Plans and executes programming and sponsorships for the Bench Bar Conference each April.
Sophie Arnold, Chair
Positions Open for 2026-2027: Co-Chair, Committee Members
Purpose of the Committee: To support and improve the local administration of justice, enhance service to the community, and increase professionalism within the legal system by exploring issues of emerging concern or interest that affect the local bench and bar (the specific issues to be explored ultimately will be determined by the committee). Additionally, the committee will liaise with the Bench-Bar Conference Committee and Young Lawyers Section regarding appropriate topics.
The Honorable David Lannetti (Chair) and Donald Schultz (Co-Chair)
Positions Open for 2026-2027: Committee Members
- Continuing Legal Education
Plans and executes the many CLE seminars offered throughout the year. Develops topics, identifies instructors and coordinates seminar details.
Kole Donaldson, Chair
Positions Open for 2026-2027: Co-Chair, Committee Members
Coordinates annual Mock Trial Program with Norfolk Public Schools. Solicits and organizes attorney volunteers to coach middle school teams for trial competition. Recruits judicial participation. Management and orchestration of competition. Creates rules and curriculum along with the mock trial case and evidence for the Program. Trains teachers and attorney volunteers to manage expectations.
Bailey Gifford, Chair
Positions Open for 2026-2027: Committee Members
The Pro Bono Committee works closely with Legal Aid Society of Eastern Virginia to:
- Sponsor programs designed to raise awareness of an attorney's obligation to provide pro bono services,
- Identify pro bono opportunities for members,
- Coordinate through the CLE Committee programs specifically designed for training lawyers to perform pro bono services, and
- Foster and support a culture of pro bono among NPBA members.
Tricia Batson, Chair
Positions Open for 2026-2027: Committee Members
Makes recommendations to the Executive Committee for selection of the Eggleston/I’Anson Professionalism Award, Walter E. Hoffman Community Service Award, Pro Bono Award, and Liberty Bell Award. Available to address professionalism issues as they arise.
Griffin O'Hanlon, Chair
Positions Open for 2026-2027: Committee Members
Assists the Association President with speakers and programs for luncheon meetings of the Association. Contacts speakers and corresponds with speakers before and after the event.
Helen Gehle, Chair
Positions Open for 2026-2027: Co-Chair, Committee Members
