Soft Opening: Remembering the Past, Moving into the Future

Typically, as your new President of the Austin Bar Association, my first article would contain my portrait and answers to numerous questions. We run these articles so that you (if you’re so inclined) can get to know the person who will lead the Bar over the next term.

Meet AYLA’s 2025-2026 President: Jenna Malsbary

Jenna is an associate counsel at CapMetro, where the mission is to empower and enhance communities through the delivery of high-quality public transportation in Austin and its surrounding areas. Jenna graduated from the University of Texas at Austin and St. Mary’s University School of Law. Her passion for leadership and bar service dates back to her time at St. Mary’s, where she served as the Student Bar President and held positions as director, Secretary, and Vice President of the San Antonio Young Lawyers Association before moving to Austin in 2016.

Briefs July/August 2025

Congratulations to the following individuals, who have been included in LawDragon’s 2025 500 Leading Plaintiff Financial Lawyers:

New Episode of Stop the Stigma Podcast

Kurt Metscher is a 36-year-old family law attorney in Austin. His addiction challenges started in high school, first with marijuana, then amphetamines. After an incident in college, he entered treatment. Initially planning to return to his addiction once his probation was over, he gradually found himself enjoying the sober way of life. He wants people, particularly law firms and partners, …

LGBTQ+ Scholarships Now Accepting Applications

The LGBTQ+ Law Section is now accepting applications for the ninth-annual LGBTQ+ Scholarship cycle. A total of $20,000 will be awarded in scholarships ranging from $2,500 to $5,000, based on the strength of the applications.