About the Coral Gables Bar Association
The Coral Gables Bar Association (CGBA) is a volunteerdriven professional organization that supports attorneys, law students, and the broader legal community throughout Coral Gables, Florida. Our mission is to promote the highest standards of legal practice, foster continuing education, and enhance access to justice for all residents.
Through seminars, networking events, community outreach, and probono initiatives, CGBA serves as a catalyst for professional growth and civic engagement. The Associations governance is overseen by a Board of Directors elected by the membership.
Board Membership Overview
Board members are the strategic leaders who shape the direction of CGBA. They work collaboratively to ensure that the Association fulfills its mission, remains financially sound, and provides valuable programs for its members.
Current Board Composition
President Jane M. Alvarez, Esq.
Jane brings 15 years of civil litigation experience and previously served as VicePresident. She chairs the Strategic Planning Committee.
VicePresident Michael T. Huang, Esq.
Michael is a corporate law practitioner with a focus on emerging tech companies. He leads the Membership Engagement Committee.
Treasurer Laura K. Ramos, Esq.
Laura, a tax law specialist, oversees budgeting, financial reporting, and audit compliance.
Secretary Daniel S. Ortiz, Esq.
Daniel manages meeting minutes, recordkeeping, and communication with the Florida Bar.
Additional board members serve on standing committees such as Ethics, Continuing Legal Education (CLE), ProBono Services, and Community Outreach.
Roles & Responsibilities
Board members are expected to fulfill several key duties:
- Strategic Vision: Participate in setting longterm goals and aligning resources to achieve them.
- Governance: Ensure compliance with state bar regulations, nonprofit statutes, and CGBA bylaws.
- Financial Oversight: Review budgets, approve expenditures, and monitor fiscal health.
- Program Development: Sponsor educational seminars, mentorship programs, and community service initiatives.
- Member Relations: Act as a liaison between the Association and its members, gathering feedback and addressing concerns.
- Advocacy: Represent CGBA interests with local government, the Florida Bar, and other legal organizations.
Board service is a volunteer commitment, typically lasting a twoyear term, with the possibility of reelection.
Election Process
CGBA holds elections annually in the spring. The process includes:
- Nominations: Members submit nominations by the February deadline. Both selfnominations and thirdparty nominations are accepted.
- Screening: The Nominations Committee reviews candidates for eligibility (active membership, good standing, and no conflicts of interest).
- Balloting: An electronic ballot is sent to all voting members in early March. Members may vote for up to three candidates per open position.
- Results: Votes are tallied by an independent auditor and announced at the April General Meeting.
Members who wish to run for a board seat must complete the Board Candidate Application and submit a brief statement of purpose (maximum 300 words).
Ready to Serve?
If you are a practicing attorney, law student, or legal professional in Coral Gables who wants to make a difference, we encourage you to apply for board membership.
Download the Application Form | Contact the Nominations Committee
