As spring settles in, the Denver Bar Association embraces the season’s energy with renewed purpose and momentum. April is Second Chance Month, and here in Colorado, it feels significant. Our state has been implementing Clean Slate legislation—a transformative effort to automate the sealing of eligible criminal records and assist thousands of Coloradans in moving forward. The DBA is proud to highlight this initiative because everyone deserves a real second chance.

Looking ahead, May 1st is National Law Day, and we’re participating in the National Law Day of Action, a coordinated effort to stand united in defense of judicial independence, the rule of law, and the integrity and independence of our profession. Recent events, including reports of the executive branch disregarding a Supreme Court order in the Abrego Garcia case, underscore why these matters. When any branch of government disregards the constitutional limits of its power, it threatens the very foundation of our democracy.

At our Law Day of Action at the Byron Rogers Federal Courthouse, we will join colleagues nationwide to reaffirm our commitment to the principles that ground our justice system. Together, we will retake our Attorney’s Oath, signaling that the legal community remains vigilant, principled, and united in its duty to uphold the rule of law.

We’re also thrilled to highlight the extraordinary work of the Young Lawyers Division, which continues to drive change, build community, and create meaningful connections through its programming and leadership. Their energy and innovation are shaping the future of our profession.

And don’t forget to mark your calendars for the Metro Volunteer Lawyers Spring Soirée: From Sunset to Starlight on May 3rd, a joyful celebration of pro bono service and a critical fundraiser for the legal aid work that so many in our community rely on.

As we move through this season of renewal, I invite you to get involved—whether that means volunteering, attending an event, or simply reaching out to connect. Every small action contributes to the larger impact we make as a legal community.

Let’s keep showing up—for justice, for each other, and for the future we’re building together.

In service of justice,
Annie Martínez