We look forward to seeing you all at the 2026 HBF Annual Luncheon on Tuesday, February 17 at the Four Seasons Hotel.

Join us as we thank 2025 HBF Chair Sara Keith and the Board of Directors for their dedication and welcome 2026 HBF Chair Benny Agosto, Jr. and Board members.

CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE YOUR TICKET

There will be a mocktail reception honoring award winners and HBF Fellows from 11:00 to 11:30 a.m., with the luncheon program beginning promptly at 11:30 a.m.

Net proceeds from the luncheon will benefit the Houston Bar Foundation Scholarship Fund, established in memory of Alistair Dawson.

Ticket sales close on Wednesday, February 11.

Keynote Address
Johnny Carrabba

James B. Sales Pro Bono Leadership Award
Travis Sales

Longevity of Exemplary Service to the Dispute Resolution Center
June A. Mann and David Aaron DeSoto

Outstanding Contribution to the Dispute Resolution Center
LeRoy “Mac” Coleman

Outstanding Legal Article in The Houston Lawyer
Alamdar S. Hamdani and Lucy Porter

2026 HVL Awards

Corporate Law Department Pro Bono Award
Chevron

Law Firm Pro Bono Awards
Hunton Andrews Kurth
Porter Hedges
DLA Piper

Individual Pro Bono Award
Jeremy Berman

Volunteer with us at the HBA Spring Days of Service on Friday, March 27, and Saturday, March 28, and make your weekend count! Together, we’ll support local organizations through a variety of volunteer opportunities—including family-friendly options—so everyone can take part in giving back.

From providing legal services for individuals experiencing homelessness, veterans, and victims of abuse to hands-on projects like book and food sorting and community cleanups, this is your chance to make a meaningful impact while strengthening connections within our legal community.

SIGN UP FOR A SPRING EVENT

Meet your friends, families, and colleagues at the starting line of the 41st Annual HBA Eikenburg Fun Run, including a wheelchair 8k, 8K race, and a one-mile family walk in Sam Houston Park downtown on Saturday, February 21. 

Announcements will begin at 7:00 a.m., with race day packet pick-up starting at 6:30 a.m. Skip the line by picking up your packet early on Thursday, February 19 from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. and Friday, February 20, from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Pursuit Center. 

Runners will receive an official T-shirt, finisher medal, race bib, access to the after-party, and entry for door prizes. Don't miss the post-race celebration!

Since 1986, the Houston Bar Association has raised over $1.8 million for Pursuit Center, a Houston nonprofit organization which serves those with intellectual and developmental disabilities and autism through housing, education, and employment opportunities.

REGISTER HERE

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES STILL AVAILBLE!

VIEW THE FUN RUN PROMO VIDEO

Questions? Contact Georgina Peña at georginap@hba.org or (346) 471-3310.

Don't miss a chance to explore critical issues shaping journalism and law at the 38th Annual Law & the Media Seminar on Saturday, February 28, from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at University of Houston Law Center for this impactful event, co-sponsored by the Houston Bar Association and the Society of Professional Journalists Houston Pro Chapter.

Check-in with breakfast begins at 8:30 a.m. Onsite registration will be limited (space permitting), so please secure your spot in advance! The seminar offers 3 hours of CLE, including 1 hour of ethics, and provides an opportunity to hear from leading experts in law and media as they discuss the real-world challenges journalists face, recent landmark cases shaping media law, and practical strategies for protecting press freedom.

Space is limited. For questions or more information, contact Maggie Martin at 346-471-3428 or maggiem@hba.org.

SECURE YOUR SPOT

Thank You to Our Sponsors

Unwind, connect, and recharge with us at our new Wine Down Wednesdays—no agenda, just great company and good conversation. Meet new people, network, and relax in a laid-back setting.

Our next Wine Down Wednesday will be held on March 4 at The Founders Club in the Wells Fargo Plaza.

RSVP TODAY— DON'T MISS IT

Join us for the first-ever Solo & Small Firm Summit on March 6, 2026, at Hotel ZaZa Memorial City, from 8:45 a.m. to 5:15 p.m., followed by a happy hour from 5:15 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. This full-day conference will feature networking opportunities, vendors, and a chance to unwind with your peers afterward. Accredited for 6 hours of CLE, including 1.5 hours of ethics.

Don’t miss this inaugural event bringing solos and small firms together to learn, grow their businesses, and thrive! Ticket prices will increase Saturday, February 7. 

HLRS Members attend for FREE! Contact Karen Ramsey for coupon code.

REGISTER HERE
 

You are invited to the Houston Bar Association's and Houston Bar Foundation's 2026 Bench Bar Conference on Friday, April 10 at the Hotel ZaZa – Museum District from 8:45 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., immediately followed by a happy hour sponsored by Troutman Pepper Locke.

Enjoy a day where the (Civil, Appellate, and Probate) Bench and Bar come together through plenary and breakout sessions, networking opportunities, the vendor hallway, and the hospitality room sponsored by Wright Close Barger & Guzman, LLP.  This program includes 6 hours of MCLE credit, including 1.75 hours ethics credit.  Ticket prices increase March 1, so secure your spot today!

PURCHASE YOUR TICKETS

BECOME A SPONSOR

VIEW PROGRAM AGENDA

Mark your calendars and meet us on the greens! 

Join us Monday, May 4 for the 78th Annual Golf Tournament at Memorial Park Golf Course. Hit a hole-in-one for a good cause, show off your skills, and enjoy the perfect mix of networking, camaraderie, and letting loose on one of Houston’s most iconic courses.

All net proceeds benefit the Houston Bar Foundation and Houston Habitat for Humanity, so every swing helps make an impact.

Registration and sponsorship opening soon.

Justice Eugene A. Cook Professionalism Award

The Justice Eugene A. Cook Professionalism Award is presented by the Houston Bar Association to a lawyer or judge who exemplifies the highest level of professionalism and legal ethics. A nominee must have demonstrated, by conduct and character, a longstanding commitment to professionalism and a record of exemplary service in the areas of professionalism, legal ethics, and legal excellence. The nominee must be a role model for younger or less experienced lawyers who make the bar proud of the legal profession. Lawyer nominees may be from a transactional or litigation practice, and nominees must be a member of the HBA.

VIEW PAST RECIPIENTS

Please send the nominee's resume and three to five letters of support by 5:00 p.m., Wednesday, March 25, 2026 to HBA Marketing and Communications Director Maggie Martin at maggiem@hba.org.

Justice Ruby Kless Sondock Award

The Justice Ruby Kless Sondock Award is presented by the Houston Bar Association to a woman lawyer or judge for exceptional achievement and leadership in the law. This award recognizes a record of outstanding accomplishments by a woman attorney. The award was established in 2019 and is named in honor of Justice Sondock, the first recipient, who was a trailblazer in the legal profession as the first woman to serve on the Supreme Court of Texas and the first woman District Court Judge in Harris County. A nominee must have demonstrated, by conduct and character, a record of exceptional service as a role model, mentor, and advocate in the legal profession, and a lifelong commitment to professionalism. Nominees may be from a transactional or litigation practice, and nominees must be a member of the HBA.

VIEW PAST RECIPIENTS

Please send the nominee's resume and three to five letters of support by 5:00 p.m., Wednesday, March 25, 2026 to HBA Marketing and Communications Director Maggie Martin at maggiem@hba.org.

HBA Diversity Awards

Do you know a Houston-based individual, law firm, or organization that has gone above and beyond to advance diversity in the legal profession?

Nominate them today and shine a spotlight on their impact!

NOMINATE AN INDIVIDUAL

NOMINATE AN ORGANIZATION

Nominations are due Wednesday, March 25, 2026.

Petitions for nomination to the HBA Board of Directors are now available, with a filing deadline of Friday, February 27, 2026.

There are both officer and director positions. Each petition must designate the officer or director position sought by the candidate and must be signed by at least 10 current members of the Houston Bar Association. A biographical form and a current photograph must accompany each petition. Biographical data will be limited to 200 words. Each candidate will be asked to read and sign the HBA guidelines governing campaigns for officer and director positions.

To request a petition, please email HBA Executive Director Vinh Ho at vinhh@hba.org.

Ever wonder why members love the HBA?

In our latest testimonial, Bailey Bridges, associate at BakerHostetler LLP and co-chair of the HBA Membership Committee, shares why being part of the HBA matters to her—from connection to community.

Have a story of your own to share? We’d love to hear it!
Interested in submitting a testimonial? Email Maggie Martin at maggiem@hba.org.
 

WATCH HERE

Join us on social media! Share your HBA activity with your network by tagging us on any of these platforms

In celebration of Ramadan, you’re warmly invited to join Judges Baldwin, Collier, and Lopez for a meaningful and reflective conversation. This year’s program will include a CLE presentation exploring Islamophobia and its impact on the justice system, followed by a community dinner shared together in the spirit of connection.

The event will take place on Tuesday, February 10, from 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. at the Civil Courthouse, Ceremonial Suite (17th floor), 201 Caroline. Please plan to arrive early, as seating is first come, first served.

This Black History Month, help commemorate 100 years of history, excellence, and impact at a special program hosted by Harris County African American Judiciary. The event will be held on Wednesday, February 11 at 2:00 p.m. at the Fourteenth Court of Appeals. 

Stay engaged and informed with your legal community! Visit the HBA's online events calendar for upcoming CLEs, section and committee programming, and more. We look forward to seeing you soon! 

HBA Online Events Calendar

VISIT THE HBA ON-DEMAND CLE LIBRARY HERE

Questions? Contact HBA CLE & Technology Platforms Coordinator Alli Hessel at allih@hba.org. 

The HBA Tech Law Series returns with a new webinar on Thursday, February 12 from noon to 1:00 p.m. Stephen Walther, Founder of EmpowerLawyers.ai, will present ChatGPT for Texas Lawyers, a virtual program offering 1 hour of CLE credit, including 0.25 hours of ethics.

Discover how Texas lawyers are saving time with ChatGPT while remaining compliant with ABA Formal Opinion 512 and Texas Ethics Opinion 705. The program will share simple, repeatable workflows you can start using right away.

REGISTER HERE

Questions? Contact Alli Hessel at allih@hba.org or Ashley Steininger at ashleyg@hba.org

GableGotwals is pleased to announce that Byron C. Keeling has joined the Firm’s Houston office as Of Counsel.

Solomon Wisenberg has joined FBFK Law as a shareholder in its Houston litigation practice.

Reynolds Frizzell is pleased to announce the election of Thallia Malespin to firm partnership.

We’re thrilled to introduce our fifteenth HBA Ambassador from Class V (2025-2027), Jose A. Molina, legal counsel at TruGrid and a director of the Hispanic Bar Association of Houston. Click here to learn more about Jose and the rest of our HBA Ambassadors. 

WATCH NOW

The HBA Gender Fairness Committee invites all women attorneys in their 1st to 6th year to attend their 12th Annual Speed Mentoring event on Tuesday, February 24, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Delve into discussions covering career advancement, self-advocacy, business development, career changes, and navigating challenging personalities in the legal profession. Space is limited. 

SIGN UP TODAY

Throw on your beads and celebrate Mardi Gras with the HBA LGBTQ+ Committee at their 5th Annual Mardi Gras Party at Brennan's on Wednesday, February 25 at 6 p.m.

Enjoy a night of vibrant celebration with delicious food, festive drinks, and plenty of fun! All are welcome!

GET YOUR TICKET

SPONSOR THE EVENT

On Wednesday, January 28, members gathered at the Senior Lawyers Forum as Terry Lord, a retired U.S. Department of Justice prosecutor, shared his perspective on reconciliation, justice, and lessons learned from decades of political conflict. Thank you to all who attended!

The Texas High School Mock Trial Region 4 Competition is looking for attorneys, judges, and 3Ls to volunteers to score the high school mock trial rounds on Saturday, February 7th in the Harris County Criminal Courthouse.  Earn self-study credit and ethics while you volunteer!  

Round 1 – 9:00 a.m.
Round 2 – 12:00 p.m.
Round 3 – 3:00 p.m.

SIGN UP HERE

Houston Lawyer Referral Service

Now Is a Great Time to Join HLRS!

HLRS members attend the Solo & Small Firm Section All-Day CLE for FREE—just one of many valuable membership perks.
 
Why join HLRS?

• Members earn an average of $20,000 annually from referrals
• Grow your client base with pre-screened referrals
• Connect with clients actively seeking legal representation
• Expand your practice and your professional network

Join HLRS and start turning referrals into revenue. Learn more at www.HLRS.org/for-attorneys/ or email kramsey@HLRS.org.

Dispute Resolution Center 

DRC Mediation Tip

Start with listening, not problem-solving. Allow each party to fully explain their perspective without interruption before moving toward options or solutions. When parties feel heard, they are far more likely to engage in meaningful dialogue and reach lasting agreements.

Volunteer Opportunity for Attorneys

The Harris County Dispute Resolution Center welcomes attorneys interested in volunteering as mediators. Volunteering with the DRC is a meaningful way to give back to the community, sharpen negotiation and facilitation skills, and support access to justice. Attorneys may observe, co-mediate, and mediate cases consistent with their experience and availability. If you are interested in volunteering, please contact the DRC at email@drchouston.org to learn more about current opportunities.

Houston Volunteer Lawyers

2026 Recruit More Boots Campaign
 
HVL is kicking off our third annual Recruit More Boots campaign to get more boots on the ground in the fight for social justice during the month of February! Many underserved Houstonians are in need of legal support in areas like estate planning, family, guardianship, and tax issues—areas where pro bono assistance can truly change lives. Every new attorney who takes a case or volunteers at a clinic with HVL makes a difference in the lives of low-income Texans.
 
You can contribute to the campaign and amplify your impact by:  

• Partnering with an attorney who hasn’t taken a case with HVL yet!  
• Signing up to volunteer at a legal advice clinic with one (or more) colleagues 
• Sharing campaign content on social media – be sure to follow HVL on LinkedIn

Thank you to these firms and companies who have agreed to assume a leadership role in providing equal access to justice for all Harris County citizens. Each has made a commitment to provide representation in a certain number of cases through the Houston Volunteer Lawyers.

The 100 Club

The Houston Bar Association 100 Club is a special category of membership that indicates a commitment to the advancement of the legal profession and the betterment of the community. The following law firms, government agencies, law schools and corporate legal departments with five or more attorneys have become members of the 100 Club by enrolling 100 percent of their attorneys as members of the HBA.