[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 149 (2003), Part 20]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 28332]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




           TRIBUTE TO THE COLORADO TRIAL LAWYERS ASSOCIATION

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. DIANA DeGETTE

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, November 7, 2003

  Ms. DeGETTE. Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize the exceptional 
endeavors and notable undertakings of an extraordinary professional 
membership organization in the State of Colorado. It is both fitting 
and proper that we recognize this outstanding association for its 
leadership in government and the legal community and for its enduring 
service to the people of our state. It is to commend this distinguished 
organization that I rise to honor the Colorado Trial Lawyers 
Association on the occasion of its 50th Anniversary.
  The Colorado Trial Lawyers Association (CTLA) has been on the front 
lines of progress since its inception and has proven to be a powerful 
force in transforming the legal landscape of our state. CTLA's 
statement of purpose merits mention. ``The Colorado Trial Lawyers 
Association is comprised of Colorado trial lawyers who are committed to 
the protection and advancement of individuals rights and to the 
advancement of trial advocacy skills, high ethical standards and 
professionalism in the ongoing effort to preserve and improve the 
American system of jurisprudence.'' Within this unequivocal statement 
lies the touchstone that has guided CTLA's work with government and its 
immeasurable contribution to the legal profession in Colorado.
  For the last half-century, CTLA and its members have been resolute in 
their commitment to protecting the health, safety and welfare of 
Colorado consumers. It has been active in educating the public 
concerning the efficacy of individual rights and the pivotal role of 
the trial lawyer in protecting those rights. CTLA has recognized, and 
continues to recognize, that it has a public trust of considerable 
magnitude. Through its legislative advocacy, CTLA has provided vital 
information and invaluable counsel to Members of the Colorado General 
Assembly and the United States Congress on issues that protect 
consumers and impact our civil justice system. Due in no small part to 
CTLA's advocacy, many detrimental legislative proposals have been 
defeated, particularly those that would have prevented or hindered 
access to the courts for redress of grievances.
  Trial advocacy is facing considerable change, technological and 
otherwise. CTLA has given the legal profession inestimable service 
through its outstanding legal education programs by providing state-of-
the-art instruction concerning law, ethics and professional conduct for 
members and non-members alike. CTLA has demonstrated an unwavering 
commitment to those in need. Countless members have provided pro-bono 
legal aid, including free legal assistance to the victims of the 
terrorist attacks of September 11th through the Trial Lawyers Care 
Program. My membership in CTLA has had a profound impact on my career 
in the practice of law and public service.
  Please join me in commending the Colorado Trial Lawyers Association 
on the occasion of its 50th Anniversary. It is leadership, advocacy and 
commitment of the Colorado Trial Lawyers Association that continually 
enhances our lives and builds a better future for all Americans.