March 2025 - Issue 2

Message From the AAML President

Message From the Editor

AAML Tech Tips: TextExpander | Watch Now

Bring a Colleague to the National Family Law Conference and Save | Register Now

AAML Admissions Workflow Town Hall | Register Now

AAML Foundation Update: Your Donations at Work

Call for Content: Submit Your Ideas to the AAML Newsletter | Pitch Your Article

Build Your Team's Skills with the Elite Training for Family Law Support Staff | Register Now

2025 Missouri Chapter Annual Meeting | Learn More

By: Laura C. Belleau, AAML President

The House of Governors strategically discussed AAML educational programming and demonstrated a willingness engage in a new way of governing. The Admissions Task Force, led by Tom Sasser, unveiled their in advancing a more streamlined, efficient admissions framework. (The taskforce will be hosting a town hall on April 14, for Chapter Leaders to share their insights — more information below.) 

The meeting event also provided meaningful opportunities for networking and relaxation, all set in a Pura Vida time zone. I have so much appreciation to all who attended, because everyone present contributed to the success of the meeting.

Now that Spring is officially here, have you sprung to action? I have been reflecting on current events affecting our profession, clients and the community at large. On March 3, the American Bar Association (ABA) issued a powerful call to action, urging lawyers to stand united in defense of the rule of law, to reject efforts that undermine our profession, and to stand up to actions that “tip the scales of justice” to deny access to others. As family law practitioners, we have a duty to uphold legal principles and protect the integrity of the system — even when it requires courage.

The ABA call to action aligns with our Bounds of Advocacy, recognizing that our words and actions have a lasting effect on our client’s perception of justice. We must be free to represent our clients without fear of retribution. We must remain obligated to advocate for the laws that help families. I hope we all embrace the challenge to stand up — through advocacy, education and pro bono work (view the AAML Foundation's latest update below)!

Now that March is almost in the rear-view mirror, it is time to sign up for spring and summer AAML programs. I look forward to seeing you at the National Family Law Conference in Dallas from May 15-17. Early bird registration ends Monday, April 7 and a 10% discount is available if a Fellow brings a (non-Fellow) buddy. This year we are offering a special pre-conference session demystifying the national exam and application process. The National Family Law Conference is an AAML signature program in its infancy, and its success is dependent on Fellows getting the word out in their communities and then showing up to network and elevate the practice. 

Following NFLC, June brings back the Institute for Family Law Associates — you can find out more about these programs on the website!

In sum: Enjoy the longer days, stand up and do some pro bono work, either sign up or send an associate to the National Family Law Conference — and Go Cats!

By: Rod Firoozye, AAML Newsletter Editor

Dear Fellows,

Earlier this month, many of you had the opportunity to attend the AAML Mid-Year Meeting in Costa Rica. Unfortunately, I was unable to join you, but I have heard that this year’s meeting was not only a memorable experience but also incredibly informative.

Our goal is for the AAML Newsletter to be just as engaging and educational over time, and we need your support to achieve that. Since transitioning to a two-edition format in February, we have more opportunities for Fellows to contribute to the Newsletter. Our primary source of content is our esteemed Fellowship — and we happily accept article pitches to our inbox.

We are also open to republishing relevant works from other sources. If you are unable to contribute an article, we would greatly appreciate any recommendations for insightful articles or blog posts that may be of interest to our Fellows. If we republish a piece based on your suggestion, we will ensure you receive full credit for bringing it to our attention.

Here are the upcoming topics and deadlines for the next few months:

• April: Custody disputes surrounding embryos and eggs (April 8 deadline)
• May: Military law — relocation and custody (April 29)
• June: Generative AI uses and ethics (May 27)

In March, we are covered mental health and conservatorship. I encourage you to read Lisa Ann Sharpe’s excellent article, which was included in the March 11 edition.

Thank you for your continued engagement and contributions.

By: The AAML Law Practice Management and Technology Committee

In this new Tech Tip from the AAML Law Practice Management and Technology Committee, Jeff Alford sits down with David Morgan to model a text expansion software that can help Fellows save valuable time while drafting documents.

If you are unable to view the above video, please click here.

Share the experience of the exceptional quality of an AAML event with a non-Fellow colleague at the National Family Law Conference, taking place May 15-17 in the vibrant city of Dallas. The 2025 edition is packed with thrilling new opportunities such as collaborative CLE sessions, networking opportunities and free time to explore the bustling city of Dallas.

Don’t miss your chance to lock in early bird prices — register by March 28 to secure the best rate for this high-quality family law experience.

Special Offer!

AAML Fellows who bring a non-Fellow colleague to the National Family Law Conference receive a 10% discount on their and their colleague's registration. Simply use code BUDDY10 in the discount code box at checkout to redeem.

Note: Discount code only applies to individual registrations. If you have already registered and are bringing a colleague, email registration@aaml.org with the name and email of the colleague and the discount will be added to your registration.

Taking place Monday, April 14, Chapter Leaders and members of the House of Governors are invited to join and share their expertise at the AAML Admissions Town Hall. The purpose of this meeting is to review recommendations for the admissions process to improve efficiency. A pre-read will be shared in advance.

We are excited to share a profile of one of the 50 current grant recipients with you so you can read how your billable hour donations to the AAML Foundation are helping children and families struggling with the breakup of their families. Together we can make a difference across the country!

The Laurel Center Intervention for Domestic and Sexual Violence

Founded in 1983, The Laurel Center Intervention for Domestic and Sexual Violence provides emergency shelter and outreach services to victims of domestic and sexual violence, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. The Laurel Center provides a safe place for families to address their crisis and move on to live a violent-free life.  

This AAML Foundation grant will support the Children’s Project, providing services to children ages 5-17 who have witnessed or experienced domestic violence and their non-offending caregivers. The free and confidential services include individual therapy, care coordination, safety planning, court advocacy and accompaniment, support groups, parent education and holiday programs. To learn more about The Laurel Center, you can visit their website.

The Foundation thanks the following donors since the last newsletter for their support and generosity:

The AAML Newsletter Committee is seeking submissions from AAML Fellows related to the following topics:

• Fertility cases: custody disputes over embryos or stored eggs
• Military law: relocation and custody
• Generative AI uses and ethics
• And many more

If you're interested in submitting an article or would like more information, contact the AAML editorial team at editorial@aaml.org.

As an AAML Fellow, you understand the critical role that a highly skilled support team plays in the success of your practice. The Elite Training for Family Law Support Staff is a new comprehensive virtual training series to address the unique challenges and complexities faced by support staff in highly acclaimed family law offices like yours. All courses are taught by AAML Fellows, providing your team with expert training without requiring your billable time. Your team will enhance their professional skills and gain confidence in handling complex family law support tasks.

Session topics and speakers include:

All Missouri Fellows are invited to attend the 2025 Missouri Chapter Annual Meeting.

Date: April 4-5, 2025

Location: Hotel Vandivort (305 E Walnut St, Springfield, MO 65806)

Visit the AAML Chapters page for the latest updates from local chapters.