ABOUT ASCDC

A LEGACY OF EXCELLENCE IN DEFENSE LAW

Founded in 1960 by a small group of Los Angeles defense attorneys, ASCDC was established to ensure independent representation of their professional interests. Over the decades, we have grown into the nation’s preeminent regional defense organization, bringing together a diverse network of legal professionals from north of Santa Barbara to the Mexican border and from the Inland Empire to the shores of Santa Monica.

Beyond advocacy and education, ASCDC fosters professional relationships and lifelong friendships among its members. We welcome your involvement—join us and be part of a thriving community dedicated to the advancement of defense law.

BENEFITS OF MEMBERSHIP

AMICUS CURIAE BRIEFINGS & COURT LIAISON:

ASCDC plays a vital role in shaping legal precedent through its active Amicus Committee, which regularly files briefs in appellate matters that impact our members and the clients they serve. By advocating on critical legal issues, the Association helps influence the development of defense law and ensures that the perspectives of our members are represented at the appellate level. Through ongoing court liaison efforts, ASCDC also fosters strong relationships with the judiciary, keeping members informed about important court developments and procedural changes.

Learn More About Our Advocacy

ANNUAL SEMINAR:

For more than 30 years, ASCDC has hosted its flagship Annual Seminar, a day-and-a-half event bringing together defense attorneys and insurance industry professionals from across Southern California. This highly anticipated gathering features insightful presentations from judges, leading plaintiff and defense attorneys, and industry experts on the latest developments shaping the legal landscape. Beyond education, the Annual Seminar provides a valuable opportunity for networking, collaboration, and strengthening professional relationships within the defense community.

Learn More About the Annual Seminar

CONNECT & COMPETE - ASCDC GOLF TOURNAMENT:

ASCDC hosts a biannual golf tournament, offering members a unique opportunity to network, entertain clients, and enjoy a day on the course. This signature event features a friendly yet competitive round of golf, followed by an awards ceremony and banquet—perfect for building relationships in a relaxed setting. Join us for a day of camaraderie, competition, and connection with fellow defense attorneys and industry professionals.

EDUCATION:

ASCDC has long been a leader in providing top tier continuing legal education (CLE) for defense attorneys. Our seminars and webinars feature renowned speakers from the bench and bar and deliver in-depth insights on topics relevant to the defense practice. All programs are approved for Mandatory Continuing Legal Education (MCLE) credit, ensuring members stay informed and compliant with their professional requirements.

EXPERT WITNESS BANK: A POWERFUL RESOURCE FOR MEMBERS:

ASCDC maintains a comprehensive Expert Witness Bank, featuring over 13,000 entries dating back to 1976. This invaluable resource is available free of charge to members, providing a powerful tool for locating qualified experts or uncovering critical information to challenge opposing expert testimony. With decades of data at your fingertips, the Expert Witness Bank is an essential asset for building strong, well-supported defense cases.

PUBLICATION:

ASCDC members automatically receive a subscription to The Verdict, a highly regarded publication among regional defense organizations. This essential resource features insightful articles written by members, covering emerging legal trends, special court programs, and key legislative developments that impact the defense practice. Stay ahead of the curve with expert analysis, practical guidance, and valuable updates designed to support your success in the ever-evolving legal landscape.

Explore The Verdict Magazine

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA & BEYOND

As attacks on the civil justice system intensify, the environment in which all attorneys practice has become increasingly challenging. In response, lawyers' associations across California, representing both sides of the bar, often come together to preserve the Seventh Amendment and protect the rights of our clients.

ASCDC’s leadership plays a critical role in advocating for its members, representing their unique interests in collaborative efforts that ensure the defense bar’s voice is heard.

Through strong relationships with defense attorneys in Northern California, ASCDC members benefit from a shared commitment to staying informed about court decisions and legislative activity that shape the practice of law in the state. Officers and directors from both associations meet regularly, with the general membership gathering annually in Hawaii for a week of educational and social events.

The partnership between the two organizations also ensures a powerful presence in Sacramento. By jointly sponsoring the California Defense Counsel and its legislative analyst, we provide defense attorneys statewide with the tools to monitor legislative developments and offer crucial input to lawmakers on matters that impact the defense community and its clients.

Learn More About Our Collaborative Efforts