BIG THANK YOU FOR A SUCCESSFUL EVENT

On April 25, 2025, we hosted the inaugural Idaho Veteran Law Conference—the first event of its kind in our state—bringing together attorneys, service members, students, and community leaders to strengthen legal access for Idaho’s military and veteran population. The event was a resounding success, and we want to take a moment to extend our heartfelt thanks to the individuals and organizations that made it all possible.

A Special Thank You to Our Speakers

We are deeply grateful to our outstanding presenters who generously shared their time and expertise:

• Representative John Shirts, AFRC JAG, for his presentation on The Role of JAG in Military Legal Proceedings. His dual perspective as a legislator and JAG officer offered attendees a rare and insightful look into military justice.

• Jessica McBride of Tatum McBride Law, for delivering a compelling CLE presentation on The Right to Remain Silent, empowering both legal professionals and service members with constitutional clarity.

• Justin Eckman, Attorney at Law with Parsons Behle & Latimer, for his informative CLE presentation on Gun Trusts, helping attendees navigate this important and often misunderstood legal area.

  
  

Your leadership, professionalism, and commitment to veterans set the tone for the quality and impact of this event.

Venue and Event Support

A tremendous thank you to Mission43 for graciously providing the event space and assisting with logistics from start to finish. Your partnership was invaluable in standing up this inaugural effort, and we are proud to have launched the conference with your support.

Academic Partners & Student Volunteers

We also extend sincere thanks to the University of Idaho College of Law and the incredible student volunteers whose work in our legal clinics throughout the year continues to make a meaningful difference. Though not present at the conference, your ongoing commitment was recognized during the event—and deeply appreciated by all in attendance.

Our gratitude also goes to the Idaho Veteran Law Association – Moscow and Idaho Veteran Law Association – Boise. These student-led organizations have played a key role in supporting IMLA clinics through coordination and volunteer service. Your leadership is shaping the future of veteran legal advocacy in Idaho.

Huge Thank You to Our Partners in Veteran Advocacy

We are especially grateful to Mitzi Cheldelin of the Idaho Department of Veteran Services for her invaluable support and participation in the 2024 Idaho Veteran Law Conference. Her contributions—both in helping organize the event and as a featured speaker—brought critical insight into the role state agencies play in supporting Idaho’s veterans.

Mitzi's speech highlighted the importance of collaboration between legal professionals and veteran service providers. The ongoing partnership with IDVS strengthens our collective ability to deliver meaningful resources and advocacy to those who have served.

What is next?

This conference was more than just an event—it was a milestone. The energy, collaboration, and shared mission demonstrated on April 25 affirmed what we already knew: Idaho has a dedicated community ready to support those who served.

We look forward to growing this event in the years to come and continuing to foster partnerships that empower our veterans through accessible legal support.

Thank you again to everyone who participated, supported, and stood alongside us for this landmark occasion.