Since its founding in 1914, the Maricopa County Bar Association (MCBA) has been the largest voluntary bar association in Arizona. Located in Phoenix, one of the fastest-growing metropolitan areas in the nation, MCBA is where the legal community connects. While State Bar of Arizona membership is mandatory for licensed attorneys, MCBA membership is voluntary. Through its continuing legal education (CLE) programs, social events, and charitable activities, MCBA provides a venue for professional growth, networking and public service to the county's diverse legal community. MCBA's 16 practice, employment, or age-related sections and divisions offer members even more opportunites to engage in activities with fellow practitioners. Sections and divisions also offer leadership experience through their executive councils, as does the MCBA through it's 30-member board of directors.