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Fellows,
As we move into the spring season — a time that naturally brings renewal, momentum and a forward-looking perspective — I am reminded that my term as AAML President has now reached its halfway point. This moment offers a valuable opportunity to reflect on the meaningful progress we have made together, while also focusing on the important work still ahead.
Over the coming month, I will be traveling to visit Chapters and attend the AAML Arbitration Program in Chicago. I’m excited to spend time with Fellows from across the country, and remain deeply grateful for your engagement and your unwavering commitment to the Academy’s mission as we continue to build momentum.
AAML National Family Law Conference
As we turn to the months ahead, our focus shifts to one of the most anticipated events on the Academy calendar — the AAML National Family Law Conference, taking place in Las Vegas at the Bellagio Hotel, June 25-27. This year’s conference promises to be an exceptional gathering of the best minds in family law, combining cutting-edge educational programming with the collegiality and energy that define the Academy.
The educational program is shaping up to be truly outstanding. I want to extend special recognition to Program Chairs Elisha Roy, Aidan Welsh and the entire CLE Committee for assembling a dynamic and forward-thinking curriculum. The sessions will address the most pressing issues in modern family law practice, with a strong emphasis on practical application, innovation and excellence in advocacy. An equally important part of this program are the networking and social events planned by Jason Naimi and the Experience Planning Committee. This is designed to be where relationships are made and strengthened, ideas are exchanged and the unique spirit of the Academy comes to life.
This year’s conference also includes a thoughtfully designed component for prospective AAML applicants. This is an important opportunity to introduce talented lawyers to the Academy and to demonstrate, firsthand, the level of professionalism and collegiality that distinguishes our Fellowship. I strongly encourage each of you not only to attend, but to bring your partners and associates, as well as other highly qualified practitioners from your jurisdiction who would benefit from this program and who might be interested in joining the Academy.
And, of course, the setting itself offers no shortage of appeal. Las Vegas provides world-class dining, entertainment and nightlife — from iconic shows and premier restaurants to the vibrant energy of the Vegas Strip — making this an ideal destination to combine professional development with a memorable experience.
AAML Institute for Family Law Associates
Looking ahead, I also want to highlight another cornerstone Academy program — the AAML Institute for Family Law Associates, to be held in Chicago, Sept. 25-28. Having served on the faculty of this very special program, I can personally attest that this is unequivocally a career-changing experience for the associates who attend.
This program represents one of the most meaningful investments that the Academy makes in the future of our profession. It offers associates the rare opportunity to be trained directly by AAML Fellows — lawyers who are not only leaders in the field, but who remain engaged as mentors long after the program concludes. The Institute provides practical skills training, professional development and the kind of mentorship that can shape a young lawyer’s career in lasting ways. Program Chairs Lauren Melhart and Janet Battey have assembled a phenomenal faculty and planned excellent educational sessions.
I encourage you to identify promising associates within your firm and ensure that you take advantage of this exceptional opportunity. The long-term benefits to your firm and the associates you send will last for many years.
The months ahead reflect the very best of the Academy: premier education, meaningful connection and a commitment to developing the next generation of leaders in family law. At the same time, we are advancing several key initiatives that underscore the Academy’s forward momentum. In the coming weeks, members will see the launch of our new admissions platform, designed to streamline and strengthen the Fellowship pipeline. In addition, the Bounds of Advocacy Committee will be providing the Fellowship with an update on its first draft in May — an important milestone in this thoughtful and deliberate process to uphold the highest standard of ethics in family law. These efforts reflect the Academy’s focus not only on excellence today, but on building a strong, principled future.
I look forward to seeing many of you in Las Vegas this June, and to continuing our shared work in advancing the practice of family law nationwide.
Warm regards,
Thomas J. Sasser
President
American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers
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