Norberto A. Garcia took the oath of office on May 14 as president of the New Jersey State Bar Association for the 2026–2027 term, becoming the first foreign-born president in the Association’s history.
New Jersey Supreme Court Chief Justice Stuart Rabner administered the oath during the NJSBA’s Annual Meeting and Convention in Atlantic City. Garcia was joined by family, friends, colleagues and members of the NJSBA Executive Committee and Board of Trustees as he began his term in the Association’s 127th year.
Speaking at the Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa, Garcia reflected on immigrating to the United States from Cuba at a young age with his family, an experience that shaped both his character and his approach to the law. He said his leadership will be informed by his experience practicing in both small and large firms as he advocates for attorneys, judges, law students, law clerks and paralegals throughout the state.
“Too often there’s an assumption that lawyers have unlimited time, money, and support. We all know that’s not the case,” Garcia said. “As we consider rule changes, legislation and court decisions, I will keep a clear focus on their real-world impact and on the day-to-day practice and well-being of lawyers.”
Garcia also emphasized the importance of rebuilding professional connection and community within the legal profession in the years following the COVID-19 pandemic.
“I want the New Jersey State Bar Association to occupy that space – to give lawyers the opportunity to come together, communicate, and mentor one another,” he said. “We should expand opportunities for experienced attorneys to engage and for newer lawyers to find guidance and support. We will continue our strong partnership with county and affinity bar associations across the state, serving as a connecting entity and a center of gravity for New Jersey’s legal community.”
The Association also honored outgoing NJSBA President Christine A. Amalfe during the installation ceremony. In her final remarks to the membership, Amalfe described serving as president as one of the greatest honors of her professional life and said the Association is well-positioned to address the most pressing issues facing attorneys and the legal profession.
“Each day, I was inspired by the volunteers who dedicate their time outside of work to strengthen the profession. They devote countless hours drafting Supreme Court briefs, advocating in consequential cases, contributing to legislation that enhances our legal system and sharing their expertise through educational panels,” Amalfe said. “These volunteers represent the best of us, and I am proud to have stood alongside them.”
As Amalfe transitioned to the role of immediate past president, other members of the Executive Committee advanced in the leadership succession and were sworn in by Chief Justice Rabner. Each officer serves a one-year term.
• G. Glennon Troublefield became president-elect. He specializes civil litigation and intellectual property in Roseland.
• Diana C. Manning became first vice president. She practices in complex commercial litigation in Florham Park.
• Craig J. Hubert, whose practice in Lawrence Township focuses on personal injury, became second vice president.
• Richard F. Klineburger, III, criminal defense, civil and complex litigation attorney in Haddonfield, became treasurer.
• Alexandra V. Gallo, an experienced chancery and commercial litigation attorney, joined the Executive Committee as secretary.