MEMBERSHIP
PC ), Kathryn Burmeister ( Burmeister Law Firm LLC ) and Robert G . Rubin ( Peters Rubin Sheffield & Hodges ), in an ethics scenario driven discussion on ways in which practicing attorneys can maneuver certain situations on the job . The panelists offered excellent ways for attorneys to maintain their ethical commitments under times of ordinary and extraordinary pressure . For instance , all the panelists stressed the importance of self-awareness . It is important to know the possible triggers in workplace stress . It is equally important to know how to address these triggers , as well . All attendees were provided material to help them identify stressors in their life and resources to aid in addressing these stressors .
A Data-Driven World : Business Opportunities , Compliance Challenges , and Ethical Responsibilities
Not to be outdone by the first ethics CLE , the second panel provided an equally outstanding job of highlighting the nuances associated with IT and data management . Panelists Melati Belot ( YML ), Timothy A . Butler ( Greenberg Traurig LLP ) and Graham Dean ( Troutman Pepper ), were joined by moderator Kelly Carlos ( FLEETCOR ) to provide a deeper perspective of what firms should take note of in the post-COVID-19 era . Specifically , the panelists explained how data can generate , drive , and transform revenue while enhancing the customer experience . They were also able to detail how effective data management can be useful in leveraging data and provided ethical practice tips when engaging with clients . One tip , for example , was be prepared to advise your client to seek assistance from an IT professional when dealing with technical / non-legal issues . This tip corresponds to Rule 2.1 , Comment 4 of the Model Rules . The panelists provided attendees with some actionable recommendations on how they could address data management deficiencies within their firm .
Navigating Sticky Situations : Professionalism for Practitioners
Providing attendees with a professionalism CLE hour , this panel discussed professional dilemmas and real-world implications attorneys may face while practicing . Through an interactive discussion with attendees , panelists conversed and discussed the duty we have to our client , the Court , and the public . Moderator Brittanie D . Browning ( Hall Booth Smith , PC ) led panelists , Judge Susan E . Edlein ( State Court of Fulton County ) and Kellyn McGee ( State Bar of Georgia ), through a conversation aimed to provide participants with a better understanding of how to handle complex situations , and that offered resources to help attorneys proactively address potential issues . This panel opened with the Lawyer ’ s Creed reminding attendees of their duties . Particularly , the panelists provided several aspirational ideas for attorneys facing difficult opposing parties or judges of the court . This panel reminded all attendees of the importance of being kind to opposing counsel - you never know when you will need the same grace .
Upping Your Game in Dispute Resolution
To round out the last panel of the first day , panelists Jennifer Grippa ( Miles Mediation & Arbitration ), George Reid ( The Reid Firm ), Winter Wheeler ( Miles Mediation & Arbitration ), and Brent Wilson ( Elarbee Thompson Sapp & Wilson LLP ) joined moderator Rebecca Woods ( Seyfarth Shaw LLP ) for a lively discussion on the “ P ’ s of Professionalism in a Productive Mediation .” Specifically , the panelists identified and remarked on the importance of the P ’ s of professionalism : Perspective , Preparation , Patience and Perseverance , and Partnership . Most lawyers have become well versed on professionalism as it pertains to practicing law . The Georgia Supreme Court has specifically recognized the applicability of professionalism standards to mediation . The panelists were able to provide good tips on each of the different P ’ s of professionalism . One tip mentioned is to spend more time listening than talking during mediation . This can show good faith to opposing counsel and allow them to be open to your client ’ s perspective .
Wednesday , February 23 , 2022 - Special Masters in Pandemic Times
The first event to kick off day two of this CLE event was a panel on trial practice . Moderator Ronne Kaplan ( Kaplan Family Law ) was joined by panelists Audrey K . Berland ( Ichter Davis LLC ), Judge R . Keegan Federal , Jr . ( The Federal Firm LLC ), and Judge Craig L . Schwall , Sr . ( Superior Court of Fulton County ), to highlight the need of special masters in certain cases . Special masters can help decipher complex discovery and provide recommendations to help the litigation continue in a timely manner . Like all the other panels , this panel addressed the ethical and practical concerns for those who are special masters or judicial adjuncts , providing attendees with one hour of trial practice .
When Time Is of The Essence – And Only A TRO Will Do
With all panelists representing Smith , Gambrell & Russell LLP : Anthony L . Cochran , Kadie D ’ Ambrosio , Emily C . Ward , and Monica P . Witte walked attendees through the appropriate steps of obtaining a temporary restraining order . Panelists highlighted the relevant law that empowers attorneys to act and how to choose the correct venue for such order . Panelists also went over each prong of the law that must be proven to successfully obtain a TRO and addressed the complications that COVID-19 presented for such hearings . This panel gave attendees one hour of trial practice .
How to Make Mediation Work in A Remote World
This panel discussed the implications that COVID-19 had on dispute resolution . Panelists addressed and offered helpful tips on how to make the most of technology while conducting these meetings . Moderator Rich Glaze , Jr . ( Barnes & Thornburg LLP )
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