New Lawyers Division (NLD)
Open to regular members barred less than 10 years or under 35 years old. This group focuses on networking, membership, fundraising, education, and public service.
Join AAJNLD: A strong and committed network of trial lawyers

Ashleigh Raso
Ashleigh practices in the area of mass torts with a concentration on medical devices and pharmaceuticals. As chair of the New Lawyers Division, she values the enthusiasm and energy of new lawyers. “These are our future leaders. NLD is the starting point to not only their practice but their involvement in AAJ and we want to make sure new lawyers are involved, have a space to feel comfortable to communicate, and network with other lawyers. Nothing compares to the energy of NLD!”
The NLD has an active presence on AAJ's Community Center. The caucus list server allows members from around the country to connect in real-time on the issues trial lawyers everyday. Caucus members frequently post articles and videos to the caucus blog, highlight recent trials and practical insights. Watch this video and preview some of the exciting content available in the Community Center.
Visit AAJ's Community Center (login required)Not yet a member of the Community? Join today.2021-2022 Caucus Leadership
- Chair: Ashleigh Raso | Meshbesher & Spence, Ltd., Minneapolis, MN
- Chair-Elect: Jared Smith | McCoy Hiestand & Smith, Louisville, KY
- Treasurer: Leslie Pescia | Beasley Allen Crow Methvin Portis & Miles, PC, Montgomery, AL
- Secretary: John Abaray | Thomas Law Offices, PLLC, Louisville, KY
- Immediate Past Chair & Representative to the Executive Committee: J.D. Hays | J.D. Hays Law, PLLC, Boulder, CO
- Representatives to the AAJ Board of Governors:
Stephanie Luzzi | The Luzzi Law Firm, East Brunswick, NJ
Kevin Biniazan | Breit Cantor Grana Buckner, Virginia Beach, VA
Dominic LoVerde | Motherway & Napleton, Chicago, IL
Take advantage of all your NLD benefits
The NLD's virtual happy hours, membership drives, educational panels, public services projects, meetings, and convention events are a great way to get to know other AAJ members. The caucus's newsletter is distributed to the more than 4,500 caucuses members, plus caucus members help plan webinars and other Education programs. Write an article, submit a topic suggestion, or apply to speak. With the NLD, you can expand your network and have fun.
Join the NLD closed Facebook group to keep up-to-date with caucus events and activities. Facebook Group