Q1. What is TAPABA?
A1. "TAPABA" stands for the "Tennessee Asian Pacific American Bar Association". Our members include practicing attorneys, in-house attorneys, judges, professors, public sector attorneys, public interest attorneys and law students.

Q2. What does TAPABA do?
A2. We are an organization dedicated to promoting professional development and fellowship among Asian Pacific American attorneys and encouraging civic participation for all Asian Pacific Americans.

Q3. Is TAPABA affiliated with the National Asian Pacific American Bar Association (NAPABA)?
A3. Yes. We are an affiliate of NAPABA.

Q4. Is TAPABA affiliated with the State Bar of Tennessee?
A4. We are not formally affiliated with the State Bar of Tennessee. However, we participate in, or help coordinate, joint initiatives and projects with the State Bar of Tennessee from time to time.

Q5. Is membership in TAPABA mandatory?
A5. No. Membership in TAPABA is completely voluntary. However, we are the only organization in Tennessee dedicated to promoting the interests of Asian Pacific American attorneys and our strength as a viable organization is directly tied to our membership. Accordingly, we encourage you to join or renew your membership.

Q6. How do I become a member of TAPABA?
A6. You may become a member by completing and submitting a membership application, together with the applicable membership dues. A membership application, both an on-line and printable version, may be found in the "Membership" section of our website. The annual membership dues is $50 for attorney members and free for student members.

Q7. Is membership open to law students?
A7. Yes. Law students are also eligible for membership no cost.

Q8. Are dues or other contributions paid to TAPABA deductible as charitable contributions?
A8. TAPABA is organized as a "non-profit" corporation under the laws of the State of Tennessee. However, dues or other contributions paid to TAPABA are not deductible as charitable contributions. You should consult your tax advisor to determine the deductibility of these dues and contributions as a business expense.

Q9. What are the benefits of membership in TAPABA?
A9. The benefits of membership in TAPABA include (i) fellowship with other Asian Pacific American attorneys and law students, (ii) opportunities to participate in professional and civic projects sponsored by TAPABA, (iii) invitations to "members only" events, and (iv) ensuring that we continue as an organization promoting your interests as an Asian Pacific American attorney. We are continually looking to expand the benefits available to members.

Q10. How can I get more involved in TAPABA?
A10. We continually have opportunities for members to get more involved with TAPABA. These opportunities include organizational governance (i.e., serving as an officer), newsletters, serving as a mentor to law students and new attorneys, serving as a liaison to other bar organizations, monitoring legislation and other political initiatives, coordinating legal services to Asian Pacific American communities in Tennessee and planning professional (i.e., CLEs and summer associate receptions) and social functions (i.e., "happy hour" events). Please contact us if you want to find out about current opportunities.