25-Hour Full MCLE Compliance Package: Professional Excellence

Join Certified Legal Malpractice Specialist Annie Thompson, Chief Claims Officer of Lawyers’ Mutual Insurance Company, for a presentation on the Top 5 Ethical Issues seen in the Practice of Law, and How to Navigate Them. This program will include discussions on disengagement, conflicts, disclosing mistakes, setting boundaries, civility, and more.

HBO's hit series "Succession" follows a fictional media company led by a legendary patriarch. As the title suggests, the patriarch's children are angling to seize the throne and succeed their father as the company's CEO. In this presentation, Brent Turman, Partner at Bell Nunnally & Martin LLP, tracks the power plays of the company's C-level executives and general counsel, explaining whether their on-screen actions comply with specific ABA Model Rules of Professional Conduct (spoiler alert: most of the time, they don't.). Through the lens of this captivating series, Turman provides an entertaining way for attorneys to obtain ethics credit.

Brent Turman, Bell Nunnally & Martin LLP

Christine Rosskopf, a former State Bar prosecutor turned ethics defense counsel, reviews the basics of attorney fee agreements, offers ethical tips, and highlights traps for the unwary.

This CLE presentation explores judicial opinions issued over the past two years that reference Generative AI, providing real-world examples of how judges, lawyers, pro se litigants, and experts are using these tools—some with cautious ingenuity, and others with adverse consequences. By examining creative use cases alongside instances of misuse that led to admonitions, sanctions, or penalties, we will enhance our awareness of the evolving potential role of Generative AI in legal practice, and discuss how to deploy these technologies ethically and responsibly in legal problem-solving.

Heidi Brown, New York Law School

The goal of this program is to help participants gain a better understanding of:

How the pandemic has shifted views about diversity, equity & inclusion and bias; unconscious bias and how is can manifest as microaggressions in every day business interactions; How diversity of thought and experience can broaden business opportunities; and The importance of defining an intentional plan around DEI for your business.

Natalie Norfus, The Norfus Firm, PLLC

What is implicit bias and how can it manifest in almost undetectable ways in all aspects of the legal profession? Our distinguished panelists have been on every side of the legal profession: attorney, mediator, and judicial officer. They will discuss two prevalent, yet covert ways implicit bias affects every sphere of the legal profession: microaggressions and gaslighting. They will provide real life examples from the legal profession and what we as attorneys can do better to move the legal profession forward.

Discover how ChatGPT can become your secret weapon for managing your law practice more efficiently. In this interactive workshop, you’ll learn how to use this cutting-edge AI tool to streamline tasks, enhance client communication, and overcome common productivity hurdles. Packed with practical tips and real-world applications, this session will empower you to leverage AI technology to reduce overwhelm, save time, and increase focus on the tasks you love in your legal practice.

Whether you’re looking to organize case research, draft documents, or improve time management, this workshop will leave you with actionable insights you can apply immediately to transform your practice.

Key Takeaways:

- Streamline Legal Tasks: Automate contract drafting, research, and client communication to save time.
- Enhance Focus and Efficiency: Build workflows, task lists, and break down complex projects.
- Automate Administrative Work: Simplify scheduling and document summaries to focus on higher-value tasks.

This workshop is ideal for lawyers at all career levels who want time back in their schedules and want to learn to use innovative tools to streamline their workflows, enhance their productivity and reduce stress while maintaining a high standard of service for their clients.

Sonya L. Sigler, Founder, PractiGal

Ask the speaker a question. Email and be sure to include the program name in the subject line.

A discussion of the benefits gained through professionalism and civility and the ramifications of poor behavior, including the impacts on clients, counsel, judges, and juries. Persuasive advocacy is focused on the facts and the law. It is not persuasive to be loud or abusive. Civility gains the respect of your peers, builds a strong reputation with the judiciary, and makes the practice of law more enjoyable.

The panel will explore how incivility arises and escalates and offer ways for counsel to avoid and react to incivility without violating their own obligations of professionalism and civility. The panel will discuss the ways in which trial and appellate courts have reacted to bad behavior by counsel, including commentary from cases imposing sanctions and reducing fee awards because counsel were jerks.

Judge Stephanie Bowick,LASC
Edith R. Matthai, Mediator, Arbitrator, Neutral Evaluator JAMS
Ryan D. Saba, Partner Fox Rothschild LLP

In this presentation, Mr. Mann provides a review of the brain chemistry of addiction and alcoholism, as well as a discussion of the behavioral and health consequences of the disease. Insights are offered into the personality traits of attorneys and the qualities of the legal profession that combine to make lawyers significantly more susceptible to addiction, and more difficult to treat, than the general population. The presentation includes a case study of an addict attorney, as well as a self-diagnosis exercise for attorneys to utilize if they are concerned that they may have a problem which needs to be addressed. Concluding remarks are directed towards both systemic and individual solutions to the problem, with references to specific strategies and resources available to attorneys. Mr. Mann approaches this very serious topic in a manner that incorporates humor and irony and invites attorneys to engage in a bit of sometimes much-needed self reflection.

David Mann, Northern California Consultant, The Other Bar

Yin Yoga, often defined as still and contemplative yoga, is a slower paced, more meditative style of practice. Yin fosters a sense of balance in both our bodies and minds, offering lawyers a unique opportunity for self-awareness.

Given the high stress and emotionally charged environments lawyers frequently navigate, Yin invites us to pause and observe the body’s “fight-or-flight” responses without the interference of the ego. Beyond the mental benefits, holding Yin Yoga shapes for longer durations targets the deeper connective tissues, which can enhance mobility and increase blood flow for those experiencing stiffness from prolonged sitting.

This session will explore how Yin Yoga can improve your overall capacity to remain present during moments of discomfort, ultimately supporting both your professional and personal well-being. The presenters will also guide you through a few Yin Yoga shapes to easily utilize in your office and at home.

Bradley T. Bald, Lifestyle Communities
Mary Beth Harding, Mary Beth Harding Yoga

Language plays a critical role in how we behave and interact with each other in our daily lives, including in places of employment. Join attorney Beth W. Mora as she discusses the significance of gender equity in language, the impact of language on perceptions and behaviors in the workplace, and the legal frameworks that support gender inclusivity. Practitioners of all practice levels will gain insight from Beth’s expertise and learn how to work towards inclusivity in their communication.

Discussion includes:

- Why language matters in communication
- How language reflects our biases
- Legal frameworks that protect against discrimination based on gender identity
- Ethical standards for attorneys regarding discrimination
- Best practices for creating a welcoming environment through language

The legal profession demands relentless excellence, but it shouldn’t come at the expense of your well-being.

In this dynamic presentation, you’ll learn how to perform at a high level without burning out. We’ll explore what a truly sustainable law practice looks like, identify the hidden societal and industry pressures that get in the way, and recognize the early warning signs of burnout. Most importantly, you'll leave with practical strategies to build resilience, sharpen focus, and define success on your own terms. Leaving inspired to cultivate a thriving legal career alongside a rich, multi-dimensional life.

Sarah-Nell Walsh, Wayfinders, LLC
Karen Morris, Suizzo Morris Group, LLC

In the wake of George Floyd’s murder in May 2020, cities across the country faced prolonged periods of protest, civil unrest, and a critical reckoning with institutional legitimacy. In Saint Paul, Minnesota, the city met the moment through an intentional and collaborative approach that prioritized procedural justice, constitutional policing, and data-driven crisis response. The result? Over 423 consecutive days of protests without a single civil rights lawsuit filed against the Saint Paul Police Department.

Led by Saint Paul City Attorney Lyndsey Olson, a 24-year Army veteran and legal strategist, this course offers a behind-the-scenes look at how local officials, law enforcement, and community can partner to use the law to uphold rights, de-escalate tension, and protect both public safety and community trust during moments of profound social crisis.

Lyndsey Olson, Saint Paul City Attorney’s Office

Want to win and keep that corporate client? This program will reveal the behind the curtain “secrets” that every attorney should know when working with in-house counsel. We bring together distinguished leaders of in-house legal teams from the entertainment, technology, and hospitality industries to provide their top tips and insights for their outside counsel counterparts. Our panel includes Anne Jollay, Chief Legal Officer at El Pollo Loco; Karen Grant-Selma, EVP, Head of Business & Legal Affairs at Jesse Collins Entertainment; and Melissa Miller, General Counsel at Technosylva, Inc.

This program provides a practical introduction to the core areas of intellectual property law—patents, trademarks, copyrights, and trade secrets. Designed for lawyers seeking to broaden their understanding of IP and how it can be leveraged to further the interests of their clients’ business, the course will cover key legal principles, recent developments, and common pitfalls across each category. Attendees will gain a foundational framework for identifying and protecting intellectual property rights.

Rebecca Horton, Venable LLP
Manny Caixeiro, Venable LLP
Elizabeth Manno, Venable LLP

Join us for a round table with the authors of the book Women in Law: Discovering the True Meaning of Success, published March 2022. In this call, the authors will be discussing in depth how they charted their own paths in their practice and how they came together to publish a book that redefines the way we look at career and life success as women lawyers.

The gender gap in law firm leadership persists even though graduating classes at top law schools have been evenly split between women and men for 20+ years. It’s not that law firms aren’t trying. So what’s missing? Katherine believes it’s the gap between those facing gender-based challenges and those with the power to enact change. She will share her unique 5-part approach to closing that gap. Learning objectives:

Explain the 5 stages of design thinking as applied to gender-based challenges in law firms.
Describe the benefits of a human-centered approach to achieving gender equity.
Apply design thinking to your firm’s DEIB efforts

Katherine Porter, Esq., PMP, Founder, The Resourceful Lawyer LLC

Stephanie Blondell, lead faculty for the Pepperdine Straus Institute's popular Women's Negotiation Academy, explored recent research regarding the role of gender in negotiation. Professor Blondell challenged participants to consider the various biases that can bedevil and/or support both men and women in negotiations and identify techniques to overcome or use these biases to advantage.

A panel of experts will walk through myriad legal issues impacted by the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization, which overturned Roe v. Wade. The discussion will include an overview of subsequent reproductive rights cases, explanation of other decisions about related liberty interests that SCOTUS and other courts have handed down, and the results of state legislation and ballot initiatives, with a particular focus on California.

Professor Ederlina Co, Associate Professor of Law, University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law

Distractions are everywhere—especially for lawyers with ADHD juggling high caseloads, a large volume of incoming and outgoing communications, and client obligations. In this session, ADHD coach Cena Block, Certified Productivity Coach, Certified Organizer Coach & Consultant, Sane Spaces, LLC will teach strategies to minimize physical and digital clutter, use technology effectively, and manage energy for optimal focus. Participants will also develop personalized strategies to improve their concentration and workflow through an interactive session. Walk away with a tailored productivity plan designed to help you work smarter, not harder.

Cena Block, Sane Spaces, LLC

The Supreme Court has always had the authority to issue unsigned and unexplained rulings. But in recent years, the Court has dramatically expanded its use of the behind-the-scenes “shadow docket,” regularly making decisions that affect millions of Americans without public hearings and without explanation, many through cryptic late-night rulings that leave lawyers—and citizens—scrambling.

The Court’s conservative majority has used the shadow docket to green-light restrictive voting laws and bans on abortion, and to curtail immigration and COVID vaccine mandates. As University of Texas School of Law Professor Stephen Vladeck explains in his New York Times-bestselling book, “The Shadow Docket,” Americans of all political stripes should be worried about what the shadow docket portends for the rule of law. Professor Vladeck will join Franita Tolson in a wide-ranging conversation about the shadow docket—and what it has to teach us about how the Supreme Court has come to play such a central and controversial role in so many facets of our lives.

This session will explore the tangible business benefits of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in law firms, including improved client relationships, stronger talent retention, and enhanced firm performance. Participants will gain insights into how DEI drives innovation, reduces legal and reputational risks, and meets evolving client expectations. Through data-driven analysis and real-world examples, attendees will learn how to position DEI as a strategic advantage in the legal industry.

Natalie Norfus, Founder & Managing Owner, HR & Inclusion Strategist, The Norfus Firm, PLLC

Earlier this year, the Supreme Court in its decision on Students for Fair Admissions Inc. v. President and Fellows of Harvard College, struck down affirmative action policies at the University of North Carolina and Harvard University, effectively ending the consideration of race as a factor for admitting students to higher education. Since then, various groups have filed lawsuits seeking to expand the impact of the decision, including to law firm fellowship programs and in other contexts. The response to these suits and the SCOTUS decision has been varied and leaves firms and attorneys wondering, what will DEI efforts in the legal profession look like going forward. Join our panel of experts as they discuss the SCOTUS decision and its meaning; the resulting lawsuits and responses thereto; and the impact of DEI on the legal industry.

Lawyers frequently serve on the boards of both nonprofit and for-profit organizations, leveraging their expertise and experience to provide valuable insights. However, it is crucial to distinguish the role of a board member from that of legal counsel. This CLE is designed to elucidate the distinctions between these roles and guide lawyers on how to clearly define their position within an organization from the outset.

We will explore the ethical considerations unique to lawyers serving as board members, with a focus on identifying and managing potential conflicts of interest. The CLE will cover the legal structures of nonprofit and for-profit entities, highlighting key governance issues and fiduciary duties.

Additionally, the CLE will emphasize the importance of indemnification and insurance in protecting board members from liability. Attendees will learn how to conduct thorough compliance and due diligence assessments before accepting a board position.

This comprehensive program is invaluable for lawyers who have been invited to join a board or those contemplating such a role, providing them with the knowledge to understand potential risks and fulfill their duties effectively as both board members and legal professionals.

Legacy and donor preferences in the higher education admissions process are significant benefits offered to applicants who are related to alumni and wealthy donors. In the wake of the Supreme Court's decision regarding affirmative action in higher education, Lawyers for Civil Rights (LCR), a nonprofit organization in Boston, sought to eliminate donor and legacy preferences at Harvard in order to break down barriers to higher education that stand in the way people in under-represented groups at these institutions. LCR's federal civil rights complaint to the Department of Education's Office for Civil Rights sparked an ongoing investigation into these practices at Harvard. However, with nearly 600 U.S. colleges and universities considering legacy as a part of their admissions process, the impact on equity in higher education is considerably more widespread -- it is not limited to Harvard and other elite schools. This program will provide a background on the Supreme Court decision, how it dovetails with legacy and donor admissions, the impact of donor and legacy admissions on the legal profession, and will offer tips and tools for using Title VI complaints to affect change through the legal process.