Conference/CLE CreditsLGA’s spring, fall, and regional conferences keep members up to date on issues of local government law, trial and appellate practice, and related fields. Speakers include government and private attorneys in Virginia, as well as state and federal judges. Each conference program offers 7-8 hours of Continuing Legal Education (CLE) credit, as well as additional CLE ethics credits. The cost is typically less than most commercially produced seminars. ForumsLGA’s email Forums makes it easy to consult with, and receive legal guidance from, fellow LGA members. This network of professional colleagues has proved to be particularly valuable to smaller localities. The Active Membership Forum is for all active members - i.e., city, county and town attorneys, individual members who were previously active members, and a few private firms that operate as the attorney for a local government. There is another forum, All Members Forum, which will send a message to all active, associate (mainly private firms), and individual members. There are also dedicated forums for committees and practice groups. HandbookLGA publishes the annual Handbook of Virginia Local Government Law, an invaluable resource for both public and private practitioners. Thirty up-to-date chapters thoroughly address key areas of local government law. Monthly NewsletterLGA publishes the monthly Bill of Particulars, produced by and for attorneys. It focuses on immediate local government issues—primarily court decisions. The Bill of Particulars is the only publication of its type in Virginia and is available only to LGA members. Amicus BriefsLGA periodically files amicus curiae briefs in cases involving important local government issues. Past amicus briefs have dealt with such issues as freedom of information, zoning, and taxation. Online ServicesLGA’s website includes a membership directory, job postings, information on member services, and CLE materials from past conferences (available only to LGA members). Practice GroupsLGA members may join practice groups in particular areas of the law. These groups meet and discuss issues of common interest and sponsor educational activities that meet the needs of group members. Public Policy ResourceLGA is regularly asked by both the Virginia General Assembly and state agencies to offer legal advice on state policy issues, or to recommend knowledgeable member attorneys to serve on legislative study committees and commissions. |