Silver lining in recession
Diana Hughes had a choice. Like many 2009 law school graduates, she received notice from the firm where she had accepted a job that the starting date was being delayed because of the flailing economy.

Dues are due March 1 after fee bill signed
The State Bar sent bills last month to more than 220,000 California attorneys for 2010 dues after Gov. Schwarzenegger signed a measure authorizing collection of fees. Dues must be paid by March 1.

Bar chief will depart next year
Judy Johnson, the longest-serving executive director in State Bar history, announced last month that she plans to step down next year.

California Bar Journal goes digital March 1
Beginning March 1, the State Bar newspaper will cease publication in paper format and be replaced by an electronic version. Bar members will receive a California Bar Journal e-mail the first of each month providing links to the latest State Bar news.

Bar foundation celebrates 20th anniversary
Since its founding in 1990, the California Bar Foundation can boast an impressive list of accomplishments.

Fee information is online
Members may find the audited Statement of Expenditures of Mandatory Membership Fees for 2008 on the State Bar’s Web site (calbar.ca.gov). The statement shows how State Bar membership fees are spent.

Rent a car from Hertz
CalBar Connect, the State Bar’s affinity program, now partners with Hertz to provide discounted rental car rates to bar members.