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ese conditions were the genesis of Los Abogados Hispanic Bar Association. In its most simple form, the founding members of Los Abogados focused on building profes- sional and personal relationships, and increas- ing the number of Hispanic attorneys who could represent the community’s interests individually and collectively. When Los Abo- gados was founded, there were approximately 50 Hispanic lawyers in Maricopa County and few if any were active in any bar association. e 25 founding members were about mostly in private practice.
I have been a member since 1980, and served on the board from 1985 to 2010 and again from 2013 to 2015. I served as president in 2001. In speaking to Hispanic lawyers over those years, what they appreciated most about Los Aboga- dos was the personal interaction and building of relationships with Hispanic lawyers. It was a place that felt comfortable, like home, with shared values and the opportunity to be in- volved in volunteer projects that made a sig- ni cant di erence in people’s lives.
Los Abogados membership grew to over 200 members. e organization pursued and achieved an increase in employment oppor- tunities for lawyers, an increase in judges at all levels, an increase in the number of law student admissions, as well as an increase in nancial assistance. e active members were excellent lawyers and had a profound commitment to create change. eir courage and sacri ce made Los Abogados a highly re- spected and preeminent bar association. e impact has been signi cant in the judiciary, legislature, law schools, State Bar, County Bars and the community. We are all fortunate to have been associated with those who made a strong commitment to protect and serve the community. Adelante Con La Lucha!
In speaking to Hispanic lawyers over those years, what they appreciated most about Los Abogados was the personal interaction and building of relationships with Hispanic lawyers. It was a place that felt comfortable, like home with shared values and the opportunity to be involved in volunteer projects that made a sig- ni cant di erence in people’s lives. - DANNY ORTEGA
LOS ABOGADOS EXECUTIVE BOARD
FORMER LOS ABOGADOS BOARD MEMBERS
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