President’s Message

Becoming President of Western Trial Lawyers Association

Passing the Torch in Paradise: My New Role as WTLA President

By Lauren Wood

Last month, surrounded by the breathtaking views of Maui, I had one of those surreal, full-circle moments that stops you in your tracks. I stood up, looked out at a room filled with brilliant trial lawyers—many of whom have shaped who I am as a practitioner—and took the oath as the new President of the Western Trial Lawyers Association. WTLA. A place that’s shaped my career in ways I’m still uncovering.

The air in Hawaii was heavy with meaning, and not just from the humidity. This year’s conference brought a sense of clarity, camaraderie, and possibility. And as the torch was passed to me, I found myself reflecting on everything this organization means not only to me, but to so many of us who found our voice, our confidence, and our people through WTLA.

This isn’t just another line on a résumé. It’s a responsibility. It’s a mission.

WTLA has always been a place for the warrior hearted. For those who believe in the power of the jury system. For those who understand that a single voice armed with the truth and fueled by preparation can move mountains. Our members fight for justice every single day, often with limited resources and against seemingly impossible odds. And we do it with passion. With integrity. With community.

I’ve been lucky to serve alongside incredible leaders in this organization. I’ve learned from the best. And now, I have the privilege of helping shape the path forward. That’s no small thing.

One of the things I love most about WTLA is the generational richness of our membership. At this year’s conference, I met a new lawyer who had just passed the bar and had drinks with a titan of the trial bar who’s been trying cases longer than I’ve been alive. These conversations couldn’t have been more different, but they had one thing in common—deep commitment to the work. That’s what makes WTLA special.

As I step into this new role, my vision for WTLA is both bold and simple: stay rooted in our values while evolving to meet the needs of today’s trial lawyers. The courtroom has changed, and so have we. From remote depositions and hearings to shifting jury attitudes, the legal landscape is moving fast. But our mission stays the same: to equip and empower the best plaintiff trial lawyers in the country.

I want our programming to reflect that mission. We’re doubling down on mentorship, on practical education, and on making space for the diverse voices that are shaping our profession’s future. That means more workshops for new lawyers. More conversations around technology, mental health, and trial strategy. More intentional community building. And yes, more fun. Because trial lawyers need joy, too.

I also want to make sure that every lawyer regardless of background, gender, or geography feels like they belong in this space. WTLA is not a closed circle. It’s an open table. And there’s room for you here.

The work ahead is exciting. Challenging. Urgent. But I know this community. I’ve seen what happens when trial lawyers come together not to compete, but to collaborate. We lift each other up. We share our playbooks. We pour into the next generation. And we win. Not just for our clients, but for each other.

To those who paved the way, thank you! To those standing beside me now, let’s go! And to those who are just finding their footing, welcome! This year is going to be one of purpose, growth, and deep connection. I’m so honored to serve as your President. And I promise to lead with heart, with humility, and with a relentless belief in our shared mission.