X

Orange County Criminal Defense Bar Association

OCCDBA Statement Updated June 2023

The Orange County Criminal Defense Bar Association (OCCDBA) is the unified voice of the criminal defense bar for Orange County. The founding Board members, Paul Meyer (President), Kate Corrigan (Past President), Jennifer Keller, Gary Pohlson, John Barnett, Mike McDonnell, Al Stokke, Jack Earley, and Ed Muñoz started the association to promote the interests of the private criminal defense bar in Orange County. Ed Flores, Tom Bienert, and Ed Welbourn joined the Board and are currently serving as active members.

During the pandemic, the OCCDBA was instrumental in assisting to ensure that the rights of the accused were not lost in the process. A strong working relationship with the courts and prosecution and public agencies guarantees that the voice of the criminal defense bar continues to be effectively heard.

The OCCDBA Board members have been actively participating in courthouse and remote meetings and providing a voice for the private criminal defense bar. The concerns and input from the members have contributed to many productive changes in the Orange County criminal courts. Membership continues to grow, and great MCLE is one of the hallmarks of the OCCDBA. Expanded vision for private defense counsel and a high level of camaraderie amongst its members are highlights of the Association. Our meetings have included panel discussions with presiding and trial judges, open forums for judicial candidates, and great insights arising from those practicing trial and appellate law. In the coming year, the programs will continue to feature town-hall style exchanges with the bench and co-hosted receptions with other legal associations. The OCCDBA members range in age and experience. Seasoned attorneys offer their time and insights to younger members in a friendly and informal mentoring setting.

In normal times, we meet at 5:00 p.m. on the last Thursday of the month at Original Mike’s in Santa Ana. Our dues are $150 per year, and we offer a discount to law students and investigators. Membership is now open. For further information, please contact OCCDBA President Paul Meyer, Past President Kate Corrigan, or visit our website at www.occdba.com. OCCDBA is looking for new leadership this year and encourages any interested member of the OC legal community to contact Kate Corrigan at Kate@cwsdefense.com.