Total Credits: 18.2 MCLE, 10.4 Ethics, 2.8 Elimination of Bias
Join us virtually or in-person at Margaritaville Lake Resort for the
2023 MOSOLO Small Firm Conference!
This year’s conference will feature more than 40 sponsors and exhibitors and over 60 breakout sessions, including keynote speaker Barron K. Henley of Affinity Consulting Group.
Barron, a leading national expert in legal technology, will dive into:
Plenary:
Breakouts:
Families are encouraged to attend Thursday evening’s Boathouse Bash, where you can enjoy barbecue and show off your bowling and arcade game prowess! On Friday evening, prepare for lots of laughs at a professionally-hosted live game show held after dinner.
Alicia Albus is a senior attorney at Mitchell Brown and Associates. She has been with the firm (formerly Martha C. Brown and Associates, formerly Oelbaum and Brown) for over 21 years. Her practice is concentrated in Elder Law and Special Needs Planning.
Julie Anderson graduated from William Jewell College, magna cum laude, in 2000 and the University of Missouri-Columbia Law School in 2004. She is admitted to practice law in Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, the United States Eastern and Western District Courts of Missouri, the United States District Court of Kansas, and the United States Bankruptcy Courts in Kansas and Missouri.
Anderson is a former judicial law clerk and served as an assistant to United States Senator Chuck Hagel in Washington D.C. She was also a summer associate to Kenneth Feinberg, the Special Master of the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund in New York, NY.
In 2010, she was chosen as one of Missouri’s "Up and Coming" young attorneys. In 2013 – 2021 she was named a Thompson Reuters “Super Lawyer” and in 2015 and 2016 as one of Kansas City Business Journal’s “Best of the Bar.” Anderson is the former mayoral appointed Chairwoman on the Land Bank of Kansas City, Missouri and the current Executive Director of Mid-America Crime Free, Inc., an organization collaborating with regional police departments to encourage and enforce crime free housing. Her previous activities in the Bar include being a member of the Board of Directors of the Young Lawyers Section of the Kansas City Metropolitan Bar Association (KCMBA), and as a member of both the Association of Women Lawyers of Greater Kansas City and the Creditor Rights Asset Protection organization. She is a sustainer in the Junior League of Kansas City, a former board member of the Westport Regional Business League and has served in other leadership roles in various community organizations.
Anderson is presently the managing partner at The Law Offices of Anderson & Associates, a WBE full-service law firm concentrating its practice in Missouri and Kansas landlord tenant law, debt collection, foreclosure and creditor-related litigation.
Derek is a partner with Spencer Fane LLP, practicing commercial litigation with an appellate emphasis. He previously served as a part-time judicial clerk for judges on the Southern and Western Districts of the Missouri Court of Appeals, and was a 2022 recipient of the David J. Dixon Appellate Advocacy Award.
Jack Bangert has successfully mediated hundreds of cases over the past 10 years. He has more than 40-years of experience in commercial and civil litigation. He is a member of the National Academy of Distinguished Neutrals. Only 32 attorneys in Missouri are recognized as having met the stringent requirements for the NADN. Jack is one of only four NADN members in Missouri to have been conferred with “Diplomate” status.
Jack is an Adjunct Professor of Trial Advocacy at the University of Missouri at Kansas City School of Law. He has taught at over 20 trial academies including the Missouri Bar Trial Academy, the Missouri Organization of Defense Lawyers Trial Academy, the Missouri Judicial Trial College and the International Association of Defense Counsel Trial Academy.
Jack has been honored to be a past President of the following organizations:
Jack has been named to the Best of the Bar in litigation by the Kansas City Business Journal and been named to US News and World Report’s “Best Lawyers” and Kansas City’s Ingram’s Magazine “Best Lawyers in Kansas City”. He has also been named a Top 100 Super Lawyer for Missouri and Kansas in litigation multiple times.
His acknowledgments have included among others, the Inaugural Legal Leader of the Year Award by the Daily Record, the Ben Ely, Jr. Outstanding Defense Lawyer for Missouri and the Alumni Achievement Award in Law from Westminster College.
He can reached to schedule mediations at Jack.Bangert@kutakrock.com, Kim.Taylor@kutakrock.com or (816) 502-4845. He does mediations throughout the state.
Since 1998, Mark Bassingthwaighte, Esq. has been a Risk Manager with ALPS, the nation’s largest direct writer of lawyers’ malpractice insurance. Mr. Bassingthwaighte has conducted over 1200 law firm risk management assessment visits, presented over 550 CLEs throughout the United States, and written extensively on risk management, ethics, and technology.
Judge Bates was appointed to the Court of Appeals, Southern District, beginning Dec. 1, 2003, and he was retained in 2006 and 2018. He has long served on the State Judicial Records Committee and Court Management of Technology Committee.
Judge Bates was engaged in private practice in Springfield from 1984 - 2003, trying complex personal injury and wrongful death cases.
Judge Bates earned his Juris Doctor in 1984 from the University of Missouri–Columbia where he served as associate editor-in-chief of the Missouri Law Review. He graduated in 1979 from Southwest Missouri State University with a B.S. in speech.
Reilly Beeman is currently Legal Counsel for the Missouri Department of Revenue where he has worked in transportation and contracts/personnel for over one year. He graduated Washburn University School of Law in 2020.
Kim owns the Missouri DWI & Criminal Law Center at the Benjamin Law Firm, LLC, which is honored to be named in the top 30 of 355 criminal defense firms in KC. She regularly teaches lawyers all over the US how to try criminal and civil cases. www.DWICriminalLawCenter.com - kim@benjaminlawkc.com
Melinda J. Bentley serves as Legal Ethics Counsel in Missouri where she provides oral and written informal advisory opinions to attorneys on issues related to the Missouri Rules of Professional Conduct. In that position, she also serves as administrator and counsel to the Advisory Committee of the Supreme Court of Missouri. She began serving in that position in 2012. Prior to that she worked for the Illinois State Bar Association as Assistant Counsel from 2001-03, First Assistant Counsel from 2003-11, and Assistant Director of Legislative Affairs from 2009-11. She is a frequent speaker and author on professional responsibility matters. Ms. Bentley currently serves as a member of the Planning Committee for the American Bar Association (ABA) Center for Professional Responsibility’s National Conference on Professional Responsibility, the Planning Committee for The Missouri Bar Solo and Small Firm Conference, The Missouri Bar’s Special Committee on Remote Public Access to Case.net, and the National Organization of Bar Counsel’s Committees on Amicus, Website, Program, and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. She was a board member and officer of the National Organization of Bar Counsel from 2015-2020, including a term as President from 2018-2019, and formerly served on the ABA Standing Committee on Ethics and Professional Responsibility (2020-2023), Editorial Board of the ABA/BNA Lawyers’ Manual on Professional Conduct as a member (2015-2016) and Chair (2016-2018), as well as a member of the ABA Center for Professional Responsibility Coordinating Council (2016-2018). She is licensed in both Missouri and Illinois, and is a member of The Missouri Bar, Illinois State Bar Association, American Bar Association, National Organization of Bar Counsel, Bar Association of Metropolitan St. Louis, Cole County Bar Association, and Mid-Missouri Women Lawyers’ Association.
Practicing law since 1980, Wally represents people injured by the fault of another and provides mediation services, acting as mediator in over 500 cases in the last 5 years. Fellow, ACTL. Fellow, Int'l Society of Barristers. Member, MATA
Maureen Brady is partner and founder of McShane & Brady, LLC. Her practice focuses on all areas personal injury but has established herself as a leader involving issues of medical privacy, specially HIPAA law.
Ms. Bugalski is the Managing Member of the law firm of Gump, Faiella, & Bugalski, LLC. Ms. Bugalski is licensed in Missouri and focuses her law practice on cases involving wrongful death, personal injury, estate planning, probate, estate litigation, small business litigation, worker’s compensation and family law.
Ms. Bugalski grew up in Madison, Missouri, attended the University of Central Missouri where she graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Political Science from the Honors College, and earned her Juris Doctor in 2008 from Washburn University School of Law in Topeka, Kansas.
Focusing her practice on DWI law, Denise Childress has become a sought-after instructor in this field. She has trained officers at both the St. Louis Police Academy and the Missouri State Highway Patrol Academy. She co-founded The Missouri DWI Institute, LLC, with a mission to educate Missouri's lawyers, judges, and law enforcement. She coordinates national DWI defense seminars as part of DUIDLA, training lawyers and judges across the country in places like Denver and Chicago. Denise hung out her own shingle, Childress Legal, in 2019 after working for and then partnering with Carl Ward. She is a trial attorney, representing clients in over 41 Missouri counties. Denise is proud to be hired by other lawyers to try their clients' DWI cases.
Denise is the immediate past president of the St. Charles County Bar Association, where she remains as en banc-bar liaison and social chair. She has been proudly awarded the Women's Justice Award for General Practitioner, Missouri Lawyers Weekly, 2020; President's Award for Distinguished Service, Missouri Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, 2019; and Up & Coming Law Firm Leader Award, Missouri Lawyers Weekly, 2016.
Annette Choti, Esq. has been an attorney and a member of the Missouri Bar for 23 years. She is the Founder/Owner of Law Quill, a full-service legal digital marketing agency. Annette hosts the podcast, Legal Marketing Lounge and wrote the bestselling book Click Magnet: The Ultimate Digital Marketing Guide For Law Firms.
Morry S. Cole practices primarily in the areas of wrongful death, aviation, products liability, professional negligence, and corporate litigation. He received a B.B.A. in Finance from Baylor University in 1993 and a juris doctor from the University of Missouri in 1997. While at the University of Missouri, he served as an Editor of the Missouri Law Review, a Research Assistant to Professor Martha Dragich, an Intern to the Honorable Duane Benton, Missouri Supreme Court and a part-time Law Clerk to the Honorable Edward D. Robertson, Jr., Missouri Supreme Court. After graduation, he served a year as a full-time research attorney and law clerk for Judge Robertson.
Since joining Gray, Ritter and Graham, P.C., Mr. Cole has practiced before the Missouri Courts of Appeal for the Eastern, Western and Southern Districts of Missouri and the Missouri Supreme Court and he has tried cases in many Missouri Counties and the Eastern and Western District Federal Courts. He is a past President of the Missouri Bar Board of Governors and is an adjunct law professor at Washington University.
With close to 35 years in the practice of law, Dana has served in several positions of bar leadership during her career, including being the first woman of color elected as president of The Missouri Bar, in 2016. Her numerous bar-related awards include the 2020 Eighth Circuit Richard S. Arnold Award for Distinguished Service; three President’s Awards from The Missouri Bar; a President’s Award from the Kansas City Metropolitan Bar Association; the Ronda F. Williams Spirit of Diversity Award; and the Sly James Diversity and Inclusion Award, just to name a few. She has been recognized as one of the Top 30 Education Law attorneys in Missouri; a Missouri Super Lawyer since 2014; and was honored as the 2018 Woman of the Year by Missouri Lawyers Weekly at their Annual Women’s Justice Awards Luncheon. Dana has tried more than twenty bench and jury trials.
She received her Bachelor of Arts degree in English, with honors, from Spelman College in Atlanta, Georgia, and her Juris Doctor degree from the University of Missouri-Kansas City.
When not practicing law, Dana, along with her husband and law partner Keith Cutler, are co-judges on the two-time Emmy-nominated, nationally syndicated daytime television courtroom show “Couples Court with the Cutlers.” The show is seen daily on the Oprah Winfrey Network.
Keith Cutler is a trial attorney with the law firm of James W. Tippin & Associates in Kansas City, and has practiced in the areas of commercial, construction, general liability, and insurance defense litigation for close to 35 years. He is a frequent CLE speaker on trial practice; ethics and professionalism; and diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Matt is an attorney at Williams Dirks Dameron LLC, a firm based in Kansas City, Missouri. Matt's practice focuses on complex litigation in federal courts across the country. His practice areas include class actions, antitrust litigation, and consumer protection.
Brennan Delaney's practice for the past 12 years has focused on representing clients who have suffered a catastrophic injury or lost a loved one. Before that, he spent four years as law clerk - two for Circuit Court Judge Michael Manners and two for Missouri Supreme Court Judge Zel Fischer.
Athena Dickson joined the firm as an associate in 2003 and currently practices in the areas of Personal Injury and Employment Discrimination. She is licensed to practice in Missouri and Kansas state courts as well as federal courts in the District of Kansas and the Western District of Missouri. “Taking the time to listen to a person’s needs” is the foundation of Ms. Dickson’s personal philosophy in practicing law. Ms. Dickson recognizes that litigation can be intimidating for her clients, and she makes every effort to help make it easier and less stressful.
Ms. Dickson is also active in the community by serving on the board of the Kansas City Metropolitan Bar Foundation (KCMBF) She also represents District 12 (Kansas City) on the Missouri Bar Board of Governors. Ms. Dickson is also a board member on the Lawyers Encouraging Academic Performance (LEAP) board. Ms. Dickson has served as a mentor as part of AWLF’s Denise Hennings Connections Program since 2014 and is currently the board liaison to the program. She has also served as President of the Kansas City Metropolitan Bar Association (KCMBA) in 2020, of the Association for Women Lawyers of Greater Kansas City (AWL) in 2014, and KCMBA’s YLS Section in 2013.
Claude E. Ducloux, is an attorney licensed in Texas, Colorado and California who speaks nationally on legal ethics, law office management, and trial-related topics. In 2011, he won the highest statewide award from the State Bar of Texas for lifetime contribution to CLE and has been invited to speak in more than 500 programs in since January 1, 2016. Claude has served as course director and creator of numerous CLE institutes and advanced courses.
Mr. Ducloux has a long legacy of bar service, including being President of the Austin Bar Association, and serving as Chair of almost every major bar-related entity, as well as the Texas Bar Foundation. He is a board-certified civil trial and appellate attorney in Texas.
Kent Emison is a founding partner at Langdon & Emison where he devotes his practice to personal injury and product liability litigation on a national scale. He has served as lead trial counsel in numerous cases resulting in multi-million-dollar verdicts and settlements across the United States.
Courtney English is a Business and Trademark attorney with the heart of a teacher.By providing exceptional guidance, and a comprehensive, yet collaborative, approach, Courtney goes beyond just providing an “answer” and helps to protect both the business and the brand. She provides these services through her efficient and streamlined law practice
Michael English is the Founder of Charted Consulting, LLC, where they help solo and small firms make the most out of their practice management software by leveraging automations and building efficient processes. He has an exceptional interest in process management, automations and streamlining law firms from intake through case completion.
Jimmy Fendelman has been a trial attorney for over twenty-five years. He speaks regularly on the topics of stress management and communications skills for teens, graduate students, and adults. He is known for his up-beat, high energy style.
Barbara Glesner Fines is the Rubey M. Hulen Professor of Law and Dean Emerita of the University of Missouri - Kansas City School of Law, where she has been a member of the faculty since 1986. She served as Executive Associate Dean from 2008 to 2016 and as Dean from 2017 to 2023. Glesner Fines received her master of law degree from Yale University and her J.D. (cum laude) from the University of Wisconsin Law School.
Professor Glesner Fines is an expert on professional ethics, legal education and the professional identity formation of law students. She has authored numerous articles and books on these subjects and is a fellow in the Holloran Center for Ethical Leadership. She has created several innovative programs at the School of Law. She helped to found the UMKC School of Law Child and Family Law Program, which is currently ranked as one of the top four programs of its kind in the United States. She is also one of the founding faculty members of the School of Law’s Center for Law, Entrepreneurship and Innovation.
Glesner Fines currently teaches Professional Responsibility, Client Interviewing, and Family Violence. She also directs the Self-Help Legal Clinic. Students in the clinic provide instruction, referral, brief advice, and limited scope representation to self-represented litigants in a variety of subject areas. Students learn technology skills to build self-help resources and community education skills in pro se classes.
Owen’s practice deals primarily with the representation of contractors, subcontractors and suppliers seeking to assist them with any legal needs they may have, including but not limited to filing mechanic’s liens. Owen has been selected as a Super Lawyer in the area of construction litigation every year since 2015.
Nicole is the founding member of the firm, Fisher Law LLC. Nicole focuses her practice on representing individuals in their family law litigation. She is passionate about representing real people in their most personal matters. Nicole is licensed to practice law in Missouri and Kansas.
Mary Fox is the Director of the Missouri State Public Defender System. Fox was appointed to this position in January, 2020. Prior to that appointment Fox served for thirteen years as the managing attorney of the St. Louis City Trial Office for the system. Fox began her career as a public defender in 1981 as an Assistant Public Defender for MSPD and served in that position until 1987. In the intervening twenty years between her service with MSPD Fox served as a hearing officer for the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department Internal Affairs Division, was a Commissioner for the 21st Judicial Circuit in Missouri and practiced mainly in family and juvenile law. Fox is a 1976 graduate of St. Louis University with a Bachelor’s degree in Urban Affairs and a 1980 graduate of St. Louis University School of Law.
Heather Hardinger is Of Counsel with The Meyers Law Firm, LC, in Kansas City, Missouri. Heather focuses her practice on Plaintiff’s employment discrimination. Heather is a 2018 graduate of the Missouri Bar’s Leadership Academy. Since 2016, Heather has been named a “Rising Star” by Super Lawyers® Missouri & Kansas. Heather can be reached at hhardinger@meyerslaw.com and (816) 444-8500.
Desarae Harrah, Founder and Managing Partner of Harrah Law, has been minimizing risk and resolving litigation matters for clients of all sizes for almost 20 years. Representing individuals and businesses in both Kansas and Missouri, Ms. Harrah specializes in real estate and construction in addition to litigation. Desarae has been named a Top 50 Women Missouri & Kansas Super Lawyers Honoree for 2019-2022, and was recently named a 2023 Women’s Justice Award recipient by Missouri Lawyers Weekly.
Jennipher is currently an Attorney for the Juvenile Office in Jackson County, Missouri. Prior to joining the juvenile office in August 2018, Jennipher was in private practice handling criminal cases as a Special Public Defender, representing parents in abuse and neglect proceedings, representing parents in domestic cases, and acting as a Guardian ad Litem in domestic and abuse and neglect cases. She is a member of the Association for Women Lawyers and participates in its Connections Program. Jennipher is also a Co-Chair for the Juvenile Law Committee for KCMBA.
Annette P. Heller - Attorney TM Law & Associates. Her practice is limited to trademark and copyright law since 1983. She represents law firms that do not have their own trademark attorney and small and medium size business throughout the United States. Prior to opening her own practice, she was in-house counsel for Ralston Purina.
BARRON K. HENLEY, ESQ. is one of the founding partners of Affinity Consulting Group, a legal technology consulting firm focused on automating and streamlining law firms and legal departments. He earned his B.S./B.A. (marketing and economics) and J.D. from The Ohio State University and is a member of the American, Ohio and Columbus Bar Associations, and the Worthington Estate Planning Council. He is a Fellow of the College of Law Practice Management, a Fellow of the American Bar Foundation, a member of Ohio Supreme Court Commission on Technology and the Courts, and a member of both the ABA Law Practice Management and the Real Property Trust and Estate Law ("RPTE") Sections and is Vice Chair of the Joint Law Practice Management Group. He's also a former member of RPTE Futures Task Force, a former Board Member for the ABA TECHSHOW, and the former Chair of the Ohio State Bar Association Law Office Automation & Technology Committee. Mr. Henley heads Affinity’s document assembly/automation and software training departments. Barron is also an expert in launching new law firms, overhauling existing firms, and documenting and re-engineering law firm processes. Finally, Barron teaches continuing legal education (CLE) classes throughout the U.S. and Canada covering a wide variety of topics related to law practice management, technology and ethics.
After graduating from Mizzou with a BS in Industrial Engineering, Tammy attended UMKC Law School, graduating third in her class. She practiced law first at Stinson, Mag & Fizzell, focusing on defending employment litigation, and later at Brous Horn LLC, concentrating on representing employee-plaintiffs. In 2016 she formed Tammy Horn LLC to provide her services as a mediator.
Craig H. Jacobs - B.S. in Accounting from Brigham Young University (1984) and a J.D. from the University of California, Davis (1988). After ten years in private practice including work as an assistant City Attorney, Mr. Jacobs served as a Missouri Assistant Attorney General from 1998 through 2022 representing many departments, boards, and commissions before the Administrative Hearing Commission and all levels of the courts in the areas of licensing, procurement, rules, and defense of agency actions. In addition, has served as general counsel for various boards and commissions, including the Missouri Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing. Since January 2023, Mr. Jacobs has been with the Missouri Department of Revenue as Managing Counsel for Contracts and Personnel.
Stacey L. Janssen, returned to her own practice in 2022, founding Janssen Estate, Probate & Elder Law, LLC, practicing in the areas of estate planning, probate administration, and fiduciary litigation, practicing in both Kansas and Missouri. Ms. Janssen has a Bachelor of Arts and a Juris Doctorate from the University of Kansas. Ms. Janssen currently serves as the chair of the Kansas City Metropolitan Bar Association’s Probate Committee and serves as Treasurer to their board of directors. She has been recognized as a Super Lawyer, Best of the Bar and in 2021 received the KCBMA’s Distinguished Counselor Award.
Jennifer Johnson has practiced civil litigation for 18 years, and also acts as outside counsel for clients in various industries, including clients in the cannabis industry. She recently joined Fagan & Emert, LLC located in Lawrence, Kansas, but continues to serve clients throughout the KC metro area. She lives in Parkville, MO with her husband and two children, and enjoys reading, ceramics and puzzles when not spending time with her family.
Maggie is a 1996 graduate of the University of Missouri - Columbia School of Law and has spent the majority of her career as an attorney for the Missouri State Public Defender. She has worked in the trial division, appellate division, and is currently the Director of the Case Contracting Division.
Steffney Jones is a Partner Development Manager at Ruby where she connects with growth-minded organizations and speaks around the country on lead generating tactics and small business success strategies. For almost six years, Steffney has served small business communities with a keen focus on increasing revenue through thoughtful client experiences.
After obtaining her Juris Doctor degree from the University of Missouri at Kansas City, Amanda had the privilege of clerking for two distinguished judges in Jackson County. Subsequently, in 2007, Amanda established her own private practice focusing on family law in both Missouri and Kansas. As a true sole practitioner and mediator, Amanda provides each client with personalized service and practical solutions.
Amanda is a dedicated family law attorney with a deep understanding of the complexities and challenges faced by families in the legal system. During law school, Amanda proudly represented clients through the Child and Family Services Clinic as well as the Guardian ad Litem Clinic, helping children obtain permanency. Her involvement with the law school has continued through volunteering as a supervising attorney for UMKC law students. Amanda also worked as a contract attorney for Hope House, helping domestic violence victims navigate the legal system and obtain the protection and support they need. Whether handling complex divorces involving significant assets and businesses or an uncontested paternity action, she is a fierce advocate for her clients, fighting to tirelessly ensure that their rights are protected.
Amanda is a member of the Kansas City Metropolitan Bar Association, serving as the president elect of the Family and the Law Section, Association of Women Lawyers, and the Johnson County, Kansas Family Law Inns of Court.
Paul Ladehoff directs the LL.M. program at the University of Missouri School of Law and the Campus Mediation Service. Paul teaches Negotiation and Mediation. Paul was a trial attorney for the U.S. Department of Justice, Environment and Natural Resources Division and directed several community-based mediation centers before coming to MU.
Kendra has been practicing law since 2012 working both in the private and public sectors. Being the daughter of a driver, CDL holders have always held a special place in her heart and ensuring that they are properly represented to protect their ability to drive has always taken precedence.
Jim Layton joined Tueth Keeney after 22 years with the Missouri Attorney General's Office. As Solicitor General, Jim handled appeals, constitutional litigation – and writs. He has argued nearly 100 appeals in the Missouri Supreme Court and four in the U.S. Supreme Court. He now assists both private clients and public entities in trial and appellate courts.
Fredrick is a solo attorney practicing in and around St. Louis. He has been solo since 2015 and regularly handles personal injury and criminal defense matters. In his spare time he pays guitar and reads on a variety of subjects.
Lindsay is passionate about advocating and guiding people through their domestic legal issues.
She recognizes she may be meeting you at the most challenging point of your life. That’s why she will listen to your story – to understand your goals and priorities. From there, she sets realistic expectations and brainstorms legal and non-legal solutions that will get you the best possible outcome.
Before attending law school at the University of Missouri-Kansas City, Lindsay taught for three years and worked as a staff member for two years with Teach for America. Due to her experience with Teach for America and her love and understanding for children, Lindsay is frequently appointed as a Guardian ad Litem, someone who will advocate for the best interest of a child in court.
Lindsay grew up in Kansas City and attended The University of Kansas where she received a degree in Spanish, Latin American Studies, and History. Today she lives in Kansas City, Missouri with her family.
Tim McCurdy is Of Counsel at the firm. Tim grew up on a farm in Southwest Iowa. After obtaining his law degree from the University of Notre Dame, Tim moved to St. Louis to “watch a few Cardinals games” before returning to Iowa. Tim met his now wife and his plans quickly changed – Tim has called St. Louis home for more than twenty years.
Throughout Tim’s legal career, he has helped clients protect their rights in lawsuits throughout the country. After watching a loved one suffer from Alzheimer’s disease, Tim developed a passion for elder law. Tim’s practice now combines his more than twenty years of litigation experience with an in-depth knowledge of estate planning and probate.
Tim devotes his practice to helping families navigate disputes involving estate plans and probate administration. Tim’s trusts and estates litigation practice includes trust and will contests, the removal of fiduciaries, demands for accountings, and contested guardianships. Tim is also frequently appointed by probate judges to represent individuals facing guardianship petitions, and as a court-appointed fiduciary.
Tim also helps families protect their life savings while ensuring access to the health care they need through Medicaid and special needs planning. Tim’s elder law practice also includes helping families develop estate plans to avoid probate and to protect against future challenges to their estate plan.
Tim lives in Chesterfield with his wife, two sons, and two dogs. Outside of the office you can likely find Tim in the stands at a hockey rink or a theater cheering on his sons.
As Founder and Managing Partner at the McFarland Law Group, Tiffany A. McFarland, practices exclusively in the area of domestic relations litigation. Ms. McFarland has extensive experience in handling complex divorces and child custody matters in both Missouri and Kansas while also representing parties in non-contested divorces, legal separations, paternity actions, post-divorce modifications and other litigation, such as changes in spousal maintenance, child support and child custody and preparation and interpretation of prenuptial, post-nuptial and non-traditional partnership agreements. Ms. McFarland's cases often involve the valuation and division of businesses, real estate, and other valuable assets as well as traditional family wealth. Ms. McFarland distinguishes herself in her approach to conflict resolution by utilizing open and respectful communication with clients, opposing counsel and the Court. Ms. McFarland has conducted litigation at all stages of the court process and is uniquely qualified to counsel clients through the court process with her thorough analysis of complex legal issues and her meticulous preparation and organization. Ms. McFarland is committed to serving her clients by preserving assets, reaching a fair and equitable division of marital property, minimizing unnecessary conflict and encouraging the parties to do what is in the best interest of their children.
Ms. McFarland has been named to the Missouri and Kansas Super Lawyers list each year since 2016. Ms. McFarland is an Adjunct Professor at UMKC School of Law teaching Family Law Practice and she is a frequent Continuing Legal Education (CLE) presenter.
Ms. McFarland earned her J.D., from the University of Missouri at Kansas City (UMKC) and her B.A. from the University of Iowa. She is admitted to practice in Missouri, Kansas and Wisconsin.
Lucy McShane is managing partner and founder of McShane & Brady. Lucy focuses her practice on personal injury cases involving car/truck accidents, slip & falls, medical malpractice, HIPAA law, and nursing home abuse. Lucy has been recognized by numerous legal organizations for her leadership and innovation in personal injury law.
Tim Monsees is a shareholder and director with the firm Monsees & Mayer, P.C. He graduated with honors from the University of Missouri-Columbia School of Law in 1981. He is admitted to practice in Missouri, Kansas, Texas, and Colorado. Mr. Monsees restricts his practice to the representation of injured parties in litigation of product liability, particularly cases related to defective firearms and hunting tree stands. Mr. Monsees’ firm has received national recognition for litigation related to injuries from defective sporting equipment and from defective firearms. Mr. Monsees is recognized by Best Lawyers in America, Missouri Super Lawyers, Kansas City Business Journal “Best of the Bar”, and for many years has been recognized by Martindale-Hubbell with an “A/V” rating. In 2021, Tim was recognized by Missouri Lawyer’s Media as an Icon of the Missouri Bar. In 2022, Tim was recognized by the Kansas City Metropolitan Bar Association for lifetime achievement as a “Dean of the Trial Bar.”
Amy Moore is the Director of the Division of Cannabis Regulation, Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services. She joined the program at its inception in December 2018 as Deputy Director and Counsel. Previously, she worked in public utility regulation at the Missouri Public Service Commission. Amy received her Law degree from the University of Missouri.
Martin M. (“Marty”) Meyers tried his first jury trial exactly forty years ago and many trials later, he is still at it. He is board certified in Civil Trial Advocacy by the National Board of Trial Advocacy, holds the rank of Advocate with the American Board of Trial Advocates and is a fellow of the American College of Lawyers. Marty has lectured extensively on topics relating to trial techniques, including the effective use of technology in the courtroom.
Marty’s practice is limited to representing individuals and small businesses harmed by the negligence or wrongful conduct of others, with an emphasis on Employment Discrimination matters.
He is a sustaining member of the Association of Trial Lawyers of America, is a member and past member of the Board of Governors of the Missouri Association of Trial Attorneys, is a member of the National Employment Lawyers Association and its Kansas City affiliate.
Dana Outlaw is a solo practitioner in Blue Springs, MO. Dana has dedicated her practice to family law and represents litigants in all family law matters including dissolution of marriage/divorce, modifications, child custody matters, and appeals. Dana serves as a mediator, Guardian Ad Litem, and Special Master. In addition to practicing law, Dana is an Adjunct Professor at the University of Missouri-Kansas City. Dana has been rated by Super Lawyers as one of the Top 50 Women Lawyers for Missouri and Kansas.
Bryant Parker, JD, LLM (Taxation), LLM (Urban Affairs), SJD, represents clients in all matters of corporate structuring, planned exits, capital infusions, and general corporate law. Bryant’s clients benefit from his extensive real estate law experience, as well as his background in regulatory matters.
Jessica Paxton is the Product Marketing Manager at Smith.ai, which provides 24/7 communication & intake services for businesses by phone, website chat, and text. As Product Marketing Manager, she is responsible for understanding customer requirements and needs, driving go-to-market strategies for new products and enhancements, and ongoing communications with customers and partners. She has 10 years of marketing experience and skills in telecommunications, revenue growth, and product marketing.
John Michael Pipes is an eviction defense attorney at Heartland Center for Jobs and Freedom. He represents tenants through Kansas City's Right to Counsel Program. He graduated from UMKC with his bachelor's degree in political science and history as well as his JD. He interned for United States District Court's Hon. Roseann Ketchmark, a bankruptcy law firm, and the Heartland Center as a 1L intern. A lifelong Missourian, John Michael enjoyed growing up in rural Plattsburg but now makes his home in the heart of Kansas City with his wife, Lucille, son, and two cats.
David W. Ransin, founder of Ransin Injury Law, in Springfield, Missouri, as a trial lawyer since 1982, exclusively represents people and their families in catastrophic injury and death litigation after car, motorcycle, bicycle, pedestrian and tractor trailer crashes including many jury trials, appeals, and the Supreme Court of Missouri.
Sara Rittman was an Assistant Attorney General from 2019-2022. She served on the office's Professional Responsibility Committee as well as serving in leadership roles in the Governmental Affairs and Litigation Divisions. She practiced legal ethics and attorney discipline law from 1993-2019, including private practice, as Missouri's first Legal Ethics Counsel, and at OCDC. She was also previously an AAG from 1981-1993. She received her JD from UMKC in 1981.
Steve Sanders is a trial lawyer from Kansas City whose practice takes him around the country. His primary practice areas are: Insurance Bad Faith, Traumatic Brain Injury, & Trucking Litigation.
Mr. Sanders is a "Multi-Million Dollar Advocate" and a Super Lawyer every year since 2010.
He can be reached at steve@Sanders.Law.
Patricia M. "Tricia" Scaglia is a solo practitioner in Independence primarily practicing in family law. She frequently serves as a guardian ad litem and mediator.
Tricia has served on The Missouri Bar Board of Governors since 2012. She is a past chair of the Family Law Section. Tricia was a recipient of the President's Award in 2016 and was the 2012 recipient of the Roger P. Krumm Family Law Award.
Tricia earned her Juris Doctor from University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Law in 1997.
Sheila Seck, JD, MBA, is a preeminent business lawyer serving established companies and startups throughout all stages of company formation through sale. Her specialties include mergers and acquisitions, capital infusion structuring and sophisticated partnership structuring, including planned exits and leveraged buyouts. An original Women Who Mean Business member, Sheila’s expertise is perennially recognized by her peers, most recently by her seventh consecutive selection as a SuperLawyer for business and corporate matters in 2022.
Fawzy Simon graduated from UMKC Law in 2008 (Go Roos!). He's a five-year vet of the Public Defender, spent five years working for a firm and has been a solo for five years. He's also past-president of MACDL and a member of the Supreme Court's Task Force for Criminal Justice. He and his wife live and work here at the Lake of the Ozarks.
Kelly is married to her husband Todd and is the proud mom of Kyle, 19, Kinley, 12, and Kane, 7. She began working for Jon in 2004 as his legal assistant and paralegal. She graduated from Western Governors University in 2016 with a Bachelor of Science in business management. After gaining years of experience and encouragement from numerous other legal professionals, Kelly obtained her Juris Doctorate from St. Louis University School of Law in 2021 with a concentration in intellectual property law. After passing the Uniform Bar Exam and being sworn into the State of Missouri Bar in September 2021, she became Jon’s partner, and FortmanSpann, LLC was born.
Kelly has fought for others alongside Jon for many years and looks forward to continuing to help more people through the practice of law. She too is an active member in her community and enjoys giving back by volunteering for numerous local organizations. She rarely goes anywhere in Florissant without knowing someone!
Paige and Samantha Sparks are partners of Sparks Law Firm based out of St. Charles, Missouri. They are sisters-in-law, and they are not your average lawyers. Together, Samantha and Paige have represented individuals throughout the country for illegal employment discrimination and retaliation, personal injuries, and consumer protection matters. By using unconventional & cutting-edge marketing on Tik Tok, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube, Paige and Sam have successfully utilized social media to promote their personal brands and firm and create a communities based on educating individuals about the law. Every law firm needs clients, and modern times call for modern solutions to keeping clients coming through the door. As the generic marketing methods continue to become less effective while substantially increasing in cost, a social media presence has become imperative to running a successful firm.
Social media is terrifying. It is new and daunting, and the legal field loves to cling to tradition. If you can push past your fears of being vulnerable to the public to show your advocacy for clients and potential clients, Sam and Paige will teach you how to use your social media as a marketing tool, including:
• How to make short & successful legal content
• How to respond to potential clients
• How to develop a para-social relationship with potential clients
The first step is always the hardest, so let Paige and Sam help – they promise not to make you do a Tik Tok dance!
Samantha Orlowski is a managing partner of Sparks Law Firm. Sam has focused her practice primarily on Plaintiff's personal injury cases and consumer protection since graduating from St. Louis University School of Law.
Along with personal injury, Samantha helps clients who have been the target of improper debt collection activities and harassment at both the State and Federal levels through the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, Fair Credit Reporting Act, and the Telephone Consumer Protection Act.
In addition to law, Sam loves spending her time with her family, her two dogs, and catching up on her favorite shows.
Jason Sprang is a Federal Mediator with the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. With nearly 25 years’ experience at the EEOC, Jason has worked in many areas of EEOC’s administrative process, beginning his tenure as an Enforcement Investigator, Intake Officer, and in 2008 moving to his current role as ADR Mediator also assisting with EEOC Outreach and Education. Jason has mediated thousands of EEOC claims including all manner of employment-related disputes that arise in connection with discrimination charges. The majority of Jason’s mediation docket involves early resolution of claims made in the St. Louis District encompassing Missouri, Kansas, Nebraska, Oklahoma, and southern Illinois.
Founder of Stanley Law, LLC., Jesi Stanley has spent over a decade protecting the rights of tenants. Jesi has achieved significant victories for her clients, both inside and outside of the courtroom. Jesi is a skilled and experienced trial attorney who will both defend tenants from improper claims against them and also seek damages against those who cause them harm. Jesi’s dedication to tenant defense and consumer protection forms the heart and soul of Stanley Law. Jesi’s expertise and extensive trial experience set her apart from other attorneys, along with her determination to advocate passionately and persistently for each and every client. Jesi believes that fighting for tenants with tenacity, honesty and courage can bring integrity to our communities, restore justice to our court system, and combat unfairness suffered by so many. Jesi fights passionately for every client through skillful, bold, compassionate advocacy.
Prior to joining Edelman & Thompson, Chad served as an attorney in the civil litigation unit for the City of Kansas City, Missouri’s Legal Department for over ten years. During his time with the City, Chad gained invaluable experience litigating personal injury, motor vehicle collision, wrongful death, workers’ compensation, and premises liability cases. He has practiced in both state and federal courts, the Missouri Court of Appeals, and the United States Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit. Chad obtained his B.S.E. in English from Missouri State University in 1997 and his law degree from the University of Missouri – Kansas City School of Law in 2002. Chad lives in Kansas City, Missouri with his wife, Heather, and their three dogs: Balto, Sophie, and Rocky.
Christian A. Stiegemeyer is the Director of Risk Management for The Bar Plan Mutual Insurance Company where he helps lawyers arrive at practical solutions to a wide variety of ethical and legal malpractice issues. He received his J.D. from Saint Louis University School of Law.
L. Michaelle Tobin is Clinical Professor of Law and Director of the University of Missouri Kansas City Law School's award-winning trial advocacy program. She received her B.A. and her J.D. from the University of Missouri – Columbia, where she was awarded the National Moot Court Prize and the Allen H. Parke Award for Excellence in Trial Advocacy.
Prior to joining the faculty, Professor Tobin was a practicing attorney with nine years at the Missouri State Public Defender’s Office and seven years in private practice. During her career, she has first chaired many jury trials ranging from misdemeanors to murders. She is a graduate of the Trial Lawyers College.
As a lawyer at Langdon & Emison, John devotes his practice to helping people who have been catastrophically injured or have lost loved ones in accidents involving defective products; trucking accidents; premises liability; and other instances of negligence. John’s depth of experience allows him to play a key role in all phases of litigation from case initiation to resolution. In addition, John has experience in assisting consumers who have been deceived and lied to by corporations.
Prior to joining Langdon & Emison, John was a shareholder at a Kansas City, Mo., large law firm where he first- and second-chaired jury trials and bench trials in U.S. District Courts and other state courts. During that time, John also drafted appellate briefs and writs and argued to the Missouri appellate courts.
John is a licensed member of the Missouri and Kansas bar. Prior to becoming a litigator, John was a law clerk for the Missouri Court of Appeals, Southern District.
John is a 2006 graduate of The University of Iowa College of Law where he graduated with distinction. In 2003, he graduated magna cum Laude from the University of Notre Dame with a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration.
Throughout his legal career Justin has obtained substantial results for his clients. At Langdon & Emison he represents clients in a wide array of personal injury litigation, including cases involving auto product defects, wrongful death, and dangerous consumer products.
Brent built his law practice focusing exclusively on helping individuals and businesses in financial distress. He has helped thousands of clients overcome mountains of debt and regularly counsels clients facing foreclosure, garnishment & collection cases. He also assists consumers and businesses with asset protection planning to ensure the things they value most are safe. Brent attended the University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Law and interned with the Chief Bankruptcy Justice in the Western District of Missouri. He was a partner with the firm Wagoner Maxcy Westbrook, PC, the largest bankruptcy firm in Kansas City at that time. He has since moved to the St. Louis area to be closer to family and formed Westbrook Law Group LLC. Brent resides in Troy, Missouri with his wife and daughter and has offices in St. Charles, Troy and Columbia.
J.C. Weyand is the longtime State's Attorney & Chief Juvenile Officer for the 10th Judicial Circuit, handling all child abuse / neglect and juvenile cases for Marion, Ralls, and Monroe Counties. Weyand is also Professor at Hannibal-LaGrange University. He has been a featured presenter at MOSOLO every year since 2019.
Catherine has been with the Missouri Office of State Courts Administrator since 1998 as legal counsel. Her duties have included several diverse areas such as staff for Missouri State Judicial Records Committee, Missouri Court Automation Committee, Family Court Committee, and other Supreme Court committees, working on electronic filing design and rules, reviewing contracts, advising on employment issues, reviewing and tracking legislation and legal research.
Prior to coming to OSCA, Catherine was an administrative hearing officer at DOR for DWI hearing and was a litigation attorney for the Dept. of Social Services. She worked for Legal Services of Eastern Missouri during and after law school.
Catherine received her bachelor’s degree in Economics from the University of Missouri, Columbia in 1989 and her J.D. from St. Louis University in 1993.
Wednesday, June 7
Conference registration | 3-6 p.m.
Thursday, June 8
Conference registration | 7:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
Coffee shop | 8-10 a.m.
Pre-conference program: The Bar Plan risk management program: The ethics and malpractice risk of “zealous representation”
8-9:50 a.m. | $75 additional registration
Exhibit Hall open | 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
Breakout session 1 | 10-10:50 a.m.
Network with exhibitors | 10:50-11:15 a.m.
Breakout session 2 | 11:15 a.m.-12:05 p.m.
Lunch | 12:05-1:05 p.m.
Lunch and learn program | 12:15-1:05 p.m.
Plenary | 1:15-2:15 p.m.
Breakout session 3 | 2:25-3:15 p.m.
Network with exhibitors | 3:15-3:40 p.m.
Breakout session 4 | 3:40-4:30 p.m.
Sponsor/exhibitor reception | 4:30-5:30 p.m.
Friends of Bill W | 4:30-5:30 p.m.
Boathouse bash dinner | 5:30-7:30 p.m.
Bowling (4 lanes for attendees and their guests to enjoy at no charge) | 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Arcade (all games open for attendees and their guests at no charge) | 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Night cap reception sponsored by Bartimus Frickleton Robertson Rader, PC | 8:30 p.m.
Friday, June 9
Conference registration | 7 a.m.-5 p.m.
Exhibit Hall open | 7 a.m.-4 p.m.
Breakfast | 7-8:30 a.m.
Network with exhibitors | 7:30-8:30 a.m.
CLE@Sunrise programs | 7-8:10 a.m.
Network with exhibitors | 8:10-8:30 a.m.
Breakout session 5 | 8:30-9:40 a.m.
Network with exhibitors | 9:40-10:20 a.m.
Breakout session 6 | 10:20-11:30 a.m.
Lunch | 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Breakout session 7 | 12:40-1:50 p.m.
Breakout session 8 | 2-3:10 p.m.
Network with exhibitors | 3:10-3:50 p.m.
Breakout session 9 | 3:50-5 p.m.
Law student program meet & greet | 5:10-6 p.m.
Sponsor/exhibitor reception | 6-7 p.m.
Friends of Bill W | 6-7 p.m.
Dinner and Big Game Show | 7-9 p.m.
Saturday, June 10
Conference registration | 7-11 a.m.
Breakfast | 7-8:10 a.m.
Breakout session 10 | 8:15-9:25 a.m.
Breakout session 11 | 9:35-10:45 a.m.
Closing plenary | 11 a.m.-noon
Schedule as of 5/17/23
Standard Pass
Early: $320* | Regular: $370
Recording add-on for in-person participants: $60
Virtual Pass
Early: $320* | Regular: $370
Law Student/Paralegal/Legal Aid Attorney or Paralegal/State Public Defender/Prosecutor/MO Protection & Advocacy Services
In-person Pass | $250
Law Student/Paralegal/Legal Aid Attorney or Paralegal/State Public Defender/Prosecutor/MO Protection & Advocacy Services
Virtual Pass | $250
* Early rates end 5/9/23
2023 Sponsors and Exhibitors
EXCLUSIVE PREMIER
PLATINUM SPONSORS
GOLD SPONSORS
SILVER SPONSORS
BRONZE SPONSORS
EXHIBITORS
Above the Bar Marketing, LLC
American Cancer Society
ARAG
Bar Association of Metropolitan St. Louis
Bob Sutton Real Estate and Loans
Civille
Clear Numbers Bookkeeping
Convert It Marketing
Fastcase
HiveMind Legal Tech
Jeffrey J Bunten LLC
Kaestner & Berry
Kliethermes Research
LammTech
Law Quill
Legal Aid of Western Missouri
Lexitas
LifeSafer Ignition Interlock
Missouri Chapter National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (MoNAELA)
Missouri Lawyers' Assistance Program
Missouri State Public Defender
Mutual of Omaha Advisors
Nifty Marketing
Oppenheimer & Co. Inc.
Precise Legal
Regions Private Wealth Management
Ruby
Smith.ai
Tabs3 Software
Interested in sponsoring or exhibiting at MOSOLO or another upcoming Missouri Bar event? Visit MoBar.Org/Partner for media kits and registration information.
Margaritaville Lake Resort
494 Tan Tar A Drive | Osage Beach, MO
Resort & Estate Complex Rates
Guest Room $142
1 Bedroom Suite $239
2 Bedroom Suite $377
Rates are per night, plus tax.
Resort Complex guest rooms and suites are in interconnected buildings within walking distance of meeting rooms, resort dining and recreation.
Estates Complex guest rooms and suites are approximately 10 minutes away from the Resort Complex; a free shuttle is available.
Click on the following link to reserve your sleeping room with the code MBAR: https://irm.margaritavilleresortlakeoftheozarks.com/irmng/index.html?g=MBAR.
Or by calling 1-800-826-8272 and providing the agent with group code MBAR or mentioning that you are attending the Solo and Small Firm Conference.
Conference lodging rates end May 9, 2023, or when the block is filled, whichever occurs first.
Group rate is available two days before and after the conference dates, subject to availability.
Additional meal ticket pricing:
All meals for children 5 and under are free.
Thursday dinner ticket - child 6-12 years - $15.00
Thursday dinner ticket - adult 13 and over - $30.00
Friday breakfast ticket - child 6-12 years - $15.00
Friday breakfast ticket - adult 13 and over - $30.00
Friday dinner ticket - child 6-12 years - $15.00
Friday dinner ticket - adult 13 and over - $30.00
Saturday breakfast ticket - child 6-12 years - $15.00
Saturday breakfast ticket - adult 13 and over - $30.00
If you would like to purchase additional meal tickets at a later date once you have completed the registration process, login to your MoBarCLE account, locate the 2023 MOSOLO Small Firm Conference, and click on the blue "Buy the Add-On" button.
If any of your additional meal tickets require dietary restrictions, please contact us at mobarcle@mobar.org.
Thank you to our generous scholarship sponsors!
Application deadline | April 21, 2023
Recipient notification | May 5, 2023
***Unless otherwise noted
MoBarCLE | MoBar Practice Management Scholarships
o Solo or small firm practitioner.
o Open to new and past attendees.
o Applicants must demonstrate financial need
Application: MoBarCLE | MoBar Scholarships
AWLF Scholarship
Provided by The Association for Women Lawyers of Greater Kansas City Foundation
Application & details: AWLF Scholarship
Deadline: 45 days before the date of the first day of the event
MoBarCLE Financial Hardship Assistance
Limited funds are available through the MoBarCLE Programs Department for those in need of financial assistance to attend the MOSOLO Small Firm Conference. If you are not able to attend without a registration fee waiver or a reduced registration fee, you may submit a completed application.
MoBarCLE Financial Hardship Application
Deadline: April 21, 2023
Clay County Bar Foundation Scholarship
Provided through the Clay County Bar Foundation
o Applicant must practice in the Kansas City area
Submit application letters to:
Douglass F. Noland
Noland Law Firm, LLC
34 Westwoods Drive
Liberty, Missouri 64068
816-781-5055 | fax 816-781-5216
Email: doug@nolandlawfirm.com
Bob Sigoloff Memorial Scholarship
Covers a Standard Pass for the 2023 MOSOLO Small Firm Conference and two nights of lodging at Margaritaville Lake Resort.
Applicant requirements:
2023 MOSOLO Small Firm Conference Registration Cancellation & Refund Policy
The Missouri Bar takes the safety and well-being of its members, the public, and its employees very seriously. We will continue to monitor the coronavirus and its variants, adapting our services and events as appropriate, based on the advice of governments, public health authorities, and medical professionals.
• We will inform you of any changes that affect you, especially when it comes to in-person events. This includes any cancellation notices or changes to venue, format, or safety guidelines.
• Whenever possible, any notices will be announced at least three days in advance of an event.
• We encourage all attendees of Missouri Bar events to be aware of and follow CDC guidelines for large gatherings.
• Help us keep everyone in attendance safe by not attending an event if, within the 10 days prior to the event:
♦ You have tested positive for COVID-19;
♦ You have experienced any symptoms of COVID-19; or
♦ You have been in close contact with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19.
• Be respectful of the personal comfort level of other attendees when it comes to physical distancing, including shaking hands or other gestures common in networking environments.
By registering for and attending a Missouri Bar event, you agree to take necessary measures, including departing the event, and to notify The Missouri Bar at COVID-Advise@mobar.org if you test positive for COVID-19 or begin to experience symptoms of COVID-19. Furthermore, you agree to notify The Missouri Bar at COVID-Advise@mobar.org if you test positive for COVID-19 within 10 days after the event.
Please also be advised that, pursuant to RSMo. 537.1005, effective Aug. 28, 2021, “under Missouri law, any individual entering the premises or engaging the services of the business waives all civil liability against the individual or entity for any damages based on inherent risks associated with an exposure or potential exposure to COVID-19, except for recklessness or willful misconduct.”
Please contact The Missouri Bar with any questions or concerns.
Thursday, June 8
8-9:50 a.m. | Pre-conference program
The Bar Plan risk management program: The ethics and malpractice risk of “zealous representation” | Parasol II
$75 additional registration
10-10:50 a.m. | Breakout session 1
Creating policies, procedures, and systems for scaling up your law firm business | Paradise A
Scaling up a law firm is a difficult task. In this session, Kimberly Benjamin will discuss how to establish policies, procedures, and systems so you can spend more time doing what you do best: practicing law. Afterall, a successful practice where you don't have to focus on all of the non-lawyer stuff is one of the greatest ways to avoid burnout.
Speaker: Kimberly Benjamin, Benjamin Law Firm, Belton
CANCELLED - Advanced GAL: What you need to know from start to finish | Parasol II
This program will dive into advocating for children throughout the litigating and how to do a thorough, comprehensive investigation.
Speaker: Dana M. Outlaw, Dana Outlaw Law Firm, Blue Springs
Special public defenders: Why your private practice should include joining our team! | Paradise B
Missouri State Public Defender (MSPD) Director Mary Fox and Case Contracting Manager Maggie Johnston will describe in detail and answer questions about the MSPD Case Contracting program, which contracts with private attorneys to act as Special Public Defenders, providing criminal defense representation to indigent defendants all over the state. MSPD pays a retainer fee for each assignment, litigation expenses, and travel reimbursement.
Speakers: Mary D. Fox, Office of the Public Defender, Columbia and Margaret "Maggie" M. Johnston, Missouri State Public Defender, Columbia
Noncompete and trade secret law update | Paradise C
Get an update on recent legal developments concerning the enforceablity of noncompete, nonsolicitation, and nondisclousure agreements under various state and federal laws.
Speaker: Sheila L. Seck, Seck & Associates LLC, Overland Park
Basic trademark and copyright law for the business attorney | Nautical Wheeler
This program is designed to provide attorneys with trademark and copyright law basics so that they can better understand how to spot potential issues, how trademarks and copyrights can be used as both a shield for and a sword against their clients, and how to protect themselves from malpractice. Every business lawyer needs to have a basic understanding of trademarks and copyrights since every business has a trademark and because businesses have web sites they do have copyright issues. By knowing the basics of trademark and copyright law, a business lawyer is able to be able to spot trademark and copyright issues and can advise their client.
Speakers: Annette P. Heller, TM Law & Associates, Chesterfield and Kelly Spann, FortmanSpann LLC, Florissant
11:15 a.m.-12:05 p.m. | Breakout session 2
Starting a practice bootcamp: Setting up a solo or small firm practice | Nautical Wheeler
Launching a firm is an exciting opportunity. This presentation explores key start-up considerations for a successful launch.
Speaker: Morry S. Cole, Gray, Ritter & Graham PC, St. Louis
Advanced GAL: Advocating for children | Parasol II
This program will dive into advocating for children throughout the litigation and how to do a thorough, comprehensive investigation.
Speaker: Dana M. Outlaw, Dana Outlaw Law Firm, Blue Springs
Ethical considerations in working with and around deceased and incapacitated clients and their families | Paradise C
Discussing your ethical obligations when dealing with diminished capacity, disabled, and deceased clients, in this session, Timothy McCurdy will cover:
- the duty to treat diminished capacity clients as normally as possible;
- what to do when a client becomes incapacitated; and
- your obligations to maintain the attorney-client privilege when a client dies.
This program covers the technical and practical ethics issues facing practitioners in most estate planning, probate, and trust and estate administration engagement. Related cases and professional rules of conduct will be highlighted and analyzed.
Speaker: Timothy F. McCurdy, Mitchell, Brown & Associates LLC, St. Louis
Electronic document security and digital signatures | Paradise B
Lawyers frequently exchange Word, WordPerfect and PDF files with other lawyers via email and other document sharing methods. In this seminar, we’ll explain how to protect your electronic files from being altered when that is appropriate; and the best methods for indicating your proposed changes or soliciting someone else’s proposed changes to an electronic file. We’ll also discuss when Word files are preferable to PDFs and vice-versa. Finally, digital signature platforms like DocuSign, RightSignature or Adobe Sign have arguably become essential tools for a modern law practice. We’ll explain the benefits of these inexpensive and easy-to-use platforms; and demonstrate (live) how digital signature services can be used by you to sign documents or obtain signatures from others while never seeing each other face-to-face.
Speaker: Barron K. Henley, Affinity Consulting Group, Columbus, OH
CDLs and traffic violations | Paradise A
A basic traffic ticket may cause your CDL holder big problems if it is not handled right. The FMCSA sets forth a point system for CDL holders and prevents the masking of violations. Learn what masking is and how to get the best outcome for your CDL client.
Speaker: Kendra J. Lane, Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services, Jefferson City
12:15-1:05 p.m. | Lunch and learn program
The Bar Plan Sponsor Program | How to decide whether to invest clients funds or leave in cash | Paradise A
This program will discuss financial issues surrounding conservatorships, including how probate bonds are underwritten and how attorneys can reduce their liability while deciding whether to invest client’s funds or leave in cash.
Speakers: Kimberly Edgar, The Bar Plan Surety and Fidelity Company, St. Louis and Peter Palumbo, The Palumbo Group of Oppenheimer & Co. Inc., St. Louis
Ransin Injury Law Sponsor Program | Ten office efficiency tips regardless of your type of practice | Paradise C
Whether you specialize in only one area of the law or are a Jack/Jill of all trades, every office has common aspects which require special attention for improvement to boost effectiveness and efficiency. These tips will increase your productivity and reduce your stress while making clients happy.
Speaker: David W. Ransin, Ransin Injury Law, Springfield
1:15-2:15 p.m. | Opening plenary
How to address your technical and cybersecurity obligations under the Rules of Professional Conduct | Paradise A, B, C
Missouri Rule 4-1.1 Comment 6 states that in order to maintain competence, a lawyer must keep abreast of “changes in the law and its practice, including the benefits and risks associated with relevant technology.” Further, Rule 4-1.6 stipulates that a lawyer must make reasonable efforts to prevent the disclosure of confidential client information. The comments to Rule 4-1.6 require lawyers to act competently to safeguard client information, and take reasonable precautions when transmitting a client communication. Back when all client data was analog and paper-based, it was pretty easy to protect it in a locked filing cabinet. Now that all of that information is digital, accessible from multiple devices, and often stored on the web, it is much harder to protect. However, the good news is that you don't have to be a security expert or techie to defend yourself and your office from cyber criminals. Half of the battle is simply knowing what questions to ask, and being aware of the inexpensive, off-the-shelf solutions that are out there for you. Learn how to establish best practices in your office, and discover the inexpensive or free tools that will ensure your confidential information remains confidential.
Speaker: Barron K. Henley, Affinity Consulting Group, Columbus, OH
2:25-3:15 p.m. | Breakout session 3
Starting a practice bootcamp: Getting clients | Nautical Wheeler
How do you attract clients? How do you keep them? How do you do it without running afoul of the ethics rules? These questions and their answers are explored in this boot camp seminar.
Speakers: Sara G. Rittman, Jefferson City and Fawzy T. Simon, Law Office of Fawzy Simon, Camdenton
Advanced GAL: Teens and GALs - how to navigate teens’ wishes v. their best interests | Parasol II
The goal of CLE is to help GALs navigate the murky waters of a situation when a child's wishes are contradictory to their best interests, and to provide clarity on who you, the GAL, represent, as well how to comply with the guardian ad litem standards in these tough situations.
Speaker: J.C. Weyand, 10th Circuit Juvenile Office, Hannibal
Right writ/right time: When and how to use writ proceedings in Missouri courts | Paradise A
Do you have a case without an adequate remedy at law? A writ may be your client’s best hope. With over thirty years of experience James Layton will help you navigate the complex landscape of exceptional writs.
Speaker: James R. Layton, Tueth Keeney Cooper Mohan Jackstadt PC, Clayton
Document automation: How to determine if this highly evolved technology would benefit your practice | Paradise B
Drafting is a bottleneck and pressure point in almost every law office. Most lawyers draft new documents by finding old documents and modifying them to work for the next case or client. Frankly, this approach has a high margin of error, it’s slow, and there are superior, alternative methods. In this seminar, you’ll learn how to find and consolidate the best of your firm’s intellectual capital in a way that increases drafting speed and accuracy. The speaker will lay out the roadmap for professional template-building; and show you the spectrum of automation tools from the amazing things your word processor is already capable of to document assembly applications. For document-intensive and transactional areas of practice, improved drafting methods directly impact the bottom line and improve client satisfaction. Prepare to be amazed at the possibilities.
Speaker: Barron K. Henley, Affinity Consulting Group, Columbus, OH
Mediation dos, don'ts and common missteps | Paradise C
How do you prepare for a successful mediation? What are the proposed ADR rule changes? Come ask these questions and more as this esteemed panel provides the answers.
Speakers: Tammy L. Horn, Tammy Horn Mediation and Litigation Services, Kansas City; Jack T. Bangert, Kutak Rock LLP, Kansas City; Walter "Walley" H. Bley, Jr., Bley & Evans LC, Columbia; Prof. Paul Ladehoff, University of Missouri-Columbia School of Law, Columbia; Jason Sprang, ADR Mediator, U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, St. Louis
Moderator: Heather J. Hardinger, The Meyers Law Firm, Kansas City
3:40-4:30 p.m. | Breakout session 4
Starting a practice bootcamp: Keeping clients | Nautical Wheeler
Once you gain a client, what can you do to keep them? There are many ways to connect with clients through email marketing, social media networking, and consistent communication. Learn how to continue the conversation and connection with your clients to ensure that they become loyal to your law firm.
Speaker: Annette N. Choti, Law Quill, Lee's Summit
Advanced GAL: Family law practice update | Parasol II
The program is a legislative and case law update of family law in the last year.
Speaker: Patricia M.Scaglia, Scaglia Law Firm LLC, Independence
2023's Best legal tech tips, tricks, services, gadgets and websites | Paradise B
The best of legal technology, practice management, electronics, services and incredibly useful websites for lawyers. This rapid-fire hour is full of great ideas you can immediately incorporate into your practice. We’ll cover artificial intelligence legal document editing software, tips for improving your web-meeting game, digital signature platforms (demonstrated), cybersecurity tips and services, home office equipment recommendations, and many other practice management tips, tricks and technologies.
Speaker: Barron K. Henley, Affinity Consulting Group, Columbus, OH
Supreme Court update | Paradise C
Curious about what the court has concluded? In this session, Fredrick Ludwig will discuss significant Missouri Supreme Court decisions from June 22, 2022 until now.
Speaker: Fredrick J. Ludwig, Ludwig Law Firm LLC, St. Louis
Friday, June 9
7-8:10 a.m. | CLE@Sunrise programs | Paradise C
Multi-district litigation | Speaker: Maureen M. Brady, McShane & Brady, LLC, Kansas City
Resolving a client’s Missouri Workers’ Compensation claim: Best practices to protect your client’s other potential employment claims | Speaker: Heather J. Hardinger, The Meyers Law Firm, Kansas City
"Storytelling" | Speaker: Martin Meyers, The Meyers Law Firm, Kansas City
Lessons from a recent trial | Speaker: Brennan B. Delaney, Langdon and Emison, Lexington
Form 14 for Dummies | Speakers: Nicole M. Fisher, Fisher Law LLC, Kansas City; Matthew T. McLaughlin, Fisher Law LLC, Kansas City
8:30-9:40 a.m. | Breakout session 5
Starting a practice bootcamp: Charging, collecting and managing money | Nautical Wheeler
You can make money, but, do you know how to keep it? How big is your "warchest"? How do you build a warchest that will keep you safe through a financial crisis? The class will teach you the secrets of millionaire money management.
Speaker: Stephen G. Sanders, Sanders.Law, Kansas City
Foundations required to get evidence admitted (realizing this is during a trial and not before or after) | Paradise A
Learn how to get evidence admitted in the heat of trial.
Speaker: Martin M. Meyers, The Meyers Law Firm LC, Kansas City
Identifying and litigating a breach of fiduciary duty case | Paradise B
What should you look for when approached by an heir or a beneficiary claiming there are problems or issues in the handling of a probate estate or trust? Is there a case? This presentation will provide a summary of the types of claims available in a lawsuit against an executor or trustee for the breach of the fiduciary duties; the types of experts that you may need; and the damages that may be available in the lawsuit.
Speakers: J. Kent Emison, Langdon and Emison, Lexington and John M. Tyner, Langdon and Emison, Lexington
Tik Tok! Don't be late to social media marketing | Paradise C
Social media is where your next client might be. In this session, Samantha Sparks will discuss how you can share legal information on social media as a marketing tool.
Speakers: Paige M. Sparks, Sparks Law Firm, St. Charles; Samantha J. Sparks, Sparks Law Firm, St. Charles
Mechanic liens | Parasol II
Mechanic liens are an important safeguard that you can use to help clients get paid. In this session, learn what mechanic liens are, who can file them, and why they may want to.
Speaker: Stephen O.Griffin, Troppito Miller Griffin LLC, Kansas City
10:20-11:30 a.m. | Breakout session 6
Administrative law for private practitioners | Paradise C
With an emphasis on of licensing, procurement, and DWI, Administrative Law for Private Practitioners provides an overview of the practice of Administrative Law before the State's Departments and other agencies, the Administrative Hearing Commission, and the appeals or non-contested case filings in the Circuit Courts.
Speakers: Reilly S. Beeman, Attorney at Law, Columbia; Craig H. Jacobs, Missouri Department of Revenue, Jefferson City
Cannabis law: Recreational and medical rules | Paradise A
While Missouri has legalized recreational marijuana many Federal laws remain the same. In this session, Jennifer Johnson and Amy Moore discuss the laws that have and have not changed.
Speakers: Jennifer R. Johnson, Fagan & Emert LLC, Lawrence, KS and Amy E. Moore, Missouri Department of Health & Senior Services, Jefferson City
Re-training our brains: A fresh approach to diversity and inclusion | Paradise B
True diversity and inclusion means taking our brains off autopilot and actively working to see our world through fresh eyes. We will be re-thinking our approach in several key areas:
- Gender
- Ethnicity
- Neurodiversity
Join us for an up-beat, fast-paced discussion which will leave you feeling invigorated and ready to enjoy a fresh perspective.
Speaker: James N. Fendelman, Fendelman, Paull & Associates LLC, St. Louis
HIPAA: Procedures and covered entities | Nautical Wheeler
While we have all heard of HIPPA many are unfamiliar with the basics. In this session Maureen Brady will cover what HIPPA is, who is covered under it, and common misconceptions that people have.
Speakers: Maureen M. Brady, McShane & Brady LLC, Kansas City; Lucy McShane, McShane & Brady LLC, Kansas City
Which chapter to file and why | Parasol II
Brent Westbrook discusses the various chapters of bankruptcy relief available, which chapters are appropriate, and when in this seminar. Adiitionally considerations when choosing a chapter to file and the benefits of each chapter. Finally he will also briefly touch on recent changes in the process of discharging student loan obligations in bankruptcy.
Speaker: Brent S. Westbrook, Westbrook Law Group LLC, St. Charles
12:40-1:50 p.m. | Breakout session 7
Efficiently working small injury cases like an expert . . . even when you aren't | Paradise C
Tackling an occasional small injury contingency fee case while keeping the rest of your practice running and clients happy can be a disaster without the right tools. After decades of experience David Ransin shares guidance to avoid the stress and financial burden of learning these things the hard way!
Speaker: David W. Ransin, Ransin Injury Law, Springfield
Intro to standardized field sobriety testing | Paradise A
An expert in her field, Denise Childress demystifies the facts and fictions surrounding field sobriety tests. Prepare for your new DWI client by learning exactly what we can and cannot conclude from the information gathered from an officer in the field.
Speaker: Denise L. Childress, Childress Legal LLC, Chesterfield
Representing tenants in eviction court: Defenses and counterclaims | Nautical Wheeler
Tenants being represented by an attorney in eviction proceedings is a recent development in the state of Missouri. This program will provide the foundations of affirmative defenses and counterclaims available to tenants in eviction court and how associate circuit courts approach filings by defendants.
Speaker: John M. Pipes, Heartland Center for Jobs and Freedom, Kansas City
Malpractice missteps: Exploring common missteps lawyers make | Paradise B
This program will identify common malpractice missteps lawyers make and discuss practical ways each misstep can be avoided. Participants will learn how problems can arise from a variety of file documentation missteps, where conflict of interest traps lie, and why redundant calendaring systems can lead to a false sense of security just for starters.
Speaker: Mark Bassingthwaighte, ALPS Legal Malpractice Insurance, St. Cloud, FL
Contested custody in a dissolution of marriage through each phase of litigation | Parasol II
I'm getting divorced and I want FULL CUSTODY!!! Not so fast ... how to analyze contested custody cases in a dissolution of marriage through the consult, discovery, Guardian ad Litem, mediation, settlement and trial to obtain a realistic and favorable result for your client.
Speakers: Nicole M. Fisher, Fisher Law LLC, Kansas City and Lindsay E. Mathews, LM Family Law LLC, Kansas City
2-3:10 p.m. Breakout session 8
How to be a Lincoln lawyer in juvenile court: Trial advocacy 101 | Parasol II
This program will give attorneys a foundation of how a bench trial in juvenile court operates. Attendees will learn the building blocks of trial advocacy, taking a very basic approach, including a simple approach to evidence and objections. By the conclusion of the presentation, attendees will have an understanding of how to draft direct and cross examination questions, be able to appropriately impeach a witness, and learn persuasive techniques for trial strategy. Attendees will also have access to various statutes and case law pertinent to trial advocacy and juvenile cases.
Speaker: Jennipher M.C. Hawkins, Jackson County Juvenile Office, Kansas City
Movie courtroom scenes: Did they get it right? | Paradise A
An entertaining review of famous courtroom dramas and comedies. Let’s critique the techniques, strategies, and ethics of the stars. Did they get it right or wrong?
Speaker: Timothy W. Monsees, Monsees & Mayer PC, Kansas City
Navigating the maze of retirement benefits | Nautical Wheeler
As our population ages attorneys in almost any practice area need a general understanding of retirement benefits. This program will provide an overview of private and public retirement benefits, including the following:
- The distinctions between defined benefit and defined contribution plans;
- Section 403(b) and 457 plans for school, non-profit, and state and local government employees;
- IRA's;
- VA benefits;
- Federal Government employee benefits; and
- Social Security benefits.
Speaker: Timothy F. McCurdy, Mitchell, Brown & Associates LLC, St. Louis
Remote public access: Your questions answered | Paradise B
This follow up course to “Expanded remote public access to court records and redaction requirements” is designed to make sure all your questions are answered. The honorable judges Lynch and Bates are joined by Melinda Bentley in this panel that will answer audience questions related to this change. To be prepared for this, please be sure to watch the free webinar before attending.
Speakers: Hon. Jeffrey W. Bates, Missouri Court of Appeals-Southern District, Springfield; Melinda J. Bentley, Legal Ethics Counsel, Jefferson City; David W. Ransin, Ransin Injury Law, Springfield; and Catherine N. Zacharias, Office of State Courts Administrator, Jefferson City
Preparing for trial as a solo attorney: Elements of proof, message, and organizing your case | Paradise C
This presentation was created at the request of lawyers who don't go to the Courthouse often, and want guidance on how to prepare. We start out with the "business side" of trial, to ensure that lawyer and client are both prepared for the task and potential outcomes, and then delve into trial themes, elements of proof, and pre-drafting your proposed judgment to help organize your thoughts and presentation. We will show you simple evidentiary presentation strategies, and the forms to use during trial to keep track of exhibits, and checklists for proof.
Speaker: Claude E. Ducloux, LawPay, Austin, TX
3:50-5 p.m. | Breakout session 9
Sustainable growth for small law firms: How to generate, screen, and intake clients with affordable software and services | Paradise C
From front-desk reception and client intake, to scheduling and payment collection, this program will touch on core business functions that are best handed off to capable, technology-driven solutions.
Speaker: Jessica Paxton, Smith.ai, Palo Alto, CA
Update from the Missouri Legal Ethics Counsel: June 2023 edition | Paradise B
The Missouri Legal Ethics Counsel will provide an update including a discussion on recent changes to the Rules of Professional Conduct, opinions in disciplinary cases, recently published Informal Advisory Opinions, and changes effective January 1, 2023, to Rule 5 – Complaints and Proceedings Thereon relevant to the Office of Legal Ethics Counsel.
Speaker: Melinda J. Bentley, Legal Ethics Counsel, Jefferson City
Civil appeals: Common roadblocks and pitfalls to reversal | Nautical Wheeler
In this program, you will learn how to ensure that the merits of your client's civil appeal is reached by discussing and explaining procedural defects that may prevent appellate review of adverse rulings, and common mistakes made by practitioners in perfecting and prosecuting civil appeals that could result in dismissal.
Speaker: Derek A. Ankrom, Spencer Fane LLP, Springfield
A higher bar: How to exceed client expectations in a virtual world | Parasol II
In an increasingly digital world, it is important to understand and prepare for changing client expectations. In this presentation, Steffney will be providing tips and spotlighting trends for lawyers growing their practice; sharing information on how law practices can focus on client experience and utilizing digital technologies to set themselves up for success.
Speaker: Steffney Jones, Ruby
Saturday, June 10
8:15-9:25 a.m. | Breakout session 10
How processes in your law firm can help you avoid a bar complaint and make more money | Paradise A
This course will cover how to maximize processes in a law firm so that attorneys can ensure they are in constant communication with clients and remain top of mind by leveraging their practice management system and identifying key operating procedures in their firm.
Speakers: Courtney M. English, Upscale Law LLC, Chesterfield; Michael English, Charted Consulting
Working all angles: Finding additional avenues of recovery in your workers' compensation cases | Nautical Wheeler
When a person is injured on the job, workers compensation benefits may not be enough to make the person whole. This program will provide your practice with the tools necessary to identify when there are potential claims available against other parties that may provide a greater recovery to your clients.
Speaker: Justin R. Watkins, Langdon and Emison, North Kansas City
So you want to sue the city: Sovereign and official immunity | Parasol II
This course will cover the ins and outs of bringing a personal injury claim against cities and municipalities and how to overcome the hurdles of sovereign immunity, official immunity, and the notice provisions set forth in MO law.
Speaker: Chad A. Stewart, Edelman & Thompson LLC, Kansas City
Protecting yourself and the client: Best practices for documenting the client relationship and the ethics of retaining client files | Paradise B
This program will provide practical guidance to lawyers about:
• The ethics of forming the lawyer-client relationship (including documenting the scope of representation, having clear communication practices, and explaining fees)
• The ethics of holding the client file
• The ethics of planning ahead (including diligence, succession planning, and trustees)
• The ethics of trust account records (an overview)
Speakers: Melinda J. Bentley, Legal Ethics Counsel, Jefferson City and Keith A. Cutler, James W. Tippin & Associates, Kansas City
Hot topics in landlord-tenant law | Paradise C
After two years of moritoriums, evictions are up so prepare yourself by learning about recent developments in this area of law.
Speakers: Julie A. Anderson, The Law Offices Anderson & Associates, Kansas City; Brian D. Larios, UMKC Law School Tenant Assistance Initiative, Kansas City
9:35-10:45 a.m. | Breakout session 11
The business of running a law practice | Paradise A
This program will discuss the details of owning and operating a law firm. It will discuss topics such as managing a staff, marketing, information technology, financial commitments and other day to day operations of a law firm.
Speakers: Amanda B. Kivett, The Kivett Law Firm LLC, Kansas City; Tiffany A. McFarland, McDowell, Rice, Smith & Buchanan PC, Kansas City; Desarae G. Harrah, Harrah Law LLC, Kansas City; Lucy McShane, McShane & Brady LLC, Kansas City
Professionalism and civility in your practice | Parasol II
In a profession where advocacy and argument are daily necessities sometimes we forget to maintain professionalism and perspective. It is important to act with integrity, even when others choose to act differently. Come discuss with us how to maintain professional relationships while advocating for your client.
Speakers: Athena M. Dickson, Kansas City; Matthew L. Dameron, Williams Dirks Dameron LLC, Kansas City; Cassie J. Bugalski, Gump, Faiella & Bugalski LLC, Moberly; Hon. Cory Atkins, 16th Judicial Circuit, Independence; Hon. S. Margene Burnett, 16th Judicial Circuit, Kansas City
Before you put a ring on it: A discussion of prenuptial agreements | Nautical Wheeler
Prenuptial Agreements are an important part of life planning. Marriage brings a host of legal obligation that a couple in love may not always recognize. Regardless of whether it is your mother getting married, your best friend or you, there are legal issues to be discussed. This session will cover not only how to prepare for the end of a marriage in the event of divorce and death. Governing your expectations is the key to happiness and a prenuptial agreement is a good start.
Speaker: Stacey L. Janssen, Janssen Estate, Probate & Elder Law, Mission KS
Eliminating discrimination in jury selection | Paradise B
This session will explore ethical issues on jury selection related to bias. Techniques for uncovering explicit bias and educating jurors about implicit bias will be discussed.
Speakers: Barbara Glesner Fines, Dean, University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Law, Kansas City; L. Michaelle Tobin, University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Law, Kansas City
Guardianships and conservatorships: Details of filing or transferring a guardianship or conservatorship | Paradise C
Attendees of this program will look at the statutory requirements of preparing a guardianship/conservatorship petition and what to do when the person needing guardianship moves to another county or state. This program will walk a new or experienced professional through the requirements of Chapter 475 RSMo in filing for an initial guardianship/conservatorship or transferring one under the Uniform Adult Guardianship and Protective Proceedings Jurisdiction Act.
Speakers: T. Nikki Mitchell, Mitchell, Brown & Associates LLC, St. Louis; Alicia A. Albus, Mitchell, Brown & Associates LLC, St. Louis
11 a.m.-noon | Closing plenary
Looking backward to go forward: Improving your practice by getting back to basics | Paradise A, B, C
This program will highlight many of the best practices we all know, but have slowly gotten away from over the years, such as dealing with troublesome clients, managing support staff, and effective and productive law practice management. In a nutshell, we will discuss new and old ideas to help practitioners improve their practices by getting back to basics with respect to client management, staffing issues, law practice management, communication, keeping up with the law, and professional growth.
Speakers: Dana Tippin Cutler, James W. Tippin & Associates, Kansas City; Keith A. Cutler, James W. Tippin & Associates, Kansas City
| Availability | Module Title | Speaker | Credits | Duration | Course Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jun 08, 2023 @ 10:00 AM (CDT) |
Breakout session 1 | Creating policies, procedures, and systems for scaling up our law firm business
|
Kimberly Benjamin
|
Total Credits: 1.0 MCLE | 50 Minutes | More info » |
| Jun 08, 2023 @ 10:00 AM (CDT) |
Breakout session 1 | Special public defenders: Why your private practice should include joining our team!
|
Mary Fox,
Margaret Johnston
|
Total Credits: 1.0 MCLE | 50 Minutes | More info » |
| Jun 08, 2023 @ 10:00 AM (CDT) |
Breakout session 1 | Noncompete and trade secret law update
|
Bryant Parker,
Sheila Seck
|
Total Credits: 1.0 MCLE | 50 Minutes | More info » |
| Jun 08, 2023 @ 10:00 AM (CDT) |
Breakout session 1 | Basic trademark and copyright law for the business attorney
|
Annette Heller,
Kelly Spann
|
Total Credits: 1.0 MCLE | 50 Minutes | More info » |
| Jun 08, 2023 @ 11:15 AM (CDT) |
Breakout session 2 | Starting a practice bootcamp: Setting up a solo or small firm practice
|
Morry Cole
|
Total Credits: 1.0 MCLE | 50 Minutes | More info » |
| Jun 08, 2023 @ 11:15 AM (CDT) |
Breakout session 2 | Advanced GAL: Advocating for children (qualifies for 1.0 GAL hour)
|
Dana Outlaw
|
Total Credits: 1.0 MCLE | 50 Minutes | More info » |
| Jun 08, 2023 @ 11:15 AM (CDT) |
Breakout session 2 | Ethical considerations in working with and around deceased and incapacitated clients and their families (qualifies for 1.0 ethics)
|
Timothy McCurdy
|
Total Credits: 1.0 MCLE | 50 Minutes | More info » |
| Jun 08, 2023 @ 11:15 AM (CDT) |
Breakout session 2 | Electronic document security and digital signatures
|
Barron Henley
|
Total Credits: 1.0 MCLE | 50 Minutes | More info » |
| Jun 08, 2023 @ 11:15 AM (CDT) |
Breakout session 2 | CDLs and traffic violations
|
Kendra Lane
|
Total Credits: 1.0 MCLE | 50 Minutes | More info » |
| Jun 08, 2023 @ 12:15 PM (CDT) |
Lunch and learn | The Bar Plan Sponsor Program: How to decide whether to invest clients funds or leave in cash
|
Kimberly Edgar,
Peter Palumbo
|
Total Credits: 1.0 MCLE | 50 Minutes | More info » |
| Jun 08, 2023 @ 12:15 PM (CDT) |
Lunch and learn | Ransin Injury Law Sponsor Program: Ten office efficiency tips regardless of your type of practice
|
David Ransin
|
Total Credits: 1.0 MCLE | 50 Minutes | More info » |
| Jun 08, 2023 @ 01:15 PM (CDT) |
Plenary | How to address your technical and cybersecurity obligations under the Rules of Professional Conduct (qualifies for 1.0 ethics)
|
Barron Henley
|
Total Credits: 1.0 MCLE | 1 Hour | More info » |
| Jun 08, 2023 @ 02:25 PM (CDT) |
Breakout session 3 | Starting a practice bootcamp: Getting clients
|
Sara Rittman,
Fawzy Simon
|
Total Credits: 1.0 MCLE | 50 Minutes | More info » |
| Jun 08, 2023 @ 02:25 PM (CDT) |
Breakout session 3 | Advanced GAL: Teens and GALs - how to navigate teens’ wishes v. their best interests (qualifies for 1.0 GAL hour)
|
James Weyand
|
Total Credits: 1.0 MCLE | 50 Minutes | More info » |
| Jun 08, 2023 @ 02:25 PM (CDT) |
Breakout session 3 | Right writ/right time: When and how to use writ proceedings in Missouri courts
|
James Layton
|
Total Credits: 1.0 MCLE | 50 Minutes | More info » |
| Jun 08, 2023 @ 02:25 PM (CDT) |
Breakout session 3 | Document automation: How to determine if this highly evolved technology would benefit your practice
|
Barron Henley
|
Total Credits: 1.0 MCLE | 50 Minutes | More info » |
| Jun 08, 2023 @ 02:25 PM (CDT) |
Breakout session 3 | Mediation dos, don’ts, and common missteps
|
Total Credits: 1.0 MCLE | 50 Minutes | More info » | |
| Jun 08, 2023 @ 03:40 PM (CDT) |
Breakout session 4 | Starting a practice bootcamp: Keeping clients
|
Annette Choti
|
Total Credits: 1.0 MCLE | 50 Minutes | More info » |
| Jun 08, 2023 @ 03:40 PM (CDT) |
Breakout session 4 | Advanced GAL: Family law practice update (qualifies for 1.0 GAL hour)
|
Patricia Scaglia
|
Total Credits: 1.0 MCLE | 50 Minutes | More info » |
| Jun 08, 2023 @ 03:40 PM (CDT) |
Breakout session 4 | 2023’s Best legal tech tips, tricks, services, gadgets and websites
|
Barron Henley
|
Total Credits: 1.0 MCLE | 50 Minutes | More info » |
| Jun 08, 2023 @ 03:40 PM (CDT) |
Breakout session 4 | Supreme Court update
|
Fredrick Ludwig
|
Total Credits: 1.0 MCLE | 50 Minutes | More info » |
| Jun 09, 2023 @ 07:00 AM (CDT) |
CLE@Sunrise
|
Maureen Brady,
Brennan Delaney,
Nicole Fisher,
Heather Hardinger,
Matthew McLaughlin,
Martin Meyers
|
Total Credits: 1.2 MCLE | 1 Hour 10 Minutes | More info » |
| Jun 09, 2023 @ 08:30 AM (CDT) |
Breakout session 5 | Starting a practice bootcamp: Charging, collecting and managing money
|
Stephen Sanders
|
Total Credits: 1.4 MCLE | 1 Hour 10 Minutes | More info » |
| Jun 09, 2023 @ 08:30 AM (CDT) |
Breakout session 5 | Foundations required to get evidence admitted (realizing this is during a trial and not before or after)
|
Martin Meyers
|
Total Credits: 1.4 MCLE | 1 Hour 10 Minutes | More info » |
| Jun 09, 2023 @ 08:30 AM (CDT) |
Breakout session 5 | Identifying and litigating a breach of fiduciary duty case
|
James Emison,
John Tyner
|
Total Credits: 1.4 MCLE | 1 Hour 10 Minutes | More info » |
| Jun 09, 2023 @ 08:30 AM (CDT) |
Breakout session 5 | Tik Tok! Don't be late to social media marketing
|
Paige Sparks,
Samantha Sparks
|
Total Credits: 1.4 MCLE | 1 Hour 10 Minutes | More info » |
| Jun 09, 2023 @ 08:30 AM (CDT) |
Breakout session 5 | Mechanic liens
|
Stephen Griffin
|
Total Credits: 1.4 MCLE | 1 Hour 10 Minutes | More info » |
| Jun 09, 2023 @ 10:20 AM (CDT) |
Breakout session 6 | Administrative law for private practitioners
|
Reilly Beeman,
Craig Jacobs
|
Total Credits: 1.4 MCLE | 1 Hour 10 Minutes | More info » |
| Jun 09, 2023 @ 10:20 AM (CDT) |
Breakout session 6 | Cannabis law: Recreational and medical rules
|
Jennifer Johnson,
Amy Moore
|
Total Credits: 1.4 MCLE | 1 Hour 10 Minutes | More info » |
| Jun 09, 2023 @ 10:20 AM (CDT) |
Breakout session 6 | Re-training our brains: A fresh approach to diversity and inclusion (qualifies for 1.4 ethics & 1.4 bias hours)
|
James Fendelman
|
Total Credits: 1.4 MCLE | 1 Hour 10 Minutes | More info » |
| Jun 09, 2023 @ 10:20 AM (CDT) |
Breakout session 6 | Which chapter to file and why
|
Brent Westbrook
|
Total Credits: 1.4 MCLE | 1 Hour 10 Minutes | More info » |
| Jun 09, 2023 @ 10:20 AM (CDT) |
Breakout session 6 | HIPAA: Procedures and covered entities
|
Maureen Brady,
Lucy McShane
|
Total Credits: 1.4 MCLE | 1 Hour 10 Minutes | More info » |
| Jun 09, 2023 @ 12:40 PM (CDT) |
Breakout session 7 | Efficiently working small injury cases like an expert . . . even when you aren't
|
David Ransin
|
Total Credits: 1.4 MCLE | 1 Hour 10 Minutes | More info » |
| Jun 09, 2023 @ 12:40 PM (CDT) |
Breakout session 7 | Intro to standardized field sobriety testing
|
Denise Childress
|
Total Credits: 1.4 MCLE | 1 Hour 10 Minutes | More info » |
| Jun 09, 2023 @ 12:40 PM (CDT) |
Breakout session 7 | Representing tenants in eviction court: Defenses and counterclaims
|
John Pipes
|
Total Credits: 1.4 MCLE | 1 Hour 10 Minutes | More info » |
| Jun 09, 2023 @ 12:40 PM (CDT) |
Breakout session 7 | Malpractice missteps: Exploring common missteps lawyers make (qualifies for 1.4 ethics hours)
|
Mark Bassingthwaighte
|
Total Credits: 1.4 MCLE | 1 Hour 10 Minutes | More info » |
| Jun 09, 2023 @ 12:40 PM (CDT) |
Breakout session 7 | Contested custody in a dissolution of marriage through each phase of litigation
|
Nicole Fisher,
Lindsay Mathews
|
Total Credits: 1.4 MCLE | 1 Hour 10 Minutes | More info » |
| Jun 09, 2023 @ 02:00 PM (CDT) |
Breakout session 8 | How to be a Lincoln lawyer in juvenile court: Trial advocacy 101
|
Jennipher Hawkins
|
Total Credits: 1.4 MCLE | 1 Hour 10 Minutes | More info » |
| Jun 09, 2023 @ 02:00 PM (CDT) |
Breakout session 8 | Navigating the maze of retirement benefits
|
Timothy McCurdy
|
Total Credits: 1.4 MCLE | 1 Hour 10 Minutes | More info » |
| Jun 09, 2023 @ 02:00 PM (CDT) |
Breakout session 8 | Preparing for trial as a solo attorney: Elements of proof, message, and organizing your case
|
Claude Ducloux
|
Total Credits: 1.4 MCLE | 1 Hour 10 Minutes | More info » |
| Jun 09, 2023 @ 02:00 PM (CDT) |
Breakout session 8 | Remote public access: Your questions answered (qualifies for 1.4 ethics hours)
|
Total Credits: 1.4 MCLE | 1 Hour 10 Minutes | More info » | |
| Jun 09, 2023 @ 02:00 PM (CDT) |
Breakout session 8 | Movie courtroom scenes: Did they get it right?
|
Timothy Monsees
|
Total Credits: 1.4 MCLE | 1 Hour 10 Minutes | More info » |
| Jun 09, 2023 @ 03:50 PM (CDT) |
Breakout session 9 | Sustainable growth for small law firms: How to generate, screen, and intake clients with affordable software and services
|
Jessica Paxton
|
Total Credits: 1.4 MCLE | 1 Hour 10 Minutes | More info » |
| Jun 09, 2023 @ 03:50 PM (CDT) |
Breakout session 9 | Update from the Missouri Legal Ethics Counsel: June 2023 edition (qualifies for 1.4 ethics hours)
|
Melinda Bentley
|
Total Credits: 1.4 MCLE | 1 Hour 10 Minutes | More info » |
| Jun 09, 2023 @ 03:50 PM (CDT) |
Breakout session 9 | Civil appeals: Common roadblocks and pitfalls to reversal
|
Derek Ankrom
|
Total Credits: 1.4 MCLE | 1 Hour 10 Minutes | More info » |
| Jun 09, 2023 @ 03:50 PM (CDT) |
Breakout session 9 | A higher bar: How to exceed client expectations in a virtual world
|
Steffney Jones
|
Total Credits: 1.4 MCLE | 1 Hour 10 Minutes | More info » |
| Jun 10, 2023 @ 08:15 AM (CDT) |
Breakout session 10 | How processes in your law firm can help you avoid a bar complaint and make more money
|
Courtney English,
Michael English
|
Total Credits: 1.4 MCLE | 1 Hour 10 Minutes | More info » |
| Jun 10, 2023 @ 08:15 AM (CDT) |
Breakout session 10 | Working all angles: Finding additional avenues of recovery in your workers compensation cases
|
Justin Watkins
|
Total Credits: 1.4 MCLE | 1 Hour 10 Minutes | More info » |
| Jun 10, 2023 @ 08:15 AM (CDT) |
Breakout session 10 | Protecting yourself and the client: Best practices for documenting the client relationship and the ethics of retaining client files (qualifies for 1.4 ethics hours)
|
Melinda Bentley,
Keith Cutler
|
Total Credits: 1.4 MCLE | 1 Hour 10 Minutes | More info » |
| Jun 10, 2023 @ 08:15 AM (CDT) |
Breakout session 10 | Hot topics in landlord-tenant law
|
Julie Anderson,
Jesi Stanley
|
Total Credits: 1.4 MCLE | 1 Hour 10 Minutes | More info » |
| Jun 10, 2023 @ 08:15 AM (CDT) |
Breakout session 10 | So you want to sue the city: Sovereign and official immunity
|
Chad Stewart
|
Total Credits: 1.4 MCLE | 1 Hour 10 Minutes | More info » |
| Jun 10, 2023 @ 09:35 AM (CDT) |
Breakout session 11 | Professionalism and civility in your practice (qualifies for 1.4 ethics)
|
Total Credits: 1.4 MCLE | 1 Hour 10 Minutes | More info » | |
| Jun 10, 2023 @ 09:35 AM (CDT) |
Breakout session 11 | The business of running a law practice
|
Total Credits: 1.4 MCLE | 1 Hour 10 Minutes | More info » | |
| Jun 10, 2023 @ 09:35 AM (CDT) |
Breakout session 11 | Before you put a ring on it: A discussion of prenuptial agreements
|
Stacey Janssen
|
Total Credits: 1.4 MCLE | 1 Hour 10 Minutes | More info » |
| Jun 10, 2023 @ 09:35 AM (CDT) |
Breakout session 11 | Eliminating discrimination in jury selection (qualifies for 1.4 ethics and 1.4 bias hours)
|
Prof. Barbara Glesner Fines,
Lynn Tobin
|
Total Credits: 1.4 MCLE | 1 Hour 10 Minutes | More info » |
| Jun 10, 2023 @ 09:35 AM (CDT) |
Breakout session 11 | Guardianships and conservatorships: Details of filing or transferring a guardianship or conservatorship
|
Alicia Albus,
Tabitha Mitchell
|
Total Credits: 1.4 MCLE | 1 Hour 10 Minutes | More info » |
| Jun 10, 2023 @ 11:00 AM (CDT) |
Closing plenary | Looking backward to go forward: Improving your practice by getting back to basics
|
Dana Chamin Cutler,
Keith Cutler
|
Total Credits: 1.2 MCLE | 1 Hour | More info » |
