On March 18, 2025, members of the legal community joined Judge Berg for an intimate chambers lunch hosted by the San Diego Federal Bar Association. President Kim Gregg welcomed the group to the special spin-off of the Chapter's typical Courtroom Conversation, and Vice President of Professional Advancement, Melissa Holmes, moderated the event.
In typical Judge Berg fashion, the conversation was light-hearted and genial. Before sharing about himself, Judge Berg asked the group to introduce themselves to one another with a fun fact, through which the attendees learned that among them was a professional singer, a recent Jeopardy contestant, and a former nuclear submarine engineer!
Judge Berg then candidly answered various questions about his professional journey, sharing touching stories along the way. He spoke about the impactful experience with the judicial system that led him to law school, highlights from his distinguished career as a criminal defense attorney, and life since becoming a magistrate judge.
As someone who had his own criminal defense firm for decades, Judge Berg also provided advice for practitioners looking to hang their own shingle—focus on networking and have a really good website! He also emphasized the value of being involved in community service and outreach programs as not simply good for meeting people, but also "good for the soul."
Finally, Judge Berg reminded practitioners about the importance of always respecting one another both inside and outside of the courtroom. The event concluded with Judge Berg inviting attendees for a tour of his art-studded chambers.
The San Diego FBA extends its gratitude to Judge Berg and his staff for graciously sharing their time and chambers with us. The Chapter also thanks VP of Professional Advancement, Melissa Holmes, for organizing and moderating the event, President Kim Gregg for providing additional program support, and Education & Court Engagement Committee Member, Micheal Wright, for helping memorialize this event.