Chris Wheatley Figueras Ceremonial Recognition Resolution of 2026

26th Council Period (2025-2026) Introduced by Phil Mendelson

Recognizes and honors Chris Wheatley Figueras for 24 years of leadership in civil justice advocacy and her impact on access to justice, consumer rights, and court procedures.

Resolution ACR26-0160, Effective from Jun 02, 2026 Published in DC Register Vol 73 and Page 009245

Summary of CER 26-0164 | Chris Wheatley Figueras Ceremonial Recognition Resolution of 2026

Purpose and Intent

This is a ceremonial resolution in the District of Columbia Council recognizing and congratulating Chris Wheatley Figueras on the occasion of her retirement as Legislative Director of the Trial Lawyers Association of Metropolitan Washington, DC.

The resolution serves to honor her career, public service, and contributions to civil justice, access to the courts, and consumer and victims’ rights.

Key Provisions and Changes

Recognition of Service:

The Council acknowledges Figueras’s 24 years of service as Legislative Director for the Trial Lawyers Association of Metropolitan Washington, DC.
It highlights her leadership in legislative and policy efforts related to civil justice, court procedure, public safety, consumer rights, and access to justice.

Professional Background and Education (summarized):

Admitted to practice in DC and Massachusetts.
Juris Doctor from Suffolk University School of Law.
B.S. in Business Administration from Mary Washington College.
Career history includes work at the U.S. Department of Justice and the U.S. Attorney’s Office, with roles in appellate briefing, Supreme Court certiorari opposition practice, domestic violence case preparation, and collaboration with victims, witnesses, and prosecutors.
Practiced as a trial attorney at the Law Offices of Cohen & Cohen, focusing on personal injury and related litigation.

Personal and Community Service:

Active in faith-based and community service, youth mentoring, and volunteer work with Giving Back – Linda’s Legacy.

Formal Adoption and Effect:

Section 3 states the resolution takes effect immediately upon passage.

Affected Parties

Chris Wheatley Figueras: Primary honoree and subject of the ceremonial recognition.

The Trial Lawyers Association of Metropolitan Washington, DC: Recognized for Figueras’s leadership and impact on civil justice advocacy.

Broader community: DC residents who benefit from her advocacy on access to justice, consumer rights, and court procedures are recognized by association with her achievements.

Procedural and Timeline Aspects

Introduction and Action History:

Introduced by Chairman Phil Mendelson and retained by the Council (as of June 2, 2026).
Co-sponsored by Phil Mendelson.

Effective Date:

The resolution takes effect immediately upon passage.

Purpose is ceremonial; no new statutory requirements, mandates, or fiscal implications are attached beyond formal recognition.

Overall Impact

The bill formally records appreciation for Figueras’s professional contributions and public service.

It signals the Council’s acknowledgment of the importance of legislative advocacy in protecting access to justice and the civil justice system.

As a ceremonial resolution, it does not alter laws, funding, or policy beyond symbolic recognition.