Austin Bar Professional Committees

Austin Lawyers Assistance Program
Co-Chairs: Woodie Jones, Judge David Phillips, and Velva Price
Educates the public and legal community regarding mental health issues; provide support for attorneys suffering with depression.

Bench Bar Conference (Joint committee with AYLA)
Co-Chairs: Michael Whellan, Judge Lora Livingston, and Eric Sheppard
Organizes and implements the annual conference for Travis County lawyers and judges.

CLE Programs
Chair: Julia Benkoski and Laura Grabouski
Organizes and develops continuing legal education programs.

Diversity
Co-Chairs: Judge Eric Sheppard, Leslie Dippel, and Tony Nelson
Organizes and develops continuing legal education programs.

Foundation Gala
Co-Chairs: Amy Welborn and Toya Haley
Silent Auction Chair: Lance Sharp
Plans and produces annual gala to raise money for the Austin Bar Foundation.

Financial Planning
Co-Chairs: David Chamberlain and Chris Oddo
Reviews short and long term goals and objectives for the Austin Bar.

Law Day Luncheon
Co-Chairs: Judge Amy Clark-Meachum and Arthur Troilo
Creates and implements activities to educate the public and children about the meaning and importance of Law Day, conducts an essay and poster contests of local students on the ABA Law Day theme, and organizes the annual Law Day Luncheon.

Legislative
Chair: David Chamberlain
Monitors legislation affecting the legal community and helps educate the membership on it.

Membership
Chair: Frank King and Rebecca Whitehouse
Works on increasing membership in the Austin Bar, particularly in the government, criminal and solo areas.

Publications/Web Site (Joint committee with AYLA)
Chair: Candace Windel
Creates and implements policies and procedures for Austin Lawyer, Bar Code and www.AustinBar.org