The English Inns of Court have been recognized for mentoring Britain's Trial Lawyers before they are invited to The Bar. The American Inns of Court is patterned after this practice.

The latest in the 350 Inns of Court throughout the United States is the Los Angeles Intellectual Property Inn of Court. This newly formed Inn, made up of Federal Judges, experienced Intellectual Property Law attorneys and students, is scheduled to meet the fourth Tuesday of every month, beginning in March of 2008.

The membership is broken up into teams, each including at least one federal judge, experienced and newer attorneys, and third year law students. Each team is responsible for presenting one program per year, typically in the form of a skit focused on the proper practice of law in advocating the client's position.

The meetings begin at 5:30 p.m. with a social hour followed by the presentation of the skit and then dinner with the judges and attorneys. Annual dues are set at $750.00 for senior attorneys (Masters of the Bench), $400 for mid-level attorneys (Barristers), and $350 for the newer attorneys (Associates) and government attorneys, and $100 for third-year law students. The dues include the cost of the dinners and a drink ticket for each social hour. Examples of upcoming meetings include a panel of judges from the Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit and the Central District to discuss strategy for winning at trial and on appeal and programs addressing current Intellectual Property issues and ethical consideration.

If you are interested in contributing to and benefiting from improving professionalism, civility, ethics and advocacy in the practice of law, you will want to explore membership. Contact LACBA's Member Services Department at: 213-896-6560.