A Newsletter Published by Oregon Women Lawyers Volume 19, No. 4 Fall 2008 OWLS Workplace Leader Award Goes to Gartland, Nelson, McCleery, Wade & Walloch ach year, Oregon Women Lawyers honors more than a slogan. The firm has accommodated a legal employer in Oregon with the OWLS part-time schedules, even for partners; allowed President EWorkplace Leader Award. The award rec- for flexibility in work hours to accommodate Laura Caldera Taylor ognizes a company or firm taking effective steps family or other interests; and provided an ex- Vice Presidents, to promote ample that has Presidents-Elect inspired law- Gwyn McAlpine one or more of Heather Van Meter the following yers in other Secretary values: Eugene firms. Jane Yates & a healthy A t t o r n e y s Treasurer b a l a n c e at Gartland Concetta Schwesinger between Nelson who Historian work and have chosen Alice Bartelt life; to work part- Board Members & acquiring time or flex- Sally Anderson-Hansell Nancy Cook and main- ible schedules Dana Forman taining a so they can Cynthia Fraser d i v e r s e s p e n d t i m e Bethany Graham Shari Gregory workforce; with children, Cashauna Hill or grandchildren, Megan Livermore & maximiz- or engaging in Julia Markley Linda Meng ing oppor- The Gartland Nelson firm (left to right): Sitting: Heather Walloch, other passions Hon. Adrienne Nelson t u n i t i e s David Wade, Emily Hill; Standing: Mindy Wittkop, Scott McCleery, have been met Leslie O’Leary for women Meg Kieran, Doug Nelson, John Gartland, Kate Wilkinson with respect, Kathleen J. Rastetter Hon. Katherine Tennyson and minor- support, and Shannon Terry ities to succeed in the workplace and advance understanding. The firm has been repaid in kind Past Presidents to positions of influence and leadership. by retaining quality, balanced lawyers. Employ- Kellie Johnson The purpose of the Workplace Leader Award ees of this nine-attorney firm are encouraged Norma S. Freitas Kate A. Wilkinson is to encourage and celebrate programs that to work hard, participate in firm decisions, and Jennifer K. De Wald help eliminate barriers to success in the law for develop their practices, but also to take care of Sarah J. Crooks women and minorities. While there are no easy their health, mentor others, and “have a life” Elizabeth Schwartz Lori E. Deveny answers to the problems faced by women and outside of work. Debra Pilcher Velure minorities in the legal arena, we seek to highlight Leadership in the legal community is a hallmark Marilyn E. Litzenberger successful steps that firms have taken to address of Gartland Nelson. The firm’s women attorneys Teresa M. Kraemer Patricia L. Heatherman those challenges. have served on numerous boards, in local bar Julie Levie Caron In 2008, Oregon Women Lawyers is proud to leadership, and in statewide organizations. But Phylis Chadwell Myles recognize the Eugene law firm Gartland, Nelson, it is in providing informal leadership that the Helle Rode Diana Craine McCleery, Wade & Walloch as the recipient of the women of Gartland Nelson really stand out. Other Kathryn M. Ricciardelli third annual OWLS Workplace Leader Award. The attorneys searching for strategies to achieve their Agnes Sowle Katherine H. O’Neil award was presented on Friday, October 17, at own part-time schedules have been mentored a reception following the National Association by Gartland Nelson attorneys, and proposals at Executive Director Catherine Ciarlo, 503.595.7826 of Women Judges annual conference. other firms have been more successful because catherine@ Gartland Nelson stood out among six nominees of Gartland Nelson’s workplace leadership. oregonwomenlawyers.org as a workplace leader in a small firm, small town OWLS extends our warmest congratulations AdvanceSheet Editor setting. At Gartland Nelson, “work/life balance” is to the Gartland Nelson firm. Elise Gautier, 503.292.2893 [email protected] The AdvanceSheet is published quarterly by Oregon Women See pages 8–9 for the 2007–2008 Oregon Women Lawyers Annual Report. Lawyers, P.O. Box 40393, Portland, OR 97240.
OREGON WOMEN LAWYERS AdvanceSheet 1 FALL 2008 President’s Message It’s Membership Susan Hammer at July LEG-Up istory will tear in Senator Clinton’s eye, or the Renewal Season at By Sara Staggs Hbe made “meltdown” she had when she was both t the July 10 OWLS LEG-Up, Susan Hammer, the 2006–2007 president of the on November 4, competent and passionate in a debate? Oregon Women Lawyers Portland City Club, spoke about her time at the City Club, her views of Portland, when the Unit- Or the nonchalant way the pundits feel y now, all OWLS members should Aand our responsibility as citizens to ensure Portland’s healthy future. ed States will comfortable calling Senator Obama have received your membership The City Club’s commitment to maintaining and improving Portland was what drew elect either “uppity,” or the callousness with which B renewal applications in the mail. Ap- Susan to become active in the organization. A citizen-based group, the City Club’s its first Afri- a congressman referred to him as “that plications are also available on the mission is to inform members of the Portland community about public affairs and can American boy”? And why is it that the press, the Oregon Women Lawyers website at arouse a sense of obligation in the community to make Portland an even better place president or pundits, and mainstream America feel www.oregonwomenlawyers.org/ than it is today. Susan joined the City Club in 1981 while working as an associate at its first female comfortable using their outside voices to docs/MembershipForm_2008-2009. Stoel Rives. At that time, joining was mandatory for Stoel Rives associates. vice president. say that a woman’s place is in the home pdf, or contact linda@oregonwom- Cascade Women Lawyers hosted a visit with “As citizens, we have an obligation to make this city better,” Susan said. One of the Laura Caldera Taylor The campaigns raising her children, not in the White enlawyers.org. Send in your form no Hon. Betty Roberts on Oct. 9. Left to right: problems she finds in Portland today is that citizens all congregate around interest leading up to House leading our country? later than November 14 to ensure Lorie Harris Hancock, Bethany Graham, groups to deal with issues that affect the community. “There is no longer a question that historic moment have put the spot- I wonder about how the brazen sex- Hon. Betty Roberts, and Laurie Craghead. uninterrupted listserve access and of ‘what is in the public good?’” she noted. The City Club provides a place to ask that light on the best and the worst of our ism and racism that has been so freely inclusion in the 2009 Membership question without a hidden agenda and to work toward the answer. society—the best in the sense that the touted during this election will affect our Directory. Through research reports presented to the Portland City Council on issues such highest and hardest glass ceiling is that children’s ability to realize true equality. OWLS treasures our members, and as Measure 37 (compensation for land use restrictions), the influx of immigrants to much closer to being broken, and the Wouldn’t it be great if the rest of the we hope you’ll renew as early as pos- Portland, and the city’s business environment, coupled with more than 44 programs worst in the sense that in the heat of country shared our vision of ensuring sible. We depend on your support offered each year, the City Club effects change in the Portland community on an the political moment, sexism and racism justice and equality by advancing women to continue our work to transform individual level and on a greater scale. The club works toward educating Portland’s have been brazenly embraced. and minorities? the practice of law and ensure citizens and bringing real issues to the attention of the city and state governments in There is so much more to say on this justice and equality by advancing a detailed, informative manner. “We want Portland to be better in 10 to 20 years,” subject than there is room here to write women and minorities in the legal Susan explained. “Portland engenders a sense of optimism and empowerment. There about it. Suffice it to say that Senators profession. On behalf of the board is a sense that one person can make a difference, and it is a place where people value Clinton and Obama, and Governor Palin, Attending the Clackamas OWLS picnic on and staff of Oregon Women Law- public dialogue.” She encouraged the LEG-Up attendees to join the City Club. “We have each been the victim of various August 9 are (clockwise from left): Judge yers, thank you in advance for your Tom Rastetter, Bonnie Carter, Kelsey need smart women to join our organization,” she said. forms of sexism and racism. Who can Laura Caldera Taylor renewal! Tucker, Ann Ledgerwood, John Carter, We thank Susan Hammer, a longtime OWLS member, for talking with us, and we forget the media buzz about the single OWLS President Michael Langley, and Judge Eve Miller. thank Black Helterline for graciously hosting this event in Portland. For more about OWLS chapter activities Sara Staggs is an attorney at Wiles Law Group in Portland. around the state, please see page 15 and Nominations for Roberts and Deiz Check Out www.oregonwomenlawyers.org/chapters/. Awards Due to OWLS November 17 OWLS’ New Website Auction Items Needed OWLS is soliciting nominations for the outstanding contribution to promoting n September, Oregon Women ou are cordially invited to attend, 17th annual Justice Betty Roberts and minorities in the legal profession and ILawyers unveiled our new infor- Yand make a donation to, the annual Judge Mercedes Deiz Awards. The awards in the community. Past recipients of mation- and photo-packed website. Oregon Women Lawyers Foundation Auc- recognize and celebrate the accomplish- the award are Judge Mercedes Deiz, We’ve updated its look to reflect tion, which will take place on March 13, ments of individuals in promoting women Gayle Patterson, Nargess Shadbeh, Jus- our expanding membership and 2009, immediately preceding the OWLS and minorities in the legal profession in tice Edwin Peterson, Armonica Gilford, professional presence, and we look Roberts-Deiz Awards Dinner. Oregon. Recipients will be honored at the Okianer Christian Dark, Judge Janice forward to the site’s continuing The Foundation is a sister organization annual awards dinner on March 13, 2009, Wilson, Madelyn Wessel, Lynn Nakamoto, to evolve as OWLS continues to to OWLS, with a mission to educate and at the Governor Hotel in Portland. Marva Fabien, Judge Adrienne Nelson, mature. support women and minorities in access- The Justice Betty Roberts Award rec- Leonard Girard and Pamela Jacklin, Stella We want the website to be a ing and participating in the justice system. ognizes an individual who has made an Manabe, Daniel Santos, Justice Wallace tool for you, our members and To accomplish its mission, the Foundation outstanding contribution to promoting P. Carson, Jr., and David Bartz, Jr. chapters. If you can’t find infor- raises funds through the auction and women in the legal profession and in the The nomination should include de- mation you need or have ideas other events and makes grants which community. Past recipients of the award tailed information explaining how the for its improvement, please don’t support organizations dedicated to and include Justice Betty Roberts, Judge Sid nominee fulfills the award’s criteria. At hesitate to contact us at catherine@ projects designed to give women and Galton, Helen Althaus, Norma Freitas, least three letters of recommendation oregonwomenlawyers.org or minorities greater access to and a bet- Katherine O’Neil, Barrie Herbold, Elizabeth should also be included. Nominations [email protected]. ter understanding of the justice system. Harchenko, Judge Maureen McKnight, must be received by Monday, Nov. 17, Our thanks go to Grapheon De- Donation suggestions include vacation Judge Ellen Rosenblum, Diane Rynerson, 2008. Nomination forms can be found at sign for helping us transform our lodging, specialty baskets, restaurant Diana Crane, Justice Susan Leeson, Judge www.oregonwomenlawyers.org. website dreams into reality. Check or entertainment certificates, sporting Ann Aiken, Sandra Hansberger, Judge Send nominations to Kristin Sterling, it out at www.oregonwomenlaw- equipment, jewelry, spa services, and Mary Deits, and Trudy Allen. OWLS, Stoel Rives, 900 S.W. Fifth Ave., yers.org. We hope you like the new specially prepared dinners. For more The Judge Mercedes Deiz Award rec- Suite 2600, Portland, OR 97204; email: site as much as we do! information or to make a donation, ognizes an individual who has made an [email protected]; fax: 503.220.2480. please contact auction co-chairs Aruna [email protected] Our mission is to transform the practice of law and ensure justice Masih, at [email protected] or 503.227.4600, or Kat Rosenbaum, at Portland Seattle Spokane Coeur d’Alene National and equality by advancing women and minorities in the legal profession. [email protected] or 503.201.7732. (503) 227-1544 (206) 622-3376 (509) 838-6000 (208) 667-1163 (800) 528-3335
OREGON WOMEN LAWYERS AdvanceSheet 2 FALL 2008 OREGON WOMEN LAWYERS AdvanceSheet 3 FALL 2008 Jackson County Circuit Judge Rebecca Orf to Retire Eight OWLS Members on November Ballot By Lisa Greif By Bethany Graham udge Rebecca Orf has served as a Judge Orf started out as a VISTA law- was recently appointed to a statewide ight OWLS members are running from the police, and volunteered to assist in her elec- judge in Jackson County since 1994. yer working for legal services in Jackson family law committee. A member of the for election in November, five seek- the district attor- tion bid. JAppointed to the Jackson County County. She handled mostly family law Medford Rotary Club, Judge Orf plans to Eing to capture or retain judicial ney’s office, and Donations to Greif’s campaign can be District Court by Governor Barbara and public-benefit law cases. After spend- continue her volunteer work after she seats and three running for political of- her fellow public made to the Committee to Elect Lisa Greif, Roberts that year, Judge Orf was the ing time in private practice, she began steps down from her full-time position fice. Of the five judicial candidates, only defenders. Greif P.O. Box 4601, Medford, OR 97501. first woman state trial court judge in practicing juvenile law in 1987. She also on the bench. two are in contested races. In Jackson says that in a local Judge Jenefer Grant in Columbia Coun- Jackson County. When the district and worked as a mediator before becoming Judge Orf and her husband have two County, Lisa Greif is running again for bar poll in April she ty is also in the midst of a heated judicial circuit courts consolidated, she became a judge. sons, ages 24 and 20; the oldest is a an open position on the circuit court earned more votes race. She is seeking to retain the seat she a judge on the Jackson County Circuit On the circuit court, Judge Orf has pre- second-year law student at Willamette. bench, and in Columbia County, current than her three has held since her appointment by Gov- Court, a position from which she will step sided over just about every type of case Judge Orf lists her husband, children, Circuit Court Judge Jenefer Grant is seek- primary opponents ernor Kulongoski down at the end of this year. Judge Orf that comes before the court. She has been parents, and grandparents as the most ing to retain the seat to which she was combined. in May 2007. Judge Lisa Greif will be a tough act to follow, especially on both criminal and civil rotations in the influential people in her life, along with appointed in May 2007. If she is elected, Grant’s opponent in in juvenile dependency and community past and currently oversees a community the Dalai Lama, whom she has met in In an uncontested race, Justice Martha Greif will join just one other woman on the race is David B. family-court caseloads. family-court caseload, a juvenile depen- person. She is on the board of directors Walters is running to retain her seat on the Jackson County Circuit Court, Judge Herr, an attorney in After growing up in Florence, Mis- dency caseload, and a domestic relations of Kagyu Suka Choling, a Buddhist medi- the Oregon Supreme Court, which she as- Patricia Crain. The only other female private practice in sissippi, Judge Orf earned a bachelor’s caseload. She is well known as a staunch tation center in Ashland. Judge Orf also sumed in 2006. Multnomah“ County Circuit judge, Rebecca Orf, will step down from St. Helens. degree from the University of Mississippi, protector of children in the courtroom likes to read, spend time with her four Court Judge Diana Stuart and Clackamas the bench at the end of this year. [See J u d g e G r a n t where she majored in English and also but also is often very supportive of the dogs and her horse, and travel. County Circuit Court Judge Kathie Steele story on page 4.] Noting the importance states that being met her husband, criminal defense at- parents who appear before her. When Judge Orf started law school, are also seeking re-election to their seats of having more women on the bench in the first woman on torney David Orf. She worked as a legal Judge Orf has been active in her com- there were a total of seven women in her county, Greif would like, with her in uncontested races. the Columbia Coun- Hon. Jenefer Grant secretary while he attended law school munity and has participated in several the program. She felt that her female In addition to the judicial races, three election, to be able to “keep Judge Crain ty Circuit Court is at the University of Mississippi. David en- committees and boards that serve chil- classmates actually received special at- OWLS members are running for political company.” “obviously exciting to me personally, couraged her to try law school also, and dren and families, including the local tention because they stood out among office. At the state level, current Senate Grief notes that although she has not because it makes history.” But Judge soon she too enrolled. The Orfs moved to council against domestic violence and the men. She noted how things have Majority Leader Kate Brown is running for made special efforts to reach women Grant also notes that “it is difficult to Oregon the day after she graduated from sexual assault. Currently she serves on the changed: her son’s law school class now secretary of state, and Suzanne Bonamici voters, women voters have been com- say whether certain qualities I have are law school in 1977, ending up in Ashland board of directors of the Family Nurturing includes at least 50% women. is seeking to retain her seat in the Oregon ing to her. She thanks her many women ‘feminine’ rather than ‘masculine,’ but because they wanted to live in a small Center and on the Jackson County Com- When asked what advice she has for Senate representing District 17, which supporters, including lawyers and judges, my heart is very much in my work, and college town near the mountains. mission on Children and Families, and she young women lawyers, Judge Orf stressed comprises portions of northeast Washing- who have hosted campaign fundraisers Continued on page 6 the importance of finding a mentor. Any ton County and northwest Multnomah attorney, she says, who aspires to be a County. In addition, OWLS member Judy judge must start by being a good lawyer. Shiprack is seeking a Multnomah County “A Portland lawyer She also recommends getting involved in commissioner position. one’s community, especially in activities called me at Contested Judicial Races Heat Up conducted in conjunction with the local 4:12 pm and asked bar association. Lisa Greif’s campaign is her second A longtime OWLS member, Judge Orf effort to capture a Jackson County ju- if I could get him says that she has always treasured her dicial seat. She also ran in 2006, losing a reporter that membership in OWLS and that she found the election to local Medford attorney a lot of support from being a member, es- Ron Grensky. Greif is running in a hotly afternoon and pecially in the earlier years, when “there contested race for Position 8, which will again the next day. be vacated by Judge William Purdy, who were fewer of us around.” The location was Judge Orf is looking forward to her is stepping down from the bench. Greif, We offer the same services as the other top “retirement” from the bench, although an attorney with Southern Oregon Public aboard a Greek Portland reporting firms. We deliver the Defender since 1998, says she learned a she will miss community family court ship which could same high quality product. The difference is and juvenile court. She will participate great deal from her first campaign. our personal commitment to superior service. in the “Plan B” option, which allows On this second outing, she is running only be reached her to spend 35 days per year as a judge regular radio ads and concentrating her by a short ride Our reporter and a Greek interpreter were over the next five years. She is interested campaign efforts on precincts that his- on board until 2:00 am and back later that day. torically have the highest voter turnout. in a small boat in possibly establishing a mediation/ Our client was impressed, of course. arbitration practice and/or represent- Her efforts have apparently been paying and a long climb ing children, teens, and young adults in off. Greif won the May primary handily, If you want service, call Teach. 503.248.1003 defeating three other candidates and cap- up a rope ladder. court. She will continue to be involved It’s all about service. in the activities that are most important turing more than 46% of the total vote. There was only She garnered over ten thousand more to her, those that make our children and one thing to say. families stronger. votes than her next closest opponent and runoff challenger, Joe Charter. Lisa Greif, a senior attorney with South- Greif also reports that she is heading “Of course.” ern Oregon Public Defender in Medford, into the general election with endorse- 1500 SW First Avenue, Portland, OR 97201 is a candidate for the Jackson County ments from five sitting judges and one —Catherine Teach 503.248.1003 or 800.230.3302 Circuit Court on the November ballot. senior judge, in addition to broad support
OREGON WOMEN LAWYERS AdvanceSheet 4 FALL 2008 OREGON WOMEN LAWYERS AdvanceSheet 5 FALL 2008 OWLS Members on November Ballot continued from page 5 Recent LEG-Up Events Address Work/Life Balance I do think I am good at putting my ego the Oregon Senate since 1996, has served ning unopposed in a special election aside and at listening to people.” as Senate majority leader since 2004 for the Senate seat. If elected, she will August LEG-Up September LEG-Up The biggest challenge in the election, and is the first female to ever hold that serve out the remaining two years of according to Judge Grant, may sound position. Brown easily won the primary Avakian’s term. By Allyson Keo By Siovhan Sheridan-Ayala familiar to many working women— election against three Democratic rivals, A 1983 graduate of the University of he OWLS August 14 LEG-Up, n September 11, OWLS hosted “balancing full-time work, parenting a and will be challenged in the general Oregon School of Law, Bonamici’s legal hosted by Stoel Rives in Portland, a LEG-Up at Bodyfelt Mount in three-and-a-half-year-old daughter, keep- election by Republican Rick Dancer, a experience includes work at the Federal Twas the first of a two-part series OPortland entitled “Perspectives ing the household running smoothly, and former television journalist. Trade Commission in Washington, D.C., featuring perspectives on improving on Finding Work/Life Balance as a Solo or campaigning every available moment.” A graduate of Lewis & Clark Law (in the Credit Practices Division of the work/life balance. The three-member Contract Attorney.” It was the second in a Judge Grant extends her thanks to OWLS School, Brown practiced family law and Bureau of Consumer Protection) and in panel consisted of Elizabeth Knight, of two-part series on work/life balance. The members throughout the state whose juvenile law before starting a career private practice in Portland. Bonamici counsel with Dunn Carney Allen Higgins & room was packed as the three panelists, support has been “hugely beneficial to in public service. She has served in the says that her legal training has been a Tongue; Tamara Russell, a partner at Bar- Helle Rode, Anne Corcoran Briggs, and my campaign.” She reports that she has Oregon legislature since her election to “tremendous asset” in the legislature, ran Liebman; and Kathleen Barsocchini, Mary Egan, shared their insights about been “overwhelmed by the willingness the House of Representatives in 1991. particularly with regard to her service on senior vice president, general counsel, Left to right: Elizabeth Knight, maintaining work/life balance as a sole of members who had never previously After two terms in the House, Brown was the Senate Judiciary Committee, and also and secretary of Scantron Corporation. Kathleen Barsocchini, and Tamara Russell practitioner or contract attorney. heard of me to donate time, energy, and elected to the Oregon Senate in 1996, with the basic but critical skills of read- A common theme at the event was that money to my re-election efforts.” where she has served ever since. ing statutes and understanding statutory everyone must define success for herself, and the definition will shape individual You can read more about Judge Donations to Brown’s campaign can construction. priorities. The panelists offered the following advice (and much more) to audience Grant in the Summer 08 issue of the Ad- be made through her campaign website, Bonamici advises those interested in members: vanceSheet. Donations to Judge Grant’s www.katebrownfororegon.com. pursuing a legislative career to learn s 4REAT YOUR OUTSIDE WORK LIFE LIKE A CLIENTDEDICATE TO IT THE TIME IT DESERVES campaign can be made through her web- In the Oregon legislative races, about the process first. She recommends s $ELIVER A HIGH QUALITY WORK PRODUCT AND STAY FOCUSED AND RESPONSIVE AT WORK site, www.retainjudgegrant.com. Suzanne Bonamici is running to retain the spending time in Salem during the leg- so that you can enjoy your time outside of work. Senate District 17 seat to which Governor islative session to follow a bill or two s 5NDERSTAND YOUR EMPLOYERS EXPECTATIONS Three OWLS Members Kulongoski appointed her in May of this through the process, and, if possible, s )T IS ACCEPTABLE TO BE ABSENT FROM LAW lRM COMMITTEE OR PRACTICE GROUP MEET- Run for Political Office ings occasionally. year. The seat had been vacated by Brad testifying before a committee. “Also, get Left to right: Helle Rode, Two of the three OWLS members run- Avakian when he left the Senate to take to know your community so that when s 5SE TECHNOLOGY TOOLS SUCH AS 0$!S TELECOMMUTING OUT OF OFlCE NOTIlCATION Anne Corcoran Briggs, and Mary Egan ning for political office in November the helm at the Oregon Bureau of Labor you decide to run, you have made some and cell phones, to find more time and improve work/life balance. are in contested races, and one, Suzanne and Industries. Bonamici, who had served local contacts,” says Bonamici. s 'IVE YOURSELF PERMISSION TO DESIGNATE TIMES WHEN YOU ARE UNAVAILABLE TO YOUR Each seasoned attorney has made her Bonamici, is running unopposed. in the Oregon House of Representatives Donations can be made to Bonamici employer. own career path, in line with her own Kate Brown, a Democratic member of since the 2007 legislative session, is run- at her website, www.suzannefororegon. s )T IS EASIER TO MARKET WHEN YOU DO SO ON YOUR OWN TERMS $ElNE hBUSINESS life needs. Both Anne and Helle had com. development hours” broadly. supportive husbands who took greater Lastly, Judy Shiprack is seeking a seat s /UTSOURCE TASKS SUCH AS SHOPPING AND CLEANING WHEN IT MAKES SENSE TO DO SO responsibility for their home lives. Anne as a Multnomah County commissioner s ,EARN HOW TO SAY NO encouraged people to define success representing District 3. Shiprack is run- s 9OU CAN STILL PARTICIPATE IN BAR AND VOLUNTEER ACTIVITIES IF YOU ENJOY THE ACTIVITY for themselves, and to expect the unex- ning against Mike Delman, currently the you choose and avoid spreading yourself too thin. pected if you have children. Mary’s career director of public affairs for the Portland s 4AKE THE OPPORTUNITY TO GET TO KNOW PEOPLE WHEN YOU WORK TOGETHER ON A path has taken her from large firms to Habilitation Center. Shiprack had a very project; find alternative ways to build relationships. in-house counsel to, finally, working as strong showing in the primary election, Thanks to our panel members for sharing their experiences and insights with us, a contract attorney. She encouraged garnering just over 37% of the vote in a and thank you, Stoel Rives, for generously supporting this event. people to maintain friendships, take crowded field of six candidates. Delman, Allyson Keo is corporate counsel at Harland Financial Solutions in Portland. vacations, enjoy outdoor activities, and Shiprack’s next closest opponent, received belong to civic groups. Helle emphasized 17.5% of the vote. the importance of simplifying one’s life, Since her graduation from Lewis & For more information about OWLS and OWLS events, maintaining good health, and reserving time for the inevitable surprise. Clark Law School in 1980, Shiprack has please visit our website, www.oregonwomenlawyers.org. enjoyed a diverse career. After first OWLS thanks the panelists and attend- working as a deputy district attorney for ees for such an engaging discussion, and Multnomah County, she was elected to our host, Bodyfelt Mount. the Oregon House of Representatives in Call me for a 30-minute, Siovhan Sheridan-Ayala focuses her Port- 1986, representing southeast Portland. no charge consultation . . . land practice on immigration law. She next turned her hand to creating a about how I may team nonprofit affordable housing develop- with you to enhance ment corporation. Most recently, in 2003, your bottom line and Shiprack became the director of the Local reduce your anxiety. Public Safety Coordinating Council in IN OUT Heidi O. Strauch Multnomah County. Professional Contract Attorney Donations to Shiprack’s campaign can be made through her website, www. Do you have piles of files? P.O. Box 30235 Portland, OR 97294 judyshiprack.com. At the OWLSNET event in Portland on 503.201.7642 August 26, OWLS members networked Bethany Graham is a lawyer at Schwabe, with real estate and mortgage profes- Williamson & Wyatt in Bend and serves [email protected] sionals. Shown here (left to right): Sara on the OWLS board. Allen, Paul Martinez, and Chelsea Collier.
OREGON WOMEN LAWYERS AdvanceSheet 6 FALL 2008 OREGON WOMEN LAWYERS AdvanceSheet 7 FALL 2008 Oregon Women Lawyers Annual Report From the Executive Director’s Desk October 2007–September 2008 he past year at Oregon Women Lawyers has been one of growing toward the Continuing Legal OWLS’ deepest thanks future and honoring where we’ve come from. Our membership increased by had an oppor- Education Conferences 13%, continuing its steady climb of the past few years. We gained members in Awards to our 2007–2008 T tunity to chat nearly every chapter around the state, and added a new chapter in Clackamas County. Oregon Women Lawyers’ 2007–2008 business supporters: with judges, Roberts- OWLS members and others in the legal field affirmed the stature of our “culture of CLEs were both sold out. In the fall, our students, and Deiz support,” attending sold-out events throughout the year, seeking OWLS’ input on “Business Tools For Success” CLE brought Roberts-Deiz 2007 Sponsors other lawyers decisions of importance to the legal community, and participating actively on our Awards together lawyers of all experience levels Gleaves Swearingen Potter & Scott over brown- members-only listserve. Law firms and legal businesses stepped up in unprecedented Dinner to discuss professional leadership and Klarquist Sparkman bag lunches. numbers to support OWLS programs at unprecedented levels. This year’s business planning. At the spring Au- Markowitz, Herbold, Glade These infor- Here at the OWLS World Headquarters, we are pleased but not surprised. From our sold-out din- tobiography Release CLE, Justice Betty & Mehlhaf mal gather- perch in OWLS’ unassuming offices, Administrative Director Linda Tomassi and I can ner honored Roberts read from her memoir, With Grit Miller Nash ings were well see the breadth and reach of a remarkable volunteer-driven network of professional Trudy Allen as and By Grace, and a multi-generational Perkins Coie attended. The support. The means by which our leaders and members work to advance women the recipient panel shared their reflections on the Schwabe, Williamson & Wyatt C o u r t h o u s e and minorities in the legal field are many: you plan educational programs, organize of the Justice challenges women face and the progress Stoel Rives Connection in events, serve as mentors, provide advice, help run the organization, and offer your Betty Roberts they have made in the law. Teach Court Reporting Portland cel- wisdom—both personal and professional—to others in the field. A w a r d a n d Tonkon Torp ebrated Take Oregon Women Lawyers As our organization grows, we recognize more acutely than ever the importance of Dave Bartz, Jr., Williams Kastner Your Daugh- honoring those whose shoulders we have stood upon. This year, we were fortunate as the recipient Chapters Williams Love O’Leary & Powers ters and Sons to hear from a number of OWLS’ “Founding Mothers” at the Betty Roberts Autobi- of the Judge The spring of 2008 saw the initiation of to Work Day ography Release CLE in the spring, and to see another honored at the Roberts-Deiz Mercedes Deiz a new OWLS chapter, Clackamas Oregon Fall 2007 CLE Sponsors in April. Mult- Awards Dinner. They epitomize what remains unique and inspiring about Oregon Award. Over Women Lawyers. Spearheaded by OWLS nomah County Bank of the Cascades Women Lawyers’ mission and work to this day. Tracing the line from where they 4 2 0 g u e s t s board member Kathleen Rastetter and Circuit Court Bullivant Houser Bailey have been to where we are today helps us recognize how much progress has been were treated Clackamas County Circuit Court Judge judges hosted Gevurtz Menashe made and summon the strength to tackle the to Trudy’s re- Kathie Steele, the chapter has hosted sev- about 100 chil- Harrang Long Gary Rudnick great challenges that still face us. flections on eral events, including social gatherings, dren in several Johnson & Lechman-Su I feel fortunate to have participated in Number of OWLS Members her decades organizational events, and a luncheon courtrooms, Naegeli Reporting OWLS’ work to address these challenges over of service to CLE on handling difficult clients. 1322 w h e r e t h e y Perkins Coie the past year, and salute the amazing women women law- OWLS’ ten other chapters throughout 1167 participated in Schwabe, Williamson & Wyatt who have made—and continue to make—that 1030 yers in Oregon the state continued to offer a mixture mock trials. Smart Legal work happen. a n d D a v e ’s of professional enrichment, networking Warmly, Contract inspirational activities, and casual gatherings. For in- Spring 2008 CLE Sponsors comments on formation about each chapter, please see Lawyers Ball Janik how his phi- page 15 and www.oregonwomenlawyers. Listserve Barran Liebman losophy of in- org/chapters/. Catherine Ciarlo 2006 2007 2008 and Bullivant Houser Bailey OWLS Executive Director clusion and Luncheons fairness moti- The DragonFlies Cosgrave Vergeer Kester Lori Deveny OWLS pro- vated him to The OWLS dragon boat team, the who shared their successes, experiences, Dunn Carney Allen Higgins Networking Opportunities vides support for contract lawyers and transform his law firm. DragonFlies, enjoyed a spirited race and strategies. These well-attended & Tongue and Leadership Initiatives sole practitioners through a special season, competing in Tacoma, Salem, events at Portland firms provide a Workplace Leader Award Farleigh Wada Witt listserve and monthly brown-bag lunch Victoria, B.C., and Portland. Please see the Inter-profession monthly opportunity for networking Gevurtz Menashe gatherings in downtown Portland. In The OWLS Workplace Leader Award story on the back page and visit www. Networking Events and gaining leadership skills. The OWLS Harrang Long Gary Rudnick 2007–2008, lawyers who have chosen a recognizes legal employers who have effec- owlsdragonflies.org. In 2007, OWLS responded to requests Leadership Committee also hosted a solo career path supported one another tive programs or policies to help women Lewis & Clark Law School from the community and our members fundraiser for Dress for Success. and acquired practice skills from similarly and minorities succeed in the workplace Naegeli Reporting by instituting bi-annual inter-profession Mentoring Circles situated professionals. and advance to positions of influence and Volunteer! Perkins Coie networking events. A mix of professionals leadership. Smart Legal Oregon Women Lawyers All the programs and accomplish- met in Eugene in September 2007 and OWLS members in Portland had the The 2007 Workplace Leader Award was ments described in this report are the again this fall; in Portland, attorneys opportunity to participate in two Judicial Listserve presented jointly to the Portland firms LEG-Up Hosts direct result of hundreds of hours put networked with bankers and CPAs at one Mentoring Circles over the past year, one The OWLS members-only listserve is Bodyfelt Mount and Farleigh Wada Witt. Ater Wynne in by OWLS volunteers to plan and event, and mingled with real estate and on family law and one on “The Anatomy one of OWLS’ most utilized membership The award recognizes both firms’ commit- Ball Janik coordinate events, reach out to other mortgage professionals at another. These of a Trial.” Multnomah County Circuit services. Seventy-four percent of OWLS ment to a culture that favors professional Barran Liebman legal groups, write articles, assist with events, held immediately after work at Court judges served as mentors, giving members used it over the past year as a fulfillment over maximizing profits. Black Helterline event details, and help out in the of- local restaurants, drew large crowds. 24 OWLS members a chance for small resource for legal referrals, advice, ser- Bodyfelt Mount fice. For a list of OWLS committees, group discussion in an informal setting vice recommendations, and job postings. This year, OWLS completed a long- Bullivant Houser Bailey LEG-Ups see www.oregonwomenlawyers. over several months. The listserve also provides members with overdue overhaul of our website, Dunn Carney Allen Higgins org/who_we_are/volunteer.php. Attorneys of all experience levels information about upcoming events. www.oregonwomenlawyers.org. & Tongue Courthouse Connection Volunteer work is fun and reward- attended nine leadership programs Finally, it serves as a platform for spirited Check out the pictures, historical Schwabe, Williamson & Wyatt ing; we would love to have you join (LEG-Ups) for OWLS members, featuring Attorneys in Marion and Multnomah but respectful discussions on topics rang- information, calendar dates, and Stoel Rives our team. professional women from the political, Counties were treated to several Court- ing from politics to racism and sexism to volunteer opportunities. civic, corporate, and nonprofit worlds house Connection gatherings, where they workplace practices.
OREGON WOMEN LAWYERS AdvanceSheet 8 9 FALL 2008 Judge Sheryl Bachart Joins Lincoln County Circuit Court Katherine O’Neil: An OWLS Founding Mother By Hon. Jill Tanner By Teresa Kraemer heryl Bachart was sworn in as a unnoticed. She attributes her success in J u d g e o you younger women lawyers at that time, Eisenhower was president judge on the Lincoln County Circuit the courtroom to the strong work ethic B a c h a r t i s sometimes wonder who founded and moderate Republicans controlled SCourt on June 20, a little more than instilled in her by two high school teach- committed to DOWLS? What is the history of our the GOP. Katherine realized that she was 11 years after graduating from the Uni- ers. Judge Bachart believes that many of her legal and founding mothers? Why did they create running a department normally run by versity of Oregon School of Law. Judge her “wins” in the courtroom came be- local commu- OWLS? This first in a series of profiles a man and that if she didn’t go back to Bachart’s experience managing over 350 cause she “out-prepared the other side.” nity. Currently of our founding mothers focuses on school for a graduate degree, she would cases as a Lincoln County senior deputy In addition, she viewed her experiences she chairs the Katherine O’Neil—in part because OWLS be a secretary for the rest of her life. So district attorney serves her well in the “as a mom and as a woman” as an asset Oregon State members just helped her celebrate her it was off to Harvard. courtroom, where she typically presides in her DA job, stating that she was able Bar’s Uniform 70th birthday. And in true Katherine Katherine was accepted into both the over criminal matters and an increasing to “connect with kids on a different level Criminal Jury fashion, the celebration was a fundraiser Harvard PhD program in political science At Katherine O’Neil’s birthday party on Sept. 7 are (left to right) Libby Davis, number of civil cases. as a woman.” Instructions for the OWLS Foundation. No one is and Harvard Law School. She chose the Katherine O’Neil, and Terri Kraemer. As a deputy district attorney, she Six years before entering law school, Committee. Judge Sheryl Bachart more dedicated to OWLS and the OWLS law school because she believed that Over 50 people joined in the celebration. prosecuted primarily felony child sexual Judge Bachart earned a double major in She is a mem- Foundation than is Katherine. lawyers made real change. and physical abuse cases. She received a international studies and political science ber of the local chapter of Altrusa, a But just who is Katherine O’Neil? I When Katherine entered her first year there—that they were taking places that Children’s Advocacy Center Special Rec- from the University of Oregon, graduat- nonprofit service organization that is recently had the honor of learning more at Harvard, Patricia Scott Schroeder was should have gone to men. ognition Award for prosecuting a child ing magna cum laude. In her junior year, dedicated to human well-being and about her. Born in 1938, Katherine grew in her class, Janet Reno was in the class The men students resented the women, abuse case in 2006, when she prosecuted as part of her international studies, she develops community programs to meet up in New Orleans. She was lucky to be a ahead of her, and Libby Dole, the class Katherine says, and with a few excep- Samuel Williams, who was convicted of all spent nine months at Jozsef Attila Uni- local needs. In addition, her children member of a large, nurturing, close-knit behind her. There were 15 women and tions, the professors (all male) were 57 charged counts of child sexual abuse versity in Szeged, Hungary. One month involve her in many community activi- family that valued education, hard work, more than 500 men in the class of 1964. horrendous. One criminal law professor and child pornography and sentenced to after she arrived, Hungary amended its ties. In her little remaining “free” time, and community service. She was also It was not easy, and women were not called on women only when rape or 204 years in prison. constitution to allow for a multiparty Judge Bachart likes to run, read and, of lucky to have several strong influences welcome. To this day, Katherine wonders child molestation cases were discussed. Judge Bachart, the first woman on state, rather than a singular communist course, travel. in her early years, including her father, a why Harvard Law School started admit- Others never called on women or, if they the Lincoln County Circuit Court, did not one. In June 1991, almost a year after Judge Bachart advises listening to self-made business man who ran an inte- ting women then. Harvard’s dean, Erwin did, they used a cruel line of sexist cross- set out to be a circuit court judge. She Judge Bachart left Hungary, the Soviet others who suggest that you “try new grated business and gave blacks author- Griswold, told the women they were not examination that made the male students enjoyed her work as a deputy district military presence ended after more than and different things in your career.” ity over whites at a time when that was wanted. The dean of admissions, a man howl with laughter. And, at that time, attorney and “worked hard to become 47 years of occupation. Thus she experi- She followed her own advice when she unusual; her mother, who was a college with four daughters, told several of the part of the grade in each class depended an effective trial lawyer.” Judge Bachart enced first hand a monumental shift in took advantage of the diverse learning graduate, fabulous cook, money man- women at a cocktail party in front of law on class participation. experiences offered by the clinical law believes that working hard does not go Hungary’s politics and government. ager, and big supporter of Katherine’s; a school donors that women shouldn’t be Continued on page 12 course in law school. When she began black maid who was her caregiver while law school, Judge Bachart thought she both of Katherine’s parents worked long RAISING THE BAR ON would find a challenging career in inter- hours; an aunt who worked in Katherine’s national law. Her hands-on experience father’s business—and was a member LEGAL FINANCIAL SERVICES. in the law school’s prosecution clinic led of the Louisiana State Bar but could not her to pursue instead an interesting and make a living as an attorney because rewarding career in criminal law. of her gender; and an uncle who was a Judge Bachart’s path to the bench was successful lawyer, judge, and active bar suggested by two Lincoln County judges and community leader. who encouraged her to apply for the Katherine says she was fortunate to judicial appointment. Judge Bachart un- attend the Louise S. McGehee School in equivocally states that she is very pleased New Orleans. She found the sexism of the that she followed their lead because it is 1950s Deep South suffocating. Her McGe- “an incredible honor to be appointed” hee’s education helped her escape into to the bench and she is “humbled by the a broader world. At the private, all-girls experience.” OWLS wishes Judge Bachart school, the teachers were all women who many fulfilling years on the bench. had very high academic expectations. It Named an Oregon Law Foundation Visionary Bank Hon. Jill Tanner is the presiding magis- was a safe place for Katherine to develop trate of the Oregon Tax Court. her leadership abilities. During that time, You work for your clients‘ best interests. So do we. she also worked in the office of her fa- ther’s trucking company, and then she Consider supporting Our team of bankers works hard to make the most of your funds. We partner headed off to Stanford University. OWLS’ work by placing with you to provide personalized solutions that maximize opportunities while an ad in the AdvanceSheet. After graduating from Stanford with a major in political science, Katherine minimizing risk. You get the experience and expertise you need through the Your ad will reach worked at the Republican National Com- personalized banking we offer for legal professionals. 2000 attorneys, judges, mittee in Washington, D.C., where she and others who support managed the Young Republican staff and traveled extensively, organizing Bend · Redmond · Prineville · Sisters · Sunriver Oregon Women Lawyers. Salem · Keizer · Portland · Ashland · Medford Young Republican chapters along the Grants Pass · Boise/Treasure Valley Idaho Call 503.595.7826. East Coast—all the while with the pay and (877) 617-3400 · www.botc.com Member FDIC Equal Housing Lender title of a secretary. She points out that
OREGON WOMEN LAWYERS AdvanceSheet 10 FALL 2008 OREGON WOMEN LAWYERS AdvanceSheet 11 FALL 2008
Katherine O’Neil: An OWLS Founding Mother continued from page 11 Study Examines Sex Differences in Attaining Partnership Katherine finished the first year just to on the Long Beach Peninsula. chairing the AdvanceSheet Committee By Teresa Statler be sure that she really did hate law school. Katherine has received many awards, for ten years. The AdvanceSheet was first And she did. She later learned that her including the U.S. District Court of Or- published in the fall of 1990. (As an aside, n a recently published article, two pro- Three Classic Explanations the first place or to promote women associates to partner, given the high experience was not that of the American egon Historical Society’s Lifetime Service there have been only two AdvanceSheet fessors of public policy and a professor The first model is the “human capital investment firms make in their partners. legal culture but of the Harvard culture. If Award, the Oregon State Bar’s Award of Committee chairs in the history of the Iof sociology test predictions about model.” Advocates of this explanation This theory also takes into account the Katherine had gone to Stanford or Yale, Merit and its Member Service Award, the AdvanceSheet, Katherine from 1990 to how sex differences in the attainment of “identify the sex division of labor in the fact that over time, firms “learn” the for example, she thinks she probably Woman of Achievement Award from the 2000 and me since 2001. She’s a good partnership in law firms—and women’s home and sex differences in work prefer- role that such statistical discrimination would have gone straight through. Oregon Commission for Women, and the role model.) In addition, Katherine served perceptions of sex discrimination—should ences as the main reasons why women actually plays in determining law firm Katherine married Michael O’Neil, Oregon Women Lawyers’ Justice Betty on the OWLS Foundation board from have changed as women have been in- make different choices, develop different attrition and promotion, and the theory moved to Tigard, raised two sons (Will Roberts Award. 1997 to 2004 and continues serve on its tegrated into law. The article, titled “Is skills, and acquire different training than suggests that statistical discrimination and Charles), and worked as a corre- That brings us to Katherine’s in- advisory board. the partnership gap closing for women? do men.” In addition, the human capital should disappear over time. spondent for The Oregonian. When her volvement in OWLS. You might think Given Katherine’s rich history, it seems Cohort differences in the sex gap in part- model considers the fact that women are The third theory, the “structural sons entered junior high school, she grew her involvement was by design, but it only fitting to ask her for a few words of nership chances,” by Mary C. Noonan, more likely than men to work part-time or model,” suggests that institutional bar- bored and decided to give law school a wasn’t—in fact, it was an accident (a advice for young lawyers. Her advice is Mary E. Corcoran, and Paul N. Courant, to drop out of work for prolonged peri- riers, such as hostile work environments, second try, enrolling at Lewis & Clark. surprise to me!). In 1987, Kathy Root this: Take the first two or three years of was published this year in the journal ods of time due to child-rearing and other overt discrimination, less mentoring, at- Women made up about 40% of her class. and Susan Hammer (who was then the your career to learn and to solidify your Social Science Research. It is available family responsibilities. As a result, “early titudes about proper gender roles, and She found the classmates congenial and MBA president) recruited Katherine to skills; participate as you can in OWLS, the online at www.sciencedirect.com. entrants” to a formerly male-dominated disproportionate assignments of pro the professors sympathetic, and she was join the MBA Committee on the Status ABA Young Lawyers Division, and your The authors studied two groups field such as law “may underestimate bono work, are embodied in law firms’ admitted to the bar in 1977. She notes of Women. The committee chair resigned county bar association (the people you (“cohorts”) of University of Michigan the long-run economic costs of decisions evaluation and promotion practices. As that she must thank her two sons, who due to work pressures, and Katherine meet will enrich your life and provide Law School graduates, so as to have a made early in their careers,” such as the a result, structural theorists contend that helped keep her household upright while became chair. As the committee explored business contacts for your entire career). homogenous study sample. They note decision to leave private practice or to women’s promotion chances and oppor- she was in law school and conformed the challenges facing women and Kath- After three years, apply to the OSB that Michigan is a “very selective school pursue a certain legal specialty. tunities for professional development their behavior to keep her anxiety about erine invited more and more women to Leadership College. Always participate and [its] graduates are representative of A second classic economic explanation their teen years to an almost comfort- join their discussions, she noticed that in OWLS, even if it’s just to attend the elite law schools.” within law firms have been reduced in for the sex gap in labor market outcomes the recent past. able level. their work was feeding a real hunger monthly lunch of your OWLS chapter. (Fel- The study compared men’s and is the “statistical discrimination model.” Katherine and her current husband, for companionship and support among lowship with women will keep you sane women’s partnership rates 15 years after This theory takes into account the fact Study Results and Conclusions graduation, and women’s reports of sex Toby Graff, practiced law together for a wide range of women lawyers. and grounded in the realities of what that since “the average woman is more With regard to sex differences at the discrimination, for two groups: the classes several years, and Katherine now works The committee decided that a state- it’s like to be a woman lawyer, and the likely to work part-time and to take a four stages to partnership, the study of 1972 to 1978 (the “early” cohort) and as an arbitrator and mediator. In addi- wide organization of women lawyers meetings will give you the opportunity family leave than the average man, law found that “driven almost entirely by the classes of 1979 to 1985 (the “late” tion to maintaining a busy legal career, was needed, and Katherine was carried to visit with role models and potential firms may hesitate to hire women” in Continued on page 14 Katherine has been active in OWLS, the forward as chair of the interim board mentors.) Give back to OWLS—whether cohort). The study investigated four Multnomah Bar Association (MBA), the and then elected the organization’s first it’s for one event, one committee, or a stages at which some women are selected Oregon State Bar, and the American Bar president. She humbly notes that no one board commitment—and always remem- out of, or select themselves out of, the Association. She has served as president else stepped forward to lead this effort. ber that you stand on the shoulders of path to partnership. These four stages of the National Conference of Women’s I say, why should they when Katherine those women who went before you. are (1) career plans at graduation, (2) Bar Associations, the Oregon Law Founda- was willing to do so! Agnes Sowle was Katherine, now semi-retired, fills her entry into a law firm, (3) early attrition tion, and the Professional Liability Fund. both the second and third presidents of free time with the things she loves and from firm practice, and (4) attainment 0 1 1+ She currently serves on the ABA Board OWLS because they couldn’t get anyone finds most interesting. She is an avid of partnership. of Governors, which takes up significant to succeed Agnes after she finished her reader, particularly of travel literature The authors note that prior empirical amounts of time, she says, but is very first year. Ah, another great leader. and women’s biographies, and she visits studies of attorneys have usually focused interesting and rewarding. And so it was: OWLS was born. That her grandchildren in Texas often. With on sex differences at only one stage Don’t think, however, that her activ- was in 1989—19 years ago. Fortunately, Toby, who, she says, has been her sound (such as attaining partnership), or at a ism is limited to the legal profession— Katherine did not leave the organization helpmate in all her ventures, she enjoys fixed point in time. They believe that Katherine and Toby are co-presidents of when her presidency ended. She put her travel, especially college alumni trips, the data used in their study are unique, their neighborhood association and are energy into another very important role— Portland Audubon bird watching trips, and along with studying lawyers from a leaders in a grassroots conservation group starting the OWLS AdvanceSheet and and trips to explore her latest inter- single law school, allow “unusually good est, Mayan civilization—to Guatemala, tests of the three explanations for how Honduras, the Yucatan Peninsula, and the sex-based gap in partnership should Chiapas. They also love sea kayaking and have changed as women increasingly white water rafting. entered law firms.” Katherine told me that her friend Lau- The article first notes some statistics. rel Bellows, recent chair of the ABA House Before 1970, only 3% of lawyers were of Delegates, says that when you see a women. By 2003, 29% of the nation’s turtle on the top of a flag pole, you know lawyers and about half of law school she didn’t get there by herself. Katherine graduates were women. In 2002, however, ! is acutely aware that in her success is the only 16% of partners in law firms were success of so many people who helped her women. The article then discusses three ! "#$ % along the way. She was blessed and we, “classic” models, or explanations, for why "%& ' () * OWLS members, are also blessed. there is a sex-based gap in law firms today. + + The authors later examine these explana- Terri Kraemer, RN, JD, is a director with tions, and related predictions, in view of , -. / Deloitte & Touche in Portland. the data their study yielded.
OREGON WOMEN LAWYERS AdvanceSheet 12 FALL 2008 OREGON WOMEN LAWYERS AdvanceSheet 13 FALL 2008 dinner at Sybaris in Albany. Please see the ments at the port and her work. continued from page 13 Study Examines Sex Differences DragonFlies OWLS website for more information, or Queen’s Bench’s regular lunches are continued from back page Around Oregon changes in women’s behavior,” sex dif- women entering and staying in firms. contact Chris Smith at 541.230.5000 or held on the second Tuesday of the By Holly Pettit ferences in career plans, firm entry, and In this sense, the authors believe that [email protected]. month from 11:45 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Jax early attrition out of private practice were “women have made substantial progress Restaurant in Portland. Please see the Cascade Women Lawyers. Cascade Mary Leonard Law Society. On July 9 large and significant in the early group of in the attainment of partnership.” In the OWLS website for upcoming events. Women Lawyers meets for networking MLLS offered a CLE at Willamette Uni- graduates and smaller and “sometimes late cohort, however, “men’s probability For more information, contact Marja lunches every other month on the second versity. Lisa Norris-Lampe, Oregon Su- insignificant” in the later group. The au- of becoming partner is 13 percentage Selmann at marja_selmann@comcast. Wednesday. Jodie Barram, candidate for preme Court staff attorney, discussed thors suggest that one of the reasons for points higher than that of women’s even net or 503.233.0820 or Sarah Krick at than two hours longer than scheduled, Bend City Council, spoke at the August 13 the Oregon courts’ e-filing project. MLLS these results is that “as women lawyers when credentials, career plans, legal [email protected] or 503.239.7273. the ’Flies managed to stay focused and lunch. The group hosted a book sign- and the Marion County Bar Association learn more about the economic rewards specializations, work activities and labor place third in the top women’s division. ing and visit with former Justice Betty held a Courthouse Connection featuring Rebecca J. Bloom Chapter (Umatilla and (i.e., becoming partner) of working in supply are controlled.” The ’Flies next traveled to Victoria, Roberts on the evening of October 9, Judge Ashcroft at noon on September 9 Morrow Counties). The Rebecca Bloom different legal settings, they will shift The study authors also found that B.C., for the annual Victoria Dragon Boat and will meet for its regular networking at the Marion County Courthouse. Gina Chapter meets for refreshments and towards more lucrative settings such as marriage and children had “mostly Festival, on August 15–17. In their first lunch in November. Please see the OWLS Johnnie provided refreshments. MLLS networking on the first Thursday of each private practice.” The study also found positive, insignificant associations with races on August 16, the ’Flies finished website for information about upcoming hosted a table at the annual Marion-Polk month at Hamley’s in Pendleton. For more that with the later group of graduates, partnership.” However, interestingly, third in both heats. In the semifinals, events, or contact Lorie Harris Hancock Campaign for Equal Justice luncheon in information, see the OWLS website or part-time work became more available they also noted without comment that the ’Flies came back from fourth place at 541.749.4044. Salem on September 25. contact Kittee Custer at 541.276.7139 or and acceptable in firms and became less “satisfaction with work-family balance is to finish first in their heat. On September 16, MLLS held its fall [email protected]. of an obstacle to making partner. Also, negatively correlated with partnership.” Clackamas Oregon Women Lawyers. The Victoria festival has traditionally kick-off meeting at noon at Willamette. lawyers who actually planned careers in In addition, when considering potential Clackamas OWLS held its first annual Rogue Women Lawyers. On August 21, not included a women’s final, and the The brown-bag lunch focused on this private practice were significantly more sex differences in satisfaction with various summer picnic/potluck on August 9 at Rogue Women Lawyers held its first an- result is that women’s teams race mixed year’s theme, “Empowering Women, En- likely to be partners. aspects of private practice, the fifth-year Rivercrest Park in Oregon City. Judges nual summer social at the Rogue Valley teams. After defeating teams in the semi- gaging in Leadership,” and Laura Taylor, Nevertheless, even though the women men and women associates’ rankings Rastetter, Steele, and Miller were among Country Club in Medford. It was a fun, finals that included male paddlers, the political director of NARAL Pro-Choice associates in the late cohort had not seg- of satisfaction were the same with one those who attended. Clackamas OWLS well-attended event. The group meets ’Flies finished fourth in the mixed finals, Oregon, spoke about her experiences regated themselves or been steered into exception: 31% of women, but only 19% hosted a lunchtime CLE at the Clackamas the fourth Wednesday of each month in a race that was decided with less than working in campaigns. The goal of this less lucrative practice areas, the authors of men, reported being very dissatisfied County Courthouse on September 18. either at lunch or after work at varying one second between the first- and fourth- year’s lunch series is to engage women found that these women still became with their ability to bring about social Chris Mullman of the OSB Client Assis- locations. Please see the OWLS website or place times. In the first-ever women’s lawyers to seek public office or assist partner at a lower rate than men. The change through their work. tance Program spoke on “How to Handle contact Stefanie Burke at slb@roguelaw. final held at the Victoria venue, the ’Flies other women to do so. study found that the sex gap in partner- The authors report that they could not Difficult Clients within the Rules of Profes- com or Lisa Greif at [email protected] for placed second out of five teams. Please see the MLLS website, www. ship rates among all graduates dropped directly observe or study the “sex dis- sional Conduct.” For information about more information. The ’Flies capped off the season at maryleonardlawsociety.org, or the OWLS by about one-third between the two crimination” experienced by the women upcoming events, please contact Bonnie the Portland Dragon Boat Races on website for information about MLLS Washington County Women Lawyers. On groups studied, due to the increase of in the study, but they could nonetheless Carter at [email protected] or September 6–7. The team took first in events, or contact Cathryn Bowie or September 3, WCWL members and their “examine women’s reports about their Carol Anne McFarland at carolmcf@ both qualifying heats but placed third Jill Tanner at maryleonardlawsociety@ families enjoyed WCWL’s annual summer experiences of discrimination.” Incred- co.clackamas.or.us. in Sunday’s semifinal race and did not hotmail.com. BBQ at Rood Bridge Park in Hillsboro. ibly, 90% of the women in each cohort advance to the finals. Coast Women Lawyers. Please contact Everyone had a great time eating, chat- ,.,' & !&& + reported having experienced anywhere Queen’s Bench. The July 8 Queen’s Bench The DragonFlies were again coached Linda Tomassi at the OWLS office for ting, and playing games. WCWL generally Nfejbujpo!Tfswjdft from “a little” to “a lot” of sex discrimi- luncheon featured Shari Gregory, MSW, by Paul Daley, with additional coaching information on Coast Women Lawyers. meets monthly, on the third Tuesday at nation from some source, five and 15 JD, who facilitated a discussion on stay- from Beth Allen. Josephine County Women Lawyers. JCWL noon, for a brown-bag lunch in Judge years after graduation. Among women ing authentic in one’s professional life. Women studying or working in law meets for lunch and conversation the Upton’s courtroom. The group’s fourth partners, 86–92% reported experienc- Shari is an OWLS board member and past or law-related fields who are interested last Tuesday of each month at the Bistro annual holiday happy hour will take ing discrimination from lawyers at their Queen’s Bench president. Frank Garcia, in joining the ’Flies should contact team in Grants Pass. For more information, place in December at the Cornelius Pass own firms, other lawyers, or clients. The the diversity administrator for the Or- co-captains Heather Brann, at branns@ please see the OWLS website or contact Roadhouse. For more information, please authors therefore conclude that “sexual egon State Bar, spoke at the August 12 earthlink.net, or Gwyn McAlpine, at Hon. Victory Walker at victory.walker@ see the OWLS website or contact Mary discrimination is a nearly universal experi- luncheon about the OSB’s efforts to in- [email protected]. New pad- ojd.state.or.us. Bruington at [email protected] ence among women lawyers.” crease the diversity of the Oregon bar. On dlers are welcome. or 503.846.3413. The authors also state that the “playing As always, the DragonFlies thank Lane County Women Lawyers. Megan September 9, Queen’s541-683-6528 Bench welcomed field is not yet level,” even though gains their generous sponsors: PLATINUM Livermore organized an inter-profession Carla Kelley, general counsel for the Port Holly Pettit is an attorney at Bullivant have been made in women making part- SPONSORS: Landye Bennett Blumstein; networking event on September 17 at of Portland, who spoke about develop- Houser Bailey in Portland. ner in firms. The study’s “results suggest Red Dog Home Inspections; Yates, Mat- Davis Restaurant and Bar in Eugene. Over sex discrimination is alive and persists in thews & Eaton. GOLD MEDAL SPONSORS: 40 attorneys, bankers, accountants, and law.” The fact that the men and women in Wiles Law Group; Cable Huston Benedict other women professionals enjoyed this - OREGON WOMEN LAWYERS AdvanceSheet 14 FALL 2008 OREGON WOMEN LAWYERS AdvanceSheet 15 FALL 2008 Lane County Women Lawyers Co-sponsor Talk on Women and Sexism By Jane M. Yates exism is alive and well in America. self-aware and proactive in their behav- While this should come as no sur- ior. First, we must be aware of the way Sprise, what may be surprising is how we respond to other women. Second, women perpetuate this cultural phenom- we must understand that the criticisms enon. On September 26, Isbel Ingham we have of other women are indicative presented “What Women Do to Other of the way we criticize ourselves. Finally, Women: The How, Why and What We Can we must come to understand that by All Do About It” at the federal courthouse enhancing another woman’s success, we in Eugene. Attended by nearly 70 lawyers enhance our own. and law students, the lunchtime presen- Changing behavior is not simple. As a tation was co-sponsored by Lane County college professor, Isbel promised an A to Presenter Isbel Ingham (left) and Women Lawyers and the University of students in her women’s studies course if LCWL member Kate Weatherly Oregon Women’s Law Forum. they could get through the hour without Discussing the statistical reality of sex- criticizing themselves or other women. Women have made great advances ism, Isbel, who has presented workshops Due to pervasive cultural condition- since Virginia Woolf lamented the lack on women’s issues for almost 30 years, ing, she was never able to present an A of opportunity for creative expression explained that the external pressures of through this method. in A Room of One’s Own. More work, sexism affect everyone in our society. In We can create change, Isbel contended. however, remains to be done. Each of women, however, this pressure is internal- Women can create opportunities to us has the power in our everyday lives to ized. Internalized oppression can result work together. We can learn from each further neutralize the social construct of in confusion and self-hate or a dislike of other and share our experiences with sexism. We cannot truly expect change others in the oppressed group. Often a one another. We can create a collective until we look into ourselves and have the woman projects her self-criticism onto path to our individual successes. Instead courage to be honest with ourselves and other women. By directing negative of competing against each other, we can truly supportive of other women—and opinions to other women, we help to redirect our competition to a consensus ultimately, to do the right thing. perpetuate the system at large. model, which allows for a better end Jane Yates practices business law at Isbel explained that to defuse the net product without the loss associated with Gleaves Swearingen Potter & Scott in effect of this paradigm, women must be direct competition. Eugene and serves as OWLS’ secretary. DragonFlies Enjoy Another Competitive Race Season By Cashauna Hill he OWLS dragon boat team, the have competed at the Rose Festival since former ’Flies. The ’Flies provided thrilling TDragonFlies, enjoyed a lively 2008 1999; they hoped to earn their fifth trip entertainment and finished second in race season. The ’Flies first traveled to to the finals at the 2008 races. Sunday’s quarterfinal, less than a second Tacoma, Washington, to race in the 2008 On Saturday, June 7, after finishing first behind the 2007 Rose Festival winners. Rainier Dragon Boat Festival. After two in the morning race (with the second- After a long break, the ’Flies hit the wa- strong morning heats, the ’Flies placed place team more than three seconds ter again for the semifinal race. Despite fourth in the women’s final. behind), the ’Flies took third in the after- great effort, the team finished third and Back in Portland, the ’Flies made a spir- noon, second-round race. The third-place was eliminated from competition. ited run to the semifinals in the Women’s finish was enough to place the ’Flies in The ’Flies raced again at the Salem Competitive Division at the 20th annual the Women’s Competitive Division. World Beat Festival on June 29. Even Portland-Kaohsiung Sister City Associa- On Sunday the weather was sunny, battling the 100-degree heat and fatigue tion (PKSCA) Dragon Boat Races, part prompting visits by several OWLS mem- resulting from a race day that ran more of Portland’s Rose Festival. The ’Flies bers (and future OWLS members) and Continued on page 14 Oregon Women Lawyers PRSRT STD P.O. Box 40393 U.S. POSTAGE Portland, OR 97240 PAID PORTLAND, OR PERMIT #2346 Fall 2008 Printed on recycled paper OREGON WOMEN LAWYERS AdvanceSheet 16 FALL 2008