About SCCLA

Our Mission

The Southern California Chinese Lawyers Association (SCCLA) is the first Asian Pacific American bar association in the country. Since its founding in 1975, SCCLA has provided support for Chinese American and Asian American lawyers, jurists, and law students in Los Angeles and Orange County.

We are dedicated to advancing the professional growth and interests of Chinese American and Asian American lawyers, jurists, and law students; improving the Chinese American and Asian American communities’ access to legal services; and promoting the interests of Chinese American and Asian American communities.

Giving Back

SCCLA frequently partners with local community organizations, including the Chinatown Service Center, Asian Americans Advancing Justice - Los Angeles, and Neighborhood Legal Services of Los Angeles to increase access to legal services. SCCLA hosts a monthly multilingual pro bono legal clinic in the San Gabriel Valley, which is now occurring virtually during the Coronavirus pandemic. SCCLA also works with the Chinatown Service Center every year to provide holiday food baskets for families in need. Recently, SCCLA completed SCCLA Cares, a program to provide hot meals from local restaurants to communities affected by the pandemic. 

Education

SCCLA is committed to developing the skills and talents of its members. SCCLA hosts Continuing Legal Education courses throughout the year on various topics including new legal developments, building trial advocacy skills, and helping members navigate the complexities of practicing in the legal profession.

SCCLA strives to strengthen diversity in the legal profession. Each year, SCCLA hosts an end-of-summer panel and reception to guide law students on various career paths. SCCLA members also engage in community outreach to speak with local high school students about civics.