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Dear Fellows,
As the year draws to a close and the holiday season is upon us, I want to take a moment to reflect on what truly defines the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers. This season of giving is an especially fitting time to celebrate not only our professional excellence, but also our shared commitment to service, compassion and leadership.
At the heart of that commitment is the AAML Pro Bono Resolution, adopted in 2021, which calls on Fellows to aspire to provide 50 hours of pro bono service each year. This resolution reflects who we are as an Academy — lawyers who understand that access to justice is essential, particularly for families navigating life’s most difficult transitions.
I am proud to report that many Fellows continue to answer this call in extraordinary ways. In particular, I want to recognize the Northern California Chapter, which reported an exceptional 773 hours of pro bono service in 2025. That collective effort represents lives impacted, families supported and justice advanced. I also wish to acknowledge the remarkable individual contributions of Yasmine Mehmet and Neil Forester, whose significant pro bono hours exemplify the very best of our profession. Their dedication is a powerful reminder of the difference one lawyer — and our Academy as a whole — can make.
Looking ahead to the new year, I hope you will join us for the 2026 AAML Midyear Meeting, taking place March 10–13 at the beautiful Fairmont Princess in Scottsdale, Arizona. This meeting promises outstanding CLE, meaningful connection and the opportunity to recharge alongside Fellows from across the country.
We are also planning something special during Midyear: AAML Day at the Ballpark, with details and registration coming soon. On the afternoon of Thursday, March 12, we will attend MLB Cactus League Spring Training to watch the Chicago Cubs take on the Seattle Mariners — a fun and memorable way to spend time together outside the conference setting.
As many of you know, one of my personal goals as President is to speak directly with every Fellow of the Academy. I continue making those calls, and they have been among the most rewarding experiences of my presidency. If you have not yet heard from me, please know that you will — I fully intend to connect with every Fellow over the course of 2026. I value those conversations and the insight, wisdom and perspective they bring.
As we celebrate the holidays, I encourage each of you to reflect on the ways you give — through your practice, your pro bono service, your mentorship and your leadership. The Academy is stronger because of your generosity and your commitment to excellence.
On behalf of the AAML, I wish you and your families a joyful holiday season and a healthy, fulfilling New Year. I look forward to all we will accomplish together in the year ahead.
Warmest Holiday Wishes,
Thomas J. Sasser
President, American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers
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