DRI offers its members the unique opportunity to participate in its 26 Substantive Law and Practice Committees which address a variety of defense law specialties. Joining a committee is a great way to participate in DRI activities and rise in the leadership ranks. DRI’s committees serve many vital functions, some of which are:

Education - DRI committees plan and execute most of DRI’s seminars and webconferences. Committees that don’t sponsor stand-alone seminars have the opportunity to sponsor CLE segments at the Annual Meeting.

Publications - DRI’s committees design and publish electronic newsletters, which may contain substantive articles, case law updates, committee news and other content as determined by the committee. The opportunity to publish a series of articles in dedicated sections of For The Defense is rotated among the committees. Committees are also responsible for many of DRI’s special publications.

Networking - DRI’s committees provide opportunities for defense lawyers to meet and form relationships with others with similar interests from around the country. Relationships formed through DRI committees can be professionally and personally rewarding—professional from the standpoint of business referrals; personal from the standpoint of forming lasting friendships with great lawyers from around the country.

Involvement - One of the most important functions of committees is to provide opportunities for DRI members to become involved. They also function to identify potential leaders of DRI. Each committee is led by a steering committee comprised of certain positions mandated by DRI policy, as well as any other positions which the committee may elect to create.

Leadership Development - The committees are a breeding ground for leadership. Those who seek opportunities for involvement may be given the opportunity to work on or chair a subcommittee, or fill a position on a steering committee. Proven performers may be given the opportunity to serve as a seminar Program Chair.