association, all local, regional and special
interest bar associations in the state, the Judicial Branch of the State
of Connecticut; and the Offices of the Attorney General, Public
Defender and Chief State’s Attorney.” There is no indication as to
what these initial and annual fees might be, or even how they might
be calculated. Although the CBA considers the institution of these
initial and annual accredited sponsor fees to be a shifting of the cost
of the program from attorneys to accredited sponsors, the inevitable
result would be that accredited sponsors, some of whom are already
operating under shoestring budgets, would be forced to pass these
additional fees on to MCLE course attendees. The cost of the new
program would be borne by attorneys whose overwhelming concern
about the proposal has consistently been its cost.
Third, the lack of input from, as one member of the Rules
Committee stated, the “rank and file.” Three separate bar
organizations surveyed their members on the CBA’s MCLE
proposal, and analysis of the results of all three surveys revealed that
a majority of the responding attorneys were opposed to the CBA’s
MCLE proposal. Yet, the CBA has refused the NHCBA’s repeated
requests for the CBA to survey its members on the proposal.
Instead, the CBA relies on the fact that the CBA’s the House of
Delegates endorsed the proposal to demonstrate the bar’s support
of its proposal. The only means to determine whether the House of
Delegates endorsement is truly representative of the opinion of CBA
members is for the CBA to survey its members.
The issue before the Rules Committee is not whether
Connecticut’s attorneys need to engage in professional development.
The answer to that question is surely yes. The NHCBA, like many
other bar associations in the state, has offered and will continue to
offer CLE courses to assist lawyers with professional development.
It will continue to work with the CBA, the Judicial Branch and
other local bar associations on programs aimed at ensuring that
Connecticut’s lawyers adhere to the highest professional and ethical
standards. Rather, the issue is whether the CBA’s MCLE Proposal is
the right means for ensuring that professional development occurs.
However well-intentioned this proposal may be — and there is no
doubt that it is — it is the position of the New Haven County Bar
Association that
the CBA’s Proposed
MCLE Rules should
not be adopted. 3
– Irene Jacobs
President
New Haven County
Bar Association
support your bar
association’s
Lawyer Referral Service
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LEGAL
DELIVERY
SOLUTIONS
3.625”
Hot Topic: MCLE, continued from p. 1
the right call for the right lawyer®
Tel. (203) 562-5750 Fax (203) 624-8695
E-mail: lrs@newhavenbar.org
12
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Assistant Editor’s Column
A House and a Hurricane.
by Andrew S. Knott
N
ot long ago, my father referred to
me as “footloose and fancy-free.”
My home consisted of a studio apartment
with a separate kitchen. My bed could
fold-up behind a screen when I had people
over—which wasn’t often, as I lived in
walking distance to downtown, my de-facto
living room. I had a cleaning lady who kept my place habitable
and a laundry service that picked up, washed, dried, folded, and
returned the clothes in perfect order. Leaving home for any length
of time was easy, as all that was necessary was locking the door.
A year and a half ago, things changed a bit. I now have a cat
(29 pounds!) to keep the mice out of the 103 year-old house that
I now call home, which came with a Nixon-era avocado green
washer and dryer. So, doing laundry is a skill I have relearned,
along with mowing the lawn and watching the thermostat—heat
and hot water are not included in my mortgage payment. When
I go away, I have to plan who will take care of the cat, how the
driveway will be plowed, and whether to ask my neighbor if he
can take the trash can to the curb. And since this is Morris Cove,
my neighbors watch when I come and go and I’m sure they muse
about where I am going, why I am there, and whether or not they
approve of the speculated endeavor engaged therein.
These new duties of what we call “home-ownership” seem to
be worth it, if for no other reason than the sense of permanence it
provides to permit the financial and emotional investment that I
am making in it. Being able to take a walk by the seawall its own
pleasure, too, but that also has its price.
When I was researching the house, I saw that it is on the
only block in the entire neighborhood that is not in a 100 year
hurricane flood zone. The weather models also say the block
should be able to survive a Category II hurricane. I thought I
would be angst-free, even in the event of a severe hurricane. Then
along came Irene.
The National Weather Service became my wise and level-headed
friend in the midst of the doomsday predictions made by the lumlums on TV. I measured the seawall at high tide to see if it could
beat a worst-case-scenario 8 foot surge, which it could. At this point,
Irene was a Category II hurricane, and I knew that my house could
withstand those winds, given that it was still standing after 1938.
Using all the available information, it appeared that while the storm
could make it a little lumpy at times, everything should be okay. So,
I hunkered down at home. Then I was told to evacuate.
When the storm had somewhat calmed, I returned to an intact
home with lights, a dry basement, and a big sigh of relief. Ironically,
on Monday, my office in Cheshire still did not have internet or cable.
As the week progressed, I saw how badly parts of the shoreline
were hit. Beachfront homes and even portions of streets were gone
just a few miles away in East Haven. Woodbridge’s high water table
hurt many basements there. And in Vermont, Irene’s flooding took
out some iconic covered bridges, making it probably a greaterthan-100 year flood up there. No one expected that.
It is now several months since Irene hit. I recently took a walk
at the seawall just after sunrise, which gave
a rich magenta view. The adage, “Red sky in
the morning, sailor take warning” came to
mind. And so did Irene.
I’m still glad I bought that house. But
that sense of permanence about it left
me after Irene. In its place, I got a little
reality, and a little wisdom; and a little more
insurance, too. 3
ONLINE PHOTO
DIRECTORY –
ARE YOU IN IT?
Last fall the NHCBA
launched its new
online member photo
directory. This is a free
benefit to all members
and can be accessed
in the “Members Only” section of
www.newhavenbar.org.
Many members took advantage of
having professional portraits taken at
no charge last summer. If you missed
this opportunity and would like your
photo included in the online directory,
please submit a digital photograph
(professional attire, please) to NHCBA
staff member Leah Campbell at
lcampbell@newhavenbar.org. 3
13
FNHCB President’s Column
A Great Start to
the New Year
T
by Cheryl E. Heffernan
he Foundation of the New Haven
County Bar is in the middle of a
very exciting year. We are building on
the tremendous success of the past few
years, especially last year’s record breaking fundraising season led by
Immediate Past President June Gold. This year we are already on
track to surpass last year’s efforts, and have at least one more event
to go! None of this would be possible without our wonderful Board
of Directors, fabulous sponsors, and, of course, the generosity of our
fellow members of the Bar who attend our events.
This year The Foundation started out with the 17th Annual
Hope for the Holidays collection, which includes the Snowball
Charity Softball Tournament, graciously organized by Milano &
Wanat’s Steve Murphy and Chris Wanat. Over $7,500 was raised in
that drive for New Haven Home Recovery.
We also held our 2nd Annual Liberty Bell Winter Gala at
Woodwinds in Branford. The recipient of the Liberty Bell this year
is Dr. Dorothy L. Kendrick, president of Gateway Community
College, for her amazing contributions to the New Haven area
in her personal and professional endeavors. The Gala was a huge
success. Over 160 people attended and we raised over $20,000.
To top that off, the event obtained front page coverage in the New
Haven Register.
Next we had the Stand-Up for Charity comedy show at the
Wicked Wolf on March 28th. The Bar’s own Rick Roberts arranged
for us three wonderful comics who performed and the Wicked Wolf
donated the space and food.
Our final fundraising event for the 2011-2012 year is the “Hot
Summer Nights” cocktail luau party, which will be held July 26 at
Nellie Green’s in Branford. DJ, food and drink specials please keep
an eye out for additional information on this event.
We also have our ongoing Annual Appeal. Thank you to those
of you who have already sent in your contribution. Additionally,
please consider legacy and in memoriam gifts to The Foundation.
They are great ways to honor another while allowing the legal
community legal community to help people in need.
All of these fundraising efforts help The Foundation to fulfill
its mission of providing grants to local New Haven area legal aid
civic-related charities as well as funding public service efforts of
New Haven attorneys, including the tireless efforts of the Bar
Association’s Public Service Committee, headed by Phil Kent and
Joy Avallone.
I recognize that in these difficult economic times it is hard to
consider donating to yet another organization. However, please
remember that we are here to help those less fortunate then
ourselves, be it through our legal expertise or generosity of money
and time. Please continue to help us in these efforts by attending
or sponsoring The Foundation’s events and giving back to this
wonderful community of which we are a part.
I look forward to seeing you at our events in the future, and thank
you in advance for your ongoing generosity and assistance. 3
Visit us on the web! www.newhavenbar.org
14
Board of Directors 2011-12
President - Cheryl Heffernan (Farver & Heffernan)
Vice President - Andrew Knott (Knott & Knott, LLC)
Secretary/Treasurer - James O. Craven (Wiggin and Dana LLP)
Board of Directors:
Daniel Burns (Beckman, Burns & Nguyen, LLC)
Jennifer M. DelMonico (Murtha Cullina LLP)
Steven Jacobs (Jacobs & Jacobs)
Patricia R. Kaplan (New Haven Legal Assistance Assoc., Inc.)
Maresa LaTorraca (Superior Court, New Haven – Family Relations)
Frederick P. Leaf (Law Office of Frederick P. Leaf )
Howard Levine (Carmody & Torrance)
Katherine McColgan (Farver & Heffernan)
Charles P. Reed (Loughlin FitzGerald, P.C.)
Shari-Lynn Cuomo Shore (Riordan, Cutting & Shore, LLP)
Kim Zarra Wieler (Yale University)
Advisory Board:
Maria Chiarelli (Chiarelli Law Firm)
Vincent Cervoni (Gesmonde, Pietrosimone & Sgrignari, LLC)
June Gold (GoldLaw, LLC)
Cheryl Juniewic (Cheryl A. Juniewic, Attorney at Law)
Executive Director - Carolyn Breen Witt
Foundation Coordinator - Leah Campbell
Tributes & Memorials
T
by Cheryl Heffernan
he Foundation for the New Haven County Bar
recently received two “legacy” gifts from fellow bar
member Donald Celotto, Jr. One in memorial of June E.
Welty, mother of member Jean L. Welty, and one in memorial
for Maria Carmela Chiarelli, mother of member Maria
C. Chiarelli. Such a gift is a wonderful way to pay tribute
to someone’s memory and life’s accomplishments. Please
consider a donation to The Foundation as an appropriate way
to honor, celebrate or remember someone that will also help
make a difference to another person’s life. 3
Hot Summer Nights
Luau
July 26, 2012
5:30-8:30 pm
Nellie Greens, Branford – Cost: $45
To reserve tickets, please call the FNHCB
or email foundation@newhavenbar.org.
FNHCB Past President’s Column
Concluding a Successful
Foundation Year
A
by June Gold
s summer wanes, so does our 20102011 year and along with it, my
tenure as president of The Foundation of
the New Haven County Bar. Working on
the Foundation board has been a joy and a privilege these last six
years and I am quite proud of our progress. Over the years we’ve
grown into a solid, purposeful organization that has enabled many
worthy charitable projects.
This year was a huge success! Our First Annual Liberty Bell
Winter Gala, held in January at The Woodwinds in Branford, was
Hope for the Holidays 2011
The Foundation of the New
Haven County Bar gratefully
acknowledges and thanks the recent
donations to our HOPE FOR THE
HOLIDAYS 2011 collection, which
supports the two homeless shelters
run by New Haven Home Recovery.
Through the generosity of area law
firms and individuals, the Bar Foundation continues
to directly impact the lives of the women and children
who stay at these shelters. The donation will be
presented to the New Haven Home Recovery in April
at their annual event.
Special thanks to Chris Wanat, Steve Murphy, and
the entire crew at Milano & Wanat in Branford for
their ongoing extraordinary sponsorship of the annual
Snowball Softball Tournament, held each November to
kick-off the Hope for the Holidays collections. Kudos
to all the softball players, too, for braving the cold!
Adam Acquarulo • Michael & Erika Amarante
Brenner, Saltzman & Wallman, LLP • Caplan, Hecht & Mendel, LLC
Carmody & Torrance, LLP • Kate Casagrande
Ciulla & Donofrio, LLP • Marianne & Ronald Dubuque
The Gallagher Law Firm • Garcia & Milas, P.C.
• Mark A. Healey • Anthony Interlandi • Jonathan Katz
Kennedy, Johnson, D’Elia & Gillooly, LLC • Judge Linda Lager
Licari & Walsh • Little Shop of Howlers • Mario Di Monaco
Mark Milano • Milano & Wanat, LLC
Moore, O’Brien, Jacques & Yelenak • Stephen G. Murphy
Mulvey, Oliver, Gould & Crotta • Chris Nelson
Nuzzo & Roberts, LLC • George B. O’Brien • John Parese
Anne D. Peterson • Richard Qatato • Saley Services
Patrick Skuret • Marshall Touponse • Walt’s Auto Repair
Edward L. Walsh • Christopher F. Wanat • Jonathan Weiner
Michael Wilson • Buckley & Wynne • James & Kathleen Zarro
S
extraordinarily special. We honored two very deserving awardees
with a touching, memorable evening held in a gorgeous, pristine,
snowy setting. We laughed ourselves silly at Comedy Night as the
comedians reminded us that sometimes the funniest fodder of all is
ourselves. We also danced under the setting sun in July during the
Hot Summer Nights reception, proving that when we’re having fun,
a summer night is never too hot for a salsa…or two.
Of course, as we planned our events this year we were always
mindful of our primary goal: to raise revenue to fund our ambitious
charitable goals. We successfully minimized our expenses in order to
maximize our net proceeds.
However, we were also mindful of another goal: to have fun. As
a board, we understood that promoting events that were accessible
and enjoyable would maximize our success, and, in turn, enable us
to fund more deserving projects. That, along with some diligent
sponsorship legwork, became our win/win strategy. I truly believe
that this attitude—the belief that our fundraising activities should
be exciting and provide a respite for our colleagues and friends at
the end of their busy day—is the driver that pushed us over the
finish line.
This leads me to the heart of this column, my heartfelt
thanks and gratitude to you, our donors, on behalf of the entire
Foundation Board. I’ve said this all year: You are the foundation
of The Foundation, for it is your generous support that shores up
our resources and enables us to do our charitable work. Thank
you! Thank you for driving through the snow in gowns and tuxes
to launch our now-annual Gala. Thank you for heading to Wicked
Wolf in downtown New Haven rather than home when, after a long
day, you chose to laugh rather than rest. Thank you for supporting
us at Leon’s on a very hot steamy summer night for cocktails and
salsa dancing. And thank you for heeding our calls for support in
the form of sponsorships, silent auction donations, and raffle items.
Camaraderie, friendship, and professional support are important
to our profession and help us maintain work-life balance. I
encourage you to support the Foundation each Fall when your
NHCBA dues renewal arrives in the mail. And again during our
Annual Appeal.
As my tenure ends, I am delighted to introduce you to Cheryl
Heffernan, who will replace me as Foundation board president at
the upcoming Annual Dinner on October 6. Cheryl has always
been a hardworking, dedicated member of our board and I ask you
to support her tenure as you have mine.
Finally, I send a special thank you to the members of the
Foundation Board of Directors, who have been supportive and
inspirational to work with this year. Thanks also to Carrie Witt for
providing continued guidance and support, and to Jenna Dayton,
our tireless administrative assistant. Without all of you our footing
would be weak, but because of you, it is a strong foundation that
will support many years of charitable work, helping others and
promoting wonderful projects. 3
Conference Rooms for Rent
A large and small conference room
are now available for member use.
FREE if less than 90 minutes!
15
“A Long Time Ago”
by Hon. Frederick Moss
D
eep down, I knew someday it
would come to this! I suppose
it was the inevitable and I have sensed
it getting closer and closer with was
successive issue of the Marble Columns!
Nevertheless, now that it has actually
happened, I find myself woefully
unprepared for this disheartening
development. I have Volume XVI No.
2 Winter 2011 before me. Who are
all those lawyers anyway? Why do I
recognize so few names and even fewer
faces? After all, it was only yesterday
that I came to the Bar. The year 1953
is but fifty-nine years ago and already
– in that very short span of time –
New Haven County Bar Officers 1976-1977
my generation of lawyers seem – for
Left to right: Rhoda L. Loeb, Secretary; Robert Oliver, Treasurer; Donald Walsh, Asst. Secretary
the most part – vanished. It all seems so
Stephen T. Traub, Immediate Past President; Frederick S. Moss, President; William Doyle, Asst. Treasurer
surreal! Rod Sterling – where are you when
I need you? Well, there may be a slight use
of hyperbole in the above-described appraisal. I do, after all, know
who came to the Bar before I did. Thank goodness for Willie
most of the senior Judges and even some still practicing attorneys
Dow and John Einhorn whose pictures I recognize and who help
maintain my equilibrium and provide some small sense of comfort.
But, here I sit at my desk printing away and I ask myself:
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16
Where have all my colleagues gone?
Long time passing.
Where have all my colleagues gone?
Long time ago?
Time and age have picked them every one
When will they ever learn?
When will they ever learn?
Where have all my contemporaries gone?
Long time passing.
Where have all my colleagues gone?
Long time ago?
Retirement and beds of flowers have picked them all every one.
When will they ever learn?
When will they ever learn?
Or a more optimistic verse:
Where have all those brilliant lawyers gone?
Long time passing.
Where have all those brilliant lawyers gone?
Long time ago.
Golf, boating, bridge, naps and the fitness center have picked them
All every one.
Never to be heard from again.
(With apologies to Pete Seeger and Fall River Music, Inc.)
While I no longer recognize the names or the photos in the
Marble Columns, I do remember all of my contemporaries very well.
A long time passing! A long time ago! 3
Judge Moss now lives in Florida and enjoys reading Marble Columns.
He was a long-time Judge of Probate for the Town of Woodbridge.
The Foundation’s Second Annual Liberty Bell Winter Gala
Bigger, Better & Merrier than Ever!
O
by Kim Zarra Wieler
This year’s Silent Auction offered a wide range of donated
n Saturday January 29, 2012, there wasn’t a better way to
items including spa packages, wine and gift baskets, sporting event
escape the winter dole drums and support a charity
and show tickets, restaurant gift certificates, an island getaway and
than by dressing to the nines and visiting the enchanted winter
even a balloon ride. All were bid on with enthusiasm.
wonderland created by The Foundation of the New Haven
The FNHCB wishes to thank the attorneys, friends and other
County Bar its second Liberty Bell Winter Gala at Woodwinds in
Branford. Over 160 people attended the charity dinner dance, and community supporters who attended the party. The Gala’s success
raised $20,000 for The Foundation’s local grants program and The was due, in large part, to the tireless efforts of a very hard working
Gala Committee led by June Gold
New Haven County Bar Association’s
and Cheryl Heffernan, which
legal-related public service projects in
included Jennifer DelMonico, Jim
the Greater New Haven area.
Craven, Patricia Kaplan, Katie
Those who attended were dazzled
McColgan, and Kim Zarra Wieler,
by sparkling snowflakes, warmed
with special thanks also due to the
by glowing candles, marveled at
Bar Association staff.
the silent auction items, feasted
The FNHCB also acknowledges
on various epicurean delights, and
and thanks our friends who donated
danced the night away to the boogie
Foundation President Cheryl Heffernan (L) with Liberty Bell Award
items to our silent auction and
woogie, rhythm & blues, soul and
recipient Dorsey Kendrick and Gala Co-Chair June Gold
especially Gala’s sponsors: Koskoff,
Motown performed by Eight to the Bar.
Koskoff & Bieder, PC, Knights of Columbus, Stratton Faxon,
The Liberty Bell Award honors non-lawyers or community
Gateway Community College Foundation, Murtha Cullina,
organizations that have shown an extraordinary commitment to
Wiggin & Dana, Yale New Haven Hospital; along with Carmody
justice or provided outstanding service to the local community.
& Torrance Garcia & Milas, Nuzzo & Roberts, Carter Mario,
The Foundation was honored to present the 2012 award to
Hinckley, Allen and Snyder, and Marcum and Pickaart & Visconti.
Dorsey L. Kendrick, PhD, President of Gateway Community
You all are the foundation of the Foundation and its
College, and to acknowledge her contributions to the school and
success! 3
community. State Senator Martin Looney gave the tribute.
17
Over the Counter
News and Information from the Clerks of the New Haven Courts
By Patricia Nielsen, Assistant Clerk, New Haven Superior Court
New Automatic Orders in Family
Suspension of Court Dates
Appearances – Section 3-3 now requires
Cases – The Notice of Automatic
Superior Court sessions will be suspended
that appearances be filed on form JDOrders (JD-FM-158) has been revised to
on June 11, 13, 14 and 15, 2012, except for CL-12. However, this requirement does
incorporate amendments that were made to
arraignments and matters the administrative not apply to appearances filed pursuant
Section 25-5. The revised version must now
judge considers an emergency. All trials
to Section 3-1 – Appearance for Plaintiff
be used in any complaint for dissolution of
will be suspended and no jurors will be
on Writ or Complaint in Civil and
marriage or civil union, legal separation, or
summoned for those dates. Court is being
Family Cases. Section 3-4 now states that
annulment, or an application for custody or
suspended due to the Connecticut Bar
“whenever an appearance is filed in any civil
visitation. The Notice of Automatic Orders
Association Annual Meeting on June 11,
or family action, including appearances
– Petition for Child Support (JD-FM-210)
the Connecticut Judges’ Institute on June
filed in addition to or in place of another
has also been revised and the revised version
13 and 14, and the Annual Meeting of
appearance, a copy shall be mailed or
must now be used in any petition for child
Superior Court Judges on June 15.
delivered to all counsel and self-represented
support, IV-D and non-IV-D.
parties of record.” This change shifts the
Changes to the Family Short
obligation to provide notice of the filing of
Appointment of GALs and AMCs –
Calendar
an appearance from the clerk’s office to the
Rules
25-62 and 25-62A provide that only
The following changes to Family Short
party filing the appearance. As a result, the
those
individuals
who have completed the
Calendars Nos. 4 and 5 are effective with
“status of appearances” notice will no longer
comprehensive
training
programs sponsored
the short calendars beginning April 11
be sent out. Section 3-5 has been changed
by
the
Judicial
Branch
may
be appointed
and 12, 2012. For cases where one or both
to require that a party filing an appearance
as
a
guardian
ad
litem
or
attorney
for the
parties are represented by an attorney, the
must serve the appearance in accordance
minor
child.
Information
about
enrolling
parties should report at 9:30 a.m. For cases
with Sections 10-12 through 10-17
in the training program is available in the
that include a Guardian Ad Litem, the
although, again, this section does not apply
Child
Protection section of the Public
parties should also report at 9:30 a.m. In
to appearances filed pursuant to Section 3-1. Defender website at www.ct.gov/ocpd.
cases where both parties are self-represented,
Form of Pleading – Section 4-1(c) now
the parties are instructed to report at 10:30
Ask Us
requires
that documents filed electronically
a.m. In order for these changes to work
Do you need clarification of a Practice Book
be in substantially the same format as those
effectively, it is important that all attorneys
section or a court procedure or policy? In
filed in paper format (subsection a).
arrive on time.
each edition of this column, we strive to
Form of Motion and Request – A
address questions of general interest that
Child Support Guidelines
provision was added to Section 11-1 that,
are submitted to us. Please direct your
A fillable version of the Child Support &
whenever a motion to extend time to plead,
questions
for consideration to me at Patricia.
Arrearage Guidelines is now available in the
respond to written discovery, object to
Nielsen@jud.ct.gov.
Forms section of the Judicial Branch website. written discovery, or respond to Requests
Look for form number JD-FM-220.
Quality Candidates
for Admissions is filed, the motion must
Many
of our outstanding Temporary
state the date through which the moving
E-Filing Update
Assistant
Clerks are seeking positions in
party is seeking the extension.
Attorneys who have an appearance in an
the
private
sector. If you are thinking
e-filed case should note that they are able to
Definitions – New subsections (4)
of
taking
on
an associate or looking for
access the notices section and see the record
and (5) were added defining “electronic”
someone
to
assist
you on a part-time basis,
of notices and the dates they were sent.
as “relating to technology having electrical,
while
we
would
hate
to lose any of them,
digital, magnetic, wireless, optical
PRACTICE BOOK UPDATES
we
likely
have
just
the
person on our staff
electromagnetic, or similar capabilities”
Several changes to the Practice Book took
that
would
be
well-suited
to your practice.
and “electronically-stored information” as
effect at the beginning of this year. The
Our
T.A.C.s
gain
valuable
experience
“information that is stored in an electronic
following is a summary of a few of those
with
“behind-the-scenes”
work
in both the
medium and is retrievable in perceivable
changes:
Clerk’s
Office
and
in
the
courtrooms.
Feel
form.” These changes were made in
free
to
contact
Chief
Clerk
William
Sadek
Scope of Rules; Definitions –
connection with the adoption of electronic
or Deputy Chief Clerk Louis Fagnani for
Subsection (c)(2) clarifies that the words
discovery rules and are based upon
some suggestions.
“write,” “written,” and “writing” mean
Uniform Rules Relating to the Discovery
typed or printed either on paper or, when
of Electronically Stored Information and
Farewell
electronically issued or submitted, in digital
Federal Civil Rule Amendments. The
Best wishes to Alice Bruno who is leaving
format. Subsection (c)(3) states that “paper” definitions are intended to cover all types
the Clerk’s Office to assume the Executive
and “document” shall include an electronic
of computer-based information and to
Director position at the Connecticut Bar
submission.
encompass future technological changes.
Association. She will be missed at the JD. 3
18
Young Lawyers President’s Column
“New” Things
by Patrick G. Hughes
2011-2012 President of NHYL
T
he past several months of my life
have been filled with new things:
the birth of my daughter Finley Georgia
Hughes, opening a new firm, getting new
clients, making new friends, moving to a
new home, and assuming a new leadership
role in the “New” Haven County Bar
Association. I am grateful for all of these
gifts in my life and look forward to the learning curve associated
with them all.
But, with new things comes uncertainty. The uncertainty of
whether I will be a good father, and, if not, the uncertainty of
who will represent me on the third floor of 235 Church Street.
(I am kidding, of course. About being a good dad, that is.) The
uncertainty associated with leaving Loughlin FitzGerald, an
outstanding law firm filled with people for whom I truly care, and
striking out on my own. And finally, the financial uncertainty of it
all. Did I mention we just had a baby?
During periods of uncertainty, especially financial uncertainty,
it is easy to look for expenses to reduce and activities to cut out.
Attorneys facing similar situations have, in the past, let their
membership in the NHCBA lapse. Although the NHCBA’s
membership dues are modest, it is undeniably an expense that can
be eliminated from any attorney’s budget. And although eliminating
those dues from one’s budget is an option, exercising that option is a
mistake. I personally encourage prior members to return to our Bar
whenever I find them, and suggest existing members remind others
of the benefits associated with membership.
I say this because, for me, the one exception to the uncertainty
associated with these “new” things was the “New” Haven
County Bar Association, its members and staff. The support and
encouragement I have received over the past few months from
our Bar has been amazing. In addition, the Bar Association has
been a tremendous resource in continuing my legal education and
C
L
A
S
S
I
F
I
E
D
building my practice through the Lawyer Referral Service and the
Modest Means Program.
Last Fall, Executive Director Carrie Witt and I had the
opportunity to attend Quinnipiac University School of Law’s
1L orientation. During the orientation I met scores of 1Ls who
had never heard of a bar association and had no concept of its
function. While Carrie and I tried to sell — I mean, inform —
them about the organization and its activities, the conversations’
details reminded me of how much the Bar Association has done
for me personally.
In addition to the public service and continuing legal
education opportunities, the networking events have been
invaluable to me. As a person who had very few ties to the legal
community prior to attending law school, the networking events
ranging from the NHYL Young Professionals Happy Hours to the
NHCBA Bench Bar receptions have allowed me to make friends
and gain insight into the legal community.
Moreover, the accessibility I now have to more seasoned
lawyers during moments of uncertainty is irreplaceable. I often
find myself placing telephone calls seeking advice from members
of the Bar, some of whom have been on the “opposing side” in
prior cases, and have yet to be denied counsel. In fact, in one
case I even got a bonus — a really nice desk chair for my office.
(Thanks, Noah!)
As a new solo practitioner, I have a much greater appreciation
of the value of the relationships I have cultivated through the Bar
now that I can no longer simply walk down the halls of my old
firm and ask one of the partners if they had a minute to chat. Now
I am forced to bother them electronically.
I welcome the uncertainty of my new position as president of
the New Haven Young Lawyers Section and of working with the
talented young lawyers on our board. However, I would like to
acknowledge the certainty of all the efforts and accomplishments of
Chris Nelson and Charlie Reed in their capacities as YLS’s outgoing
president and outgoing president of NHCBA, respectively.
I remain always faithful!. 3
Young Professionals Night
S
Office Space Available: Established 3 attorney New Haven
law firm in historic building one block from green, city hall &
courthouses, seek attorney or compatible business for office sharing/
rental. Corner office 140 sq. feet plus use of lobby, conference
room/library, copy room. Includes full secretarial, wireless, fax,
phone, copier, cleaning. Corner Elm and Orange Street. $1500/
month. Contact 203-865-7380.
Office Space Available: Victorian Style House located at
131 Dwight Street in New Haven. Some administrative/receptionist
support available and a shared conference room. Ample parking
included. Rates based on space needed. Contact Chris DeMarco
or Michael L. Moscowitz at 203-777-7602.
For display and classified advertising rates, please contact
Josephine Costello at (203) 562-9652 x10 or
jcostello@newhavenbar.org.
The New Haven Young Lawyers sponsored a Young Professionals Happy Hour on
October 27, 2011, which was a big success. Despite the bad weather, over 80+ young
professionals were in attendance. Everyone had a great time and enjoyed meeting lots of
new people. Next Happy Hour is May 24, 2012 at 5:30pm at Kelly’s Bar in New Haven.
(L-R) Brigid Hecht, Patrick Skuret, Stacy Votto, Ben Gettinger, Giovanni Spennato, and
Michael DeNuzzo; in front, Josh Hecht.
19
➠➠➠ On the Move ➠➠➠
The
Brief case
NEWS ABOUT NHCBA MEMBERS
Congratulations to RICHARD A. ROBERTS on his installation
as president of the Connecticut Defense Lawyers Association in
June 2011.
Congratulations to JAMES R. GREENFIELD, who received
the Edward F. Hennessey Professionalism Award at the CT Bar
Association’s 2011 Annual Dinner last June. This award was presented
by Judge Trial Referee James Kenefick Jr.
Congratulations to Murtha Cullina attorney
Elizabeth J. Stewart, who was the 2012
recipient of the Fifth Annual Ladder Award
presented by the Women in the Law Committee
of the Young Lawyers Section of the Connecticut
Bar Association in March 2012.
BARRY J. SINOWAY is now of Counsel at Kennedy, Johnson,
D’Elia & Gillooly, LLC, New Haven.
TONY SUTTON moved to Donahue, Durham & Noonan, PC.
Winnick Ruben Hoffnung Peabody & Mendel, LLC, formerly
known as Winnick, Ruben, Chambers, Hoffnung and Peabody,
LLC, is pleased to announce that AMY G. WINNICK joined the
firm as a member effective April 1, 2011 and NANCY K. MENDEL
joined the firm as a member effective September 1, 2011. Wick R.
Chambers continues at the firm as a member.
STEPHANI SGAMBATI is pleased to announce that her office
moved to 20 Trumbull Street in New Haven.
Babies…Babies…Babies
KEVIN and AMBER HINES announce
the birth of their second child, Madison
Leigh, on June 11, 2011.
GREGORY PODOLAK and wife
Jennifer announce the birth of their first child, Emma Rose, on June
14, 2011 (7 lbs 8 oz).
PATRICK HUGHES and wife Allie announce the birth of their first
child, Finley Georgia, on July 19, 2011.
The Association is pleased to include “The Brief Case,” a column that
recognizes the accomplishments of members and celebrates lifetime
events. Submissions of member information for the next issue of the Bar
Association newsletter are now being accepted. Please e-mail any information
pertaining to office moves, marriages or births, awards, publications, etc.
to the NHCBA office at NHCBAinfo@newhavenbar.org by June 1 for
the Summer issue, and August 15 for the Fall issue.
ANTHONY INTERLANDI and wife Elsa welcomed their first child
Anthony Joseph Interlandi, Jr., born March 14, 2012 at 6:18 pm
weighing 7 lbs 10 oz. CONDOLENCES
Condolences to the family of MILTON DEVANE who passed away
on April 7, 2012.
Carmody & Torrance LLP welcomes
David T. Grudberg
195 Church Street | New Haven, CT 06509
203-784-3115 | dgrudberg@carmodylaw.com
Carmody & Torrance welcomes David T. Grudberg as a new
partner in our litigation group. In his 25 years of practice, David
has handled a broad range of complex criminal and civil matters - at
trial, on appeal, and in connection with government investigations.
David has built an outstanding reputation as a trial and appellate
litigator in Connecticut and New York. At Carmody, he will focus
his practice on the firm’s White Collar Crime and Government
Investigations group, and will also continue his work on complex
business litigation and significant plaintiff ’s personal injury matters.
Carmody & Torrance LLP ■ Attorneys at Law ■ www.carmodylaw.com ■
20
For more information about the firm, contact Ann Rubin at 203-578-4201.
The New NHCBA Career Center!
T
he NHCBA announces the launch of the new online
NHCBA Career Center, catering specifically to job seekers
and employers in the legal community.
Job Seekers
• Create a Job Seeker Profile
• Access exclusive job opportunities from top employers
• Find local and regional legal jobs
• Get notified immediately of new openings
• Quickly apply for open positions online
• Post your resume anonymously
Employers
• Post Jobs
• Reach a targeted audience of local legal professionals
• Find the most qualified candidates
• Take advantage of affordable pricing
(less than half the cost of other job websites)
• Manage applications through your website or the NHCBA Career Center
Members Get 20% Off All Postings and Packages
NHCBA members will always receive our 20% Members Only
Discount on all job posting packages. Just use code MD20423
when purchasing posting credits. Member Discount not applicable
towards other Career Center promotions.
As the NHCBA Career Center is brand new, please bear with
us as local jobs populate the site. In the meantime, the jobs that
are posted to start are from several sister bar associations across the
country. Visit “About Us” at www.newhavenbar.org. 3
T
Raising a Glass to DESK
he Foundation of the New Haven County Bar and New
Haven Young Lawyers collaborated on a wine tasting
fundraiser on November 30, 2011 to benefit the Downtown
Evening Soup Kitchen. Held at Paradise Hills Vineyard in
Wallingford, the wine flowed and complimented the fruit and
cheese display noshed on by all.
Most importantly, the event collected a nice donation for DESK.
Bar members, family and friends all enjoyed the evening. 3
(L-R, starting second from left) Chris Nelson, NHYL President Pat Hughes, Joy Avallone, Carrie Witt, Kristen Wolf, Wine Tasting Chair Shari Shore, Foundation President
Cheryl Heffernan, and Bernard Kito.
New Haven County Bar Association
Leadership Circle 2012
The NHCBA gratefully acknowledges and thanks these generous area law firms
for their leadership, stewardship, and support of association activities.
Champion
Koskoff, Koskoff & Bieder
Patron
Carmody & Torrance
Wiggin and Dana, LLP
Advocate
Hinckley, Allen & Snyder, LLP
Loughlin FitzGerald, PC
Neubert, Pepe & Monteith, PC
Nuzzo & Roberts, LLC
Quinnipiac University School of Law
Supporter
Jacobs & Jacobs Littler Mendelson, PC
Parrett, Porto, Parese & Colwell, P.C
The Gallagher Law Firm
Winnick, Ruben, Chambers, Hoffnung,
Peabody & Mendel, LLC
Friend
Garcia & Milas, PC
Law Offices of Sung-Ho Hwang, LLC
Levy, Leff & DeFrank, PC
The Pellegrino Law Firm
Reid & Riege, PC
Stratton Faxon
List still in formation.
To join the Leadership Circle, please contact the NHCBA office at 203-562-9652.
21
Lawyer Referral Service
LRS News
by Martha Messier, Program Coordinator
LRS is pleased to welcome Peter Billings,
Billings & Barrett, LLC in New Haven;
Michael Carreira, Moss & Cirillo in New
Haven; Theresa Rose DeGray, Consumer
Legal Services, LLC in Guilford; Aaron
Hershman, Hershman Legal Group, PC in
New Haven, and Steven L Rubin, Rubin
Law Group, LLC in Cheshire, as new
participating LRS attorneys.
The LRS receives many calls for an attorney who speaks Spanish;
please contact Martha if you are interested in joining LRS or
volunteering for an outreach project at 203-562-9652 or e-mail
her at mmessier@newhavenbar.org. LRS attorney participation
applications are available for downloading from
www.newhavenbar.org. Join anytime.
ASK A LAWYER in New Haven, Branford,
East Haven, Northford and North Branford –
Volunteers needed
ASK A LAWYER is an ongoing community
outreach project, which has sessions scheduled
monthly at local libraries in New Haven,
Branford, Northford, North Branford and East
Haven. Attorneys are needed to help staff these 1-1&1/2 hour
sessions during which individuals are given free 10 - 15 minute
consultations. The current schedule through 2012 is located
on the NHCBA’s home page, www.newhavenbar.org. For more
information, or to participate, please contact Martha. 3
Building your
practice.
Building your
future.
For expert help in managing your business and
personal finances, turn to Citibank®. Our industry
knowledge and range of products and services
can help you improve cash flow, finance practice
growth, protect your assets, and much more.
For information on the special offers available
through Citibank’s Attorneys Program, contact:
Tony Rossley at 203 773-4402 or 203 815-9864.
Citibank is a Preferred Vendor of the NHCBA.
© 2008 Citigroup Inc. Citibank, N.A. Member FDIC. Citibank and Arc Design is a registered
service mark of Citigroup Inc. Citi Never Sleeps is a service mark of Citigroup Inc.
22
NHCBA Member Services
Preferred Vendors —
• Insurance Needs from ISI New England: Contact Karen
Wyman (888-474-1959, NHCBA Group Representative)
for a quote on professional malpractice, health, long/short
term disability plans, long term care, major medical, or life
insurance needs. NHCBA members receive special rates on
several products.
• LexisNexis Member Benefit Plan: A variety of speciallypriced legal research and product options are available,
especially targeted to solo practitioners and smaller law
offices. See information on the NHCBA website, or call
Karen Kottage at 203-410-5692.
Vendor Partners —
• LawPay: Credit Card Processing for Attorneys:
Trust your transactions to the only payment solution
recommended by over 60 bar associations. Correctly
safeguard and separate client funds into trust and operating
accounts. Funds are never commingled. The ability to
accept credit cards attracts clients, improves cash flow
and reduces collections. Plus, members save up to 25%
off their credit card processing fees. If you are considering
accepting credit cards or want to confirm that you are
processing credit card transactions correctly, call 866-3760950 or visit www.affiniscape.com/newhavenbar.
• GoFor Services, Inc.: Provides the highest level courier and
delivery services in Connecticut. Visit www.GoForServices.
com or call 800-479-7345.
Other Programs —
• NHCBA Career Center: The NHCBA offers an online
Career Center, catering specifically to job seekers and
employers in the legal community. See “About Us” at
www.newhavenbar.org. NHCBA members receive a 20%
Members Only Discount on all job posting packages:
use code MD20423.
• Attorney Resource Page on Website: Free Access to
Legal and Law Office Management Information.
The NHCBA offers a Resources For Attorneys page,
found under “About Us” at www.newhavenbar.org. Information from bars around the country has been
gathered for Members Only.
• Purchase any ABA book at a 30% discount. Books
should be ordered online at www.ababooks.org; enter
the NHCBA’s discount code PAB6ENHB during the
checkout process.
• Arbitration and Mediation Services: The ADR Center
offers to NHCBA members a special discount: $150 off
the filing fee for a new case filed with the Center. Call
860-832-8060 for details.
• Rent Meeting Rooms: The NHCBA’s conference room
is available for use by members for depositions and other
meetings relating to their practice and bar association
activities. A nominal fee applies. Please call the NHCBA
office in advance at (203) 562-9652 to reserve the room.
• Classified Ads: In each issue of Marble Columns a classified
advertising section appears. These ads cover areas such as
positions available, office space and items for sale. The
newsletter reaches nearly 2,000 readers in the Greater New
Haven legal community. Call the office at 562-9652 for cost
and deadlines.
New Resource Page on Website
B
by Carolyn B. Witt
IG NEWS! The NHCBA has created a resource page on its
website that gathers information from bar associations,
law schools and other sources around the country for member use.
The NHCBA is too small to provide direct Law Office Management
Assistance Services. But bigger bars in other states have wonderful
resources, and we have tapped into this knowledge for you.
The new Resources for Attorneys page is found under “About
Us” at www.newhavenbar.org . As it is for Members Only, you will
need to log into the site to activate the information links. Topics
available include:
• Starting a New Practice
• Finding New Clients
• Law Office Management Assistance
• Free Online Legal Research
• Helpful Legal Blogs
• Stress Management
• Free CLE
• Mentoring & CLE for New Attorneys
• Job Search
• Legal News
The NHCBA encourages members to take advantage of this
information now at your fingertips. We also welcome suggestions of
other sites to add to the page.
From law office management to free CLE to access to the
NHCBA Career Center, we hope members find this compilation
site to be useful and helpful. Feedback welcome. 3
Long Term
Disability Insurance
Peace of mind for your family
—Protection for their future
Support your Voluntary Bar Association
Don’t let this valuable Member Benefit
pass you by – Call 1-888-ISI-1959 today
Plan Administrator
This Long Term Disability Coverage is issued by The Prudential Insurance Company of
America, 751 Broad Street, Newark, NJ 07102. The Booklet-Certificate contains all details
including any policy exclusions, limitations, and restrictions which may apply. Contract
Series 83500.
This policy provides disability income insurance only. It does NOT provide basic hospital,
basic medical or major medical insurance as defined by the New York State Insurance
Department. North Carolina Residents: THIS IS NOT A MEDICARE SUPPLEMENT PLAN.
If you are eligible for Medicare, review the Guide to Health Insurance for People with
Medicare, which is available from the company.
0207879
President’s Column, continued from p. 2
Task Force’s survey revealed membership opposition to a CBA
MCLE proposal, Victor Bolden, our Task Force chair, presented
the survey results in testimony before the Rules Committee of the
Superior Court. In part as a result of our opposition to the CBA
proposal, the Rules Committee has deferred a vote on the CBA
MCLE proposal.
The mission of the Bar Association is its commitment to
serving the attorneys of the Greater New Haven area; the strength
of our Association is in the number of attorneys we serve. I ask
you all, our members, to get involved in our committees, to attend
our activities and events, and to encourage other attorneys to join
us. Together, we can make a difference. 3
RAYMOND E. CESTAR
Vocational Expert
Specializing in
Personal Injury • Wage Analysis • Testimony - Reports
Social Security Disability • Worker's Compensation Claims
Tel: 203.887.8121
Fax: 203.288.3269
P. O. Box 4478
Wallingford, CT 06492
New Haven County Bar Association
Plan Features
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
SignificantratesavingsforMembers.
ResidualBenefitsincludedinbaserates.
Benefitsunderthisplanarenotdecreased
byotherdisabilityplans,orbySocialSecurity
benefitsyoumayreceive.
MonthlyBenefitsto$10,000available.
WaitingPeriodsof30,90or180days.
Benefitpayabletoage65forAccidentandSickness.
Membersmayobtainmoreinformationonline
at www.isi1959.com/nhcba
Base Quarterly Premiums*
per $1,000 - Monthly Benefit
Age
30 Day
Waiting Period
90 Day
Waiting Period
180 Day
Waiting Period
30
$44.10
$25.20
$18.90
40
$75.64
$43.23
$32.42
50
$135.50
$77.43
$58.07
*Rates will change based on your attained age.
0207879-00001-00
23
New Haven & Hartford County
Bar Associations
Picnic with the Rock Cats
Thursday, July 12, 2012
Gates open at 5:35 pm
Picnic 6:00-7:30 pm
Game Time 7:05 pm
Rock Cats (AA- Minnesota Twins)
vs.
Trenton Thunder (AA- New York Yankees)
Come see the Future Stars
of the Major Leagues!
Contact Leah with any questions at
203-562-9652
or lcampbell@newhavenbar.org
All tickets must be ordered and paid
for by Thursday, June 28, 2012.
Upcoming Events
May 24 NHYL Young Professionals Happy Hour
June 28 Summer Outing
July 12 New Haven and Hartford County Bar Associations Picnic
with the Rock Cats
July 26 Bar Foundation’s “Hot Summer Nights” Luau
August 6 Golf Tournament
September 13 Fall Bench-Bar Reception
October 4 Annual Dinner
Makes a Great Gift for Law Grads
Purchase your copy of the
Charter Centennial
Commemorative History Book
24