ORANGE COUNTY WOMEN LAWYERS ASSOCIATION

As we enter November, a season of gratitude and reflection, I am reminded that the strength of the Orange County Women Lawyers Association lies in the remarkable people who continue to show up, give back, and lift one another along the way.

And what a remarkable year it has been!

Our50th Annual Galawas truly a night to remember! The glamour, glitz, and generosity were flowing as we celebrated 51 years of OCWLA and our golden legacy of empowering women in the legal profession. From the dazzling Roaring Twenties atmosphere to the extraordinary generosity of our sponsors, members, and guests, the evening was a celebration of the trailblazers who paved the way, the leaders shaping our present, and the opportunities we continue to create for future generations.

Be sure to enjoy the wonderfulphotosfrom our Gala!They capture not only the sparkle of the evening, but the friendships, laughter, and spirit of community that make OCWLA so special.

We kept that spirit alive onOctober 30 with ourHalloween Coffee Meet & Greet, bringing members together for a little festive fun, meaningful conversation, and an opportunity to strengthen connections. Whether through grand celebrations or simple gatherings over coffee, these moments remind us that relationships are at the heart of everything we do.

October also provided another opportunity to give back throughOCWLA's participation in the OCBA Community Fair. It was a wonderful example of our legal community coming together in the spirit of service, outreach, and connection. I am grateful to everyone who volunteered their time and talents. Be sure to enjoy thephotoscapturing these moments of community engagement!

We also have much to celebrate within our broader legal community!Congratulations to OCWLA memberAnnee Della Donna, who was honored at theCalifornia Women Lawyers (CWL) dinner, and toOCWLA Past President Michelle Philo, who was installed as President of California Women Lawyers. These remarkable women exemplify the leadership, dedication, and commitment to advancing women in the legal profession that OCWLA has championed for more than five decades. We are incredibly proud to celebrate their achievements and the impact they continue to make.

We also extend our congratulations toOCTLA President Clare Lucich and attorney Nico Mamone of Bentley & More LLP,who secured an impressive$3.82 million jury verdictinHamidian v. Jeff Oviedo & Associates, Inc., holding the defendant accountable for injuries sustained by their client. This remarkable victory is a powerful reminder thatjustice knows no age, and that strong advocacy ensures every individual's dignity, well-being, and golden years are valued and protected.

November also brings Veterans Day, a time to honor the courage, sacrifice, and service of the men and women who have worn our nation's uniform. As attorneys, we recognize the importance of advocacy, access to justice, and standing beside those who have served our country. Gratitude is most meaningful when it inspires action.

In that spirit, ourNovember 18 lunchtime CLE featuring Justice Moore and Justice Carterwill tie into our recognition of Veterans Day, offering an opportunity to reflect on service and the important role of the legal profession. The program will also providespecialty MCLE credits, and we encourage our members to join us for this meaningful discussion.

Our commitment to service and mentorship continues onNovember 17, when OCWLA joins the Constitutional Rights Foundation of Orange County (CRF-OC) forMock Trial Night. Supporting the next generation of advocates is one of the most meaningful ways we can give back. Watching students discover their voices, build confidence, and develop their advocacy skills reminds us of the importance of investing in those who will follow.

As we approach the end of the year, I want to extend my heartfelt appreciation toevery member who took the time to vote in our OCWLA Board elections and to those who stepped forward and submitted candidate statements expressing their desire to serve.Your participation reflects the strength of our organization and the shared commitment to ensuring that OCWLA continues to thrive. To those willing to dedicate their time, talents, and leadership to our Board, thank you for answering the call to service. Leadership is not simply about holding a position; it is about showing up, giving back, and creating opportunities for others.In this season of gratitude, I am especially thankful for a community that understands that service is both a privilege and a responsibility.It is this spirit of generosity and commitment that will carry our golden legacy forward for generations to come.

And finally, please mark your calendars for ourDecember 1 Holiday Party & Installation Dinner at the beautiful Balboa Bay Club. It will be a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the season, welcome our incoming leadership, recognize those who have served, and reflect on another extraordinary year together.

As my presidency begins to draw to a close, I am especially grateful for our Board, Foundation, volunteers, sponsors, and members whose dedication has made this year so memorable.

Our golden legacy is not simply what we celebrate, but what we continue to build together.

As we close out another remarkable year, let us finish strong—with purpose, generosity, and a renewed commitment to service. The greatest way to honor those who came before us is to continue opening doors for those who will follow.

Thank you for showing up, giving back, and making OCWLA a community where women continue to thrive.

Honoring Our Past. Empowering Our Present. Inspiring Our Future.

With gratitude,

Heidi Plummer

2026 OCWLA President

Bock & Plummer, Attorneys at Law