Dear Association Members,
We hope that you and your families are safe and healthy during this COVID-19 crisis.
During this difficult time, we are reaching out to you for help. As you know, this crisis has highlighted the importance of keeping our members informed about the latest legal, financial and practical information necessary for Bergen County attorneys.
Unfortunately, without your immediate help, we will soon no longer be able to provide this important service. We recognize the emotional and financial toll this crisis has taken on all of you, and we appreciate any support you can give.
Since this crisis began, your BCBA has been working non-stop to help you navigate the practice of law. This includes:
- Daily communication with the Judiciary, Sheriff and County Executive
- Communications with Congress and New Jersey Legislature
- Frequent Bench Bar Conferences among our substantive chairs and our Assignment Judge
- Helping to set up the virtual civil arbitration program
- Regular email updates with breaking news for attorneys
- Redesigned website which organizes all updates by practice areas
- Free 2 credit seminar about the Paycheck Protection Program
- Lobbying the legislature to permit virtual notarization
- Providing continuing legal education seminars
- Updating our Attorney Referral Service
Each year we look forward to our Beefsteak and Dinner Dance events where members reconnect and socialize with colleagues and also where we raise money to support the BCBA’s vital function in the Bergen County legal community. Of course, this year we have not been able to host these events, and until we can, we must reduce our expenses. We are working hard to cut overhead significantly, and this includes cuts in salaries and reduced staffing.
Unfortunately, the Association, as a Section 501(c)(6) “trade association”, does not currently qualify for assistance under the Small Business Administration Paycheck Protection Program and without being able to host our events, we need your help more than ever.
This is an extraordinary plea for your financial assistance during these extraordinary times. We fully understand that everyone is feeling the adverse economic effects of the current health crisis and that many of you are not able to give right now. If you are able to help at this time, please make a contribution by sending a check or by using the Bergen Bar Benefactors page on our website to ensure that the BCBA can continue to help you, our members, during the current health emergency. Each contribution is needed and appreciated Your contribution to this appeal will be recognized on our Bergen Bar Benefactors website page and on a permanent plaque to be placed in our office lobby.
We look forward to the time when we are again able to meet in person and enjoy the personal and professional camaraderie that is a hallmark of our Association. Stay safe and well, and thank you for your generous response to this urgent appeal.
Joseph A. Maurice
President
Bergen County Bar Association
