Southern California Chinese Lawyers Association

The Southern California Chinese Lawyers Association (SCCLA) is a premier professional organization serving Chinese American and Asian American legal professionals in Los Angeles and Orange County. Since 1975, SCCLA has established itself as the first Asian Pacific American bar association in the country, providing comprehensive support and resources to lawyers, jurists, and law students throughout the region.

SCCLA delivers extensive professional development opportunities through continuing legal education courses covering emerging legal developments, trial advocacy skills, and career navigation in the legal profession. The organization hosts annual panels and receptions designed to guide law students through various career paths while actively engaging in community outreach to educate high school students about civics and legal careers.

Beyond professional development, SCCLA maintains a strong commitment to expanding access to justice. The organization operates a monthly multilingual pro bono legal clinic in the San Gabriel Valley and partners with respected community organizations including the Chinatown Service Center, Asian Americans Advancing Justice - Los Angeles, and Neighborhood Legal Services of Los Angeles. These collaborative efforts ensure that Chinese American and Asian American communities receive quality legal services and support.

SCCLA also demonstrates its dedication to community welfare through initiatives like the annual Holiday Food Basket Drive and the SCCLA Cares program, which provided meals to pandemic-affected communities. For legal professionals seeking mentorship, networking, and advancement opportunities within a supportive community of peers, SCCLA offers membership that connects members with established lawyers, jurists, and emerging legal talent across Southern California.