MEMBERSHIP DETAILSMembership EligibilityTo qualify for ASCDC membership, applicants must confirm that at least 75% of their work in civil tort litigation involves defending claims against individuals, business entities, governmental entities, or public utilities. Or engaged in the full-time or part-time practice of mediation or arbitration If you do not meet this requirement, you do not qualify for ASCDC membership. These requirements do not apply for law student membership. Annual Membership & RenewalASCDC membership is annual, with all memberships renewing on a yearly basis. New applicants who join after September 1 will have their membership extended through the following calendar year, ensuring they receive the full benefits of membership. Membership ApprovalAll new memberships must be approved by the ASCDC Board of Directors. Depending on the timing of your application and the next scheduled board meeting, the approval process may take 4 to 8 weeks. MEMBERSHIP LEVELSRegular Member ($375)Regular membership is exclusively available to attorneys who have been independently engaged in civil defense practice for more than five years. Members in this category enjoy full voting privileges, ensuring they have a voice in the direction and leadership of ASCDC. Affiliate Member ($375)Affiliate membership is available to individuals engaged in the full-time or part-time practice of mediation or arbitration. While affiliate members enjoy limited membership privileges, this category does not include voting rights, the ability to hold office, access to ASCDC listservs, or inclusion in the membership directory. Associate Member ($275)Associate membership is available to individuals employed by a public entity, insurance company, or other corporation. This category provides valuable access to ASCDC resources and networking opportunities within the defense community. Young Lawyer Member ($225)Young lawyer membership is open to attorneys who have been independently engaged in civil defense practice for five years or less. This category includes full voting privileges, providing newer practitioners with a voice in ASCDC's leadership and initiatives. Dual Member ($100)Dual membership is available to members in good standing with the Association of Defense Counsel of Northern California and Nevada (ADCNCN). Dual members enjoy full membership privileges, with the exception of voting rights and the ability to hold office. Law Student Member ($25)Law student membership is available to individuals enrolled full-time or in evening programs while pursuing a J.D. degree. Membership in this category expires six months after graduation and does not include voting privileges. APPLY FOR MEMBERSHIP
BENEFITS OF MEMBERSHIPAMICUS 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. 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. MCLE 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. MAGAZINE & ADVERTISING: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. |
