Justice Sonenshine of JAMS and Judge Guilford of the U.S. district court to serve as featured speakers Irvine, Calif. – JAMS, the largest private provider of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) services worldwide, is pleased to be a sponsor of the 24th Annual Sonenshine Pro Bono Reception. The event, which will take place on the evening of Thursday, November 21, in Newport Beach, Calif., focuses on connecting new lawyers in Orange County with local pro bono, social services and arts and culture organizations to learn more about pro bono and charitable opportunities.
The reception was conceived by JAMS neutral Hon. Sheila Prell Sonenshine (Ret.) in 1994 and has helped create numerous success stories over the years by expanding young attorneys’ involvement in pro bono activities and providing individuals with opportunities in the legal profession. At this year’s reception, Justice Sonenshine and Hon. Andrew Guilford of the U.S. District Court of the Central District of California will serve as featured speakers.
“JAMS is passionate about giving back to the legal community, and we welcome the opportunity to support new attorneys who are interested in expanding their pro bono work and community support,” said Chris Poole, president and CEO of JAMS.
Justice Sonenshine was appointed to the Superior Court of Orange County in 1981 and was elevated the following year to the California Court of Appeal, where she served until 1999. With almost 50 years of experience, she is a mediator and arbitrator with JAMS in Orange County. Justice Sonenshine is known in the legal community for her fair-minded and pragmatic approach to resolving the toughest cases. She is lauded by her legal peers for her even temper and respect for both lawyers and litigants.
Judge Guilford was appointed to the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California in 2006; he sits in Orange County. Prior to becoming a district court judge, he served as a business trial lawyer for over 30 years. Justice Guilford is known for his strong commitment to service and as an advocate for volunteer services for those in need.
The event is sponsored by an executive committee of 15 law firms, which take turns hosting responsibilities for the event each year. Stradling Yocca Carlson & Rauth will host this year’s event.
