2026 Status Change Deadlines
If you are considering Senior, Temporary Inactive, or Emeritus status for 2026, the deadline to submit your application to the Chapter is November 7, 2025.
If you are considering Retired status for 2026, the deadline to submit your application to the Chapter is March 1, 2026.
ABOTA offers the following discounted membership categories for those that are retiring or leaving the practice of law as a way to stay involved in the organization. Each has specific criteria as listed below.
MEMBERSHIP STATUS REQUIREMENTS:
Senior Status - Age 75+ OR no longer practicing/mediating due to illness, injury or, infirmity AND ABOTA member for at least 10 years
Temporary Inactive Status - No longer practicing due to disability, absence from the country, or employment in a position that prohibits the practice of law. This status is only good for 3 years, then you must move to a different status.
Retired Status - ABOTA member for at least 10 years OR on Temporary Inactive Status due to a disability for 3 years, AND no longer practicing law.
Emeritus Status - ABOTA member for at least 10 years AND Fellow for 5+ years AND no longer practicing law AND service distinction (chapter/national leadership, substantial ABOTA involvement/leadership)
**Mediation, arbitration, and senior judicial roles are considered practicing law.
You are able to change your status at any time during the year, but the bylaws require you to be current on your dues before your application is processed. Therefore, if you apply in January (for all but Retired status), you must pay the full 2026 dues and the discounted dues would apply for 2027.
TO CHANGE YOUR STATUS FOR 2026:
- Complete the correct application (below)
- Email completed application to Nicole at nicole@abota-al.org by November 7th (or March 1st for Retired status).
Temporary Inactive Application
Nominate A New Member
Nominees now need a minimum of 7 civil jury trials AND 100 points to be eligible for ABOTA membership. Please see the graphic below which outlines how points are awarded.
New member nominations are accepted until May 1st of each year to allow the Membership Committee to fully vet the candidate. After this date, the nomination will be considered the following calendar year.
To nominate a new member, fill out the Sponsor Nomination Form and submit it to nicole@abota-al.org. Nicole will reach out to the nominee for additional information for the vetting process.
Nominees who pass the vetting process will be voted on by the Chapter membership in the late summer. Those receiving at least 75% approval will be contacted to submit their application to National by the fall deadline.
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