The job of the editor would be much harder without the help and guidance of the Sacramento Lawyer policy committee. At our monthly meetings, the committee, whose names are listed on page five, sits down to work out themes, suggest topics and subjects, and deal with any problems that arise. Almost a year ago, we decided that it was time to find out more about the dedicated lawyers who devote their energies to helping injured plaintiffs navigate their way through the justice system. Obviously, our limited space permits us to cover only a handful of the many highly respected trial attorneys who work in Sacramento. The lawyers profiled in this issue were chosen from the many names suggested by their peers in the Sacramento Consumer Attorneys (SCA) organization.

The name Roger Dreyer of Dreyer, Babich, Buccola & Callaham, LLP came readily to many lips. As shown in our lead story, the Sacramento Chapter of the American Board of Trial Advocates' (ABOTA) trial lawyer of the year award is well deserved. Another award winner in 2000 was Christopher Whelan, whom SCA named as advocate of the year in recognition of his dedication to protecting employee's rights. The articles about current SCA president Brooks Cutter and immediate past president David E. Smith reflect an enthusiasm for the practice of law that is contagious. Margaret Doyle's emphasis on teamwork and service and Lesley Ann Clement's zeal for protecting our elders from abuse show that we can, and often do, practice law with our hearts as well as our heads. John Poswall needs no introduction. It is great to see his crusader spirit. Clay Arnold and Gary Callahan fight the good fight every day. Patrick Scott is much more than a lawyer for his clients as he helps them through difficult times. And last, but by no means least, long time advocate Dan Wilcoxen encourages us to respect each other to ensure respect for our profession.

Also in this issue, Karen Goodman guides us through the maze of ethical issues that arise when our clients have conflicting interests, and we begin a regular column of news from the superior court. We hope that you enjoy this and all of our regular features.

The committee has chosen as themes for future issues, technology and the law, in May, bench - bar and judge of the year, in June, and lawyers' second lives in July/August. If you have any ideas for articles for any of these issues let us know. We are particularly interested in finding out about lawyers who have concurrent second careers or interesting hobbies. Call me at 874-5842 or e-mail me at stonej48@yahoo.com with your suggestions.

Also, the awards committee is accepting nominations for judge of the year. Call or e-mail Executive Director Carol Prosser at 448-1087 ext. 204 or e-mail cprosser@sacbar.org.

If you have not already done so, it is time to renew your membership if you want to stay on our mailing list.