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As we head into the heart of summer, I want to share how the AAML has been sailing.
We wrapped the Institute for Family Law Associates and Mediation Training this week! Thank you to Lauren Melhart and Janet Battey and the team of new mentors they assembled for all of the hard work in making this event fansugartastic! The Institute gave associates the chance to learn substantive family law and the value of AAML. It’s a one-of-a-kind training designed to support your team, and allow your associates to start to form their own network of awesome attorneys from all over the country.
I personally attended the sold-out Mediation Training, which offered interactive instruction that not only sharpened our mediation skills but also deepened our commitment to resolving family law matters with clarity and creativity. Although we started at 8 a.m. CT, I cannot thank David Horowitz (and the team) enough for the time and dedication that went into this program — and for waking up early in what those in the 520 and 602 say is an unreasonable time zone!
Another exciting development this summer is the launch of the Elite Training for Family Law Support Staff. This new virtual series is tailored specifically for the teams who help make our firms exceptional. With instruction from AAML Fellows, the program equips support staff with practical tools and insight that strengthen their contributions and enhance the client experience. Even though it is virtual, we are limiting seats to make the experience personal and interactive. Register your support staff sooner rather than later to guarantee participation.
And what will you be doing on Sept. 21? Maybe reminiscing about how awesome the AAML/AFCC conference was? This incredible conference take place every other year and registration is now open for the 2025 Conference on Advanced Issues in Custody: Evaluation, Litigation and Settlement to be held from Sept. 18-20 in San Francisco. Some of our smartest Fellows have coupled with AFCC leaders to produce innovative learning sessions and fun networking opportunities. I can’t wait!
Plus, registration is now open for the 2025 Annual Meeting in Chicago — the gathering that reminds us why we joined the Academy in the first place. The combination of outstanding CLE (thanks to Elisha Roy and the CLE Committee), meaningful conversations and the energy of downtown Chicago makes this a can't-miss event. The Bitter End Tiki Lounge will be open for business Saturday night, so be prepared with your Tiki attire. I hope to see new friends, as well as the familiar faces there.
And one more thing — I want to acknowledge the AAML Board of Directors, who gathered recently in Chicago for two full days of strategic conversations. These discussions are so important in shaping AAML’s future and ensuring our direction aligns with the needs of our Fellows. I’m so proud of the momentum we are building, and look forward to what’s ahead for our organization.
Stay cool out there, and try to enjoy the summer breeze!
Laura C. Belleau, AAML President
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