by Christina M. Zabat-Fran
To raise a glass is to pause, to spotlight, to celebrate. It is a simple gesture that says: You matter. Your impact endures.
I’ve always loved a good toast. Whether it’s clinking glasses at a milestone celebration or pausing to honor someone’s quiet, unwavering service, that simple act carries weight. In that moment, all eyes are on the person whose impact speaks volumes—and often, so do the tears, laughter, and spontaneous standing ovations.
There’s something remarkable about the act of raising a glass. Whether in celebration or in tribute, in joy or in gratitude, it is a gesture that invites us to be fully present—to see, acknowledge, and uplift those who have made a difference. And when we gather on August 14 for Raise Your Glass, we will do just that—together.
Raise Your Glass is more than an evening benefit—though it is certainly one of the most fun, festive, and fondly anticipated nights in our OC legal community. It is our capstone celebration, honoring the people and organizations whose generosity and service inspire us all year long. It’s also a tradition I’ve loved being a part of—as a volunteer, wine committee and then event co-chair, virtual host (shout out, 2020), and now as President of the OCBA Charitable Fund.
Each year, this event brings together supporters of the OCBA Charitable Fund and our mission to enhance the system of justice and promote equal access to legal services. It’s an evening that reminds us that our legal community is not just full of talent—it is full of heart.
And that heart deserves a toast.
On Leadership, Legacy, and Lifting Others Up I’ve often said that as lawyers, we are trained to advocate, to problem-solve, to lead. But the most impactful leaders I know do something else entirely: they create space for others to shine. They pour into their communities—with time, with talent, and with intention—and in doing so, they elevate everyone around them.
And so: as lawyers, we often pour ourselves into causes, cases, and clients—but it’s just as vital to pour into community. When we do, we fill a glass that others get to drink from: opportunity, access, and justice itself.
This year, I’ve thought a lot about what it means to recognize someone. Not just to thank them, but to truly see them. Raise Your Glass is our moment to do exactly that—to say: Your work matters, and so do you.
Leadership, after all, isn’t only about being in the spotlight. Sometimes the most meaningful leadership is about giving the toast, not receiving it. And what a joy it is to do both.
Our 2025 Raise Your Glass Honorees This year’s honorees represent the very best of our profession. Their service, spirit, and commitment to justice deserve to be celebrated—and trust me, we’ll be doing just that.
The Honorable William W. Bedsworth: Individual Honoree Justice Bedsworth is a legend, plain and simple. His judicial brilliance is matched only by his signature wit—and both have left a lasting impression on generations of lawyers and judges. Though he recently retired from the Court of Appeal, his impact is far from finished. A mentor, an orator, a man of extraordinary humor and even greater heart, Justice Bedsworth reminds us all that a legal life can be both principled and profoundly human.
(And yes, his past speeches have brought down the house—so you’ll want to be in the room when we raise a glass to him.)
Public Law Center: Community Partner Honoree As a longtime board member of PLC, I could not be prouder of this recognition. The Public Law Center has long stood as a beacon for access to justice, providing essential legal services to the most vulnerable in our community. From housing and immigration to consumer fraud and civil rights, PLC attorneys and volunteers show up every day with courage, skill, and compassion. Their work doesn’t just change cases—it changes lives.
This legacy of impact is a testament to the exceptional leadership at PLC—from the indelible contributions of longtime Executive Director Ken Babcock, a past Raise Your Glass honoree himself, to the inspired vision of current CEO Monica Glicken, who continues to lead with heart, brilliance, and unwavering dedication.
FBFK Law: Law Firm Honoree Ferguson Braswell Fraser Kubasta PC, known to many as FBKF Law, exemplifies what it means to lead as a firm—together. Their consistent support of the OCBA Charitable Fund and commitment to community service are testaments to a shared ethos of giving back.
Special kudos to Todd Friedland, a past OCBA President, who has been a steadfast champion of the Fund and an incredible advocate for access to justice. When a firm builds a culture of generosity, that ripple effect goes far—and FBKF proves just how far it can go.
Each honoree has poured generously—not just into their own legacy, but into the legal community that surrounds them.
Taken together, these honorees remind us that influence comes in many forms—from the bench, through nonprofit service, and across firm leadership. What they share is a commitment to something larger than themselves. Their contributions lift up individuals, elevate our institutions, and strengthen the fabric of justice in Orange County. They are the ones who raise the bar—and it’s our honor to raise a glass in return.
An Evening to Remember Raise Your Glass is, of course, a wine tasting—and a great one at that. With curated pours, thoughtful pairings, a dynamic auction, and the company of colleagues and friends, it’s a night to connect, celebrate, and support meaningful work.
This year, our fabulous co-chairs Sharon Oh-Kubisch and Eric Traut (both of whom know a thing or two about good wine and great gatherings) are taking it to new heights. I hope you’ll join us—not just to sip and swirl, but to celebrate what happens when we raise one another up.
Bring your best toast, your biggest cheers, and your fullest glass. Because this night—and the people we honor—deserve nothing less.
Cheers to a legal community worth raising your glass for. I’ll see you there.
And for me, this moment is extra special. To go from a Raise Your Glass volunteer years ago to now leading this benefit as President of the OCBA Charitable Fund—well, let’s just say this glass is filled with deep gratitude and joy.
Christina M. Zabat-Fran , the 2025 President of the OCBA Charitable Fund, serves as General Counsel for a global luxury fashion group and is a longtime wine enthusiast. She invites you to support Raise Your Glass on August 14. Her email is christina.zabat@lanvin-group.com.