John Mathews, a Partner at A to Z Law, was awarded the 14th Annual Richard V. Laubacher Water Conservation Award at the Association of Water Agencies of Ventura County’s annual Water Symposium on April 15th in Oxnard, California.

United Water Conservation District created the award in 1997 to recognize leaders in the area of water conservation, and named it after Richard V. Laubacher, a longtime United Director and a leader in water issues in Ventura County. The award is voted upon by United’s seven-member Board of Directors.

In presenting the award, United’s General Manager, Michael Solomon, noted that Mr. Mathews’ unique combination of knowledge and integrity has, for the past thirty-five years, fostered an atmosphere of cooperation and trust among those who shape water policy in Ventura County.

Throughout his career, Mr. Mathews has been instrumental in developing innovative water quality programs and water conservation policies designed to preserve and enhance Ventura County’s surface and groundwater supplies. Mr. Mathews currently serves as general counsel to numerous special districts, including Pleasant Valley County Water District, Casitas Municipal Water District and Triunfo Sanitation District. He also represents many agricultural landowners throughout Ventura County and facilitates the Oxnard Plains Users Group effort to investigate and develop recycled water for agricultural use.

Many people will reach a point in life where they need the assistance of an attorney. This can be an uncomfortable process, but it doesn’t have to be that way. By following some simple steps, you can find an attorney who best suits your needs.

First, I like to remind people that attorneys are people too. We have the same day-to-day responsibilities as you and, for some at least, interests outside of practicing law. Some attorneys even have a sense of humor. Most attorneys do not fit the “profile” people imagine when they hear the word “attorney.”

Second, practicing law, like practicing medicine, is not an exact science. You may meet with three different attorneys and get three different opinions. Some of the answers should overlap, but each attorney may have a different idea on how best to address your needs.

Finally, try to find an attorney who practices in the area in which you need assistance. The example I like to use is this: Electricians and plumbers are both contractors, but would you hire an electrician to fix your leaky sink? In the practice of law, you are more likely to find the help you need if you speak to attorneys who regularly practice in the particular area of law in which you need assistance.

That being said, how do you find an attorney? Most people start by getting personal references from their friends, family, or professional associates. But sometimes you may need to do some research on your own. There are many websites to help you find an attorney, including the California state bar’s website (www.calbar.org). Most local bar associations have a lawyer referral service. You can find Ventura County’s by visiting www.vcba.org.

These tools, while helpful, shouldn’t take the place of a face-to-face meeting with your potential attorney. You should find an attorney you trust and who shares your view points on how best to manage your case. This doesn’t mean you should choose an attorney who will do whatever you tell them to do. The best attorneys offer advise that their clients don’t necessarily want to hear. But our job is to look out for you, help you through this unfamiliar territory, and give you some peace of mind.

It may even be helpful to meet with a few attorneys before you make a final decision. Don’t be discouraged if a consultation fee is charged. You are making an investment. It is most likely worth the time and money to help you make a thoughtful decision. Finding the right attorney for you will make your journey through the legal process you are facing less stressful and more productive. And that is something we can all use a little more of in life.

Every Cinco de Mayo, the hardworking staff and attorneys at A to Z Law can be found sampling chili, listening to mariachi music, indulging on corn bread and having a great time, and this year was no exception.  The event becomes more and more popular each year, and this year we fielded 13 entries!!

Like our staff, each pot of chili had its own personality, with many degrees of “heat,” a variety of flavors, and a wide assortment of chili.

This year’s first prize winner was Jeff Folks at Merrill Lynch, who dished up a delicious chile verde.  A to Z Law swept the rest of the awards, with second place going to Maria Godinez of the Probate and Estate Planning Department, third place going to Kim Kniss of the Civil Litigation, Appeals & Writs department, and fourth place going to former A to Z employee Kat Bowman, who returned to our office to enter her chili recipe.

Honorable mention went to partner Gary Arnold, who succumbed to 7 years of pressure and finally participated.  Finally, Bart Bleuel was awarded a Team Player ribbon for his consistent participation every year, and because we have reason to believe he actually cooked his chili this year, instead of cracking open a can of Hormel!

A to Z Law looks forward to the Chili Cook-Off every year, and to the opportunity to reclaim our trophy!