D.C. Bar Schedule of Events
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
The Basics of Filing and Litigating Freedom of Information Act Requests 2024
Credit(s): 3 General (60-minute hour)
3.5 General (50-minute hour)
Course Number: E13241205W
Duration: 3 hours 15 minutes
Date: December 5, 2024
6:00 PM - 9:15 PM
Credits: 3.0 general credit hours
Description: Join us for this popular annual class as our expert faculty explain how to file requests under the federal Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). Our panel will alert you to issues that arise in FOIA litigation through the different perspectives of lawyers for the defendant-agency and for the plaintiff-requester. They will show how to frame and pursue FOIA requests before different federal agencies and discuss FOIA exemptions.
Because FOIA litigation is quite specialized, the class focuses on the litigation of FOIA cases before district courts. Our panel will address the different standards and procedures that apply to FOIA cases. They also will include a brief discussion of Privacy Act requests and litigation. Minimal knowledge of the FOIA will be presumed – but is not required – of those who attend.
This class assumes minimal prior knowledge of FOIA but welcomes all practitioners eager to deepen their understanding and refine their litigation skills in this critical area.
Faculty: Elizabeth J. Shapiro, US Department of Justice and Mark S. Zaid, Mark S. Zaid PC
Fees: $89 D.C. Bar Communities Members, $99 D.C. Bar Members, $109 Government and Nonprofit Attorneys, and $129 Others
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The Pregnant Workers Fairness Act
Credit(s): 1 General (60-minute hour)
1 General (50-minute hour)
Course Number: E09241211W
Duration: 1 hour
Date: December 9, 2024
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
Credit: 1.0 general credit hour
Description: On April 15, 2024, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) released its final regulations under the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act, codified at 29 C.F.R. § 1636. These regulations, which took effect on June 18, 2024, have since faced legal scrutiny across the United States. Join us for this timely and comprehensive class as our expert panel guides you through the requirements for providing reasonable accommodations to employees with “known limitations related to pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions.”
This new class delves into the legal obligations under the new federal regulations, providing a thorough understanding of what constitutes a reasonable accommodation. In addition, our panel discusses the ongoing court challenges to these regulations and how they impact pregnancy accommodation requirements in Maryland, Virginia, and the District of Columbia.
Designed for legal practitioners seeking a foundational understanding of the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act, this class will equip you with practical tactics, strategies, and best practices to help your clients successfully navigate and implement these new compliance requirements.
Faculty: Diane A. Seltzer, The Seltzer Law Firm; Joanne Waters Verma & Waters 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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Attorney-Client Privilege Trends and Developments
Attorney-Client Privilege and the Work Product Doctrine Series - Part One)
Credit(s): 1.5 Ethics & Professionalism, except for Virginia, for which you will receive general credit (60-minute hour)
Course Number: E16241209W
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
Date: December 10, 2024
10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Credits: 1.5 general credit hours (Note: While this class may qualify for ethics and professionalism credit in some jurisdictions, it does not qualify for such credit for Virginia. Instead, it qualifies for 1.5 general credits for Virginia.)
Description: In this engaging and highly informative two-part series, we delve into two fundamental pillars of legal protection: attorney-client privilege and the closely related work product doctrine. In this session, our faculty expert Tom Spahn focuses on attorney-client privilege, offering an up-to-date exploration of 2024 trends, legal developments, and practical applications. Key highlights include the following topics:
Determining which attorney-client privilege rules apply in various scenarios
Addressing common client misunderstandings about the privilege's scope and the importance of legal advice in securing protection
Navigating privilege protection within corporate settings, with a focus on the risks of extensive intra-corporate communications
Understanding the sources of proof courts rely on when analyzing privilege claims and practical strategies to maximize protection
Identifying individuals and entities outside the scope of privilege, including agents and consultants
Avoiding privilege waivers, including implied waivers, “at issue” waivers, and subject matter waivers
Exploring the unpredictability of joint defense and common interest agreements
Tackling privilege issues that arise before, during, and after internal corporate investigations
This class is essential for attorneys across all practice areas, offering valuable insights to enhance their understanding and effective management of attorney-client privilege. Whether you practice in state or federal courts, this class equips you with the knowledge needed to protect your clients and navigate complex privilege issues with confidence. Those interested in this class may also wish to attend Work Product Doctrine Trends and Developments.
Faculty: Thomas E. Spahn, McGuireWoods LLP
Series Fees: $58 D.C. Bar Communities members, $78 D.C. Bar members, $98 Government and Nonprofit attorneys, and $138 Others
Individual Class Fees: $39 D.C. Bar Communities members, $49 D.C. Bar members, $59 Government and Nonprofit attorneys, and $79 Others
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Copyright and Trademark Law Year in Review 2024
(Intellectual Property Law Series – Part One)
Credit(s): 3 General (60-minute hour)
3.5 General (50-minute hour)
Course Number: E16241209W
Duration: 3 hours 15 minutes
Date: December 11, 2024
6:00 PM - 9:15 PM
Credits: 3.0 general credit hours
Description: Stay informed on the latest shifts in copyright and trademark law by joining our expert faculty for an in-depth review of the most significant changes over the past year. This class is essential for practitioners who need to stay current with the evolving legal landscape in these dynamic areas of intellectual property law. The following are among the topics this class covers:
Key court decisions of 2024
Legislative developments
International developments
Copyright Office and Trademark Office updates
Emerging trends and practical tips
Don’t miss this opportunity to enhance your knowledge and ensure you are prepared to advise clients effectively in the rapidly changing fields of copyright and trademark law. Those who attend this class may also be interested in attending the second class in our Intellectual Property Series, Patent Law a Year in Review 2024.
Faculty: Hardeep Grover, CapEx Legal and Laura Possessky, Corporation for Public Broadcasting
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; $129 Others
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Member Benefits Webinar: AI-Powered Practice Management: A Guide for Law Firms
Original Program Date: December 12, 2024
Duration: 1 hour
Date: December 12, 2024
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
Generative AI is making waves in law practice, but how is it truly benefiting attorneys? While AI might seem abstract or intimidating, it’s already transforming legal practice management in remarkable ways. From drafting emails and translating documents to generating ideas for opening statements, generative AI is quickly becoming an essential tool for attorneys.
Think of it as your all-in-one matter assistant. Instead of hunting down information, you can simply ask your case file for what you need. With AI, you can summarize a document, attach that summary to an email, actually create the email from scratch, and then send it out to your client in just seconds.
Join attorney Jordan Turk as she takes you through how generative AI is being used in your favorite legal technology applications, and how to get the most out of its use.
In this webinar, you’ll learn:
How AI is being implemented within the most popular practice management software
Security and confidentiality concerns of using this technology
The importance of good prompt writing
Live demonstration of how this technology works
Duration: 60 minutes
HERE IS THE LINK TO REGISTER FOR THE WEBINAR: https://www.smokeball.com/webinars/dcbar-ai-powered-practice-management
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The Basics of Filing and Litigating Freedom of Information Act Requests 2024
NEW DATE! (Originally Scheduled for December 5, 2024)
Credit(s): 3 General (60-minute hour)
3.5 General (50-minute hour)
Course Number: E13241205W
Duration: 3 hours 15 minutes
Date: December 16, 2024
6:00 PM - 9:15 PM
Credits: 3.0 general credit hours
Description: Join us for this popular annual class as our expert faculty explain how to file requests under the federal Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). Our panel will alert you to issues that arise in FOIA litigation through the different perspectives of lawyers for the defendant-agency and for the plaintiff-requester. They will show how to frame and pursue FOIA requests before different federal agencies and discuss FOIA exemptions.
Because FOIA litigation is quite specialized, the class focuses on the litigation of FOIA cases before district courts. Our panel will address the different standards and procedures that apply to FOIA cases. They also will include a brief discussion of Privacy Act requests and litigation. Minimal knowledge of the FOIA will be presumed – but is not required – of those who attend.
This class assumes minimal prior knowledge of FOIA but welcomes all practitioners eager to deepen their understanding and refine their litigation skills in this critical area.
Faculty: Elizabeth J. Shapiro, US Department of Justice and Mark S. Zaid, Mark S. Zaid PC
Fees: $89 D.C. Bar Communities Members, $99 D.C. Bar Members, $109 Government and Nonprofit Attorneys, and $129 Others
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Patent Law a Year in Review 2024
(Intellectual Property Law Series – Part Two)
Credit(s): 2 General (60-minute hour)
2 General (50-minute hour)
Course Number: E16241207W
Duration: 2 hours 15 minutes
Date: December 17, 2024
6:00 PM - 8:15 PM
Credits: 2.0 general credit hours
Description: Stay at the forefront of patent law by joining us for this must-attend class, which delves into the most impactful patent case law developments of 2024. Our expert faculty will provide a comprehensive review of key rulings from the Supreme Court, the Federal Circuit, and the Patent Trial and Appeal Board, as well as an overview of significant changes in US Patent and Trademark Office rules and proposed legislation. The following are among the topics this class covers:
Patentable subject matter
New developments in prior art
Defenses in patent litigation
Procedural changes in patent litigation
Shifts in inter partes review (IPR) practice
Don’t miss this opportunity to hear from leading patent law experts as they provide you with the knowledge and tools needed to navigate the complex and ever-changing landscape of patent law. Whether you are an experienced patent practitioner or new to the field, this class will ensure you are up to date with the latest legal developments and prepared to address the challenges ahead.
Those who attend this class may also be interested in attending the second class in our Intellectual Property Series, Copyright and Trademark Law Year in Review 2024.
Faculty: Matthew P. Becker, Banner & Witcoff Ltd. and Scott M. Kelly, Banner & Witcoff Ltd.
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; $129 Others
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The Legal Ethics Commitment: Rules, Concepts, Ideas, and Techniques that Keep Lawyers Ethical
Credit(s): 3 Ethics and Professional Responsibility (60-minute hour)
3.5 Ethics and Professional Responsibility (50-minute hour)
Course Number: E11241204W
Duration: 3 hours 15 minutes
Date: December 18, 2024
6:00 PM - 9:15 PM
Credits: 3.0 ethics and professionalism credit hours
Description: Every period has unpredictable winds and currents that challenge attorneys to keep their ethical bearings. In 2024, those winds are blowing gustier than ever, with challenges to the legal ethics culture sometimes developing faster than bar associations, courts and scholars can respond to them. As a result, the ethical sensibilities and problem-solving skills of the individual attorney are more crucial than ever.
This insightful and engaging class designed for the D.C. Bar uses hypothetical problems based on actual and current cases, insights from current commentary and scholarship, and multi-disciplinary concepts with immediate value to legal practitioners. This class will challenge those who attend and leave them with new tools, sharpened skills, and plenty to think about. Our esteemed speaker will focus on new legal ethics developments in the District and elsewhere. Among the issues explored in this class are the following:
The increasing clash between business realities and professional ideals
How to ensure that the right ethics alarms sound in time
The ethical referral maze
Conflicts of interest that you might get away with, but shouldn’t
AI and the latest technology traps
Ethical billing conundrums
More, including new developments right up to class time
Faculty: Jack A. Marshall, ProEthics Ltd
For all in-person attendees, legal presenter and ethics expert Jack Marshall promises a free, 30-minute ethics consult via phone. This offer is valued at $195 and must be availed before December 18, 2025.
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 (01/7/2025 - Day 1)
How to Start a Law Firm
Course Number: BT_0172025
Date: January 7, 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 located here.
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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Jury Selection 2025
(Foundations of Trial Advocacy Series – Part One)
Credit(s): 3.5 General (50-minute hour)
3 General (60-minute hour)
Course Number: E18012503W
Duration: 3 hours 15 minutes
Date: January 8, 2025
6:00 PM - 9:15 PM
Credits: 3.0 general credit hours
Series Description: Trial work, while rewarding, is challenging. From selecting the jury to closing argument, attorneys must be ready to meet and overcome these challenges to ensure the best results for their clients. Join our experienced and knowledgeable faculty for this popular four-part series as they discuss how to better navigate the various aspects of trial practice.
Class Description: During this first class in the Foundations of Trial Advocacy Series, our faculty experts examine the process and procedure of jury selection, including the composition of the jury pool, peremptory strikes, and the use of jury selection services.
While this series is tailored for attorneys with some trial experience, but those newer to trial work will also find valuable takeaways. Accordingly, you may also want to attend Witness Preparation and Direct Examination 2025, Cross-examination 2025, and Opening Statements and Closing Arguments 2025.
Faculty: Jacqueline Cadman, Brown, Goldstein & Levy LLP; Paulette Chapman, Koonz McKenney Johnson & DePaolis LLP; and Paul J. Maloney, Carr Maloney PC
Series Fees: $296 D.C. Bar Communities Members, $336 D.C. Bar Members, $376 Government and Nonprofit Attorneys, and $456 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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Lunch and Learn: How Does a Law Firm Streamline Advertising for Effective Case Generation?
Course Number: LL_010925
Duration: 1 hour
Date: January 9, 2025
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
Learn from Marina Hotkova, an expert with more than 20 years of experience in driving growth for law firms in the DMV, about digital advertising. Marina will cover quality lead generation, simplifying the complex worlds of digital marketing, digital strategies and cost-efficiency. Marina Hotkova is with WUSA 9/TEGNA/Premion and works with law firms on their digital strategy.
A joint production of the Law Practice Management Community and PMAS at the DC Bar.
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Building and Managing Remote Global Teams (NEW)
Credit(s): 1.5 General (60-minute hour)
1.5 General (50-minute hour)
0.5 Ethics and Professional Responsibility (60-minute hour)
0.5 Ethics and Professional Responsibility (50-minute hour)
Course Number: E09012505W
Duration: 2 hours 15 minutes
Date: January 14, 2025
10:00 AM - 12:15 PM
Credits: 2.0 general credit hours, including 0.5 ethics & professionalism credit hours
Description: Remote work is increasingly the norm, and a rising number of office‐fatigued employees are expressing the desire to work remotely. This evolving workplace trend presents unique challenges for employers, especially when it comes to understanding and navigating the intricate web of legal and tax implications across international borders.
This insightful class offers an in‐depth exploration of these challenges. The panel dissects the complexities of payroll logistics, immigration requirements, tax ramifications, and the implications for benefits and insurance in cross‐border remote work scenarios. The panel guides you through this terrain, highlighting the legal nuances and potential risks employers face when considering remote work arrangements from different countries.
By attending this class, you will gain a thorough understanding of the legal and tax complexities that arise in cross-border remote work situations. You will leave with actionable insights into payroll logistics, immigration requirements, and tax implications that employers must consider when managing remote employees working from different countries.
Faculty: Nan Sato, Fisher & Phillips LLP and William D. Wright, Fisher & Phillips 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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Witness Preparation and Direct Examination 2025
(Foundations of Trial Advocacy Series - Part Two)
Credit(s): 3.5 General (50-minute hour)
3 General (60-minute hour)
Course Number: E18012506W
Duration: 3 hours 15 minutes
Date: January 15, 2025
6:00 PM - 9:15 PM
Credits: 3.0 general credit hours
Series Description: Trial work, while rewarding, is challenging. From selecting the jury to closing argument, attorneys must be ready to meet and overcome these challenges to ensure the best results for their clients. Join our esteemed faculty for this popular four-part series as they discuss how to better navigate the various aspects of trial practice.
Class Description: During this class, the panel discusses how well-prepared witnesses and persuasive direct examinations (or lack thereof) can make or break your case at trial. They cover the vital task of preparing witnesses to testify credibly at trial. They also examine techniques and strategies for effective direct examination, maximizing the witness’s potential, minimizing their weaknesses, and how to start out right and finish strong at trial.
While this series is tailored for attorneys with some trial experience, those newer to trial work will also find valuable takeaways. Accordingly, you may also want to attend Jury Selection 2025, Cross-examination 2025, and Opening Statements and Closing Arguments 2025.
Faculty: Catherine D. Bertram, Bertram & Murphy and Sara E. Kropf, Kropf Moseley PLLC
Series Fees: $296 D.C. Bar Communities Members, $336 D.C. Bar Members $376, Government and Nonprofit Attorneys, and $456 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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Immigration Law Basics 2025
Credit(s): 3 General (60-minute hour)
3.5 General (50-minute hour)
Course Number: E15012507W
Duration: 3 hours 15 minutes
Date: January 16, 2025
6:00 PM - 9:15 PM
Credits: 3.0 general credit hours
Description: Gain a comprehensive understanding of the key statutes, regulations, and core principles that govern the United States immigration system. This dynamic and in-depth class equips you with the knowledge needed to navigate the complexities of immigration law and provides critical insights for both immigration practitioners and professionals in other fields. The following are key topics the class covers:
Overview of Government Agencies – Explore the roles of key agencies responsible for administering United States immigration law, including USCIS, ICE, and the Department of State
Sources of Law and Practice – Delve into the legal framework that shapes immigration law, along with relevant terminology and essential forms used throughout the application process
Foundational Immigration Concepts – Learn the distinctions between non-immigrant and immigrant visas, understand temporary visa categories, and examine concepts such as inadmissibility, removability, and what it means for a foreign national to be “out of status” or “unlawfully present” in the United States
Whether you're an attorney specializing in immigration law or counsel representing organizations and individuals in other practice areas, this class provides invaluable knowledge that extends beyond traditional immigration topics, making it an essential addition to your legal toolkit.
Faculty: Himedes V. Chicas, Law Offices of Jezic & Moyse LLC and Elsy M. Ramos Velasquez, Clark Hill PLC
Fees: $89 D.C. Bar Communities Members, $99 D.C. Bar Members, $109 Government and Nonprofit Attorneys, and $129 Others
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Cross-examination 2025
(Foundations of Trial Advocacy Series – Part Three)
Credit(s): 3.5 General (50-minute hour)
3 General (60-minute hour)
Course Number: E18012509W
Duration: 3 hours 15 minutes
Date: January 21, 2025
6:00 PM - 9:15 PM
Credits: 3.0 general credit hours
Series Description: Trial work is as rewarding as it is challenging. From jury selection to closing arguments, attorneys must be fully prepared to navigate the complexities of the courtroom and advocate effectively for their clients. Join our seasoned faculty in this highly sought-after four-part series, designed to sharpen your trial practice skills and enhance your litigation strategies.
Class Description: In this class, you gain critical insights into the art of cross-examination, a key part of any successful trial. The following are among the topics this class covers:
Using cross-examination to craft and tell your side’s case story
Skillfully controlling and impeaching witnesses
Employing advanced strategies and tactics to shape the outcome
Objectives of cross-examination
Strategies for effective questioning
The mechanics of structuring a successful cross-examination
Key legal principles that govern cross-examination techniques
While this series is tailored for attorneys with some trial experience, those newer to trial work will also find valuable takeaways. Accordingly, you may also want to attend Jury Selection 2025, Witness Preparation and Direct Examination 2025, and Opening Statements and Closing Arguments 2025.
Faculty: Don Hong, Kirkland & Ellis LLP and Holly Rioux-Lefebvre, Kirkland & Ellis LLP
Series Fees: $296 D.C. Bar Communities Members, $336 D.C. Bar Members, $376 Government and Nonprofit Attorneys, and $456 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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Fees: All About Getting Paid Ethically 2025
Credit(s): 2 Ethics and Professional Responsibility (60-minute hour)
2 Ethics and Professional Responsibility (50-minute hour)
Course Number: E11012512W
Duration: 2 hours 15 minutes
Date: January 22, 2025
10:00 AM - 12:15 PM
Credits: 2.0 ethics & professionalism credit hours
Description: Gain a comprehensive understanding of the ethical considerations surrounding attorney fees and client relationships in the District of Columbia. This insightful class offers practical insights into setting fees, managing agreements, and addressing challenges at every stage of client representation. Led by experienced faculty, this session explores the following topics:
Best practices for setting and negotiating fees
Crafting effective and compliant fee agreements
Managing contingent, fixed, and hybrid fee arrangements
Ethical considerations when accepting ownership interests in lieu of cash fees
Proper handling of fees and compliance with trust account rules
Navigating referral fees and third-party payment arrangements
Billing and ethical obligations for temporary or contract lawyers
Steps to ethically withdraw for non-payment of fees
Protecting your rights upon termination or withdrawal from a case
Whether you're new to private practice or seeking to refine your approach, this class provides actionable strategies and clarifies your obligations under D.C.’s ethics rules. Don’t miss this essential opportunity to strengthen your practice while safeguarding your professional reputation.
Faculty: Thomas B. Mason, HWG LLP and Rebecca Neal, D.C. Office of Disciplinary Counsel
Fees: $89 D.C. Bar Communities Members, $99 D.C. Bar Members, $109 Government and Nonprofit Attorneys, and $129 Others
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Attorney Discipline Update 2025: District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia
Credit(s): 3 Ethics and Professional Responsibility (60-minute hour)
3.5 Ethics and Professional Responsibility (50-minute hour)
Course Number: E11012511W
Duration: 3 hours 15 minutes
Date: January 28, 2025
6:00 PM - 9:15 PM
Credits: 3.0 ethics & professionalism credit hours
Description: Stay informed on the latest developments in attorney discipline with this popular annual class, featuring bar counsel from the District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia. Our expert panel will provide an in-depth review of disciplinary cases from the past year, highlighting the most common pitfalls that led attorneys into trouble – from client neglect to the mishandling of client funds, and a range of other violations.
In addition to case analyses, our panelists will explore where the three jurisdictions align in their disciplinary approaches and where significant differences arise. This comparative perspective will offer valuable insights into the varying standards and enforcement priorities across D.C., Maryland, and Virginia.
Whether you're looking to stay compliant or simply want to understand the evolving landscape of professional responsibility, this class is an essential resource for attorneys practicing in these regions. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain practical knowledge that can help safeguard your practice.
Faculty: Renu Brennan, Virginia State Bar; Thomas M. DeGonia II, Office of Bar Counsel, Attorney Grievance Commission of Maryland; Nakia L. Matthews, D.C. Bar (Moderator); and Julia L. Porter, District of Columbia Office of Disciplinary Counsel
Fees: $89 D.C. Bar Communities Members, $99 D.C. Bar Members, $109 Government and Nonprofit Attorneys, and $129 Others
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Opening Statements and Closing Arguments 2025
(Foundations of Trial Advocacy Series – Part Four)
Credit(s): 3.5 General (50-minute hour)
3 General (60-minute hour)
Course Number: E18012512W
Duration: 3 hours 15 minutes
Date: January 29, 2025
6:00 PM - 9:15 PM
Credits: 3.0 general credit hours
Series Description: Trial work is both rewarding and demanding, requiring attorneys to skillfully navigate each phase – from jury selection to the final argument – to secure the best possible outcome for their clients. In this highly regarded four-part series, our expert faculty guide you through the essential strategies and techniques needed to excel at every stage of trial practice.
Class Description: In the culminating class in our Foundations of Trial Advocacy Series, our dynamic and seasoned faculty will dive deep into one of the most crucial aspects of trial work: opening statements and closing arguments. This session provides a comprehensive analysis of these critical components, covering the following:
Preparation strategies: How to craft persuasive and compelling arguments that resonate with the jury from the start
Presentation techniques: Best practices for delivering your opening and closing with clarity, confidence, and conviction
Handling objections: Effective responses to objections that may arise during your arguments, ensuring you maintain momentum and control
Designed primarily for attorneys with some trial experience, this series offers valuable insights for legal professionals looking to refine their skills and elevate their trial performance. Attorneys new to trial work will also benefit from the expert guidance provided, making this session an excellent opportunity to build a strong foundation.
While this series is tailored for attorneys with some trial experience, those newer to trial work will also find valuable takeaways. Accordingly, you may also want to attend Jury Selection 2025, Witness Preparation and Direct Examination 2025, and Cross-examination 2025.
Faculty: Kerry Brainard Verdi, Verdi & Ogletree PLLC and Michael F. Williams, Kirkland & Ellis LLP
Series Fees: $296 D.C. Bar Communities Members, $336 D.C. Bar Members $376 Government and Nonprofit Attorneys, and $456 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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