Victor M. Salerno,
2019 CCBA President
President's Message
I am very happy, honored, and excited to welcome all of you to the Criminal
Courts Bar Association. As judges, prosecutors, defense attorneys, courtroom
assistants, journalists, law enforcement and probation officers, we all
play important roles in making the justice system operate as smoothly
and fairly as possible. It is no easy task! Often we hear about shortcomings,
criticisms , and failures. In my view however there is a very deserved
sense of pride, satisfaction, and esteem, which everyone of us share in
our mutual commitment to do the best we can to serve the People of the
County of Los Angeles and State of California. Justice is served every
day in our courthouses and courtrooms, and often with little or no fanfare .
I served with the Los Angeles County Public Defender from 1979 through
1988, when I left as a Deputy IV to enter private practice . I moved up
the street from the 19th floor of the CCB (Now the Clara Shortridge Foltz
Criminal Justice Center) to the Promenade West Building on First Street,
where I have "officed" ever since.
I am lucky and blessed to still enjoy my occupation as a trial lawyer,
and to be in good health and of (arguably) sound mind such that I am able
to effectively represent clients in the courtroom! But my greatest pleasure
is the daily exposure to all of you and those who I see in the courtrooms
and courthouses across the county; the comradery, companionship, exchange
of pleasantries, and mutual respect with which we perform our different
services and make it through the day. I believe in zealous, passionate
representation of my clients, but seek to do so with grace, understanding
of the opposing viewpoint, and respect for the Court and all its officers
who serve like me.
The Criminal Courts Bar Association is comprised of many defense practitioners,
but is open to judges, prosecutors, investigators, and anyone who works
in the justice system. Our monthly dinner night meetings provide informative
and entertaining MCLE programs, as well as great food and a relaxed, friendly
atmosphere.
Thank you all for attending our meetings and events and I hope to see you soon.