The Power of Showing Up for the Community: Recognizing Hugh E. McKay

2026 Volunteer of the Year Award Recipient Each year, the Cleveland Metropolitan Bar Association pauses to recognize those whose service reminds us of what it truly means to belong to a legal community. At the 2026 Annual Meeting, that recognition takes on special meaning as we honor Hugh E. McKay, a lawyer whose career has been defined not just […]
Legacy Leaders’ Brunch 2026

An Afternoon with the Leaders and Legends of the Bar Formerly known as the Past Presidents’ Brunch, the CMBA’s 2026 Legacy Leaders’ Brunch brought together past presidents, Fellows, and distinguished members of the Bar for an afternoon of connection, reflection, and celebration at The South Side. Guests gathered to honor members celebrating 50 and 65 […]
Law Day 2026: Defending the Rule of Law

Cleveland’s Legal Community Comes Together for Law Day On May 1, Cleveland’s legal community came together for two Law Day programs focused on protecting the rule of law, judicial independence, and equal justice under law. From a conversation at the City Club of Cleveland to a public retaking of the attorney’s oath, the day reflected […]
Volunteer Thank You Reception 2026

A Night of Gratitude for the Volunteers Serving Our Community On April 22, the Cleveland Metropolitan Bar Association and Cleveland Metropolitan Bar Foundation gathered at Sausalito on Ninth to celebrate the volunteers whose time, leadership, and service make so many of the organization’s programs and initiatives possible. The evening featured remarks from Foundation President Karl […]
Honoring Brandon Chrostowski: Leadership That Shapes Our Community

2026 President’s Award Recipient At the Cleveland Metropolitan Bar Association’s 2026 Annual Meeting on June 4, the President’s Award will be presented to Brandon Chrostowski. The honor recognizes leadership that has made a lasting impact on the legal profession, the Bar, and the broader community. The President’s Award is chosen by the current CMBA president […]
CMBA Condemns Attacks on the Independence and Integrity of the United States Supreme Court

Public Statement from the CMBA When the integrity of our judicial system, the independence of our judges, or the procedural finality of the United States Supreme Court is challenged, our Bar Association is duty-bound to speak up in support of the Rule of Law. Accordingly, the Cleveland Metropolitan Bar Association (CMBA) unequivocally condemns House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries’ statements directly […]
Recovery Is Not a Luxury: Why Strategic Restoration Matters for High-Performing Professionals

The Case for Recovery in High-Pressure Professions In many professional circles, especially law, leadership, and public service, exhaustion is often worn like a badge of honor. Full calendars, constant availability, long hours, and high-stakes decision-making are seen as signs of commitment. But there is a difference between working hard and operating depleted. That distinction matters. […]
Death of a Witness: A New Trial War Stories Episode

Featuring Amanda Martinsek In this unforgettable episode of Trial War Stories, host Andy Goldwasser sits down with accomplished trial lawyer Amanda Martinsek to break down one of the most shocking courtroom moments imaginable. A high-stakes, five-to-six-week business litigation trial. Massive media attention. A young lawyer thrown into the fire. And then—during a critical moment—everything changes […]
March/April 2026 Bar Journal

Community Impact, Women in Law & the Future of Practice The March/April 2026 issue of the Bar Journal highlights key issues shaping the legal profession, particularly women in law, small firm practice, and in-house counsel, while emphasizing the legal community’s role in civic engagement and the rule of law. Articles explore topics such as intergenerational […]
January/February Bar Journal

The Rule of Law, Winter Bash & Supporting Nonprofits The January/February 2026 issue of the Cleveland Metropolitian Bar Journal focuses on reaffirming the rule of law, Civility, and the courage required to uphold our profession’s core values. This issue also includes a recap of the CMBA Winter Bash celebration among members. This edition highlights the […]