Thousands of WSBA members are members of one or more sections and enjoy the benefits of membership year after year. The section membership year began this week (Oct. 1–Sept. 30). Here’s why you should join a WSBA section.
Small Price, Big Payoff
Section annual dues range from $20–40, depending on the section. For less than a night out to dinner, section members have access to a variety of benefits including list serves, newsletters, free and discounted CLEs, and other exclusive member benefits.
Easy Access to a Statewide Network
Sections are based on practice area interests, not geography. Membership is drawn from the entire state. Many sections webcast their CLE programs, educational forums, and other section meetings. Additionally, several sections hold events around the state and partner with local and minority bar associations to further meet the needs of the local attorney community.
Participation in the Legislative Process
WSBA sections play key roles in both proposing legislation and reviewing and commenting on non-WSBA legislation within the parameters established by the Board of Governors. The most common way sections get involved is via their executive committees responding to the WSBA Legislative Office. Section executive committees are encouraged to notify members, and/or solicit comments from their members, as part of this process.
Leadership Opportunities
Each section is run by a group of volunteer attorneys who are elected to serve on the executive committee. Many volunteer attorneys find leading a section to be a rewarding experience because of the leadership growth, professional development, firsthand experience with the WSBA, and the collegiality it offers. Executive committee discussions are productive and challenging, offering a unique opportunity to work with other attorneys (even opposing counsel) in a goal-oriented setting that benefits attorneys and the greater legal community.
27 Options to Meet your Interests
From Administrative Law to World Peace Through Law, and many practice areas in between, there are currently 27 WSBA sections. Most sections are organized around a substantive area of law. However, some sections are organized by practice type or career level, such as Solo and Small Practice or Senior Lawyers. Keep in mind you are welcome to join more than one section. View the full list of WSBA Sections.
Tell us why you are joining a WSBA section… and welcome to the new membership year!
