901 4th Street NW
Washington, DC 20001
phone: 202.737.4700
Hours of Operation: 7 a.m. – 11 p.m.
Weekday Events (5 p.m. – 11 p.m.)
Nearby Metro Stations
Judiciary Square (Red) - five blocks directly south at 450 F Street
Gallery Place-Chinatown (Green/Yellow/Red) - five blocks southwest at H and 7th Streets
Mt. Vernon Square/7th Street Convention Center (Green/Yellow) - six blocks at 7th and M Streets
Union Station (Red) - six blocks southeast down Massachusetts Avenue
EVENTS
Navigating the Complexities of Consumer Data Privacy: Legal Considerations 2025
Credit(s): 2 General (60-minute hour)
2 General (50-minute hour)
Course Number: E16072506W
Duration: 2 hours 15 minutes
Date: July 22, 2025
10:00 AM - 12:15 PM
Credits: 2.0 general credit hours
Description: In today’s data-driven landscape, information is power – but with great power comes great responsibility. As businesses collect and leverage vast amounts of consumer data, attorneys are increasingly called upon to help navigate the complex and ever-evolving legal terrain of data privacy and protection.
This timely and informative class provides a comprehensive overview of the key legal issues surrounding consumer data privacy, along with practical insights attorneys can use to advise their clients effectively. Our expert panel will explore major regulatory frameworks, including the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) and the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), and will discuss best practices for data collection, processing, and incident response. The following topics are among those discussed:
Overview of major consumer data privacy laws (CCPA, GDPR, and more)
Legal considerations in data collection and processing
Strategies for managing data breaches and incident response
Compliance best practices and risk mitigation
Legal liabilities and obligations surrounding consumer data
Whether you represent businesses, advise clients on risk management, or simply want to deepen your understanding of data privacy law, this class will equip you with the knowledge and confidence to navigate this rapidly evolving field.
Faculty: Dharmesh Patel, Adzapier; David F. Katz, Weissmann Zucker Euster + Katz PC; and Boyd Stough, Concourse Partners LLC
Fees: $89 D.C. Bar Communities Members, $99 D.C. Bar Members, $109 Government and Nonprofit Attorneys, and $129 Others
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Ethics for Lateral Hires 2025
Credit(s): 2 Ethics & Professional Responsibility (60-minute hour)
2 Ethics & Professional Responsibility (50-minute hour)
Course Number: E11072507W
Duration: 2 hours 15 minutes
Date: July 23, 2025
10:00 AM - 12:15 PM
Credits: 2.0 ethics and professionalism credit hours
Description: Back by popular demand, this insightful and practical class explores the legal, ethical, and professional complexities that arise when law firms split or when attorneys decide to move on. In today’s highly competitive legal marketplace, law firm breakups and attorney departures are increasingly common as firms strive for growth, sustainability, and strategic alignment. But untangling professional relationships isn’t as simple as parting ways. Unlike typical business breakups, law firm dissolutions and attorney departures are governed not only by contract and fiduciary principles but also by the heightened responsibilities under the Rules of Professional Conduct.
Our distinguished presenter examines the unique legal and ethical issues involved in law firm separations, including duties owed to clients and colleagues, professional responsibility considerations, and post-departure obligations. The class also provides practical guidance on managing malpractice insurance issues and mitigating risk during transitions.
Whether you’re considering a change, navigating an internal firm transition, or advising others on professional moves, this class provides essential guidance on how to handle law firm breakups the right way.
Faculty: Thomas B. Mason, HWG LLP
Fees: $89 D.C. Bar Communities Members, $99 D.C. Bar Members, $109 Government and Nonprofit Attorneys, and $129 Others
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Providing Effective Written Feedback for Lawyers 2025
Credit(s): 3 General (60-minute hour)
3.5 General (50-minute hour)
Course Number: E18072512W
Duration: 3 hours 15 minutes
Date: July 24, 2025
9:00 AM - 12:15 PM
Credits: 3.0 general credit hours
Description: In their supervisory role, mid-level and senior attorneys routinely review drafts and provide feedback to guide the writer’s efforts on later drafts with the goal of creating a sophisticated and polished final product. While most supervisors know that simply writing “good” or “awkward” in the margins isn’t helpful, few have developed a specific strategy for providing junior writers with effective feedback. And even those with the best intentions often feel a tension between wanting to provide feedback that will help the writer improve and wanting to rewrite the document to get it out the door as quickly as possible given tight deadlines and competing assignments.
This popular and practical class draws on cognitive science research into the way our brains receive feedback and presents a range of concrete, deployable tips, and strategies to help supervisors provide junior legal writers with efficient, helpful, and content-rich written feedback that motivates improvement. Attendees will learn to establish a robust framework for feedback, considering both product-based and process-based approaches. The class provides a four-step approach to providing effective feedback: diagnosing, prescribing, commenting, and following up.
Faculty: Jessica L. Wherry, University of Baltimore School of Law
Fees: $89 D.C. Bar Communities Members, $99 D.C. Bar Members, $109 Government and Nonprofit Attorneys, and $129 Others
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Preparing for Trial as a Solo Attorney: Your Message, Elements of Proof, and Organizing Your Presentation 2025
Credit(s): 1 General (60-minute hour)
1 General (50-minute hour)
Course Number: E18072508W
Duration: 1 hour
Date: July 29, 2025
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
Credits: 1.0 general credit hour
Description: Preparing for trial is no small feat – especially for solo practitioners, who often shoulder every aspect of litigation on their own. This popular class is designed to equip solo attorneys with the tools, strategies, and ethical grounding they need to approach trial with confidence and competence. Led by nationally recognized presenter Claude E. Ducloux, this class addresses the unique challenges solo lawyers face when preparing for trial and offers actionable guidance from start to finish. Topics covered in this class include the following:
Preparing the non-trial lawyer for court appearances
Understanding the purpose behind the trial and building your approach accordingly
The business and ethical side of litigation, including fee-setting and client communication
Developing a clear, persuasive trial theme
Identifying the elements of your case or defense, and mapping the necessary evidence
Witness preparation and evidence scheduling
Effective yet simple presentation techniques
Scoping out your courtroom and staff in advance
Understanding and responding to standard objections
Navigating the ethical rules surrounding evidence and testimony
Drafting judgments early and anticipating procedural needs
Courtroom choreography – where to sit, how to set up, and how to move
Tracking exhibits and rulings during trial
Managing your client’s expectations throughout the process
Faculty: Claude E. Ducloux, Esq.
Fees: $39 D.C. Bar Communities Members, $49 D.C. Bar Members, $59 Government and Nonprofit Attorneys, and $79 Others
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Serving the Organizational Client Ethically While Delivering (and Demonstrating) Greater Value to That Client 2025
Credit(s): 2 Ethics & Professional Responsibility (60-minute hour)
2 Ethics & Professional Responsibility (50-minute hour)
Course Number: E11072510W
Duration: 2 hours 15 minutes
Date: July 31, 2025
10:00 AM - 12:15 PM
Credits: 2.0 ethics & professionalism credit hours
Description: Over the past several decades, corporate law departments have become increasingly proactive in shaping the way legal services are delivered by outside counsel. From mandatory electronic billing and task-based timekeeping to diversity expectations, cross-firm collaboration, and the push for alternative legal service providers, the demands placed on outside attorneys continue to evolve. Perhaps the most elusive challenge remains the pursuit of the “alternative fee arrangement” – a term still open to interpretation, yet central to many client relationships.
These shifting dynamics are driven by the growing pressure on in-house counsel to meet internal budgets while showing the value they – and their external legal teams – deliver to the business. As legal departments become more integrated with business operations, the question becomes what does the future hold for the relationship between in-house and outside attorneys?
This popular class explores the changing expectations between corporate counsel and their external counterparts, and how both can navigate these challenges ethically and effectively. Key areas of discussion include the following:
Defining and demonstrating the value of legal services from both in-house and outside perspectives
Navigating tensions between controlling costs and fulfilling professional obligations to the client
Understanding and applying ethical considerations when developing and implementing alternative fee arrangements
Collaborating across firms, departments, and providers to meet evolving client needs
Practical strategies for aligning legal services with corporate goals while staying within the bounds of the rules of professional conduct
This class offers essential insights for both in-house and outside counsel looking to strengthen relationships, deliver meaningful value, and adapt to the modern legal marketplace. Don’t miss this opportunity to explore where the in-house/outside counsel relationship is heading – and how to help shape its future.
Faculty: Margaret M. Cassidy, Cassidy Law PLLC; Saul J. Singer, D.C. Bar Legal Ethics Counsel; and Brian Zuercher, Flex by Fenwick
Fees: $89 D.C. Bar Communities Members, $99 D.C. Bar Members, $109 Government and Nonprofit Attorneys, and $129 Others
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What D.C. Lawyers Should Know about Maryland and Virginia Appeals 2025
Credit(s): 2 General (60-minute hour)
2 General (50-minute hour)
Course Number: E18082502W
Duration: 2 hours 15 minutes
Date: August 5, 2025
6:00 PM - 8:15 PM
Credits: 2.0 general credit hours
Description: Although appellate practice in Maryland’s and Virginia’s courts shares similarities with federal appellate procedures and those of the D.C. Court of Appeals, important differences can catch even experienced practitioners off guard. This practical, informative class is designed for attorneys familiar with appellate practice who occasionally handle appeals in Annapolis or Richmond and want to sharpen their knowledge of local nuances.
Led by seasoned appellate practitioners, this session offers valuable insights into civil, criminal, and family law appeals. The following are among the key topics the class covers:
How early strategic choices can dramatically affect the timeline of an appeal.
Maryland’s distinctive approach to statutory construction
Key differences between federal and Maryland rules on summary judgment rulings
Virginia’s use of “Assignments of Error” rather than “Issues Presented”
Important recent changes to Virginia’s appellate jurisdiction
The unusual features – and unwritten rules – of Maryland and Virginia certiorari practice
Rules and policies governing citation to unreported opinions
Unique timing considerations and procedures for filing amicus briefs in Maryland and Virginia
Whether you regularly handle appeals in D.C., Maryland, or Virginia – or simply want to better understand the distinctive features of these regional courts – this class is essential for your appellate practice toolkit.
Faculty: Steven M. Klepper, Kramon & Graham PA and S. Virginia Bondurant Price, McGuireWoods LLP
Fees: $89 D.C. Bar Communities Members, $99 D.C. Bar Members, $109 Government and Nonprofit Attorneys, and $129 Others
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Finance for Lawyers 2025 (August 6 & 7, 2025)
Course Number: E03082503W
Original Program Date: August 6, 2025
Duration: 3 hours 15 minutes
Date: August 6, 2025
9:00 AM - 12:15 PM
Credits: 6.0 general credit hours
Description: Legal issues often involve financial questions – whether in bankruptcy, business transactions, divorce, or personal injury. While attorneys aren’t expected to be accountants, a solid grasp of key financial concepts is essential for effective legal practice. This practical and interactive class gives attorneys a working knowledge of financial and accounting principles – without the need to decode complicated formulas.
Our expert presenter demystifies the numbers and equips you with the tools to better analyze, question, and apply financial data in a legal context. The following are among the topics this class addresses:
How to read and understand financial statements
Core accounting principles
Methodologies
Financial reporting for public, private, and government entities
GAAP and private company accounting
Key financial ratios
Business valuations and present value concepts
The attorney’s role in financial audits
Basics of financial investments
Common financial fraud schemes
You will come away with an intuitive understanding of foundational finance concepts to enhance your ability to advise clients, assess evidence, and navigate financial issues across a wide range of legal matters.
Faculty: Joseph Novello, Financial Training Organization
Fees: $189 D.C. Bar Communities Members, $209 D.C. Bar Members, $229 Government and Nonprofit Attorneys, and $269 Others.
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FDCPA Basics: What Every Lawyer Needs to Know 2025
Credit(s): 2 General (60-minute hour)
2 General (50-minute hour)
Course Number: E02072509W
Duration: 2 hours 15 minutes
Date: August 12, 2025
6:00 PM - 8:15 PM
Credits: 2.0 general credit hours
Description: In today’s complex financial landscape, understanding the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) is essential for attorneys representing both debtors and creditors. This highly regarded class provides a comprehensive overview of the FDCPA’s key provisions, recent developments, and practical applications. Our expert faculty explores the following critical topics:
The purpose and scope of the FDCPA
Who is covered under the Act, including creditors, third-party collectors, and consumers
Common pitfalls and compliance challenges
Guidelines for communication with debtors and third parties
Consumer rights, disputes, and enforcement considerations
Prohibited collection practices and potential legal remedies
Whether you represent consumers facing debt collection efforts or counsel clients engaged in debt recovery, this class offers vital insights into legal risks, ethical considerations, and best practices. Don’t miss this opportunity to sharpen your knowledge and ensure compliance with FDCPA regulations.
Faculty: Erik Goodman, Tzedek DC and Deanna M. Hackworth, Portfolio Recovery Associates LLC
Fees: $89 D.C. Bar Communities Members, $99 D.C. Bar Members, $109 Government and Nonprofit Attorneys, and $129 Others
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ADA Employment Law and Litigation for Beginners (NEW)
(Understanding the Americans with Disabilities Act Series – Part One)
Credit(s): 2 General (60-minute hour)
2 General (50-minute hour)
Course Number: E09082504W
Duration: 2 hours 15 minutes
Date: August 13, 2025
6:00 PM - 8:15 PM
Credits: 2.0 general credit hours
Series Description: This two-part series offers attorneys a practical and comprehensive overview of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) as it applies to employment law. In the introductory session, our expert panel breaks down the ADA’s statutory framework, key definitions, and compliance essentials, including medical exam rules and the effects of the ADA Amendments Act of 2008. The second session explores reasonable accommodation, undue hardship, legal theories of recovery, administrative procedures, and emerging trends in ADA litigation. Ideal for practitioners representing employers or employees, this series equips you with the knowledge and tools needed to advise clients effectively and litigate ADA claims with confidence.
Class Description: Navigating the ADA requires a deep understanding of its statutory framework and practical application in the workplace. Whether advising employers or advocating for employees, attorneys must be equipped to interpret the law, assess accommodations, and handle litigation effectively. In this informative introductory class, our expert faculty guide you to an understanding of the protections and prohibitions of the ADA so you will have practical tools for both advising clients and litigating claims. The following are among the topics this class addresses:
The statutory structure of the ADA
The impact of the ADA Amendments Act of 2008
Key definitions and coverage under the Act
Rules on medical examinations and confidentiality
Disparate treatment and disparate impact under the ADA
This class is essential for attorneys who represent employers or employees in ADA matters. It also offers valuable insights for any practitioner looking to deepen their understanding of disability rights law and workplace compliance. Those who attend this class may also be interested in attending ADA Employment Law and Litigation – A Deeper Dive.
Faculty: Daniel B. Kohrman, Gilbert Employment Law PC; Jonathan R. Mook, Ogletree, Deakins, Nash, Smoak & Stewart PC; and Carolyn L. Wheeler, Katz Banks Kumin LLP
Series Fees: $148 D.C. Bar Communities Members, $168 D.C. Bar Members, $188 Government and Nonprofit Attorneys, and $228 Others
Individual Class Fees: $89 D.C. Bar Communities Members, $99 D.C. Bar Members, $109 Government and Nonprofit Attorneys, and $129 Others
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Indemnity and Insurance Provisions in Commercial Contracts 2025
Credit(s): 1 General (60-minute hour)
1 General (50-minute hour)
Course Number: E04082505W
Duration: 1 hour
Date: August 14, 2025
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
Credits: 1.0 general credit hour
Description: Indemnity and insurance provisions are critical – and often complex – components of commercial contracts. Understanding how these clauses function and interact with primary and excess insurance policies can make all the difference in protecting your client or company from unexpected liability. In this fast-paced and practical class, our experienced faculty walk you through the legal principles, common pitfalls, and strategic considerations related to indemnity agreements and insurance coverage. Whether you draft, negotiate, or litigate contracts, you’ll gain actionable insights to strengthen your approach. The following are among the topics the panel discusses:
The scope and structure of indemnity clauses in various commercial contracts, including vendor, construction, and service agreements
The relationship between indemnity provisions and corresponding insurance coverage
Key distinctions between insured contract coverage and additional insured coverage – why it matters
Common pitfalls in reviewing insurance policies and how to avoid them
Best practices for drafting and negotiating indemnity and insurance provisions to position your client or company for successful claims against primary and excess insurers
Designed for in-house counsel, transactional attorneys, and litigators alike, this class offers essential guidance for navigating the intersection of contract law and insurance in today’s risk-conscious business environment.
Faculty: Timothy Monahan, Lockton Companies; Sergio F. Oehninger, Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP; and Jaswant Singh, Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP
Fees: $39 D.C. Bar Communities Members, $49 D.C. Bar Members, $59 Government and Nonprofit Attorneys, and $79 Others
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ADA Employment Law and Litigation – A Deeper Dive (NEW)
(Understanding the Americans with Disabilities Act Series – Part Two)
Credit(s): 2 General (50-minute hour)
2 General (60-minute hour)
Course Number: E09082510W
Duration: 2 hours 15 minutes
Date: August 20, 2025
6:00 PM - 8:15 PM
Credits: 2.0 general credit hours
Series Description: This two-part series offers attorneys a practical and comprehensive overview of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) as it applies to employment law. In the introductory session, our expert panel breaks down the ADA’s statutory framework, key definitions, and compliance essentials, including medical exam rules and the effects of the ADA Amendments Act of 2008. The second session explores reasonable accommodation, undue hardship, legal theories of recovery, administrative procedures, and emerging trends in ADA litigation. Ideal for practitioners representing employers or employees, this series equips you with the knowledge and tools needed to advise clients effectively and litigate ADA claims with confidence.
Class Description: Building on the foundational concepts introduced in ADA Employment Law and Litigation for Beginners, this class takes a deeper dive into the ADA and its practical application in today’s workplace. Whether you're advocating for employees or advising employers, you’ll gain actionable insights into how courts interpret reasonable accommodation, how to meet procedural requirements, and how to effectively litigate ADA claims.
Led by experienced faculty, this engaging and informative class explores the evolving landscape of disability rights law. The panel examines complex legal concepts, analyzes current trends, and helps you walk away with practical tools to strengthen your ADA practice. The following are among the topics the class covers:
Defining reasonable accommodation and undue hardship in real-world contexts
Legal theories of recovery and commonly asserted defenses
Hot-button issues and emerging developments in ADA case law
Administrative exhaustion and procedural requirements
Strategies for proving and defending ADA claims
Available remedies and best practices for achieving favorable outcomes
This class is essential for attorneys representing clients on either side of ADA matters and is equally valuable for any legal professional seeking to expand their expertise in disability rights and workplace compliance. Those who attend this class may also be interested in attending ADA Employment Law and Litigation for Beginners 2025.
Faculty: Daniel B. Kohrman, AARP; Jonathan R. Mook, Ogletree, Deakins, Nash, Smoak & Stewart PC; and Carolyn L. Wheeler, Katz Banks Kumin LLP
Series Fees: $148 D.C. Bar Communities Members, $168 D.C. Bar Members, $188 Government and Nonprofit Attorneys, and $228 Others
Individual Class Fees: $89 D.C. Bar Communities Members, $99 D.C. Bar Members, $109 Government and Nonprofit Attorneys, and $129 Others
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Law Firms and the War Against Ransomware: How to Prevent, Respond and Recover 2025
Credit(s): 1 General (60-minute hour)
1 General (50-minute hour)
Course Number: E16072507W
Duration: 1 hour
Date: August 25, 2025
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
Credit: 1.0 general credit hour (Note:This class may qualify for technology credit in those jurisdictions having such a requirement.)
Description: Ransomware attacks are still the #1 cyber threat that law firms face, but with an updated twist. Today’s ransomware often steals your confidential data before its encryption. Frequently, we now see two ransoms demanded, one for the decryption key and one for a promise (because cyber criminals are so honorable) not to destroy your data. Many law firms are paying, sometimes because they have cyber insurance, and paying is cheaper than being inoperative for an extended period.
How do law firms get ransomware? How can they defend against it? If stricken, how should they handle the attack? Should you pay the ransom? Is it illegal to pay the ransom? Spoiler alert: Sometimes it is. How do you recover from a ransomware attack?
Our experts will offer chilling stories of law firms crippled by ransomware along with tips for defending against and responding to ransomware. This class is a must for attorneys regardless of which sector they practice in, or the size of their firm or office.
Faculty: Alex T. Dorsey, Sensei, Enterprises Inc. and Michael C. Maschke, Sensei Enterprises Inc.
Fees: $39 D.C. Bar Communities Members, $49 D.C. Bar Members, $59 Government and Nonprofit Attorneys, and $79 Others
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Grand Jury and Pre-Indictment Issues in Criminal Defense Cases 2025
Credit(s): 3 General (60-minute hour)
3.5 General (50-minute hour)
Course Number: E06082509W
Duration: 3 hours 15 minutes
Date: August 26, 2025
6:00 PM - 9:15 PM
Credits: 3.0 general credit hours
Description: Some of the most critical decisions in a criminal case happen before charges are ever filed. Join us for the return of this informative class that focuses on the strategic considerations and advocacy skills criminal defense attorneys need when representing clients during the pre-indictment phase. Our expert faculty covers three core areas of pre-indictment practice, including representing witnesses before the grand jury, negotiating cooperation agreements with the government, and securing favorable pre-indictment plea dispositions. In addition, the class explores key procedural and constitutional issues, including the following topics:
Navigating immunity deals and understanding their limitations
The grand jury process and defense counsel’s role
A client’s right to assert the Fifth Amendment and marital privilege
Whether you're new to criminal defense or looking to sharpen your pre-indictment strategy, this class provides essential tools for protecting your clients when the stakes are highest – and the opportunities to influence outcomes are greatest.
Faculty: Michael Bruckheim, Bruckheim & Patel LLC and Sweta Patel, Bruckheim & Patel LLC
Fees: $89 D.C. Bar Communities Members, $99 D.C. Bar Members, $109 Government and Nonprofit Attorneys, and $129 Others
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Lunch and Learn: Navigating What’s Next: A Conversation for Government Lawyers Considering Private Practice
Course Number: LL_082825
Duration: 1 hour
Date: August 28, 2025
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
Thinking about building a private practice after government service—whether by choice or necessity—can bring up more questions than answers. This one-hour lunchtime program offers a candid conversation about what it really looks like to make that shift.
We’ll talk about the identity changes that come with leaving a public role, the fear and analysis paralysis that often show up when you're trying to choose a path forward, and how to manage the emotional and financial uncertainty of starting something new.
Presented by a former solo practitioner and current D.C. Bar Practice Management Advisor, Kaitlin McGee, alongside a licensed clinician, Sharon Greenbaum, from the Lawyer Assistance Program (LAP), this session blends practical strategies with emotional insight. You’ll walk away with tools for getting unstuck, identifying next steps, and approaching this transition with more confidence—even if you’re still figuring out whether private practice is right for you.
Join the D.C. Bar’s Practice Management Advisory Service (PMAS) and Lawyer Assistance Program (LAP) for a special program designed for government attorneys transitioning to solo or small firm practice.
This program is a joint production with the Law Practice Management Community of the D.C. Bar.
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Immigration Consequences of Criminal Convictions 2025
Credit(s): 3 General (60-minute hour)
3.5 General (50-minute hour)
Course Number: E15092502W
Duration: 3 hours 15 minutes
Date: September 4, 2025
6:00 PM - 9:15 PM
Credits: 3.0 general credit hours
Description: Immigration and criminal law increasingly intersect in complex and high-stakes ways. This essential class offers an up-to-date overview of current immigration enforcement priorities and explores the immigration consequences of criminal conduct and convictions – particularly for noncitizens in the D.C., Maryland, and Virginia region. Led by an experienced panel of faculty, this class covers the following topics:
The Department of Homeland Security’s current enforcement priorities and how they play out in practice given limited agency resources
A “conviction” for immigration purposes and which offenses trigger removability
Key regional considerations for defense attorneys handling cases in D.C., Maryland, and Virginia
Forms of relief available to noncitizens facing deportation
The panel will also examine the lasting impact of Padilla v. Kentucky and its progeny, including the constitutional and ethical duties of defense counsel to advise noncitizen clients on immigration consequences and how failure to provide adequate immigration advice can lead to ineffective assistance of counsel claims, malpractice exposure, and ethical violations.
Whether you're a defense attorney, immigration practitioner, or simply want to stay informed on this rapidly evolving area of law, this class delivers critical legal updates and practical guidance you can use immediately in your practice.
Faculty: Ofelia L. Calderón, Calderón Seguin PLC and Himedes Chicas, Law Offices of Jezic & Moyse LLC
Fees: $89 D.C. Bar Communities Members; $99 D.C. Bar Members; $109 Government and Nonprofit Attorneys; $129 Others
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Mastering the Rules of Evidence 2025
Credit(s): 3 General (50-minute hour)
3.5 General (60-minute hour)
Course Number: E18092504L
Date: September 9, 2025
6:00 PM - 9:15 PM
Credits: 3.0 general credit hours
Description: Success at trial often hinges on the ability to navigate evidentiary issues with precision and confidence. This highly regarded class is designed to help litigators develop a deep, working knowledge of both federal and local evidence rules – whether practicing in criminal or civil court.
Led by a distinguished and experienced presenter, this class offers practical instruction on how to make and meet objections, establish proper evidentiary foundations, and apply procedural rules effectively in the courtroom. Attendees will gain clarity on the most common – and most consequential – evidence issues, enhancing their ability to argue persuasively and respond strategically during trial. Through an engaging and accessible approach, the presenter equips participants with essential trial techniques, foundational best practices, and the confidence to address complex evidentiary challenges with ease. Among the key topics this class covers are the following:
Relevance
Competence
Privileges
Opinion testimony
Hearsay and hearsay exceptions
Authentication of exhibits
Evidentiary rules governing writings, recordings, and photographs
This class is an essential resource for all litigators practicing in the District of Columbia. Practitioners in other jurisdictions will also find the content valuable, as it addresses applicable principles and strategies.
Faculty: Terrence M. McShane, DeCaro, Doran, Siciliano, Gallagher & DeBlasis LLP
Fees: $89 D.C. Bar Communities Members, $99 D.C. Bar Members, $109 Government and Nonprofit Attorneys, and $129 Others
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Administration of Decedents' Estates in the District of Columbia 2025
Credit(s): 3 General (60-minute hour)
3.5 General (50-minute hour)
Course Number: E22092506W
Duration: 3 hours 15 minutes
Date: September 10, 2025
6:00 PM - 9:15 PM
Credits: 3.0 general credit hours
Description: Join us for this vital annual class designed to provide a comprehensive overview of estate practice and procedure in the District of Columbia. Whether you're new to estate administration or looking for a valuable refresher, this class offers practical, actionable guidance from seasoned professionals in the field.
Gain an in-depth understanding of the procedural laws governing both standard and abbreviated probate, along with supervised and unsupervised estate administration. Our knowledgeable presenter walks you through the administration of small estates, the appointment process for special administrators, and the procedures for recognizing foreign personal representatives.
In addition to covering key D.C. Code sections applicable to the administration of decedents’ estates, the class examines relevant D.C. Superior Court rules and provides updates on recent court decisions impacting estate administration practice. Don’t miss this opportunity to enhance your knowledge, sharpen your skills, and stay current with the latest legal developments in D.C. estate law.
Faculty: Jamie K. Blair, Furey, Doolan & Abell LLP
Fees: $89 D.C. Bar Communities Members, $99 D.C. Bar Members, $109 Government and Nonprofit Attorneys, and $129 Others
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Basic Training and Beyond
How to Grow a Law Firm
Course Number: BT_091625
Date: September 16, 2025
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Basic Training & Beyond is a two day program for lawyers and law firm staff interested in starting, managing and growing a law firm in the District of Columbia. It is presented monthly, without charge, for D.C. Bar members and firm staff.
In the day-one session, all the essentials of starting a firm in D.C. are covered.
In the day-two session, growth and management issues are covered including client relations, productivity, technology and marketing.
In order to attend this event in person, you must comply with the D.C. Bar’s policy.
As a resource, an eManual is provided to those who attend. The program has been presented regularly since 2008 and thousands of members have attended and many have launched successful firms. Many of these members stay in contact with our presenters, Dan Mills and Kaitlin Forster, former small firm lawyers, and these connections inform the content of the sessions.
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Certiorari before the Supreme Court of the United States: A Strategic Guide 2025
Credit(s): 3 General (60-minute hour)
3.5 General (50-minute hour)
Course Number: E18092508W
Duration: 3 hours 15 minutes
Date: September 17, 2025
6:00 PM - 9:15 PM
Credits: 3.0 general credit hours
Description: With the Supreme Court of the United States granting review in only about one percent of the petitions it receives each year, understanding the certiorari process is essential for any attorney involved in high-stakes litigation. Whether you're preparing a petition or opposing one, success hinges on knowing what the Court looks for – and how to present your case effectively.
In this insightful class, our esteemed faculty walk you through the certiorari process from start to finish. By attending you’ll gain practical guidance on the following topics:
The criteria the Court uses in granting or denying certiorari
Crafting a compelling petition for certiorari – or an effective brief in opposition
The strategic use and impact of amici curiae
The influential role of the United States in cert-stage proceedings
Practical tips for increasing your client’s chances of review
This class is a must for litigators – especially those engaged in appellate practice –who want to sharpen their skills and better position their cases for consideration by the highest court in the land.
Faculty: George W. Hicks, Jr., Kirkland & Ellis LLP and Megan M. Wold, Cooper & Kirk PLLC
Fees: $89 D.C. Bar Communities Members, $99 D.C. Bar Members, $109 Government and Nonprofit Attorneys, and $129 Others
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Immigration Consequences of Criminal Convictions 2025
Credit(s): 3 General (60-minute hour)
3.5 General (50-minute hour)
Course Number: E15092502W
Duration: 3 hours 15 minutes
Date: September 18, 2025
6:00 PM - 9:15 PM
Credits: 3.0 general credit hours
Description: Immigration and criminal law increasingly intersect in complex and high-stakes ways. This essential class offers an up-to-date overview of current immigration enforcement priorities and explores the immigration consequences of criminal conduct and convictions – particularly for noncitizens in the D.C., Maryland, and Virginia region. Led by an experienced panel of faculty, this class covers the following topics:
The Department of Homeland Security’s current enforcement priorities and how they play out in practice given limited agency resources
A “conviction” for immigration purposes and which offenses trigger removability
Key regional considerations for defense attorneys handling cases in D.C., Maryland, and Virginia
Forms of relief available to noncitizens facing deportation
The panel will also examine the lasting impact of Padilla v. Kentucky and its progeny, including the constitutional and ethical duties of defense counsel to advise noncitizen clients on immigration consequences and how failure to provide adequate immigration advice can lead to ineffective assistance of counsel claims, malpractice exposure, and ethical violations.
Whether you’re a defense attorney, immigration practitioner, or simply want to stay informed on this rapidly evolving area of law, this class delivers critical legal updates and practical guidance you can use immediately in your practice.
Faculty: Ofelia L. Calderón, Calderón Seguin PLC and Himedes Chicas, Law Offices of Jezic & Moyse LLC
Fees: $89 D.C. Bar Communities Members; $99 D.C. Bar Members; $109 Government and Nonprofit Attorneys; $129 Others
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Managing Money (09/22/25)
Course Number: MM_092225
Date: September 22, 2025
9:00 AM - 12:30 PM
A variety of fee agreements will be examined with the focus on the scope of representation, managing the fee, expenses and the earning mechanism established for the advance fee. In examples established by the fee agreement, an advance fee will be collected and deposited into the firm’s trust account. As time passes and work is performed, funds will be transferred from the trust account to the firm’s operating or business account as the fee is earned. Ledger entries will be demonstrated for all transactions. TrustBooks.com will be used to demonstrate fund management and the creation of client and account ledgers.
The following client transactions will be explored:
- Agreement for Initial Consultation
- Advance Flat Fee Representation for Client Charged with A Felony Criminal Offense
- Advance Flat Fee Representation for an Immigration Client
- Advance Hourly Fee Representation for a Civil Litigation Client
- Advance Flat Fee Representation for an Estate Planning Client
- A Contingency Fee Representation for an Injury Case
- An Availability Representation (Classic Engagement Retainer)
The course manual will be provided to registrants and should be read prior to the session. Once you have registered, please go to the Managing Money course in the "My Events" tab of your DC Bar account and download the digital materials.
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D.C. Bar Schedule of Events