July 2026 President’s Page - The Bench, the Bar, and the Future of Our Profession

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by Shirin Forootan

Honoring the Orange County Courts
This July, the Orange County Bar Association is proud to host our traditional Presiding Judge Reception, which is an important opportunity to recognize the extraordinary work performed every day by the Orange County Superior Court bench and court staff. The administration of justice is often discussed in broad terms, but those of us who practice regularly in our local courts witness firsthand the immense effort required to keep the justice system functioning effectively.

Every day, our judges are called upon to make difficult decisions that profoundly impact individuals, families, businesses, and our broader community. They manage demanding calendars, resolve complex legal disputes, preside over emotionally charged matters, and work diligently to ensure fairness and integrity within the judicial process. Equally deserving of recognition are the countless court clerks, research attorneys, court reporters, bailiffs, interpreters, and administrative personnel whose dedication keeps the wheels of justice turning.

The public often sees only the final ruling or courtroom appearance, but behind every hearing is an extraordinary amount of preparation, professionalism, and public service. Our Orange County courts continue to adapt to evolving legal and technological challenges while maintaining their commitment to accessibility, efficiency, and impartiality. We are fortunate to have a judiciary that works tirelessly in service to the rule of law.

The relationship between the bench and bar is one of the defining strengths of our Orange County legal community. While attorneys and judges serve different roles within the system, we share a common responsibility to uphold professionalism, civility, and public confidence in our legal institutions. Events such as the Presiding Judge Reception help reinforce those relationships and remind us of our shared mission.

Reaching the Halfway Point
July also marks a personal milestone for me as president of the Orange County Bar Association. It is honestly difficult to believe that we are already halfway through this presidency. It feels like only yesterday we gathered for our January installation, full of excitement and optimism for the year ahead.

Serving as president is one of the great honors of my professional life. Over the past several months, I have had the privilege of witnessing firsthand the extraordinary dedication of our board members, committee leaders, section leadership, volunteers, and staff. The OCBA continues to thrive because of the countless individuals who generously give their time and energy to strengthen our organization and support the legal community.

This midpoint in the year also provides an opportunity for reflection. Our profession moves quickly, and it is easy to become consumed by deadlines, hearings, negotiations, and obligations. Taking a moment to appreciate how much can be accomplished through collaboration and service reminds me why bar associations remain so important. The relationships built through the OCBA foster mentorship, professionalism, and collegiality in ways that directly benefit both our members and the public we serve.

Investing in the Next Generation
Summer also brings another welcome tradition throughout Orange County law firms and legal organizations—the arrival of summer law clerks, interns, and law students. There is something energizing about the influx of aspiring attorneys entering our offices with enthusiasm, curiosity, and ambition.

Personally, I have experienced a tremendous amount of joy mentoring young and up-and-coming lawyers. Providing guidance to law students and early-career attorneys creates a deeper sense of meaning within the practice of law. It reminds us that our profession is not simply about cases or billable hours; it is also about stewardship and helping shape the next generation of legal talent.

Many of us can remember the attorneys, judges, or mentors who took the time to encourage us early in our careers. A thoughtful conversation, a practical lesson, or simply an opportunity to observe and learn can have a lasting impact on a young lawyer’s confidence and professional development. Orange County has long benefited from a legal community that values mentorship, and I encourage all of our members to continue investing in the future of the profession.

A Model of Professionalism
July also signals the commencement of Orange County Bar Association elections, where members will hear from candidates seeking positions on the Board of Directors and for Secretary. Having personally participated in several OCBA elections over the years, I can genuinely say that the professionalism and diplomacy with which our elections are conducted is a breath of fresh air.

Our elections reflect the best qualities of bar leadership: respectful dialogue, thoughtful engagement, and a shared commitment to service. The willingness of members to step forward and volunteer for leadership positions is essential to the continued success of the organization, and I thank every candidate willing to dedicate their time and talents to the OCBA.

As we celebrate our nation’s 250th anniversary this July Fourth and reflect on the enduring principles of justice and service, I remain deeply grateful to be part of the Orange County legal community. Thank you to all of our judges, attorneys, law students, court staff, and OCBA members for the work you do each day to promote the integrity of our legal system and strengthen our profession.

I wish all of you a safe, restorative, and meaningful summer season.

Shirin Forootan, is President of the OCBA and founding attorney and mediator at Forootan Law and Forootan ADR. She can be reached at sforootan@ocbar.org.