Ensure your law firm’s website is both visually compelling and fully ADA-compliant. This program covers essential web design principles tailored for legal professionals while addressing accessibility requirements under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Learn how to create a user-friendly, professional website that meets legal and ethical standards, enhances user experience, and protects your firm from compliance risks. Stay ahead of digital accessibility trends and provide an inclusive online presence for all clients.

What You'll Learn:
• ADA Compliance Best Practices – Understand the key accessibility guidelines and legal requirements to ensure your law firm’s website meets ADA standards
• User-Centered Website Design – Learn how to create a professional, visually appealing, and easy-to-navigate website that enhances client engagement
• Risk Mitigation & Legal Protection – Discover how to avoid potential lawsuits and compliance issues by implementing proper accessibility features and testing methods

Presented By Vendor Sponsor: Law Firm Sites

Chair(s): Jo Stephens

Faculty: Jo Stephens

Credits:
1.50 CLE Credit Hours

This program will look back at the history and purpose of the Corporate Transparency Act and rules governing Non-Financed Residential Real Estate Transfers. This program will also look ahead to the evolving, and oftentimes murky, compliance requirements under these legal regimes and how these are affecting business transactions.

What You’ll Learn:
• The original purposes for the Corporate Transparency Act and rules governing Non-Financed Residential Real Estate Transfers
• Who is subject to the reporting requirements under the Corporate Transparency Act and rules governing Non-Financed Residential Real Estate Transfers
• How to comply with the Corporate Transparency Act and rules governing Non-Financed Residential Real Estate Transfers in support of your business transactions

Presented By: Business Law Section

Chair(s): Matthew A Bailey, Anette J Beebe, Zoila E Mena Harpin

Faculty: Matthew A Bailey, Gary L Fletcher, Zoila E Mena Harpin

Credits:
1.50 CLE Credit Hours

This session will be presented in three parts. There are many members of the Arizona Bar who struggle with drug and alcohol misuse. In the first part, attendees will have the opportunity to learn from the experiences of Arizona lawyers who will share their approach to law practice while in recovery. Next, experiencing attorney discipline can be overwhelming. The second part of the session will break down the steps for navigating the discipline process governed by the Arizona Rules of the Supreme Court. Finally, many law practices expose practitioners to traumatic events. The third part of the session will present resources for coping with and surviving through PTSD and vicarious trauma.

What You’ll Learn:
• This session will cover topics for lawyer health and well-being

Presented By: Member Assistance Council

Chair(s): Alexis G Firehawk, Jill S Hastings

Faculty: Dawnese C Hustad, Edward F Novak, Sara P Stark

Credits:
3.00 CLE Credit Hours
3.00 CLE Ethics Credit Hours

The Family Law and Criminal Justice Sections have joined forces to provide you with a comprehensive overview of the intersection between family and criminal law. We will explore issues such as domestic violence, orders of protection, law enforcement involvement, and drug convictions and we will discuss the impact of criminal allegations on divorce disputes, especially parenting time and legal decision-making issues. In our discussion, we will work to instruct the attendees on the best practices for handling sensitive cases where family and criminal matters converge, offering practical insights into managing complex cases that require knowledge in both areas of the law.

What You’ll Learn:
• What family law presumptions are impacted by criminal allegations, arrests, or convictions and how to rebut those presumptions
• How to navigate domestic violence and other criminal arrests/ convictions—for both the accused and the victims of criminal behavior
• How to balance a client’s criminal defense interests and the client’s interests in the family court process

Presented By: Criminal Justice Section Family Law Section

Chair(s): Jennika N Stith, Mark S Williams

Faculty: Flynn P Carey, Bruce R Cohen, Norma C Izzo, Wendy A Million, Shannon L Peters, Stephen S Umpleby

Credits:
3.00 CLE Credit Hours

Internet entrepreneurship is skyrocketing, especially via social media. This is an intro for lawyers advising online entrepreneurs and content creators. We will cover critical issues to understand when advising clients who operate web-based businesses. This includes content creation-related issues and how to protect brands online or produce online content.

What You’ll Learn:
• Addressing trademark and copyright issues online and how to enforce your rights
• Dealing with cybersquatters and other intellectual property scams
• Navigating advertising regulations in the digital age
• Pitfalls of doing business in online marketplaces
• Understanding the boundaries of free speech and the First Amendment Legal implications of artificial intelligence when doing business online

Presented By: Intellectual Property Law Section Internet E-Commerce & Technology Law Section

Chair(s): Courtney B Abrams, Aaron K Haar, Raeesabbas Mohamed

Faculty: Courtney B Abrams, Raeesabbas Mohamed, Maria C Speth

Credits:
3.00 CLE Credit Hours
0.50 CLE Ethics Credit Hours

The session will focus on the ICPC, including proposed changes to the Compact, processes, do’s and don’ts, Regulation 7/Expedited ICPC, ICWA, and adoption implications.

What You’ll Learn:
• Attendees will gain real-world tips for navigating these challenging interstate processes, with insights from judges, administrators, and lawyers who deal with these issues regularly
• More than just background; these sessions will include practical tips and tricks for ensuring that jurisdictional and placement decisions are made swiftly and soundly
• The information provided will be useful to new practitioners as well as those who have more experience but may not encounter these issues regularly

Presented By: Juvenile Law Section

Chair(s): Rachel F Johnson, Nicole L Severson

Faculty: Kristy B Blackwell, Jonathan D Conant, David Minko

Credits:
3.00 CLE Credit Hours

The Arizona Supreme Court recently approved changes to the Arizona Rules of Professional Conduct intended to address ethical challenges faced by government lawyers. These changes went into effect January 1, 2025. A panel of experts will explore those rule changes and their implications for government practitioners. For government lawyers, the CLE will satisfy the new requirement, adopted by the Court along with the Ethics Rule changes, that government lawyers complete one hour of ethics CLE specific to government practice by July 1, 2025. Private practitioners who interact with government officials will also benefit from a better understanding of the challenges faced by their government colleagues.

What You’ll Learn:
• The changes to Rule 42 & 45, Rules of the Supreme Court, & accompanying changes to various ethical rules
• Specific implications of the rule changes for government practitioners
• How to utilize the APAAC Public Lawyer Ethics Manual

Presented By: Criminal Justice Section Public Lawyers Section

Chair(s): Elizabeth B Ortiz, Pamela Peiser, Desiree Petersen

Faculty: Amelia C Cramer, Stephen P Little, Regina L Nassen

Credits:
1.50 CLE Credit Hours
1.50 CLE Ethics Credit Hours

In the last decade, there has been an unprecedented focus on environmental justice (EJ), including a proliferation of laws, policies, and practices designed to achieve equity in the development, implementation, and enforcement of environmental laws. This dynamic and cross-cutting practice area presents opportunities and challenges for those who wish to incorporate EJ considerations and principles in their work. We will highlight key issues facing EJ practitioners, bring together thought leaders to highlight lessons learned, do a deep dive into recent case studies, and work together to foster broader EJ education. Join us for a dynamic discussion focusing on the recent developments in Environmental Justice law and policy, including how to incorporate EJ into corporate governance, compliance, and the law.

What You’ll Learn:
• History of Environmental Justice in the law
• Current issues and challenges for equity in Environmental Justice
• Where Environmental Justice issues may be intertwined with various other areas of law and when to be on the lookout

Presented By: Environmental and Natural Resources Law Section

Chair(s): Julia M Kolsrud, Kaitlyn E Smith, Chloe R Woods

Faculty: Caitlin M Doak, Anthony C Proano

Credits:
1.50 CLE Credit Hours
1.50 CLE Ethics Credit Hours

This comprehensive program will delve into critical ethics topics such as representing clients with diminished capacity, representing clients serving in fiduciary roles, and addressing other ethics considerations. This seminar will also address common bar complaints received by elder law attorneys as well as what happens when a lawyer has diminished capacity.

What You’ll Learn:
• Understand the ethical and practical considerations when advocating for clients who may have cognitive impairments
• Gain insights into the obligations and best practices for representing clients in a fiduciary capacity, ensuring their interests are protected
• Understand the steps to take when a lawyer experiences diminished capacity

Presented By: Elder Law Mental Health & Special Needs Planning

Chair(s): Rebecca Hall, Rachael M Mitchell

Faculty: David M Majchrzak, Daniel J Mazza, Lynda C Shely

Credits:
1.50 CLE Credit Hours
1.50 CLE Ethics Credit Hours

This presentation will delineate how taking a scientific approach to the damages portion of your case through retention of the appropriate experts and utilization of a standardized industry-accepted process will produce a credible depiction of your plaintiffs’ long-term treatment needs and the costs thereof.

What You’ll Learn:
• Determination of the appropriate experts for damages
• Description of a scientific approach to damages
• Delineation of the key steps entailed in arriving at a credible damages perspective

Faculty: Alexander J Behar, Jan Roughan

Credits:
1.50 CLE Credit Hours

This program focuses on the Restatements of the Law, promulgated by the American Law Institute for more than a century. The interactive panel discussion provides an overview of the ALI and how Restatements are made (and their components) as well as how Restatements are received in the United States Supreme Court and in Arizona, including criticisms and controversies regarding Restatements.

What You’ll Learn:
• The purpose and role of Restatements in the law
•The components of the Restatements and the critical differences in those components
• How Restatements are being received in Arizona and elsewhere

Presented By: American Law Institute Members in Arizona

Chair(s): Samuel A Thumma

Faculty: Ellen M Bublick, Samuel A Thumma, Charles W Wirken

Credits:
1.50 CLE Credit Hours

As World War II drew to a close and the entire world grappled with the magnitude of the Holocaust, there was an outcry for justice. But justice was not a foregone conclusion. Never had a victorious nation put a vanquished one on trial for crimes that had yet to be defined. The Allies were not certain how or if they could bring the Nazis to justice. This program will explore the challenges, triumphs, and failures of the International Military Tribunal on the year of its 80th anniversary.

What You’ll Learn:
• Participants will learn about the origins of international justice leading up to World War II
• Participants will learn about the laws put in place in Germany that laid the groundwork for the Holocaust
• Participants will learn about the legal/moral and ethical debates and challenges of creating and carrying out the International Military Tribunal

Presented By: Public Lawyers Section

Chair(s): Wendy S Morton, Elizabeth B Ortiz

Faculty: Wendy S Morton

Credits:
1.50 CLE Credit Hours
1.50 CLE Ethics Credit Hours

This panel seminar features three expert attorneys who will provide a comprehensive review of public benefits, providing valuable insights into social security, Medicare, Arizona long-term care, Section 8 housing, veteran’s benefits, and more. Additionally, this session will cover the difference between means-tested public benefits and non-means-tested public benefits and the importance of considering public benefits related to estate planning, conservatorship, personal injury settlement, and other matters.

What You’ll Learn:
• Gain an understanding of various public benefits, including social security, Medicare, and Arizona long-term care, also known as ALTCS
• Understand the importance of identifying means-tested public benefits and navigating eligibility criteria
• Learn how public benefits impact different clients across various practice areas

Presented By: Elder Law Mental Health & Special Needs Planning Section

Chair(s): Rebecca Hall, Rachael M Mitchell

Faculty: Marsha Goodman, Emily B Kile, Bridget A O'Brien Swartz

Credits:
1.50 CLE Credit Hours

In this interactive seminar, participants will learn about key challenges for achieving equal justice and how lawyers can be problem solvers. Participants will engage in facilitated discussions to develop consensus recommendations to address improving access to justice and equal justice using the Arizona Town Hall method.

What You’ll Learn:
• What role does public trust play in equal justice?
• How does inequality impact equal access to justice?
• What role should diversity play in equal justice?

Presented By: Arizona Lawyers for Equal Justice Arizona Town Hall

Chair(s): Carol S Berry, Tara L Jackson, Frankie Y Jones

Faculty: Maria Elena Cruz, Suzanne L Diaz, Anni Hill Foster, Kami M Hoskins, Patricia K Norris, James P O'Sullivan, William P Ring, Samuel A Thumma, Anthony L Young

Credits:
3.00 CLE Credit Hours

The Northeastern Arizona Indian Water Rights Settlement Agreement (NAIWRSA) is the culmination of decades of negotiations amongst the San Juan Southern Paiute Tribe, the Hope Tribe and the Navajo Nation. NAIWRSA marks a critical milestone toward ensuring reliable and sustainable water supplies to the tribes in Northeastern Arizona. The effects of the NAIWRSA will be felt across the United States, especially in the Upper and Lower Basin States. The settlement will directly impact local farmers, agricultural corporations, towns, cities and the State of Arizona. Please come learn about this historic water settlement. The CLE will provide a brief history of the settlement negotiations, the land and water resources at issue, the legal and ethical impacts on different stakeholders and a look into the future of Colorado River water usage in the State of Arizona.

What You’ll Learn:
• History of the negotiations
• Terms of the settlement
• Impact of the settlement on a wide range of stakeholders

Presented By: Environmental and Natural Resources Law Section

Chair(s): Julia M Kolsrud, Kaitlyn E Smith, Chloe R Woods

Faculty: Payslie M Bowman, Judith M Dworkin, Julia M Kolsrud, Bradley J Pew, Ayesha K Vohra

Credits:
3.00 CLE Credit Hours
1.00 CLE Ethics Credit Hours

This year’s plenary session focuses on three related topics. Join us for a fireside chat with Justice Ruth McGregor and Scott O’Connor, moderated by Judge David Gass, to discuss merit selection of judges and the importance of an independent judiciary, with a sprinkling about the judicial performance review system. Next, hear from folks from the Lawyer Regulation Office to learn about the lawyer regulation system – how it works and your part in it. This plenary session will conclude with a presentation by members who have been involved in the Rule of Law Task Force. They will discuss the report they issued, and the work yet to be accomplished to defend and advance the rule of law.

Presented by: The State Bar of Arizona

Faculty: David B Gass, Kelsi T Lane, Ruth V McGregor, Michael W Murphy, Scott O'Connor, Amy K Rehm, Ted A Schmidt, Maret Vessella

Credits:
3.00 CLE Credit Hours

The first and most famous Nuremberg trial barely scratched the surface in bringing the perpetrators of the Holocaust to trial. Over the course of the next several years, dogged prosecutors had to fight trial fatigue and politics to continue their fight for justice. They prosecuted doctors, judges and lawyers, industrialists, administrators, paramilitary units, and many others. Learn about the subsequent Nuremberg war crime trials and the legacy of the Nuremberg trials in modern times.

What You’ll Learn:
• Participants will learn the struggle to continue with the subsequent Nuremberg trials after the first International Military Tribunal
• Participants will learn about each of the 12 subsequent trials
• Participants will learn about the legacy of the Nuremberg trials

Presented By: Public Lawyers Section

Chair(s): Wendy S Morton, Elizabeth B Ortiz

Faculty: Wendy S Morton

Credits:
1.50 CLE Credit Hours
1.50 CLE Ethics Credit Hours

Discover the vital intersection of Arizona’s Title 14 and Title 36 laws relating to mental health and court-ordered treatment. This seminar offers a comprehensive overview of legal frameworks and case studies related to mental health, including court-ordered treatment, mental health authority under guardianship proceedings, as well as specifically authorized mental health authority in an executed power of attorney.

What You’ll Learn:
• Learn the criteria and legal processes for initiating court-ordered mental health treatment under Title 36; what is court-ordered treatment; relevant case law and consequences
• Discover the overlap between Title 36 court-ordered treatment and Title 14 guardianship
• Understand the requirements for obtaining mental health authority in guardianship proceedings under Title 14; how individuals may properly designate an agent in a power of attorney; and other ways to advocate for adults with mental illness

Presented By: Elder Law Mental Health & Special Needs Planning Section

Chair(s): Elisa C Donnadieu, Rebecca Hall, Rachael M Mitchell

Faculty: Janette C Corral, Elisa C Donnadieu

Credits:
1.50 CLE Credit Hours

Tips for maintaining and growing your client base on a budget, marketing, and networking for solo/small firms.

What You’ll Learn:
• Essential tips for managing your social media presence: what to prioritize and what to avoid
• Leveraging the resources you must have to grow your cases, plus tech tools that can make a difference
• Effective networking strategies for busy professionals who need more cases to keep their practice thriving

Presented By: State Bar of Arizona’s Lawyer Assistance Programs

Chair(s): Jennifer B Fite

Faculty: Jennifer B Fite, Sean Hart

Credits:
1.50 CLE Credit Hours
1.50 CLE Ethics Credit Hours

The Court of Appeals determined in Wood v. Coconino that it is a due process violation to eliminate a person’s right to vote without a specific hearing. This seminar will analyze this case and those it affects under guardianships. This panel would discuss the recent case of Wood v. Coconino, which held that persons under a guardianship cannot be denied the right to vote without following due process. Petitioners seeking to remove a person’s right to vote, even when under a guardianship, must show, by clear and convincing evidence, that the alleged incapacitated person cannot express his or her preference on a ballot.

What You’ll Learn:
• The legal standard for determining a person’s right to vote
• The legal standard for those under guardianship
• Why the right to vote is a strict scrutiny review

Presented By: Council for Persons with Disabilities in the Legal Profession

Chair(s): Nicholas B Buzan

Faculty: Nicholas B Buzan, Justin S Cluck, Randall M Howe, Jay M Polk, Rashida Suminski

Credits:
1.50 CLE Credit Hours

For more than 125 years, the Uniform Law Commission has promulgated uniform and model acts for state legislatures to consider and, if deemed appropriate, enact. But how does all that work? This program provides an overview of the ULC, how it works, how its products have been received, components of those acts, and what’s in the pipeline currently in the ULC. The interactive program will help further understanding of these products and this process.

What You’ll Learn:
• How ULC Uniform and Model Acts are made and their components
• ULC Uniform and Model Acts in Arizona and elsewhere
• Current projects in the ULC pipeline

Presented By: Arizona Leadership of the Uniform Law Commission

Chair(s): Samuel A Thumma

Faculty: Barbara A Atwood, Timothy Berg, Samuel A Thumma

Credits:
1.50 CLE Credit Hours

Mediators and negotiators can reach better-tailored and more informed outcomes by viewing issues through several different lenses. Renowned mediator Lee Jay Berman will take you through a fact pattern (a business partnership dispute that is easily accessible and translatable to other areas of practice) and walk you through how to mediate or negotiate that dispute through the four distinct lenses: 1. the evaluative, legal, risk analysis lens, 2. the psychological and relationship lens, 3. the practical, business lens, and 4. the creative problem-solving lens. This workshop will help participants view any dispute or negotiation through different lenses, allowing them to access more of their creativity, and expand the possibilities for potential resolutions.

What You’ll Learn:
• The evaluative, legal, risk analysis lens
• The psychological and relationship lens
• The practical, business lens, and the creative problem-solving lens

Presented By: Alternative Dispute Resolution Law Section

Chair(s): Steven P Kramer

Faculty: Lee Berman

Credits:
3.00 CLE Credit Hours
3.00 CLE Ethics Credit Hours

The Trump Administration’s proposals on tariffs may require amendments to the USMCA. Where do the experts stand on the need for changes and how would these changes affect your clients?

What You’ll Learn:
• What sectors are most likely to be affected by tariffs proposed to date?
• Will digital trade be impacted by the tariffs?
• What are the positions of the Mexican and Canadian representatives?

Presented By: International Law Section

Chair(s): Hilary E Sadler, Shirley J Spira

Faculty: Jason E Ankeny, George W Biederman, Caroline E McGroder, Travis P Roberts, Hilary E Sadler, Monica Villalobos

Credits:
3.00 CLE Credit Hours
1.00 CLE Ethics Credit Hours

SHOWCASE SEMINAR

In this game-show style seminar, celebrity contestants will lead audience teams in answering ethics questions posed by our esteemed panelists and your host, Tim Eigo.

Points will be awarded to audience participants and teams who successfully answer questions on topics such as recent developments in professionalism, conflicts of interest, attorney discipline, fees, lawyer advertising, and other ethical trends—all in a Jeopardy-like format.

Presented by: The Arizona State Bar

Sponsored by: Legal Services

Chair(s): Meredith L Vivona

Faculty: Christine Davis, Tim Eigo, David B Gass, Kelly A Goldstein, Craig D Henley, Michael F Kelly, Jessica J Kokal, Angela K Paton, Meredith L Vivona

Credits:
3.00 CLE Credit Hours
3.00 CLE Ethics Credit Hours

This always popular session will discuss important recent changes and developments in the law of evidence, including recent significant cases addressing evidentiary issues, recent and any forthcoming changes to the Arizona Rules of Evidence, and some brief highlighting of comparative practices from other jurisdictions. The session will focus on the ongoing work of the Arizona Supreme Court’s Advisory Committee on Rules of Evidence, with attention paid to artificial intelligence issues arising in court and within the law of evidence.

What You’ll Learn:
• Recent amendments to the rules of evidence and any proposals before the Arizona Supreme Court for future change
• Recent key cases construing various rules of evidence, and comparative practices nationwide
• How to apply the Arizona Rules of Evidence to novel hypothetical fact patterns presented including those involving artificial intelligence

Presented By: Advisory Committee on Rules of Evidence

Chair(s): Erik Thorson

Faculty: Peter Akmajian, Jessica J Berch, Bill Hughes, Randall S Papetti, Mikel P Steinfeld, Erik Thorson

Credits:
3.00 CLE Credit Hours

The program will provide: (1) an overview and guidance on the General Welfare Exclusion Act as it applies to tribes and tribal entities, (2) a discussion of the forthcoming Tribal Tax Parity Bill (H.R. 8318), (3) an overview of Arizona judicial interpretation of federal law regarding dual taxation, including a discussion of Hwal’Bay Ba: J Enters., Inc. v. Jantzen, 458 P.3d 102 (Ariz. 2020) (discussing a six-factor test to determine whether a tribal economic entity is an “arm of the tribe” for sovereign immunity purposes), and South Point Energy LLC v. Ariz. Dep’t of Revenue, 118 Ariz. Cases Digest 18 (2024) (holding that certain state taxes are not impliedly preempted by federal law), and (4) guidance for tribal corporate counsel practicing within the federal legislative and regulatory framework.

What You’ll Learn:
• Updates to the federal legislative and regulatory framework and best practices for corporate counsel of tribal and non-tribal economic entities operating within the exterior boundaries of an Indian reservation to protect business assets and tax liability
• Updates presented with case studies illustrating the developments in taxation and sovereign immunity

Presented By: Business Law Section Indian Law Section

Chair(s): Glennas'ba B Arents, Lisa J Estensen, Justine R Jimmie, Matthew A Ramirez, Christina A Rinnert

Faculty: Verrin T Kewenvoyouma, April E Olson, Wyatt R Williams, Robert R Yoder

Credits:
3.00 CLE Credit Hours

This CLE addresses the challenges faced by many lawyers, including women and minority attorneys, focusing on overcoming imposter syndrome and building the practical skills necessary to thrive in today’s diverse legal environment. Participants will gain actionable strategies to enhance their careers, assert leadership, and contribute to a more inclusive profession. The program also covers attorneys’ ethical responsibilities in fostering diversity, fairness, and a sense of belonging within their firms, providing valuable knowledge for both personal success and advocacy for positive change in the workplace.

What You’ll Learn:
• Understand the psychological impact of imposter syndrome, particularly for women and minority attorneys, and develop strategies to overcome self-doubt and enhance leadership skills
• Identify and address the intersection of racism, sexism, and imposter syndrome in law firms and implement practical strategies to combat these barriers
• Develop and apply actionable policies and practices that value, leverage, and welcome individuals with different identities within law firms, ensuring ethical compliance and fostering an inclusive legal environment for all attorneys

Presented By: Council on Minorities and Women in the Law

Chair(s): Emmanuel O Antelo Rosas, Edgard Francis B Espiritu, Whitney N Larson

Faculty: Ann B Ching, Robert J McWhirter, Daniel R Ortega, Lauren M Ramirez, Jessica Sanchez

Credits:
3.00 CLE Credit Hours
1.00 CLE Ethics Credit Hours

A full-day CLE program with an emphasis on the changes occurring in Arizona bankruptcy practice. Interactive presentations will focus on emerging 
issues in both the commercial and consumer arena. This exciting program will also cover developing topics and best practices for young lawyers. 
Presentations will be delivered by esteemed members of the Bankruptcy Section, current Bankruptcy Judges, and a recognized scholar.
The morning program will include two consumer and two commercial breakout sessions. The afternoon program will include two hours on ethics 
presented by the American Bankruptcy American Inn of Court and various members of the Bankruptcy Bar. We will also have a program on the 
State of the Bankruptcy Court, the implementation of changes to the Local Rules and Procedures, and the Judges’ roundtable. This is an educational, 
fun-filled event not to be missed by anyone interested in learning more about Bankruptcy!

What You’ll Learn:
• Most recent case law in consumer and commercial bankruptcy topics
• Refresher on the local rules and practices
• Bankruptcy Judge’s perspective on professionalism and matters essential to practice before the Bankruptcy Court

Presented By: Bankruptcy Law Section

Chair(s): Michael A Jones, Maria D Mathus, Eric W Moats

Faculty: Krystal M Ahart, Kelle A Andrews, Eddward P Ballinger, Hilary L Barnes, Alissa Brice Castaneda, Anthony P Cali, Amanda E Carrizales, Daniel P Collins, Ryan M Deutsch, Rachel Finn, Cary Forrester, Scott H Gan, Janel M Glynn, James F Kahn, Jordan A Kroop, Dawn M Maguire, Brenda K Martin, David B Nelson, Andrew R O'Keefe, Paul Sala, Bryce A Suzuki, Carolyn R Tatkin, Khadija Thomas, Madeleine C Wanslee, Brenda M Whinery

Credits:
6.00 CLE Credit Hours
2.00 CLE Ethics Credit Hours

Join a conversation with a former Arizona Supreme Court Justice, two former Arizona Court of Appeals Judges, and a former Arizona Superior Court Judge who share the unique experience of departing from the bench to rejoin the Bar. Hear their origin stories, what led them to the bench, lessons learned after becoming a jurist, the dos and don’ts of effective advocacy from a judicial perspective, motivations for transitioning back to private practice, the challenges of re-establishing a law practice, and practicing law through the lens of a former judge.

What You’ll Learn:
• Transitioning from bar to bench: pathways to the bench and lessons learned upon arrival
• Transitioning from bench to bar: motivations for returning to practice and starting from scratch
• How to be a more effective advocate from a judicial perspective

Presented By: Appellate Practice Law Section

Chair(s): Amy D Sells

Faculty: Andrew W Gould, Patrick Irvine, James D Smith, Peter B Swann

Credits:
1.50 CLE Credit Hours
0.50 CLE Ethics Credit Hours

This session will review the results and comments from practitioners gathered in the AOC’s 2024 effectiveness survey of Arizona’s Legal Paraprofessional program. Legal Paraprofessionals have been licensed and supporting clients since 2021 and the program exists as part of the Supreme Court’s strategic plan. What are the takeaways for the profession, what is their benefit to the practice of law, and how do we work together to support the fundamental right of access to justice?

What You’ll Learn:
• Review the scopes of practice of Legal Paraprofessionals
• Discuss quantitative data surrounding the public’s awareness of the program and its effectiveness
• Explore collegial opportunities to connect in support of access to justice

Presented By: Administrative Office of the Courts

Chair(s): Mark McCall

Faculty: Mark McCall, Nitasha M Miller, Candace J Thude

Credits:
1.50 CLE Credit Hours

This seminar will focus on pitfalls that the legal profession faces (mental health challenges, substance abuse disorders, physical illness). The panel will provide skills, tools and strategies to ensure wellness in the legal profession so that competence is maintained, and long-term success is the outcome.

What You’ll Learn:
• The pitfalls that the legal profession faces, i.e. mental health challenges, substance use disorders, and physical illness
• Skills and tools to ensure wellness in the legal profession
• Strategies to ensure wellness so that competence is maintained and steps to take if the lawyer or LP is impaired to minimize harm to the public

Presented By: Criminal Justice Council

Chair(s): Richard L Brooks, Nancy A Greenlee

Faculty: Jennifer B Fite, Nancy A Greenlee, Stephen P Little

Credits:
1.50 CLE Credit Hours
1.50 CLE Ethics Credit Hours

In our post-COVID world, using technology for meetings, hearings, and court appearances has become commonplace. This seminar will talk about how you can utilize these technology trends to continue to do pro bono work and help those in need receive access to justice. Learn about virtual client meetings, appearing in court remotely, and the new Pro Bono Portal hosted by the Arizona Bar Foundation. Plus learn about opportunities to do pro bono work without leaving your home (or getting out of your pajamas). Pro bono work does not need to be daunting!

What You’ll Learn:
• Best Practices with pro bono and technology
• Resources available through the Arizona Pro Bono Portal
• Virtual Pro Bono opportunities

Presented By: Arizona Pro Bono Network

Chair(s): Sabrina A Davis

Faculty: Elizabeth T Bingert, Kaitlin I Bridge, Sabrina A Davis, Gary B Kraft, Lara Slifko, Danielle J Viola

Credits:
1.50 CLE Credit Hours
1.50 CLE Ethics Credit Hours

What are the parameters of control over the books one can access? The presenters will discuss the Scopes trial in 1925 and whether the rule of law has defended or advanced on that topic. Is it legitimate to limit access to certain stories, perspectives, and information? What is the scope or limit on parental rights to advocate for access to or bans from certain content? Should the material be required to meet the definition of obscenity? How do issues of age impact the decision? Does a child have the legal right to read and learn regardless of what her parent might think? Who polices bans?

What You’ll Learn:
• Historical recurrence of similar themes in American constitutional law and whether this is an advance or a defense of the rule of law
• What First Amendment rights students and adults have in order to control their own reading and learning
• What legal powers libraries, school boards or parents have to protect or prohibit inclusive and accurate education • Arizona statutes and policy regarding what books can be in the school library and what books can be in included in the curricula

Presented By: Secular Communities for Arizona

Chair(s): Dianne L Post

Faculty: Kate DeMeester-Lane, Jennifer N MacLennan, Lynn Oberlander, Dianne L Post

Credits:
1.50 CLE Credit Hours
0.50 CLE Ethics Credit Hours

The program will provide:
(1) a brief overview of the framework of federal administrative law and policy,(2) a comparison of the differences in federal Indian law policy under the former administration and the current administration (e.g., regarding policies such as federal trust land acquisitions, natural resource development, etc.), and (3) offer a discussion on how differences in administrative priorities may impact the practice of Indian law in Arizona.

What You’ll Learn:
• The differences and any similarities in federal administrative law and policy under the former and current administrations that could impact the practice of federal Indian law in Arizona

Presented By: Indian Law Section

Chair(s): Glennas'ba B Arents, Lisa J Estensen, Justine R Jimmie, Matthew A Ramirez, Christina A Rinnert

Faculty: Derrick Beetso, Stephanie Sfiridis

Credits:
1.50 CLE Credit Hours

This seminar will be centered on updates in both the Federal and Arizona civil rules of procedure, a civil rules case law update, and topics related to justice in the law from a civil law perspective.

What You’ll Learn:
• Updates to the Arizona and Federal rules of civil procedure
• Rules of procedure for special actions
• A civil perspective on the topic of excessive force

Presented By: Civil Practice and Procedure Committee

Chair(s): Timothy M Collier, Lori A Guner, Patience T Huntwork, William G Klain, Michael E Yancey

Faculty: Stephen D Benedetto, Jessica J Berch, Patience T Huntwork, Andrew M Jacobs, William G Klain, Christina Retts, John W Rogers, Benjamin Taylor, Erik Thorson, Ann A Timmer

Credits:
3.00 CLE Credit Hours

Attendees will learn the history of the First Amendment. After learning the history of the First Amendment, attendees will learn where the current limits of protests begin and end, as well as when protesting becomes a crime. Finally, attendees will learn what legislation is on the horizon, as well as any recent case law updates.

What You’ll Learn:
• A history of the First Amendment
• The boundaries of lawful protest – what are your rights and when does your action become a crime?
• Legislative/Case law update

Presented By: Public Lawyers Section

Chair(s): Geoffrey A Balon, Scott A Holcomb, Pamela Peiser

Faculty: Lauren K Beall, Ryan P Green, Robert J McWhirter

Credits:
3.00 CLE Credit Hours
1.00 CLE Ethics Credit Hours

The discussion will review how to ensure due process in immigration proceedings through mandamus actions and appeals. The program will also provide information on the H1B process regarding non-immigrant employment visas. We will also include a current policy discussion on any new executive policies under the new presidential administration.

What You’ll Learn:
• How to file mandamus action using the Administrative Procedures Act
• General information on the appeals process at the BIA and the Ninth Circuit
• How to navigate the H-1B and green card processes for employment petitions
• Learn how new executive policies affect the practice of immigration law

Presented By: Immigration Law Section

Chair(s): Amanda Frost, Gabriel G Leyba

Faculty: Jesse Evans-Schroeder, Juan C Flamand, Amanda Frost, Gabriel G Leyba

Credits:
3.00 CLE Credit Hours

Experienced Arizona mediators and arbitrators will each present 10- to 20-minute talks on topics of interest to attorneys and ADR professionals who work to resolve disputes through arbitration or mediation. Following the presentations, faculty will sit on a panel and answer your questions.

What You’ll Learn:
• What you should know about the limits of confidentiality in mediation and in arbitration • Arbitrations involving pro se participants – this talk will will explore the legal, ethical, and practical obligations in conducting an arbitration with a self-represented party
• Mediator duties and ethical challenges when participants are unrepresented, underrepresented, unsophisticated, or of questionable competence
• Timing your mediation for maximum success
• Resolving manufacturer supply chain disputes through virtual arbitration
• Preparing for and navigating labor arbitrations • How to get the best settlement in mediation of intellectual property cases
• Value of expert witnesses in ADR • Tips for Attorneys appointed by the Superior Court to arbitrate civil cases

Presented By: Alternative Dispute Resolution Section

Chair(s): Steven P Kramer

Faculty: Sam Barakat, Lee L Blackman, Paul E Burns, Clara S Bustamante, Robert F Copple, Denny Esford, Renee B Gerstman, Steven P Kramer, Richard K Mahrle, Kathi M Sandweiss

Credits:
3.00 CLE Credit Hours
3.00 CLE Ethics Credit Hours

This presentation will discuss the roles of prosecutors and defense attorneys in the criminal justice system in both trial and appellate courts, focusing on the ethical obligations owed by prosecutors and defense attorneys. This dialogue between prosecutors and defense attorneys will cover topics including the prosecutor’s ethical obligations when it comes to filing charges; each side’s disclosure obligations; plea negotiations; crime victim’s rights; and each side’s ethical obligations when a case is on appeal.

What You’ll Learn:
• The special ethical obligations of prosecutors
• The ethical obligations of criminal defense attorneys
• How both prosecutors and defense attorneys work together to try to achieve a just result

Presented By: Criminal Practice and Procedure Committee

Chair(s): Joshua C Smith

Faculty: Kevin D Heade, Jonathan C Mosher, Joshua C Smith, Jennifer W Stock

Credits:
1.50 CLE Credit Hours
1.50 CLE Ethics Credit Hours

A discussion of scams, phishing, hacking, and malware targeting lawyers. Is that new client too good to be true? Should I open that attachment? How to spot and avoid common attempts against your firm.

What You’ll Learn:
• Understanding the differences between scams, phishing attacks, ransomware, hacking, and malware
• Explore recent scams targeting legal professionals and how even savvy lawyers can become victims
• Learn actionable steps to take if your firm experiences a scam or cyber-attack

Presented By: State Bar of Arizona’s Lawyer Assistance Programs

Chair(s): Jennifer B Fite

Faculty: Jennifer B Fite

Credits:
1.50 CLE Credit Hours
1.50 CLE Ethics Credit Hours

The presentation will give an overview of Chevron deference, including how it arose and how it played out over time. It will then explain the Loper Bright decision, which abolished Chevron deference. It will then conclude by offering thoughts about the future of administrative law and litigation in a post-Chevron world.

What You’ll Learn:
• An overview of Chevron d deference
• The Loper Bright decision overturning Chevron 
• Thoughts and predictions on how the demise of Chevron will affect administrative law in the future

Presented By: Administrative Law and Regulatory Practice Section

Chair(s): Andrew W Gould, Tammy M Thibodeau

Faculty: Andrew W Gould, Gary B Strickland

Credits:
1.50 CLE Credit Hours

This course will provide a blend of current issues in tax law, critical tax updates relevant to tax compliance, and a review of trends and best practices.

What You’ll Learn:
• Issues related to gift, estate, and income tax related to trust and estate administration
• Developments in federal tax legislation and administration, including updates on the extension of provisions of the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act
• Emerging state and local tax and tax litigation issues

Presented By: Tax Law Section

Chair(s): Natalia A Garrett, Otto S Shill

Faculty: James G Busby, Natalia A Garrett, Gregory A Robinson, Thala T Rolnick, Otto S Shill

Credits:
3.00 CLE Credit Hours
0.50 CLE Ethics Credit Hours

The American Bar Association has recently published the 6th annual Profile of the Legal Profession. The Profile revealed that while 56.2% of law students nationally are women, only 22% of law firm equity partners are women, and just 12% of managing partners are women. The panel will discuss what is needed in future leadership for Arizona lawyers from the perspective of women in varying law practices. Attendees will learn the different paths to leadership, the benefits of stepping up, and practical suggestions to elevate career growth.

What You’ll Learn:
• Overview of becoming a leader in the legal profession from the perspective of women lawyers in Arizona with experience ranging from academia, the court, public practice, and private practice

Presented By: Arizona Women Lawyers Association

Chair(s): Erin Anding, Alexis G Firehawk

Faculty: Angela Banks

Credits:
3.00 CLE Credit Hours
3.00 CLE Ethics Credit Hours

This CLE program offers a comprehensive examination of critical issues in labor and employment law, providing practitioners with the tools and strategies necessary for effective advocacy and client representation. The program will include a session that focuses on spotting ERISA and employment benefits issues, helping attendees identify and address common compliance challenges and benefit-related disputes. This session will also include updates from the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) and Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), highlighting recent developments and their practical implications. Participants will gain insights into navigating mediation, including techniques for valuing cases and managing client expectations to achieve favorable outcomes. The program also delves into best practices for conducting internal workplace investigations, ensuring thoroughness and compliance while mitigating legal risks. A discussion on the optimal use of experts provides guidance on leveraging specialized knowledge to strengthen case strategies. The session further explores trial and arbitration strategies tailored to employment disputes. Lastly, this session will provide a review of common ethics issues, focusing on conflicts of interest, confidentiality, and adherence to professional responsibility standards. This CLE equips attorneys with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate the complexities of employment law while maintaining ethical integrity.

What You’ll Learn:
• How to best navigate mediation, arbitration, and use of experts in employment disputes
 Tips for navigating common and unusual issues, including ERISA/employee benefits, internal workplace investigations, ethical issues, and other employment trends
• The latest updates from the EEOC and NLRB

Presented By: Employment and Labor Law Section

Chair(s): Kristine Beaudoin, Clara S Bustamante, Samantha E Cote

Faculty: J A Dattilo, Liz DeChellis, Nicholas J Enoch, Kristi L Hill, Lawrence A Kasten, Erich A Knorr, Michelle R Matheson, Mary J O'Neill, Cornele Overstreet, Alexis L Pheiffer, Stephanie J Quincy, Thomas M Roney, Burr Shields, Brad Taft

Credits:
5.50 CLE Credit Hours
1.00 CLE Ethics Credit Hours

Practitioners will receive a full day of continuing education concerning all matters in the world of estate planning/and probate. The program will include basic through advanced topics, including legal ethics. We will kick off the day with an update on recent ethical developments affecting probate and trust practitioners. Rules to be discussed include but are not limited to ER’s 1.18, 1.4, and 1.5. The morning will then continue with a deep dive into the topic of financial exploitation. The afternoon portion will center on niche tax and personal property issues and will begin with a 3/1 presentation regarding estate planning for artists and collectors. The day will end with a panel discussion of recent developments in the estate planning world, including a discussion of recently issued IRS guidance.

What You’ll Learn:
• Probate Litigation
• Legal Ethics
• Advanced Estate Planning

Presented By: Probate and Trust Law Section

Chair(s): Dane J Dehler, Lauren R Talkington

Faculty: Mark E House, Nora L Jones, David M Majchrzak, Olivia Miller, Andrea B O'Neill, Lynda C Shely, Chris Siegle, John C Vryhof

Credits:
6.00 CLE Credit Hours
1.50 CLE Ethics Credit Hours

All legal professionals need clients, but it can be difficult to get them. Then once you have clients, how do you make sure that their cases progress in a timely manner? This seminar will discuss client acquisition and using workflows to move cases.

What You’ll Learn:
• Tips on client acquisition
• Using workflows to move cases forward
• Workflow to enhance client satisfaction & ethical representation

Presented By: Sole Practitioners/ Small Firm

Chair(s): Adam J Crawshaw, Kari A Ramos

Faculty: Adam J Crawshaw, Kari A Ramos

Credits:
1.50 CLE Credit Hours
0.50 CLE Ethics Credit Hours

In representing contractors, architects, and engineers, many construction practitioners will defend their clients’ licenses before the relevant State regulatory body. But with licensees’ recently granted ability to demand trials de novo, and the divergent definitions of “de novo” filtering through the courts, are “final administrative decisions” as final as they used to be?

What You’ll Learn:
• A brief refresher on the differing complaint processes before the Registrar of Contractors and the Board of Technical Registration and how they make their way to the Office of Administrative Hearings
• The Legislature’s enactment of the A.R.S. § 12-910-given right to demand a “trial de novo” from final administrative decisions of the OAH
• The apparent superior court split and pending appellate decision(s) on what “de novo” really means in practice, and for your clients

Presented By: Construction Law Section

Chair(s): Erika L Johnsen

Faculty: Flynn P Carey, Gregory L Hanchett, James N Hanson, Chance Peterson, Matthew D Williams

Credits:
3.00 CLE Credit Hours

Join the always entertaining and enlightening Arizona Cannabis Bar Association on: (i) hot topics in local, state, and federal cannabis laws (for the first hour); and (ii) for hours 2-3, see several practitioner teams present novel interpretations and expansions of current law to facilitate the expansion of individual rights and business opportunities.

What You’ll Learn:
• How to navigate against, with, and around various unresolved legal issues when confronted with cannabis ‘hot’ topics
• Applying cannabis statutory, regulatory, and case law to everyday businesses that are expanding, experimenting with new concepts, and looking for capital

Presented By: The Arizona Cannabis Bar Association

Chair(s): Janet E Jackim, Sonia Martinez

Faculty: Lauren A Bostick, Thomas W Dean, Viviana Guerra, Julie R Gunnigle, Ryan Hurley, Janet E Jackim, Alex Karim, Chris Marohn, Sonia Martinez, Sully Sullivan, Jonathan H Udell, Savanna J Wright

Credits:
3.00 CLE Credit Hours
0.50 CLE Ethics Credit Hours

Title defects are like automotive problems: They pop up at the worst times, can be hard to fix, and are expensive to repair. In this real estate workshop, you will learn how to diagnose title defects, determine the right fix, and use the toolbox at your disposal to resolve the problem – with or without litigation.

What You’ll Learn:
• How to identify, investigate, and unravel title defects ranging from incorrect legal descriptions to decades-old defective conveyances to long-expired deeds of trust, including how to read and trace legal descriptions
• How to correct title defects without litigation, including through re-recordings, affidavits, corrected deeds, title insurance, and lot combinations
• How to resolve title defects through litigation, including quiet title actions, informal probates, special actions, private condemnation, and actions for reformation

Presented By: Real Property Law Section

Chair(s): Kathleen D Fox, Daniel L Kloberdanz

Faculty: Michael A Banta, Kathleen D Fox, Daniel L Kloberdanz, Neil Moffett, Joseph L Ward

Credits:
3.00 CLE Credit Hours
1.00 CLE Ethics Credit Hours

Join us as we explore the far-reaching ramifications of 2 significant recent SCOTUS decisions and their impact on securities and administrative law. Loper Bright Enterprises v. Raimondo, 144 S.Ct. 2244 (2024) overruled the principle of Chevron deference, which had directed courts to defer to agencies’ reasonable interpretations of ambiguities in laws that agencies, such as the SEC, enforce. Going forward, any such ambiguities shall be decided by the judicial branch. In another momentous recent ruling, the SCOTUS decided in SEC v. Jarkesy (Docket No. 22-859) that the SEC violated the 7th Amendment in attempting to assess civil penalties against a defendant without a jury trial.

What You’ll Learn:
• The broad-reaching impact on the SEC and administrative law of the elimination of Chevron deference previously given to agencies
• The impact on the SEC of now having to allow for jury trials in certain circumstances involving fraud claims
• Best advice and practices for your securities and administrative law clients moving forward

Presented By: Securities Regulation Law Section

Chair(s): Ann-Marie Anderson

Faculty: Ann-Marie Anderson, Charles R Berry, Ryan Hinsen

Credits:
3.00 CLE Credit Hours
0.25 CLE Ethics Credit Hours

Our annual TECHTalks returns this year with a continued focus on the ever-growing field of artificial intelligence. What does it mean – and more importantly, what does it mean for us as attorneys? Through a series of short 20-minute talks, TECHTalks provides a series of short, insightful discussions and panels about technology and its implications on our roles as attorneys. The program will include everything from the basics of using technology while remaining safe, to discussing how in-house companies, law firms, and the government are utilizing AI.

What You’ll Learn:
• Insight into the landscape of AI regulation
• Next steps on what you and your clients must have in place when using AI tools and services
• General considerations relating to the safety of using technology in a legal practice

Presented By: State Bar of Arizona’s Technology Working Group

Chair(s): Dhara V Shah

Faculty: Emily Anderson, Peter Brown, Jennifer B Fite, Joe Kaczrowki, Dave Kinsey, Ciara Maerowitz, Dhara V Shah, Whitney Stefko, Roberta L Tepper

Credits:
3.00 CLE Credit Hours