Speaker Robert A. DeLeo highlighted the LBA's recent Spring Dinner

Speaker Robert A. DeLeo joined the LBA for its annual Spring Dinner in March.

The LBA recently hosted its annual Spring Dinner as a time to reconnect with LBA members at the North Andover Country Club on March 31.

The featured speaker of the evening was Speaker of the Massachusetts House of Representatives, Robert A. DeLeo, who provided his perspective on several issues that are in the forefront for lawmakers on Beacon Hill. One of the key issues driving the Commonwealth's agenda is the rise of opioid use in Massachusetts and the legislature's attempts to reorganize the courts and to reform criminal sentencing. Other topics included economic development of Massachusetts outside of Boston/Cambridge, where communities are facing double-digit unemployment, and driving manufacturing where jobs are needed and collaborative efforts for city businesses to work with communities outside of Boston. 

The LBA also honored one of its longest serving members with the 50 Year Service Award. Robert Manasian spoke about his experience becoming a lawyer 50 years ago when he followed in his father's footsteps and learned how to practice in a "trial by ambush". He also spoke fondly of a time when court was a more hallowed place and lawyers were held to a higher standard. As Manasian put it, "Lawyers are God's chosen few. They are entitled to some respect."