CLE Program

This year’s annual favorite is designed to give lawyers of all levels the practical tools and skills to move a case from inception to trial. This online program will provide associates and those new to the defense practice an in-depth preparatory course in this specialized field. Presented by skilled local attorneys and experienced mediators, this seminar series will provide training on how to open a new file; develop and effectively communicate a litigation strategy; and navigate written discovery and depositions.

In addition, our panelists will review best practices for law and motion work as well as preparing a case for mediation and trial. Upon completion of the series, participants will have gained the skills necessary to defend a client from day one to trial.

Presentations will run from 4:30 - 6pm | Q&A from 6pm - 6:30pm

TOPICS TO BE COVERED:

• September 6 - Week 1: So You've Got a New File, Now What?
• September 13 - Week 2: Written Discovery
• September 20 - Week 3: Depositions
• September 27 - Week 4: Law and Motion
• October 4 - Week 5: ADR
• October 11 - Week 6: Trial Prep

Join two experienced retired judicial officers in the highly requested part 2 of this program as they delve beyond the Dissomaster into advanced child support issues in family law disputes. The speakers will get into the real details as they discuss deviations from guideline child support, child support add-ons, imputed and unusual income items, and proof of income. This program is targeted towards family law practitioners. Make sure to check out Part 1, available through the Alameda County Bar Association MCLE online catalog.

Description:
As more than 95% of civil cases resolve before trial, it is critical to be just as skilled in mediation as in the courtroom. This CLE will cover:

Topics

• Mediation Basics
• Getting to Mediation
• Mediator’s Role
• Opening Mediation Session and Counsel’s Remarks
• Addressing Common Issues at Mediation
• Mediation Strategies
• Nailing Down a Settlement

Underlying every stage of the mediation process are hidden assumptions and biases which often go unexamined:

• Settlement negotiations should focus on objective criteria and outcome predictions
• Participants are rational actors looking out for their own economic interests
• Mediators should persuade, cajole, argue, twist arms, etc. in the same way regardless of a person’s sex, race, national origin, age, sexual orientation, or other characteristics
• It is not the job of the mediator to call out prejudice or bias in the mediation

Please see the attached flyer for an overview of this program. Speakers will discuss how to identify and capitalize on significant settlement moments in employment mediation.

Presented by the Labor & Employment section, and co-sponsored by the Mediation section, this panel gives you a 360 perspective on mediation. You’ll hear from three seasoned mediators, plaintiff’s lawyers, and defense lawyers on how to handle the highs and lows of mediation.

This program will feature three seasoned mediators who will give advice on how newer attorneys can successfully represent their clients in mediations that lead to settlement. Additionally, for junior associates who have been told not to waste their time starting a mediation career until they have a few decades of litigation experience under their belts, we’ll discuss ways to shorten the career path and start laying the foundation for a successful career as a mediator now, not decades from now.

Join us for an insightful webinar as we delve into the intricate world of Partition Actions. Whether you are a seasoned attorney looking to refresh your knowledge or a legal professional seeking to gain a deeper understanding of this complex area of law, this program is tailored for you.

In this program, our experienced speakers will explore the various scenarios that lead to partition actions, from family disputes over inherited property to co-ownership conflicts. Viewers will gain insights into the circumstances that trigger the need for partition proceedings and discover the common issues that arise.

They will uncover the range of remedies available in partition actions and when and how they are applied. Learn to understand the significance of requesting a jury trial and learn about the intricacies of property sales in partition actions. We'll provide practical tips on advocating for your client's interests.

Finally, the speakers will delve into the appointment, role, and responsibilities of a partition referee and how to effectively use them in property valuation, sale of the property, division of the property, accounting, and reporting to the court.

Our expert speakers will guide you through the nuances of partition actions, providing you with valuable insights and practical strategies to succeed in these cases and understand the statutes, remedies, and resolution options is crucial to achieving favorable outcomes for your clients.

Changes to mediation practice initially triggered by the pandemic appear to be long-lasting. Join us to consider new strategies and ethical considerations to optimize mediation preparation and outcomes.  The panel – former litigators, a former general counsel, and retired judge – will share their insights and experiences to help advocates improve their ADR efforts. Sutopics include:

Experienced practitioners will review 2023’s new employment laws which all employment practitioners should be aware of.

This event is designed to equip CPAs and attorneys with the necessary knowledge and expertise to navigate family law cases effectively. The conference focuses on the critical role of CPAs in assisting clients with intricate financial matters throughout divorce, child support, alimony, asset division, and related legal proceedings. Additionally, it serves as a platform for CPAs to enhance their skills, exchange best practices, and foster connections with fellow professionals in the field of family law.

Judges’ Panel at 3:10 p.m.: This unique opportunity allows attendees to gain invaluable perspectives directly from the bench, offering a deep dive into the complexities, trends, and nuances of family law cases from the judicial standpoint.

The recipe for a "nice" settlement: Confidentiality; fairness; neutrality; civility; an occasional white lie. Simmer for 4 - 12 hours. Add mediator's proposal to taste. Boil for the last 90 minutes.

Two former Superior Court judges and one former business lawyer with a combined experience of presiding at more than 2,000 MSCs and 1,000 mediations, talk about civility, ethical considerations, and practical tips in settling cases.

Join us as we deep dive into the complexities of selling a conservatee’s property. The webinar will cover three main topics: determining the appropriate time for sale, steps to obtain a court order authorizing the transaction, and the process of executing the sale. This is a must-attend event for attorneys, conservators, and others involved in such real estate transactions.

In a world characterized by rapidly evolving social landscapes and interconnected global networks, the art of mediation has taken on a new dimension of significance. Join us for the keynote address, "Embracing the Tapestry: Mediating in a Vibrantly Diverse World," where Hon. Anita Santos (Ret.) will delve into the essential skills and understanding required to navigate the complexities of mediating across diverse cultures, backgrounds, and perspectives.

As mediators, we are entrusted with the vital task of resolving conflicts, promoting understanding, and fostering harmony. The success of our endeavors is increasingly linked to our ability to adapt and connect with the diverse fabric of humanity. Our goal is to empower participants with the knowledge and techniques to bridge gaps, break down barriers, and transform conflict into an opportunity for growth and unity.

Join us for this thought-provoking program as we strengthen our resolve to build bridges across differences, celebrate diversity, and forge a path toward a more harmonious and inclusive world.

Join BHBA's Family Law section for four exciting panels: "How to Prepare for Good Negotiations" with Dr. Sukhsimranjit Singh; "Practitioner’s Approach to Effective Mediation" with Matthew Skarin and Jackie Adams-Ings; "Demystifying Private Mediation: The Dos and Don'ts" with Hon. Susan Lopez-Giss among others; and "Maximizing the Use of MSCs and VSCs" with Judges Shelley Kaufman and Firdaus Dordi. More Bench Officers will be announced soon.