On October 10, 2009, Rob Shlachter was inducted as a fellow into the American College of Trial Lawyers.  The 59-year-old College is widely considered the leading national organization for trial lawyers (composed of jurists and attorneys from the government, plaintiff and defense bars). 

Only 130 lawyers nationwide were inducted this year; and only two from the State of Oregon. 

Fellowship in the College is extended by invitation only and only after careful investigation, to those experienced trial lawyers who have mastered the art of advocacy and whose professional careers have been marked by the highest standards of ethical conduct, professionalism, civility and collegiality.  Lawyers must have a minimum of fifteen years trial experience before they can be considered for Fellowship.

Membership in the College cannot exceed one per cent of the total lawyer population of any state or province.  There are approximately 5,739 members in the United States and Canada, including active Fellows, Emeritus Fellows, Judicial Fellows (those who ascended the bench after their induction) and Honorary Fellows.

The College strives to improve and elevate the standards of trial practice, the administration of justice and the ethics of the trial profession.  Qualified lawyers are called to Fellowship in the College from all branches of trial practice.  They are carefully selected from among those who represent plaintiffs, defendants or who prosecute cases.  The College is thus able to speak with a balanced voice on important issues affecting the legal profession and the administration of justice.