| 2026-2027 President's Message Darren J. Holst, Esquire |
Matrimonial lawyers occasionally find themselves the target of jokes, but no other area of the law has such a profound impact upon the general populus and touches the daily lives of so many people. As matrimonial lawyers, we must be adept in a broad spectrum of laws, and we also must have the ability to provide counsel to individuals who are navigating one of the most emotionally turbulent periods of their lives. A family law attorney wears many different hats, and the job can be difficult. The AAML consists of leaders in matrimonial law, both nationally and in Pennsylvania; it is a privilege to be a Fellow and to be able to learn from the experts who are at the forefront in matrimonial law. The AAML is instrumental in elevating and improving the practice of matrimonial law. It has provided me with lasting friendships and invaluable mentorship.
It is an honor to serve as President of the Pennsylvania Chapter of the AAML. The standards of the AAML are high, and our Pennsylvania Chapter Fellows are committed to excellence in the practice of matrimonial law. Our Chapter will remain focused to advancing the goals and lofly standards of the AAML during my term. Our Chapter will continue to play an active role in both the legislative and judicial family law arenas. I intend to continue the initiatives of our past presidents and of our Immediate Past President, Helen Casale, namely, informative and entertaining CLE’s; family law bar outreach; strengthening the family law profession; and fostering relationships with other AAML Chapters. I had the pleasure of attending the New Jersey Chapter’s 2026 leadership installation as a representative of our Chapter, and I look forward to continuing to work with New Jersey, and the other participating Chapters, in the AAML’s annual multi-state symposium. I wish to strengthen and expand our Chapter during my term by identifying, mentoring, and admitting new Fellows. We have an amazing Chapter, but it needs new Fellows to continue to thrive well into the future.
I want to thank our Chapter Fellows for the opportunity to serve as President. Together, we have the opportunity to elevate and improve the practice of matrimonial law for the betterment of Pennsylvania’s citizenry.