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 at JB's Boathouse, 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 the firm and has been practicing Elder Law for over 20 years. She was the Valedictorian of her graduating class at William Woods University, Fulton, Missouri in 1994. She graduated from the University of Missouri, Columbia School of Law in 1997 where she received the American Jurisprudence Award in the area of Disability Law. She holds a degree in accounting and has worked as a tax consultant in a Big Five Accounting Firm. However, the allure of working with individuals rather than corporations drew her to Elder Law.
Alicia is devoted to helping the families that turn to the firm for assistance in their hour of need. She has become proficient and knowledgeable in Missouri nursing home care issues.
Alicia’s compassion and friendly, caring nature engages her clients to feel comfortable and confident. She is very well known throughout the senior services community and speaks frequently for the Alzheimer’s Association. Recently, Alicia has had several victories in court reversing Medicaid decisions.
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 Jeffrey W. Bates was appointed to the Missouri Court of Appeals, Southern District, on Nov. 14, 2003, for a term beginning on Dec. 1. He was retained in the November 2018 general election for a 12-year term expiring Dec. 31, 2030.
Judge Bates received his Juris Doctor in 1984 from the University of Missouri-Columbia School of Law. He received his B.S. in 1979 from Missouri State University (formerly Southwest Missouri State University).
From 1984 to 2003, Judge Bates was engaged in private civil trial practice in Springfield.
Judge Bates was born in 1958 in Petersburg, Virginia. He is married to Harriet, and they have three sons and three daughters.
Melinda J. Bentley serves as Legal Ethics Counsel, and 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. She is a frequent speaker and author on professional responsibility matters. Ms. Bentley currently serves as a member of the American Bar Association Standing Committee on Ethics and Professional Responsibility. She also currently serves on the Planning Committee for The Missouri Bar Solo and Small Firm Conference, 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, and Cole County Bar Association. 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 as a member (2015-2016) and Chair (2016-2018) of the Editorial Board of the ABA/BNA Lawyers’ Manual on Professional Conduct.
Representation of people injured as the result of the fault of another; including automobile crash cases, premises liability, products liability, medical negligence, and insurance related matters.
Wally Bley has become a Fellow of the American College of Trial Lawyers, one of the premier legal associations in America.
are approximately 5,860 members in the United States and Canada, including active Fellows, Emeritus Fellows, Judicial Fellows (those who ascended to the bench after their induction) and Honorary Fellows. The College strives to improve and elevate the standards of trial practice, the administration of justice and the ethics of the trial profession.
Denise focuses her practice on criminal and DWI law, representing clients in over 35 different Missouri counties. She co-founded The Missouri DWI Institute, LLC, with a mission to educate Missouri's lawyers, judges, and law enforcement. Denise is proud to be hired by other lawyers to try their clients' DWI cases.
Annette Choti, Esq. has been an attorney and a member of the Missouri Bar for over 20 years and is the Founder/Owner of Law Quill, a full-service digital marketing agency focused on law firms. Law Quill's services include website design & refreshes, branding, superior content creation optimized for SEO (search engine optimization), social media marketing, and backlink strategy. Annette is the weekly contributor to Above The Law as a digital marketing expert for law firms and also hosts the podcast, Legal Marketing Lounge. Annette has also written the critically acclaimed book Click Magnet: The Ultimate Digital Marketing Guide For Law Firms. Annette's approach to digital marketing is unique as she works directly with lawyers to educate and demystify the entire marketing process. Annette's goal is to truly partner with attorneys to develop and implement the best strategy for them to grow their law firm online.
With more than 30 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 over 30 years. He is a frequent CLE speaker on trial practice; ethics and professionalism; and diversity, equity, and inclusion.
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 has never seen someone work a “regular job”. Both of her parents were entrepreneurs and she grew up with the hustle of self-employment being a deeply ingrained value in her family. From a young age, Courtney spent much time helping with every aspect of her family’s business; from manual labor all the way to learning the books. She knows that running a business is a round-the-clock job, and your work should be protected.
While in law school, Courtney started two successful businesses. She knows that it takes work and focus to make your dream a reality, and she ensures that your dream is built on a solid foundation!
In addition to her self-employment, Courtney has worked in-house for multi-million dollar corporations negotiating, reviewing, and drafting contracts, as well as assisting in business formation and protection. Her superior drafting skills and experience make her an ideal attorney to help you navigate your business at all stages.
Further, Courtney has worked for small boutique firms in personal injury and criminal law, as well as time in the State Attorney’s Office in the state of Florida. She knows that a stigma can be attached to traditional lawyering and aims to break that mold so that you are comfortable seeking counsel and feel empowered when working with an attorney. After all, it is your business.
Outside of the office, Courtney enjoys serving her community, the outdoors, and spending time with her family.
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.
Nicole is the founder and owner of Fisher Law LLC located in Kansas City, Missouri. Nicole focuses her practice exclusively in family law litigation. Nicole prides herself in providing her clients with skilled advocacy while being compassionate to the crisis at hand. Nicole is licensed to practice law in both 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.
Ms. Jennipher M.C. Hawkins is a criminal defense, traffic law, and child abuse and neglect attorney at the Aramjoo Law Firm. Jennipher received her law degree from UMKC School of Law. While at UMKC, Jennipher became interested in trial work and actively participated in UMKC’s trial advocacy program, in the hopes of becoming an active trial attorney. During law school, Jennipher gained experience by volunteering at the Jackson County Public Defender’s office, assisting with Mid-West Innocence Project cases, and competing across the nation in mock trial tournaments. Much of her practice is handling court appointed child abuse and neglect cases, private criminal/traffic cases, and appointments from the Missouri State Public Defender System. Having once been in foster care herself, Jennipher strives to ensure every person receives his or her day in court and has a chance to tell his or her story. Jennipher hopes to use her childhood experiences with the legal system to help adults and children understand the legal process and ease families through difficult transitions. Jennipher is an active member in the Kansas City Metropolitan Bar Association and the Association for Women Lawyers. In her spare time, Jennipher coaches the Blue Springs High School Mock Trial team, spends time with her husband and three fur babies, and loves to cook.
Annette P. Heller is a member of the Solo and Small Firm Conference Planning Committee and former chair of The Missouri Bar Patent, Trademark and Copyright Section. Her practice is limited to trademark and copyright law and has been in private practice since 1983.
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 member of both the ABA Law Practice Management and the Real Property Trust and Estate Law ("RPTE") Sections. He's a member of RPTE Futures Task Force, a Board Member for the ABA TECHSHOW, and is 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; he is a renowned expert on Microsoft Word, Adobe Acrobat and HotDocs document assembly software; and has authored legal-specific manuals on HotDocs, Adobe Acrobat, and Microsoft Word, Excel & Outlook.? 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.?
Jennifer’s primary area of practice is in litigation, with a focus on commercial, construction and employment disputes. She also provides outside counsel services to local businesses, assisting clients with matters related to contracts, employment, and risk management. Jennifer is a Kansas native, a 2005 graduate of the University of Kansas School of Law and is admitted to practice in state and federal court in both Kansas and Missouri. She now resides in Parkville, Missouri with her family, and provides legal services to clients across the Kansas City Metropolitan Area.
Ladehoff is currently Director of the Campus Mediation Service and is Director of the LLM in Dispute Resolution Program. Ladehoff is a 1994 graduate of the UNL College of Law and litigated environmental cases for the U.S. Department of Justice. Prior to coming to Columbia, he was Executive Director of The Central Mediation Center in Kearney, Nebraska.
Kendra Lane works for the Department of Health and Senior Services in the cannabis division, as well as represents the department in employment disqualification cases and guardianships. Mrs. Lane practiced law for ten years. As a private practice attorney Mrs. Lane had a focus on family law and criminal defense. Mrs. Lane has also worked for the Missouri Department of Revenue in the transportation department and was the Director of Elections for the State of Missouri from 2019 until 2021 .
Being the daughter of an over-the-road truck driver the issues that face the nation’s truck drivers and the issues with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) are near and dear to her. In 2010 when the FMCSA started to change how points were kept and implemented Mrs. Lane started to delve into the ways in which she could help the nations drivers. Since then she has attempted to stay current on the changes to the FMCSA and the impact is has on the nation’s commercial motor vehicle drivers. It has been her great honor to be asked to speak on the issue and if you have any questions she is more than happy to help.
James R. Layton joined Tueth Keeney Cooper Mohan Jackstadt in 2017 after serving more than 22 years in the Missouri Attorney General’s Office—nearly all of those as the State’s principal civil appellate lawyer, Solicitor General.
Jim assists clients—and counsel at other firms—with appellate strategy, briefing, and argument. In doing so he relies on many years of intense appellate experience: Jim has argued nearly 100 times before the Missouri Supreme Court, four times before the U.S. Supreme Court, and more than 100 times in other state and federal appellate courts. Jim also practices in state and federal trial courts, particularly in matters involving complex legal questions, such as those arising under the U.S. and Missouri constitutions.
Formerly an adjunct professor of law at the University of Missouri Law School for 20 years, Jim is a frequent speaker on appellate practice, legal writing, and constitutional law.
Fredrick Ludwig has been a lawyer for over 17 years. He grew up in South St. Louis near the Bevo Mill. He graduated from Washington University in St. Louis in 1995, and worked as a research scientist for two years at the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery at Washington University School of Medicine. He graduated from the University of Missouri-Columbia School of Law in May of 2000, and began practicing law in August of 2000.
After working for two large law firms, Fredrick decided to open his own firm, Ludwig Law Firm, LLC. Ludwig Law Firm opened its doors on November 16, 2015.
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.
Nikki Mitchell is the owner of Mitchell, Brown & Associates, LLC. Her practice focuses on the unique needs of the elderly and disabled, to include long term care planning, public benefits work, estate planning, adult guardianships and conservatorships, probate, and special needs planning, including special needs trusts.
Amy Moore is the Deputy Director and Counsel for the Medical Marijuana Regulatory Program at the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services. Before joining DHSS, she worked as legal counsel and policy advisor for the Missouri Public Service Commission. Amy graduated from the University of Missouri School of Law.
Martin M. Meyers has practice law in Missouri since September, 1981. He formed The Meyers Law Firm in 1993. He is a trial lawyer and is board certified as a Civil Trial Advocate by the National Board of Trial Advocacy. He tries mainly employment discrimination cases but also tries personal injury, business, insurance, professional liability and probate cases.
Meyers has been repeatedly listed in Kansas City Business Journal’s Best of the Bar publication since its inception in November 2002. He has been included in the Best Lawyers in America, since 2003 and was recognized as Lawyer of the Year for Employment Law Individuals in Kansas City in 2015 and 2019.
He is a member of the American Association for Justice, the Missouri Association of Trial Attorneys, the National Employment Lawyers Association and its Kansas City affiliate. He is an Advocate in the American Board of Trial Advocates and a Fellow in the American College of Trial Lawyers.
Meyers serves on the Subcommittee on Model Civil Jury Instructions for the Eighth Circuit.
Dana Outlaw graduated from the University of Missouri-Columbia in 1999. Upon graduating from the University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Law in 2003, Dana started her firm with an emphasis on family law. In addition to practicing law, Dana is an adjunct professor at the University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Law.
Dana Outlaw is a mediator and mediates cases involving child custody, property division, spousal maintenance, child support, and other related matters. She has served as a Special Master and conducted hearings on temporary maintenance and child support. She is frequently appointed as a Guardian Ad Litem to represent children in cases involving child abuse and neglect. She is the former contract attorney for Hope House, Inc., a local domestic violence shelter. Dana is an experienced appellate attorney and has argued cases in front of the Missouri Court of Appeals Western District.
Coined the “Divorce Whisperer,” Marta J. Papa is a family law lawyer and mediator in St. Louis, Missouri. As the owner of her own firm, she has dedicated her practice to only family law matters for the past 25 years.
Marta combines her knowledge of family law with her post-graduate degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from the prestigious Menninger Institute of Psychiatry to help clients navigate the emotional as well as legal aspects of divorce.
Marta is a nationally recognized speaker and educator on divorce, mediation and alternative ways of helping clients resolve disputes outside the courtroom when possible. Marta has been featured in the Wall Street Journal, Time Magazine, Sky Radio, The Post Dispatch, St. Louis Magazine, Marie Claire magazine, just to name a few, in addition to receiving recognition locally for her educational programs teaching mediation to Judges & Lawyers for the Missouri and Illinois Supreme Courts.
She is currently working on her first book, 7 Secrets from the Divorce Whisperer: How to save yourself, your money and your children during divorce.
David W. Ransin, trial lawyer, founded his firm Ransin Injury Law in 1990 as a solo attorney in Springfield, Missouri, and exclusively represents people and their families in catastrophic injury and death litigation from car, bicycle, pedestrian, motorcycle and tractor trailer crashes. In the spring of 2017, C.J. Moeller joined his litigation team. David received his law degree from the University of Missouri-Columbia in 1982. His expertise has been gained from many jury trials and appeals, including representing clients in six cases before the Supreme Court of Missouri.
Among his many professional accomplishments, David has been recognized by his peers as the Best Solo Practitioner in Missouri in 2007 and 2008, as a Top Attorney in Missouri & Kansas for many years, and was honored with the Solo and Small Firm Committee Distinguished Service Award for his several decades-long support of those in small firm and solo law practice.
In addition to being invited to present legal seminars locally, statewide, and nationwide, David is an active member of The Missouri Bar Solo and Small Firm Committee, The American Association for Justice, the Missouri Association of Trial Attorneys, and several civic and community organizations.
Away from work, David enjoys spending time with his wife and two adult children traveling and doing anything outdoors, particularly working and relaxing at his farm, golf, canoeing, fly fishing, sailing, mountain and dirt biking, hiking, and back packing.
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.
Patricia “Tricia” M. Scaglia, is a solo practitioner in Independence. She practices primarily in the area of family law, frequently serving as a Guardian ad Litem and mediator.
Tricia previously served as law clerk to the late Judge Kelly J. Moorhouse, 16th Judicial Circuit of Missouri and to Judge Robert E. Larsen, U.S. District Court, Western District of Missouri.
Tricia represents District 8 - Jackson (excluding Kansas City), Clay, and Platte Counties - on The Missouri Bar Board of Governors. She previously served as chair of the Family Law Section.
In 2016, Tricia received the President's Award from The Missouri Bar. And in 2012, she received the Roger P. Krumm Family Law Award for demonstrating "exceptional competence, skill, integrity, commitment and dedication toward the improvement and advancement of the practice of family law."
A frequent CLE contributor, Tricia has provided the Annual Family Law Update for UMKC since 2005 and presented the Annual Missouri Legislative Update for the last six years to local bar associations. She is licensed to practice in Missouri and Kansas.
A life-long Kansas City resident, Tricia received her Juris Doctor from the University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC), where she serves as an adjunct professor. She received a Bachelor of Journalism and a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Missouri-Columbia.
Fawzy Simon spent five years in the MSPDS, four years at the Cisar Law Firm in Lake Ozark, Missouri and opened his own criminal defense office in Camdenton in 2017. Presently defense counsel - Camden County Treatment Courts, Secretary of MACDL, member of the Supreme Court's Task Force for Criminal Justice.
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 Sparks is a trial attorney at the Eccher Law Group, with her practice focused on representing plaintiffs, in both federal and state court, in complex civil litigation, particularly involving employment and civil rights. In just the past year, Ms. Sparks has helped recover more than $2,000,000.00 for clients.
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, both in the Missouri State Public Defender System, and working with a corporate defense firm. 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.
At his previous firm, Justin managed all phases of litigation including discovery, motion and trial practice, alternative dispute resolution, and settlement negotiation. As an Assistant Public Defender, Justin provided legal representation to indigent citizens accused of crimes. In this role he managed cases from inception to conclusion, and he acted as counsel in the role of first or second chair in criminal jury trials.
Early in his career as a litigator Justin completed the Bar Leadership Academy and Ross T. Roberts Trial Academy, both from the Kansas City Metropolitan Bar Association. He has been recognized as a Rising Star by Missouri/Kansas Super Lawyers, and is involved with several bar associations, including the KCMBA.
During law school Justin earned several honors for his work on the law review and with the mock trial team, and also completed a clerkship with the Hon. Judge Jesse Reyes in Chicago. Upon graduation, Justin started his career as a litigator by joining the Missouri Public Defender’s Office.
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 the youngest and fastest named partner in the history of 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. Brent resides in Troy, Missouri with his wife and daughter and has offices in St. Charles & Troy to better serve you.
Thursday, June 8
Conference registration | 7:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.
Pre-conference program: The Bar Plan risk management program
8-9:50 a.m. | $75 additional registration
Exhibit Hall open | 8 a.m.-6 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 & learn programs | 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 | 6:00-8:00 p.m.
Friday, June 9
Conference registration | 7 a.m.-5 p.m.
Breakfast | 7:30-8:30 a.m.
Exhibit Hall open | 7 a.m.-4 p.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 2/28/23
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
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.
| 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 | Advanced GAL: What you need to know from start to finish (qualifies for 1.0 GAL hour)
|
Dana Outlaw
|
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
|
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: The trauma impact of divorce on children and how to lessen the effects (qualifies for 1.0 GAL hour)
|
Marta Papa
|
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 @ 01:15 PM (CDT) |
Plenary | How to address your technical and cybersecurity obligations under the Rules of Professional Conduct (qualifies for 1.2 ethics)
|
Barron Henley
|
Total Credits: 1.2 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 (qualifies for 1.0 GAL hour)
|
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
|
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 | Real estate
|
Total Credits: 1.4 MCLE | 1 Hour 10 Minutes | More info » | |
| Jun 09, 2023 @ 08:30 AM (CDT) |
Breakout session 5 | 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 09, 2023 @ 10:20 AM (CDT) |
Breakout session 6 | Administrative law for the solo practitioner
|
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 | Adult use cannabis
|
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 | Retraining 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 @ 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, organization, and presentation
|
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
|
Hon. Jeffrey Bates
Melinda Bentley
Hon. Gary Lynch
|
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 | 2023 Ethics update (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
|
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 | Construction hot topic
|
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 | Tik Tok! Don't be late to the social media marketing
|
Paige Sparks
|
Total Credits: 1.4 MCLE | 1 Hour 10 Minutes | More info » |
| Jun 10, 2023 @ 09:35 AM (CDT) |
Breakout session 11 | Don't be a Richard!!!
|
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 | Civil litigation defense
|
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)
|
Barbara Glesner Fines
|
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 » |
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