AABA invites you to celebrate the beginning of the 2026-27 bar year at our kickoff reception on Tuesday, September 29, 2026.  Meet the new officers and board members, learn about our committees, upcoming programs and initiatives, and connect with attorneys, judges, law students, members, prospective members, community partners, and friends of the organization.

The reception will begin at 5:30 p.m. CT with a swearing-in ceremony for the new officers and board members led by Illinois Supreme Court Justice Sanjay Tailor. All are welcome to attend.

We look forward to welcoming both familiar and new faces from across Chicago’s legal community. Registration is complimentary, but advance registration is requested. 

The transition into law school presents a steep learning curve, but success in your first year is largely a matter of strategy, preparation, and mindset. Join our panel of recent law graduates for an insightful discussion on navigating the 1L experience. Panelists will share candid advice on what to expect during your first year, proven techniques for mastering law school exams and securing top grades, and proactive steps you can take early on to position yourself for competitive summer employment opportunities.

Illinois general CLE credit will be sought for practicing attorneys. 

Note:  To facilitate an open and frank discussion with the panel and to encourage active audience participation, this program will not be recorded.  Register today.

A judicial clerkship offers an unparalleled opportunity to hone legal writing skills, observe courtroom advocacy firsthand, and gain invaluable insight into judicial decision-making. Join a distinguished panel of federal judges for a candid discussion on the clerkship experience. The judges will share what they seek in prospective law clerks, common pitfalls in application materials, and how to stand out during the interview process.  Panelists will also offer practical advice on how clerks can maximize their time in chambers to build a strong foundation for a successful legal career.  This program is ideal for law students across all class years, judicial clerkship applicants, and young associates considering clerkships.

Illinois general CLE credit will be sought for practicing attorneys. 

Note:  To facilitate an open and frank discussion with the panel and to encourage active audience participation, this program will not be recorded.  Register today.