AAML Presidents Message

By Thomas Sasser, AAML President

By July, the rhythm of summer has settled in for most of us. Our offices grow a little quieter as lawyers, staff and clients take their long-planned vacations, and while the calendar remains full, the pace of the days feels different. That summer rhythm makes this a natural moment for a broader update to the Fellowship.

By Thomas Sasser, AAML President

Summer is upon us, and with it comes a welcome change of pace, even for those of us whose calendars do not slow down quite as much as we would like. As our country begins looking ahead to the celebration of its 250th anniversary, I have found myself thinking about institutions, service, leadership, learning and the rule of law. Those values are woven through the history of our country, and they are also central to the work of the Academy and to the work each of you does every day for families across the country.

By Thomas Sasser, AAML President

As spring gives way to the beginning of summer, the work of the Academy continues to move forward with remarkable energy and purpose. This is a season of important progress: progress in the way we welcome new Fellows, progress in the standards that guide our profession, progress in expanding alternative dispute resolution in family law and progress in building national programs that reflect the very best of the Academy.

By Thomas Sasser, AAML President

As we move into the spring season — a time that naturally brings renewal, momentum and a forward-looking perspective — I am reminded that my term as AAML President has now reached its halfway point. This moment offers a valuable opportunity to reflect on the meaningful progress we have made together, while also focusing on the important work still ahead.

By Thomas Sasser, AAML President

Our Midyear Meeting at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess in Scottsdale, Arizona, was a tremendous success by every measure. Most notably, it achieved the highest Fellow attendance of any Midyear Meeting in Academy history. That extraordinary turnout reflects the strength of our organization, the depth of engagement among our Fellows and the enduring value of coming together for education, Fellowship and shared purpose.

By Thomas Sasser, AAML President

As we move into the heart of 2026 — and a month marked by Valentine’s Day, which is a reminder of both the promise and the complexity of family relationships — I am proud to highlight the extraordinary work being done across the Academy.

By Thomas Sasser, AAML President

The New Year is traditionally a time for reflection, intention and renewal — and it is in that spirit that the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers enters 2026. My message this month is a bit longer than normal, but I have so much to share with you.

By Thomas Sasser, AAML President

As the year draws to a close and the holiday season is upon us, I want to take a moment to reflect on what truly defines the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers. This season of giving is an especially fitting time to celebrate not only our professional excellence, but also our shared commitment to service, compassion and leadership.

By Thomas Sasser, AAML President

It is one of the greatest honors of my professional career to write to you for the first time as president of the Academy. I am grateful for the trust you have placed in me, and I am energized by the opportunity to help lead this extraordinary organization into a new era of growth and modernization.

By Laura C. Belleau, AAML President

As I write my final president’s message, I’ve reflected on leadership and what this year has meant for me and for the Academy.