We cannot let the board's mission be dictated by a few critics. I always have strongly supported limitations on the State Bar's purview. I always have been a strong supporter of tort reform. I believe fairness and justice are improved with loser-pay rules and punitive damage limitations. Thus, the debate involves access to justice issues which cry out for State Bar action.
Lawyers have a unique knowledge of the law and the science of jurisprudence.
Indeed, many lawmakers look to the bar, its section members and its Conference of Delegates for guidance. The bar's input into the legislative process is unique in that it is provided by an agency whose structure and legislative oversight assures a balanced public interest perspective. We must continue this mission of service. I hope those attacking the bar might instead work with us to improve our justice system. Defense attorney Andrew J. Guilford of Newport Beach is a first-year member of the bar board.