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The Chaldean American Bar Association (CABA)’s mission is dedicated to advancing justice, excellence, and cultural integrity within the legal profession, serving as an advocate for legal advocacy and a link between the Chaldean American community and the broader legal landscape. CABA is committed to promoting diversity and inclusion, ensuring that the unique perspectives of the Chaldean American community are represented and valued in the legal field by supporting Chaldean American attorneys and law students. The association offers resources for professional development, including continuing legal education and networking opportunities, and is actively involved in advocacy and providing legal services on issues critical to the community, such as immigration and civil rights. Additionally, CABA engages in community outreach and educational initiatives to promote legal awareness and cultural preservation among Chaldean Americans. By fostering a strong network of professionals through events and collaborations, CABA creates a supportive environment that enriches both the professional and personal lives of its members, all while adhering to the highest standards of integrity, professionalism, and service to make a meaningful impact on its members, the community, and the legal profession at large.
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Owner
Rita Soka, a first-generation Chaldean-American attorney, was born and raised in Baghdad, Iraq. Rita earned her Juris Doctor (JD) from Detroit Mercy School of Law and a Bachelor’s degree in Clinical Laboratory Science from Wayne State University.
With a decade of experience in healthcare, Rita now leads as the managing and founding member of Soka Law, PLLC, specializing in healthcare law, family law, and criminal law. Additionally, she serves as an adjunct professor at UDM, an alumni board member at UDM, and a committee board member at the State Bar of Michigan Healthcare Law Section. Learn more about Rita and Soka Law, PLLC at SokaLawGroup.com
Owner
Associate
Michigan
Deion A. Kathawa is a litigation associate in Butzel’s Troy office. Before joining Butzel, Mr. Kathawa clerked for Judge William C. Griesbach of the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, Green Bay Division, and before that for Justice Brian K. Zahra of the Michigan Supreme Court.
He received his law degree, cum laude, from Notre Dame Law School in 2020 and, as a law student, won a national writing competition in 2018. He received his undergraduate degree, cum laude, from the University of Michigan–Ann Arbor in 2017, majoring in both philosophy and political science. He also served as the editor-in-chief of the Michigan Review.
Mr. Kathawa has served as a speaker and panelist on a variety of topics including technology, religion, and free speech. He resides in Oakland County and enjoys playing ice hockey with his three younger brothers and discovering new coffee shops and sushi restaurants with family and friends.
