A Newsletter Published by Oregon Women Lawyers Volume 15, No. 1 Winter 2004 It’s Time to Opt In! By Beth Allen fter spending last year discussing the ob- Future LEG-Up events will include a discus- stacles facing women who aspire to lead- sion of the book The Difference “Difference” Aership positions, the OWLS Leadership Makes: Women and Leadership, edited by Committee now looks forward to the new year Deborah Rhode. Professor Rhode will be the President with a new perspective—opting in: changing keynote speaker at the OWLS Spring CLE on Sarah J. Crooks the system so that it works for everyone. All May 14. The book is reviewed on page 4. You President-Elect/ Vice President year, we will focus on how we can change the can order it from the publisher (Stanford Uni- Jennifer K. De Wald legal community so that opting in becomes a versity Press, www.sup.org), Powell’s, and other Secretary more appealing choice than opting out. online sources. Kate Thompson One of the Leadership Committee’s activities Our current women leaders are excited about Treasurer is the monthly Leadership Empowerment Gath- sharing their wisdom with us as we forge to- Deanna L. Wray ering event, which we affectionately call LEG- ward creating an environment that encourages, Historian Up, as we hope these meetings will give the inspires, and supports women and minorities Kathryn M. Ricciardelli attendees a “leg up” in reaching their leader- to become leaders in all areas of the legal com- Board Members ship goals. The January LEG-Up event started munity. We hope you will join us as we “Opt Beth A. Allen the year off with Judge Katherine Tennyson In” to leadership opportunities. Alice M. Bartelt Mary C. Bruington facilitating a discussion in which we explored Lynda Clark our individual aspirations. We took personal Beth Allen is an associate at Lane Powell Spears Laurie E. Craghead inventories, and we hope that this will lay the Lubersky. She serves on the OWLS Board of Di- Norma Freitas Diane Henkels groundwork for achieving our goals. rectors and the OWLS Leadership Committee. Ellen K. Jones Leslie O’Leary Hon. Darleen R. Ortega Women Opting Out Cecil A. Reniche-Smith Deborah Rhode to Speak Barbara Smythe By Leslie O’Leary Joanne L. Southey re women lawyers giving up their hard- on May 14 at Spring CLE Patricia Sullivan Jeanette L. Thomas Afought aspirations to make it to the top? OWLS is pleased to Heather Young Consider this comment from a woman who announce that Past Presidents walked away from a law partnership opportu- Stanford University Elizabeth Schwartz nity at a prestigious firm to be a full-time mom: Lori E. Deveny Law School Professor Debra E. Pilcher “I don’t want to be on the fast track leading to Deborah Rhode will Marilyn E. Litzenberger a partnership at a prestigious law firm. Some be the keynote Teresa M. Kraemer people define that as success. I don’t.” Her views Patricia L. Heatherman speaker at the OWLS Julie Levie Caron were echoed by a younger woman attorney who Spring CLE, to be Phylis Chadwell Myles said, “I’ve had people tell me that it’s women held on Friday after- Helle Rode like me that are ruining the workplace because Diana Craine noon, May 14. Pro- Kathryn M. Ricciardelli it makes employers suspicious. I don’t want to fessor Rhode is a nationally recognized Agnes Sowle take on the mantle of all womanhood and fight expert in the area of women and leader- Katherine H. O’Neil a fight for some sister who isn’t really my sister ship in the legal profession. One of the Executive Director because I don’t even know her.” principal subjects she teaches is Gender, Loree A. Devery The experiences of these women and others 503/235-9092 Law, and Public Policy. Fax: 503/235-9098 were the topic of a recent New York Times Maga- The OWLS Spring CLE will be a half-day [email protected] zine article entitled “The Opt-Out Revolution” program focusing on leadership issues fac- Newsletter Editor (October 26, 2003). Author Lisa Belkin explored ing women in the law. It will provide an Elise Gautier, 503/292-2893 in detail why a surprising number of women [email protected] exciting opportunity to hear from women have chosen to reject the leadership track in The Oregon Women Lawyers leaders about the challenges they face and AdvanceSheet is published their careers for family life at home. She mused, the success they have achieved. Save the quarterly by Oregon Women “Why don’t women run the world? Maybe it’s date: Friday, May 14. Lawyers, P.O. Box 40393 because they don’t want to.” Portland, OR 97240 continued on page 10

OREGON WOMEN LAWYERS AdvanceSheet 1 WINTER 2004 President’s Message t its December 2003 meeting, the ideas developed by the board, commit- developed friend- AOWLS Board of Directors adopted tees, and members. ships with lawyers a new strategic plan. After several years The strategic plan adopted by the in other practice of work on this task, we came to learn board focuses OWLS resources on pro- areas that I other- that drafting a strategic plan is not easy. grams and services that will address lead- wise might not Drafting the strategic plan was espe- ership and quality-of-life issues. The have had a reason cially difficult because there is no short- OWLS board and OWLS members want to get to know. age of good ideas regarding what OWLS to change the way we practice law. With From these ex- should be doing in pursuit of its mis- this focus, we are searching for and periences and sion to advance women and minorities working toward a more satisfying and friendships, I have in the legal profession. fulfilling way to practice law. We hope gained a much Sarah Crooks In drafting the plan, we reviewed the each of you will participate in the up- greater awareness variety of services and programs OWLS coming OWLS programs. of and appreciation for my legal com- has offered to its members over the Working to develop the strategic plan munity. Additionally, the friendships I years, including CLE programs on vari- caused me to reflect on the importance have developed with OWLS members ous topics, law school mentoring pro- OWLS has had to me. I have participated have brought me much in the way of grams, endorsement of judicial in most of the programs offered by mentoring, knowledge, opportunity, candidates, the OWLS list serve, the OWLS in the past five years, including laughter, comfort, and peace. Thank you AdvanceSheet, the OWLS Contract Law- serving as a flag catcher on the OWLS so much for your support. These friend- yers Service, the Courthouse Connection dragon boat team one season (luckily, I ships are the gifts from OWLS that I will programs, the OWLS dragon boat team, did not drop the flag!). In addition to carry with me long after my tenure on NightOWLS events, a golf school, and serving on the board, I have served on the board. And these friendships are ex- many, many others. In developing a plan a number of OWLS committees support- actly the gifts I recall one of my men- for the future, the board looked to the ing the services and programs offered tors, Judge Leeson, telling me I would OWLS mission and to the key issues fac- by OWLS. Through my involvement with receive by getting involved with OWLS. ing OWLS members today. The board’s OWLS, I have spoken with lawyers from I encourage each of you to get more challenge comes in determining how to around the state that I may not have involved with OWLS and its local chap- maximize the limited resources available otherwise met. Through my work on the ters. I look forward to seeing you in the to OWLS to implement a handful of the board and on OWLS committees, I have coming year. With best wishes for 2004,

OWLS Foundation Auction on March 5 You are cordially invited to attend the annual Oregon Women Lawyers Foun- dation Auction on March 5, immediately preceding the Oregon Women Lawyers Roberts-Deiz Awards Dinner. Proceeds from this silent auction are used to foster diversity, awareness, and understanding in the legal profession by providing scholarships, grants, and loan forgiveness for law students and lawyers who embrace that mission. The many items available at the auc- tion will include a spring 2004 Chinook fishing trip on the Willamette, special baskets filled with goodies, restaurant certificates, sporting equipment, cook- book collections, jewelry, spa services, and specially prepared dinners. Items are being donated daily! For more in- formation, contact Carolyn Miller, auc- tion chair, at [email protected] or 503/241-2801.

OREGON WOMEN LAWYERS AdvanceSheet 2 WINTER 2004 OWLS to Honor Former Justice Susan Leeson, Pamela Jacklin, and Leonard Girard on March 5 by Sue-Del McCulloch regon Women Lawyers is pleased where she was the only woman on the to name the recipients of the bench. O2004 Judge Mercedes Deiz and As a woman taking a distinctly non- Justice Betty Roberts Awards. Pamela traditional path from academia to the Jacklin of Stoel Rives LLP and her hus- judiciary, Judge Leeson encountered not band Leonard Girard, a retired lawyer, only the passive resistance of institu- are joint recipients of the Judge tional inertia but outright hostility. She Mercedes Deiz Award for promotion of well understood the struggles of other minorities in the law, and former Jus- women attempting to build careers in tice Susan Leeson has been selected to the law and was always willing to dis- receive the Justice Betty Roberts Award cuss and encourage, including speaking for promotion of women in the law. The openly—both one-on-one and to award recipients will be honored at the groups—about the challenge and fre- 12th annual awards dinner on Friday quent isolation of being a woman on March 5, 2004, at the Portland Hilton. the state’s appellate courts. She strongly Former Justice Sue Leeson, who cur- advocated participation in OWLS as a rently serves as a judge pro tem, has great opportunity to develop relation- been a par- ships with women lawyers throughout Leonard Girard and Pamela Jacklin ticularly vis- the state. ible woman A number of individuals writing in fa- Pam and Leonard’s commitment to lawyer, both vor of Judge Leeson’s nomination for promoting minorities in the legal field as a profes- this award noted her leadership by ex- extends beyond their considerable com- sor of law ample, her “behind-the-scenes” mitment through the “I Have A Dream” and political mentoring (“quietly encouraging and program, into their very home. They science at opening doors for those that she men- have provided housing and personal sup- Willamette tors”), and her consistent accessibility port for minority individuals attending University “despite a crushing workload.” OWLS law school and studying for the bar. Writ- and as one is pleased to be able to recognize Judge ing in support of this nomination, one of the first Hon. Susan Leeson Leeson for her groundbreaking career of the women to whom they opened women to and her consistent support of other their home stated that not only did Pam serve on Oregon’s highest courts. Judge women in the legal profession. and Leonard “graciously and gener- Leeson has touched the lives of many Stoel Rives partner Pamela Jacklin and ously” provide housing, they were also women in the legal profession through her husband, Leonard Girard, formerly “great mentors,” providing “invaluable her prominent achievements and her with Portland General Electric, have been information and guidance to help ease consistent commitment to mentoring both publicly and privately committed my way through law school and the bar other women lawyers. Throughout her to advancing minorities in the law. They exam,” without which “my experience career, she has maintained an open door co-founded the Oregon branch of the as an African-American woman becom- to those who sought her advice. She will- ambitious “I Have A Dream” program, ing a lawyer in Oregon would not have ingly shared the benefits of her experi- through which mentors provide coun- been as rewarding.” ence, experience that did not come seling and scholarships to low-income, Pam and Leonard have consistently easily. principally minority, students by adopt- sought ways to give back to their com- Judge Leeson entered law school ing an entire class of children in an el- munity and expand access to the legal when she was already a tenured pro- ementary school and committing to field. Pam was involved with the North- fessor of political science. She contin- remain involved in the lives of these west Women’s Law Center in Seattle and ued to teach during law school, and after children for a minimum of ten years and active in Title IX litigation to expand completing law school she became a law to provide financial assistance for edu- opportunities for women. Leonard has professor in addition to teaching politi- cation after high school. Pam and worked with younger attorneys to pro- cal science. During that time she also Leonard particularly encouraged their mote professionalism, and has advocated served as a judicial fellow for the U. S. many mentees to consider legal careers, for the appointment of women attor- Supreme Court, developing strategies to arranging for judges, prosecutors, legal neys to the bench. increase the efficiency of the federal aid lawyers, public defenders, and other Pam and Leonard’s extraordinary per- judiciary. Judge Leeson proceeded di- attorneys to talk with the children, and sonal commitment to expanding the role rectly from her role as an educator to a coordinating trips to the Oregon Su- of minorities and women in the law seat on the Oregon Court of Appeals, preme Court. They introduced their makes them worthy recipients of the where she was one of only two women mentees to the idea of legal careers and Judge Mercedes Deiz Award. serving, and from there she was ap- encouraged the belief that such a ca- Sue-Del McCulloch is a partner in the pointed to the Oregon Supreme Court, reer was attainable. firm Dolan Griggs & McCulloch LLP.

OREGON WOMEN LAWYERS AdvanceSheet 3 WINTER 2004 The Difference “Difference” Makes Nena Cook Elected Women and Leadership President-Elect of OSB Edited by Deborah L. Rhode (Stanford University Press, 2003) Board of Governors Book Review by Diane Henkels Congratu- ead this book if you have ever won- diversity. Research shows, however, that lations to Rdered why more women are not in a political leader’s party affiliation more Nena Cook, leadership positions. And read this book accurately predicts votes on issues of con- a partner at if you have not! The Difference “Differ- cern to women than the leader’s gen- the Sussman ence” Makes explores whether and why der does. Using different perspectives Shank law increasing women’s participation in lead- is as important as adding different per- firm in Port- ership is important. Deborah spectives to the mix. land, for be- Rhode is a law professor at THE The book includes an Stanford Law School, a agenda for change that fo- ing elected DIFFERENCE president- prominent advocate for cuses on both institutional elect of the women and equal rights in “ DIFFERENCE” and individual strategies. Oregon the law, and a prolific writer MAKES The institutional strategies State Bar on the topic of women in include commitment and ac- Board of leadership. She has been rec- countability, dealing with Governors. Nena Cook ognized by the National Law women and leadership quality-of-life issues, Nena’s term as president-elect began this Journal as one of the 50 most mentoring, and networking. influential women lawyers in A single personal strategy is, month, and her presidency will start in EDITED BY

January 2005. A member of OWLS since the United States. OWLS is Deborah L. Rhode as Rhode describes it, the 1991, Nena chairs the employment law extremely pleased that Pro- greatest challenge to group at Sussman Shank. fessor Rhode will be the keynote speaker women: adapting sufficiently within an Congratulations also to the three at our Spring CLE program on May 14. organization without losing the capac- women who were recently elected to In the book’s first chapter, Rhode ex- ity or commitment to change it. the OSB Board of Governors: OWLS mem- amines in 31 well-documented pages Each perspective in the book is dis- bers Marva Fabien and Linda Eyerman, why women are dramatically under- tinct and valuable, as a few examples and Phyllis Edmundson. represented in formal leadership posi- will illustrate. Debra Meyerson and Robin tions, and she identifies strategies for Ely’s essay provides a helpful, concise change. The six chapters that follow, framework for understanding women contributed by both men and women, and leadership. An aspiring leader can react to these themes. The 21 contribut- turn to Linda Hill’s chapter for some ing authors are lawyers, professors, man- excellent practical insight on preparing agement consultants, politicians, and oneself for leadership. Lawyers Muzette corporate leaders. Each has contributed Hill and Mary Cranston integrate their significantly to civil rights work, women own personal accounts of women and and minorities in leadership, or both. leadership in the law into their essays. The book focuses on leadership in law, These personal accounts left this reader politics, and business because these are wanting to read about a law organiza- the contexts in which the greatest pub- tion that has implemented contributor lic influence is exercised and the most Jerome Shestack’s ideas about how men systematic information is available. can increase diversity in the workplace. The authors discuss why more women This 215-page book (not including the are not in leadership positions: Women index and bibliography) is a pretty quick “have not been in the pipeline” long read—and provocative. It frames the enough. Stereotypes (women viewed as topic of women and leadership very well Susan M. Hammer lacking the necessary qualifications or and includes a good mix of theory and Mediation Services commitment) and men’s and women’s practice. For these reasons, I would rec- unconscious biases regarding those ste- ommend it as a springboard for conver- reotypes limit women’s opportunities for sations in any organization examining Direct Engagements leadership. Women leaders have less the issue of diversity in its leadership, mentoring available to them. The de- regardless of the motivation. For more mands of bearing and caring for young personal use, I would recommend read- telephone 503.222.5949 children generally are most intense dur- ing the first chapter and noting your [email protected] ing the period in which the foundations initial response. What aspect of the es- www.mediate.com/hammer for career development are laid. say stands out to you and why? Then The authors also explore whether hav- read the other essays and compare. ing more women in leadership positions 14 years experience as a mediator would really make a difference. A busi- Diane Henkels practices law in Newport ness case can be made, of course, for and is on the OWLS Board of Directors.

OREGON WOMEN LAWYERS AdvanceSheet 4 WINTER 2004 James and Burton Appointed to Circuit Court By Mary Williams n October, Governor Kulongoski ap- private practice in Hood River, where interest and pointed two long-standing OWLS she helped organize a mid–Columbia to look for Imembers to the Marion County Cir- Gorge group of OWLS members. From opportuni- cuit Court: Mary Mertens James and 1996 to 2000, Judge Burton served as ties to have a Claudia M. Burton. an administrative law judge for the Con- varied legal Mary Mertens James fills the vacancy struction Contractors Board and the practice. created by the retirement of Judge Greg Workers’ Compensation Division of the They both West. She began her appointment at Department of Consumer and Business encourage the Marion Services. involvement County Court Since February 2000, Judge Burton has in bar and Annex han- served as a pro tem judge for Marion community dling crimi- County Circuit Court. Based on that ex- activities. Judge Burton nal matters. perience, Judge Burton says she likes the But, as Judge Judge James cases in which she feels she can make a James put it, she would advise the indi- graduated difference in someone’s life. Often she vidual to “do what makes your heart from the Uni- is able to watch the changes play out sing” and make sure that the commu- versity of over time, as she has continued contact nity and bar service has relevance for Notre Dame with some of the people directly affected the individual outside of its resume- Law School. by her decisions. Judge Burton notes that building potential. From 1983 to the volume of work means there is never Both Judges Burton and James express Judge James 1994, she enough time to do as much as she’d like enthusiasm for the work and challenges was an assis- with her cases, a challenge made even of being a judge and the opportunity tant attorney general in the Oregon De- greater by the budget cuts. to serve the community and make a partment of Justice (DOJ), working in When asked about advice they would positive difference. The community and the Business and Consumer Affairs Divi- give to someone interested in seeking the state will be well served by these sion, the Family Law Section, and the a judicial position, both new judges gave new judges. Trial Division, and as the attorney-in- similar responses. It is important to talk Mary Williams is the solicitor general at charge of the Labor and Employment to others and let them know of your the Oregon Department of Justice. Section. She also spent one summer as a special prosecutor handling DUII cases. Many of us who had the pleasure of working with Judge James at DOJ re- member her not only for her outstand- ing work in a variety of settings, but for her interest in theater and her excel- lent singing voice, which she demon- strated by performing singing telegrams on Valentine’s Day. After leaving DOJ, Judge James worked in the Salem law firm Harrang 1001 SW Fifth Ave., Suite 1900, Portland, OR 97204 Convenient parking at 6th & Main Long Gary Rudnick PC. She also has www.wdolaw.com | email: [email protected] served as a pro tem hearings officer for the Multnomah County Employee Ser- vices Division and as a volunteer judge for the Marion County Juvenile Teen ■ Diet Pills Court Program, a diversion program that ■ Dangerous Medicines gives juveniles with no prior criminal ■ Defective Products record an opportunity to admit guilt and and Vehicles be sentenced by a jury of their peers. She has been very active in the Boys & ■ Mercury in Vaccines (Thimerosal) Girls Club, Inns of Court, OWLS, and ■ Nursing Home Litigation other community and legal groups. ■ PPA (Phenylpropanolamine) Judge Burton (not to be confused with ■ PPH (Primary Pulmonary Hypertension) Professor Claudia Burton of Willamette ■ College of Law) fills the vacancy created Toxic Mold by the retirement of Judge Richard Bar- e have successfully helped hundreds of seriously injured people and their families, and we welcome your ber. She graduated from the University Wreferrals. In the past we have paid millions in referral fees to other attorneys. Many Oregon lawyers do of California, Berkeley, School of Law not know that in 1986,Oregon fully authorized and encouraged referral fees, where the referring attorney can (Boalt Hall) and spent several years in share in a contingency fee when forwarding the case to specialists. See DR 2-107 (A).

OREGON WOMEN LAWYERS AdvanceSheet 5 WINTER 2004 Fall CLE: Managing Our Careers and Lives By Joanne Southey eighing in on a current and rel- than simply fitting a full-time evant topic, OWLS sponsored job into a part-time schedule. Wits Fall CLE, Getting Time On CLE attendees learned that al- Your Side, on November 4 at the Benson though a part-time work sched- Hotel in downtown Portland. The CLE ule has some personal and consisted of two panels, each with its financial costs—not getting the own focus: fitting work into your life, sexy cases, a delay on the part- and fitting work into your day. The pan- ner track, expectations of flex- elists offered a variety of perspectives ibility—one shouldn’t be afraid from different backgrounds, including to take the risk and switch to private practice, the public sector, and a part-time schedule if it will Linh Vu (left) and Amy Bilyeu were among corporate law. help achieve career and per- those attending the Fall CLE on November 4. The first panel focused on part-time sonal satisfaction. Panelists and flextime work arrangements: how were Dina Glassman, an associate at gets blurred for busy professionals. Pan- to propose and present such an option Perkins Coie; Emily Karr, a partner at elists were Carmen Brady-Wright, a trial to one’s employer, how the work ar- Stoel Rives; Marcia Lance-Bumb, of the lawyer with the DOJ Family Law Section; rangement worked for that panelist, and Oregon Department of Justice (DOJ); and Shari Gregory, with the Oregon Attor- whether such an option is practical. Al- Mary VanderWeele, an in-house attor- ney Assistance Program; Molly Jo Mullen, ternative work arrangements are more ney at NIKE. a partner at Bodyfelt Mount Stroup & Focusing on time manage- Chamberlain; and Tahra Sinks, a sole (From left to right) Peggy Crane, Stephanie ment, the second panel dis- practitioner in Salem. Hines, and Jeanette Schuster at the Fall CLE. cussed ways to optimize the While achieving balance all of the time workday and still enjoy a per- in all aspects of life seems an impos- sonal life. Many tools were de- sible task, this CLE and the resulting dia- scribed, including different logue at least provided a starting point calendaring systems, ways to for identifying specific steps that can effectively capture time, and be taken as we work toward achieving ways to delegate. One panel- a better balance in our lives. OWLS will ist said that she turns off her continue to explore the challenge and phone and palm-pilot and re- issues of “quality of life” and “balance” moves her watch as soon as she in its Fall CLE programs. leaves the office every day, firming up the line between Joanne Southey is a trial lawyer in the work and home that too often DOJ Civil Enforcement Division. OWLS Members Support Campaign for Equal Justice Thank you for your support As of December 31, 197 OWLS members had given $51,071 to the 2003 Campaign Thank you to the firms and businesses that provided for Equal Justice. About $10,000 of that sponsor-level support to the OWLS Fall CLE program: was donated by law firms on behalf of OWLS members, and the rest was do- Ball Janik LLP nated personally by OWLS members. Bullard Smith Jernstedt Wilson PC We want to especially thank OWLS Gevurtz Menashe Larson & Howe PC members Cecil Reniche-Smith, Emi Markowitz Herbold Glade & Mehlhaf PC Murphy Donis, and an anonymous do- Miller Nash LLP nor. These women generously donated Staffing Solutions, LLC/K-Counsel® a total of $4,000 as a challenge grant to Susan Hammer Dispute Resolution Services other OWLS members. The funds were Thank you to the businesses that provided complimentary used to match the entire contribution of those OWLS members who had not goods and services to the OWLS Fall CLE program: donated in the past three years, and the Catherine Teach Reporting for videography first $200 of all other OWLS contribu- Limelight Video Productions for videography tions. The grant was met and surpassed! Pacific Legal for printing our program materials “Thank you to OWLS for another out- Bridge City Legal for our poster board standing show of support for legal aid in Oregon,” said Neisha A. Saxena, the Campaign’s annual fund director.

OREGON WOMEN LAWYERS AdvanceSheet 6 WINTER 2004 Meet Two OWLS Board Members By Kathleen J. Hansa e are pleased to introduce two Rights Coalition and is on the steering experiences of her life, since she believes Wmembers of the OWLS Board of committee of the Oregon Women’s Po- passionately in public school education. Directors: Alice Bartelt and Pat Sullivan. litical Caucus. She also serves as the edu- Pat was raised in Chicago. After gradu- Alice Bartelt is a staff attorney at SAIF cation committee chair of the Diversity ating from law school at the University Corporation. Her work includes writing Section of the Oregon State Bar, and is of Georgia, she worked at Georgia Le- briefs to the a member of the OSB House of Del- gal Services and then at the Georgia Workers’ Com- egates. She currently serves as the pro- Court of Appeals. She moved to pensation Board gram chair for the Mary Leonard Law Pendleton in 1983 to help her sister open and handling Society. These are only a few of the or- an art gallery. She met her husband, hearings. She ganizations with which Alice works in Steve Thomas, and got a job working also provides ad- her “spare” time. We are delighted that part-time with Corey Byler et al. vice to claims ad- she is also serving on the OWLS board. When she is not busy traveling to her justors, which is Pat Sullivan is a litigation specialist daughters’ basketball games, Pat loves her favorite part with Corey Byler Rew Lorenzen & Hojem to read. She is on a literacy committee of the job. in Pendleton, where she has practiced that is developing a program called “One Alice Bartelt Before she be- for almost 20 years. Pat does civil pre- Book, One City” to encourage the town came a lawyer, trial work in federal and state court on to read together. She is also an avid Alice worked as a claims adjustor for a variety of matters, including business sports fan. two different insurance companies. For litigation, probate, real property litiga- Pat believes that women, especially fun she likes to shop for antiques with tion, personal injury, and, more recently, women lawyers, can be leaders in their her husband. To relax she enjoys read- land use work. communities by serving on committees ing and doing crossword puzzles. Pat works part-time, which affords her and boards. She served on the OWLS In her spare time Alice volunteers for time to serve on committees and boards board for four years in the early 1990s. several organizations. She is a regional of directors, and to raise her two daugh- We are pleased that Pat has again joined director for the American Association ters, ages 17 and 14. Her work with the the OWLS Board of Directors. of University Women, having been a Pendleton School Board, while difficult member of the organization for 33 years. in these times of budgetary constraints, Kathleen Hansa is a partner in the firm She is the secretary of the Women’s has been one of the most rewarding Cosgrave Vergeer & Kester LLP. NCWBA Board Meets in Portland The Board of Directors of the National Confer- ence of Women’s Bar Associations (NCWBA) held its annual retreat in Portland in Octo- ber. The NCWBA is an affiliate of the American Bar Associa- tion and is “The Voice of the Women’s Bar.” While in Portland, the NCWBA board met with the boards of Queen’s Bench and Oregon Women Lawyers, both NCWBA members. NCWBA board mem- bers also met with former board mem- bers, ABA Secretary Judge Ellen Rosenblum, and Diane Rynerson, former executive director of the NCWBA. The meetings were held at the University Club, and Portland provided great weather and a wonderful backdrop for NCWBA’s strategic planning. The current president of the NCWBA is OWLS Past President Lori Deveny. The NCWBA’s executive director, Pam Nicholson, is also an OWLS member.

OREGON WOMEN LAWYERS AdvanceSheet 7 WINTER 2004 Not too long ago, a young man appeared THE JUDGES FORUM I always held the notion in the back before me at a probation violation hear- of my mind that I would like to be a ing who had previously been sentenced by judge, but I got immersed in my work another “woman judge” at the Justice Cen- as a trial lawyer without exploring it ter. He wasn’t happy that I was not being further. Judge Alicia Fuchs then sug- gested that I might like to apply for a quite as “nice” as the previous judge had hearings referee position. I recalled that been. When I asked him if he remembered my clients might not always remember who that judge was, he said : “Well, I’m By The Honorable Ellen Rosenblum their court-appointed attorney, but they sure it wasn’t you—she was young and Circuit Judge, Multnomah County always remembered their experience in had really red hair!” front of the judge. That made me real- Here, for all of you to get to know a bit, editorial jobs and participating in a ize that even a few moments in court is that charming, “nice” red-haired judge, magazine internship in New York City. could have an immense impact on Cheryl Albrecht. Cheryl is one of our ex- Those opportunities introduced me to someone’s life. tremely hardworking, full-time court- a wide array of enriching experiences I went through the Multnomah Bar that I would have never otherwise Association Judicial Selection Commit- appointed referees. It is hard to imagine encountered. tee process and then was approved as a the Multnomah County courts without pro tem judge by the Supreme Court. I Cheryl and the other referees who help out Q. What led you to a career in the law/ was able to work as a temporary ref- in the high-volume small claims, FED, judiciary? eree when Judge McShane got ap- juvenile, traffic, and criminal courts, day A. After graduating from college, I pointed to the Circuit Court bench. I was in and day out. All of us should be most worked for a music magazine in Los ultimately hired for the permanent po- grateful to them for their remarkable en- Angeles, but I wanted to participate in sition and have quite enjoyed the work. more meaningful projects. I returned to ergy, intelligence, patience, and enthusi- So many of Multnomah County’s won- my hometown and worked as a reporter asm for a very difficult job. —EFR derful judges have inspired me, but it and editor for the local daily paper. Cov- has been especially gratifying to see a An Interview with ering stories detailing Louisiana’s pov- great number of women performing erty, illiteracy, racism, and environmental such quality work on the bench. Judge Cheryl Albrecht problems prompted me to seek a ca- Circuit Court Referee reer in which I could act directly to ef- Q. You are a full-time referee. What does Multnomah County fect change rather than acting passively that mean? What do you do? What do in an observer’s role. I was then cover- the other referees do in Multnomah Q. Tell us about your family and early ing the largest federal trial in history, a County? childhood. Where did you grow up? drug trafficking trial with 187 co-defen- A. Hearings referees hold a unique po- Who most influenced your early life? dants, and law seemed like a natural sition in Multnomah County by supple- A. I grew up in Lafayette, Louisiana, the path for my inclinations. menting the work of the regular elected heart of French Acadiana. It was fasci- judges. As many as eight full-time posi- nating to grow up in such a culturally Q. Describe your legal career path. At tions are responsible for the “volume” and geographically unique area. Al- what point did you decide you wanted courts such as traffic trials and arraign- though I’m not of French heritage, I to be a judge? What led you to this ments, probation violations, misde- definitely inherited the Cajuns’ love of decision? meanor and felony arraignments, boisterous, good-time music and food. A. I attended Lewis & Clark Northwest- community court, criminal trials, land- I can make a pretty mean gumbo. ern School of Law because of its stellar lord/tenant court, small claims and so My mother was an English teacher and environmental program. The scholarship on, while another five conduct all man- my father was a loan company supervi- and beautiful catalogue didn’t hurt as I ner of hearings in juvenile court. The sor. They instilled in us a sense of integ- was making that choice! I was able to work can be challenging because of the rity, fairness, compassion, and a put my activism to use right away when sheer magnitude of the dockets in those commitment to excellence. In the South I joined with a group of other first-year courts. A typical docket for Gresham at that time, women were implicitly if students led by Cynthia Mohiuddin to misdemeanor arraignments, for ex- not explicitly discouraged from taking create the school’s Public Interest Law ample, is 90 cases in an afternoon. Each leadership roles, but my grandmother Project. I began a clerkship with Rieke court has its own individual demands, and mother let us know that we could & Savage’s criminal division and loved so we need to adapt, sometimes on a accomplish anything we put our minds it from the start. My journalism experi- moment’s notice, to the procedural and to. It’s exciting now to see Louisiana with ence made me well-suited for the excit- legal differences of the various courts. its first woman governor and senator! ing cases, creative legal writing, and It has been fun to explore some of the hands-on projects. I worked as a clerk unusual legal issues that arise. Issues that Q. What is your educational back- and associate for nine years in a fast- might not matter a whit to an advocate ground? paced practice involving all levels of felo- suddenly take on great importance when A. I studied journalism at Louisiana State nies and misdemeanors. I was the first you’re the one signing that order. University, which has a nationally rec- woman criminal associate at the firm, ognized program. My favorite part of and over the years I was able to work Q. What obstacles have you encountered school was working for the student daily with a number of other talented women and how have you dealt with them? newspaper in all sorts of reporting and lawyers. A. Sometimes people ask how I could

OREGON WOMEN LAWYERS AdvanceSheet 8 WINTER 2004 represent workshop, participants get three pieces one! But my advice to attorneys think- “those published in a literary journal and read ing of becoming judges is to reach out people,” their work in a public reading. It’s amaz- for support and you will receive it. Or- or whether ing to see how the workshop changes egon benefits from a wonderful com- I have be- lives and gives people a strong, cre- munity of attorneys and judges eager come cyni- ative, empowered voice they never knew to share their best ideas and help. Get cal dealing existed. involved so you have a broad perspec- with the tive of different areas of practice and darker side Q. Do you have any general advice for law. Most counties use judges pro tem of human women lawyers coming into the pro- in some fashion, so that is a great way nature. It fession today? to get some judicial experience. Watch did take A. Although it’s lots better than it used the judges you like—what are the quali- Judge Cheryl Albrecht some time to be, young women coming into the ties that make up a great judge? How to develop my most effective coping field today still face entrenched wage can you start incorporating some of mechanisms for dealing with issues of gaps and overt discrimination. My ad- those qualities now? And finally, don’t grave emotional weight, but I ultimately vice for young women attorneys is to forget to nurture your nonlawyer self. realized I didn’t want to become hard- be yourself, trust yourself, trust your She’s always on the bench with you! ened to those realities. I felt I could best instincts, trust your understanding of the serve my clients and the justice system law, and allow yourself to make a mis- by allowing myself to fully feel rather take or two. As one of my mentors said, “Second Thursday” than minimizing those emotions that “You can always fix it.” You’re at your Offers Networking arise in response to difficult cases. best when you are projecting your own special qualities into your practice. Years for Professionals Q. What are your extra-judicial activi- ago, I cut out another inspiring quote or professionals, finding and meet- ties? What do you like to do just for from my daily calendar and it’s still ing potential clients is critical to fun? F posted on my computer at home: “Doubt long-term career success—but it’s not A. Outside of work, I love to hike, listen whom you will, but never yourself.” easy. OWLS is pleased to help support to all kinds of music, and, when I have and publicize “Second Thursday” events, Q. Do you have any advice for women time for it, write. I participate in a group which are designed to help lawyers net- lawyers who are thinking of becoming called Write Around Portland—we fa- work with other professionals. judges? cilitate creative writing workshops for On March 11, a committee of the Or- at-risk communities. After a 10-week A. As a referee, I’m still working on this egon State Bar’s Diversity Section will sponsor the first “Second Thursday” at the Charles White Gallery, 1307 SW First Avenue in downtown Portland (next to “When an the Veritable Quandary), between 5:30 and 7:30 p.m. attorney called Lawyers, accountants, insurance ex- me from New ecutives, architects, engineers, and other professionals will be participating with York after the an eye toward developing professional relationships with potential clients. close of business If the event is well attended, the com- mittee plans to sponsor a similar event one Thursday to every second Thursday at the Charles White Gallery. At each event, a guest ask if I could get We offer the same services as the other top speaker will provide tips on network- him a reporter in Portland reporting firms. We deliver the same ing and client development. Wine will high quality product. The difference is our be available for purchase, and compli- New York for the personal commitment to superior service. mentary appetizers will be served. These events grew out of the Convo- next morning, I Our New York friend had his reporter the cation on Equality that took place in next morning. He was thrilled, of course. November 2001. Sponsored by the had only two Multnomah Bar Association and OWLS, If you want service, call Teach. 503.248.1003. the convocation made a commitment words for him. It’s all about service. to enhance the social and business net- working opportunities for lawyers with “Of course.” diverse backgrounds, including racial and ethnic minorities, gays, lesbians, women, and the disabled. —Catherine Teach 1500 SW First Avenue, Portland, OR 97201 Second Thursday events are scheduled 503.248.1003 or 800.230.3302 for March 11, April 8, and May 13 at the Charles White Gallery. Join us!

OREGON WOMEN LAWYERS AdvanceSheet 9 WINTER 2004 Women Opting Out continued from page 1 Ms. Belkin offered several explana- Universally, readers agreed that the ter provides on-site child care at its tions for this “opt-out” phenomenon toxic work culture is to blame for dis- Washington office, gives new mothers from the viewpoint of her subjects, some satisfaction in the legal profession. Here 12 weeks of paid leave (new fathers get of them disturbing. For example, she is a summary of the most frequent ob- six weeks), and has even helped pay for raised the question of biology, suggest- servations: adoptions. Arnold & Porter also offers ing that women by nature view compe- ◆ Corporate greed and profit motive part-time partnership tracks. tition and success differently than men. fuel the inhumane and unhealthy 60- Contrary to the prevailing corporate Moreover, younger women do not see plus-hour workweek. view, firms like Arnold & Porter believe the hard work and sacrifices of their pio- ◆ The law firm model encourages de- that a family-friendly policy ultimately neering mothers as a positive influence. structive workaholic behavior, which helps their bottom line. Clients have no Instead, they prefer a less ambitious, is an addiction that poisons not only problem working with part-time law- more balanced life. Today, women are the work environment, but families yers. They see the benefit of a continu- leaving the workplace not only because and loved ones as well; ing relationship with a lawyer that they of motherhood but also because of job ◆ The legal profession values quantity have developed over time. Part-time em- dissatisfaction. They reject the oppres- of time over quality of time, which ployment also helps law firms adapt to sive and family-hostile working condi- makes women (and men) feel guilty a slow economy, especially when there tions imposed by many corporate firms. for wanting to spend more time at isn’t enough work available for full-time The New York Times Magazine article home with their families; this desire employees. provoked numerous letters from read- is perceived as a sign of weakness. According to the ABA Journal article, ers. It also inspired extensive debate on ◆ The existing work culture creates a even small firms can provide a humane the OWLS list serve. Many women dis- fear among women that “opting out” work environment and still be profit- missed the notion that “opting out” is could lead employers to hire men in- able. Often, owners of small practices a “revolution”: in the real world, with stead of women. As one New York have emigrated from large corporate student loan debt and the high costs of Times reader put it, “We fought so firms to create a more balanced life. In living and child-rearing, only the wealthy hard in the early 70’s to become rec- turn, they apply that philosophy to their can afford to opt out. Even then, these ognized by the top programs and own workplace, which can result in “lucky” women are now dependent on change the admissions policies. If higher job satisfaction, lower turnover, their husbands (which begs the ques- we’re not careful, the subtle tide of and higher productivity. tion, are they any better off than their hiring men over women for higher Perhaps evidence of a quantifiable grandmothers were?). salaries will continue, and employ- benefit to the bottom line will encour- ers will be making the right decision” age more law firms to provide a (New York Times Magazine, Novem- healthier, family-friendly work environ- ber 23, 2003). ment for their employees. Now that INGRID E. SLEZAK ◆ Men feel the same dissatisfaction as would be a true revolution. women do but feel constrained to You can obtain a copy of the New York ATTORNEY AT LAW put up with the situation because they Times Magazine article for $2.95 from feel they have no choice. www.nytimes.com/pages/magazine. The Both Ms. Belkin and OWLS readers ABA Journal is available on Lexis-Nexis agree on the solution: the workplace (in ABA/ABAJNL) and Westlaw (ABA). needs women in order to help trans- Leslie O’Leary is a partner in the firm form the work culture to a healthy and Williams Dailey O’Leary Craine & Love sane environment. However, the trans- in Portland. formation of corporate attitudes toward employees will succeed only if women join forces with men to insist on a work- Nancy J. Moriarty place that provides a reasonable qual- Elected Life Fellow ity of life for everyone. Ms. Belkin sums Practice limited to it up nicely: “[T]his is not the failure of Nancy J. Moriarty has a revolution, but the start of a new one. been elected a life mediation of It is about a door opened but a crack by fellow of the Foun- domestic relations matters women that could usher in a new envi- dation of the Federal ronment for us all.” Bar Association A few law firms have already seen the (FBA). Nancy is a 1220 SW Morrison, Suite 1300 light. For example, the Washington, partner in the intel- Portland, Oregon 97205-2232 D.C.–based firm Arnold & Porter was lectual property firm (503) 248-0938 listed as one of the 100 best places for Chernoff, Vilhauer, Fax: (503) 248-0943 working mothers by Working Mother McClung & Stenzel in Portland. An ac- Email: [email protected] magazine (Susan Mandel, “Firms and tive member of the FBA, she is a mem- Website: www.ingridslezak.com Family,” ABA Journal, September 2003). ber of its National Council and is the Morrison & Foerster, a San Francisco law immediate past president of the Oregon firm, also made the list. Arnold & Por- chapter.

OREGON WOMEN LAWYERS AdvanceSheet 10 WINTER 2004 Around Oregon By Holly Pettit Linn-Benton Women Lawyers. Linn- Benton Women Lawyers met at China Cascade Women Lawyers (CWL). CWL Delight in Corvallis on October 15 and held an informal lunch on October 8 at Wyatt’s in Albany on November 19. and hosted a replay of the OWLS Spring The group is changing to evening meet- CLE on October 30. CWL’s November 12 ings to accommodate members’ sched- luncheon was attended by 15 people, ules. Linn-Benton Women Lawyers took Deanna Wray and Judge Jean Maurer at including two people from Portland in a hiatus in December, but will meet again the Queen’s Bench holiday luncheon. Bend for business. The group sponsored in January, after a new recruitment ef- a video replay of the OWLS Spring 2003 fort. The January meeting—a one-hour legislative session. Former Justice Betty and Fall 2002 CLEs on December 16 at diversity CLE—will take place at Kara Roberts welcomed new admittees at the the offices of Bryant, Lovlien and Jarvis. Daley’s office. The group welcomes its November 11 luncheon. At the Decem- At CWL’s luncheon on January 14, Sandy new co-chair, Debra Hart. For more in- ber 9 holiday luncheon, Queen’s Bench Humphries is scheduled to speak about formation, please contact Lynda Clark honored women judges at a festive gath- motivational interviewing. For more in- at [email protected] or 541/ ering at the Queen Marie Ballroom at formation about CWL events, please 926-8678 or Debra Hart at 541/758-2757 the Portland Embassy Suites. The Queen’s contact Laurie Craghead at 541/388-6593 or [email protected] . Bench January luncheon is scheduled for or [email protected]. January 13 at Fernando’s Hideaway. For Mary Leonard more information about Queen’s Bench Josephine County Law Society activities, contact Kimberly Kaminiski at Women Lawyers (MLLS). On Oc- [email protected] or 503/281- (JCWL). OWLS’ tober 3, MLLS 2022. newest chapter co-sponsored a The Queen’s Bench officers for 2004 met on October 28 well-attended are Kimberly A. Kaminski, president; at La Fuente res- panel discussion Nanci Klinger, immediate past president; taurant in Grants on “Maximizing Shari Gregory, vice president; Barbara Pass. JCWL also Job Satisfaction: Smythe, secretary; and Dana Forman, met on November Balancing Your treasurer. Other board members are 25 and December Work and Your Judge Linder Susan Glen, Nicole Rhoades, Cheryl LaDonna Wetmore 30. JCWL will con- Life”with the Albrecht, Nicole DeFever, and Traci tinue meeting on Women’s Law Caucus at Willamette. Pan- Kirkpatrick. the last Tuesday of each month at La elists were Marion County Circuit Court Fuente at noon. For information, contact Judge Jamese Rhoades, local attorney Rogue Women Lawyers (RWL). Rogue LaDonna Wetmore at 541/479-2678 or Tahra Sinks, and Shari Gregory of the Women Lawyers held lunchtime meet- [email protected]. Oregon Attorney Assistance Program. ings on October 22 at Cadillac Café in The MLLS annual fundraising run, Race Medford and on November 19 at Lane County Judicata, also drew a good crowd on Habaneros in Medford. On December Women Lawyers October 11 (see story on page 12). 10, the group hosted a holiday gather- (LCWL). LCWL Oregon Supreme Court Chief Justice ing at Bella Union Restaurant in Jack- hosted a video re- Wallace Carson was the guest speaker sonville; RWL bought pizza and drinks play of the OWLS at the MLLS monthly luncheon on Oc- for the group, and everyone had an op- CLE “Piercing the tober 21. Former Justice Sue Leeson and portunity to visit before the holiday rush. Corporate Veil” Court of Appeals Judge Virginia Linder RWL is planning to host a speaker on on October 17 at spoke at the November 18 luncheon, at women’s health issues in January. Con- the University of which new admittees were welcomed. tact Lisa Greif at [email protected] or 541/ Oregon Law At the December 16 meeting, MLLS pre- 779-5636 for more information. School. At LCWL’s sented the proceeds from Race Judicata November 21 to the Salem YWCA Teen Parent Pro- Washington County Women Lawyers Judge Bearden lunch, Judge gram and also contributed diapers do- (WCWL). WCWL held a casual lunch Mary Ann Bearden presented some tips nated by MLLS members. At the January meeting at Cornelius Pass Roadhouse on for beginning lawyers and gave a tour meeting, Marva Fabien will speak about October 21. The group held a welcome of the Lane County Courthouse. Many serving on the OSB Board of Governors. lunch for new admittees on November new admittees attended the lunch and If you would like more information 19, which included a tour of the Wash- expressed an interest in future involve- about MLLS activities, please contact An- ington County Courthouse. For more in- ment with LCWL. The group did not meet gelica Vega at [email protected] or formation about WCWL, contact Mary in December. For more information, con- 503/581-5265, ext. 24. Bruington at [email protected] tact Heather Young at hyoung@thorp- or 503/846-3413. purdy.com or 541/747-3354. Queen’s Bench. At the Queen’s Bench October luncheon, state Representative Holly Pettit is an associate at Bullivant Jackie Dingfelder spoke about the 2003 Houser Bailey PC.

OREGON WOMEN LAWYERS AdvanceSheet 11 WINTER 2004 Race Judicata Raises $3,100 for Teen Parent Program Thank You By Sarah Troutt Our thanks to the following he Mary Leonard Law Society high school degree. Without access to members who renewed T (MLLS) held the 11th Annual Race free, reliable child care, most of these Judicata on Saturday, October 11. De- parents would be unable to complete their OWLS membership spite cloudy skies and rain earlier in the high school. at an enhanced level morning, the race went off without a One highlight of the race this year hitch. Many runners, ages 7 to 78, com- was the participation of Dan Williams, in the last quarter of 2003: pleted the 8K race, and several others a runner from Georgia. With the comple- participated in the 2-mile fun run/walk. tion of Race Judicata, Mr. Williams Sustaining Level The race generated $3,100, which was achieved his goal of running a race in ($250–$499) donated to the YWCA of Salem’s Teen all 50 states. MLLS presented Mr. Will- Trudy Allen iams with a plaque to honor his impres- Parent Program at the MLLS meeting Kathryn E. Jackson on December 16. The Teen Parent Pro- sive accomplishment. gram provides free child care for the Many thanks to everyone who spon- Darsee Staley young children of teenage parents who sored or participated in the 11th An- Hon. Suzanne M. Upton are enrolled at Barbara Roberts High nual Race Judicata. School, allowing the teen parents to Sarah Troutt is a partner at McClinton Sponsor Level continue their education and obtain a & Troutt LLC in Salem. ($100–$249)

Attending the December 16 MLLS meeting were (from left) Carol Green, executive Hon. Lindi Baker director of the Salem YWCA; teen mom Monica Ansell; Gwen Carr, Salem YWCA Hon. Linda L. Bergman board president; teen mom Stephanie Mentado; and MLLS members Sarah Troutt Laurie E. Craghead and Karen Moynahan. Hon. Julie Frantz Norma Freitas Stephanie M. Harper Pamela Knowles Hon. Virginia L. Linder Beth Mason Kris Olson Mary A. Overgaard Ann C. Postlewaite Julene M. Quinn Hon. Nan Waller Hon. Merri Souther Wyatt

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OREGON WOMEN LAWYERS AdvanceSheet 12 WINTER 2004