The Latest on the Law: Updates from the Boston Bar

The Supreme Court Speaks on Chapter 11: Reflections on the Implications of Harrington v. Purdue Pharma L.P.

Wed, 31 Jul 2024 14:48:58 -0300

The Supreme Court on June 27, 2024 issued its long awaited decision in Harrington v. Purdue Pharma L.P., holding 5-4 that a Chapter 11 plan of reorganization that releases claims against nondebtors without the consent of the claimants is prohibited by the Bankruptcy Code. Come hear the petitioner himself, William K. Harrington, United States Trustee for the New England states and New York, discuss the opinion with other experts and consider its likely effects on future Chapter 11 practice.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

Bar Coaching Series: Essay Workshop

Thu, 27 Jun 2024 15:21:23 -0300

Are you looking to improve your essay writing skills in preparation for the bar exam? Join this workshop and receive some best tips and practices before you head into the exam. Don't miss out on a great opportunity to improve your score!

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

Bar Coaching Series: Stress Management

Tue, 25 Jun 2024 16:43:41 -0300

The BBA extends an invitation to all bar exam takers to attend a stress management workshop. Led by Shawn Healy, a Clinical Psychologist from Lawyers Concerned for Lawyers, this workshop aims to provide valuable insight and guidance on navigating the pressures and expectations associated with bar exam preparation.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

Expert Witnesses in Business Litigation

Tue, 25 Jun 2024 15:40:13 -0300

An expert witness can make the difference between success and failure in business litigation. Join us to explore the role of experts throughout the business litigation process and how proper management of the attorney-expert relationship can create admissible and effective testimony. Three experienced trial attorneys will provide their insight and strategies on engaging and working with experts, expert-related discovery issues, and the admission and exclusion of expert testimony, in light of recent changes to FRE Rule 702.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

Medical-Legal Partnerships for Immigrants: Helping Immigrant Patients Access Healthcare in Massachusetts

Tue, 25 Jun 2024 15:38:43 -0300

Historically, the climate of fear within low-income immigrant communities and the uncertainty around healthcare benefits have deterred immigrants from seeking medical care. Anxiety over immigration status and other socioeconomic barriers contribute to poorer health outcomes among those in the immigrant community. Medical-legal partnerships for immigrants (MLPIs) are designed to address these health disparities. By connecting immigrant patients with immigration and health law attorneys, medical institutions have noted improved access to health care and health outcomes. This training aims to provide an overview of some of the most common types of immigration issues that arise in the MLP context, and how pursuing appropriate immigration pathways can in turn allow patients to qualify for more comprehensive health care coverage. The program aims to empower attorneys to explore these types of partnerships for themselves, thereby playing a pivotal role in improving access to health care in vulnerable communities through legal representation, community outreach, and policy advocacy.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

Trusts & Estates End of Year Review 2024

Tue, 18 Jun 2024 14:23:16 -0300

An annual event not to be missed, the Trusts & Estates End of Year Review covers recent federal and state case law, legislation and tax law matters. This year’s program will touch on:

New Developments Committee: The committee will review recent cases regarding the Massachusetts anti-lapse statute, a conservator’s authority to create a will for an incapacitated person, undue influence, and the ongoing litigation over land gifted to the City of Quincy for the creation of a school.

Public Policy Committee: The committee will report on various bills filed and pending during the current legislative cycle, including legislation pertaining to decanting, digital assets, unitrusts, and special needs trusts for seniors. The committee will also discuss other topics of interest to Trusts & Estates practitioners.

Tax Law Updates Committee: The committee will report on recent developments in federal and Massachusetts tax law including recent challenges and guidance related to the Corporate Transparency Act and cases, private letter rulings and other written determinations in the estate, gift, GST, retirement benefits, and income taxes and tax compliance realms.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

Divorce Fundamentals: Post Judgment Issues, Division of Retirement Assets, Contempts & Modifications

Tue, 18 Jun 2024 14:21:57 -0300

In this session, the panelist will discuss:

The process for dividing retirement accounts, including when to use QDRO’s and Letters of Instruction.
Contempt actions and the process for enforcing the terms of the Judgment of Divorce including when an award of attorney’s fees is appropriate.
Modification actions and the process for modifying the terms of the Judgment of Divorce Nisi.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

Office of Bar Counsel Trust Account Training

Tue, 11 Jun 2024 13:13:05 -0300

The Office of the Bar Counsel, the Board of Bar Overseers, and the Boston Bar Association are co- sponsoring a free one-hour program on trust account record keeping. The program will provide guidance for attorneys, paralegals, bookkeepers, or other law office support staff interested in receiving training on the requirements of Mass. R. Prof. C. 1.15, as revised effective July 1, 2015.

This program will provide participants with a detailed review of the records required to be maintained for IOLTA accounts and other trust accounts.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

Trusts & Estates Practice Fundamentals: Introduction to Revocable Trusts

Tue, 11 Jun 2024 13:08:59 -0300

This program will provide an introduction to revocable trusts in estate planning and review the key components of trusts, including funding formulas, marital provisions, structures for children and other beneficiaries, and trustee provisions. The program will provide drafting suggestions and advice when advising clients on establishing revocable trusts.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

Development of AI Policies and Procedures for In-House Counsel

Tue, 11 Jun 2024 13:06:27 -0300

The opportunities for growth in leveraging artificial intelligence technologies has changed the legal landscape for businesses.

This panel presentation will discuss:

· AI considerations for commercial agreements

· AI impacts on the practice of law

· How to effectively use generative AI to optimize tasks and increase efficiency

· AI's swift evolution and how it's reshaping intellectual property practices

· Best practices for leveraging AI given the current state of the law

· Development of internal policies with respect to AI

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

Divorce Fundamentals: Separation Agreements

Tue, 11 Jun 2024 13:04:21 -0300

In this session, the Panelists will discuss the essential provisions for all Separation Agreements related to: alimony, custody/parenting plans, child support, the division of the marital estate, health insurance, income taxes, and life insurance, as well as the key provisions related to the enforcement and modification of a Separation Agreement.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

Well-Being Leadership Skills Series Part 3: Building Capacity for Innovation

Tue, 11 Jun 2024 13:02:30 -0300

The BBA, in collaboration with Lawyers Concerned for Lawyers (LCL) is offering a three-part series directed at helping leaders improve their skills in three key areas-building connections, building capacity for difficult conversations, and building capacity for innovation. We strongly encourage BBA leaders and all BBA members that are leaders within their firm or organization to watch the introductory recording linked here and attend all three sessions. The series will end with a celebration during our June Community Connections Breakfast.

Building Capacity for Innovation: Growing Your Leadership Skills for the Wellbeing of Your People and Your Business

Building mindful awareness can increase our capacity for empathy and compassion but limiting beliefs can keep leaders stuck in their ways. This session explores how to change our mindset. For leaders, this can be especially challenging when trying to implement new policies, change billing systems, learn new technology or support their teams in stressful times.

The conversation will begin around what is “mindset” and how to move from a fixed to flexible mindset including working through resistance to change. Through experiential exercises, leaders will practice creating a more resilient mindset using techniques based on research around how to move toward a stress-is-enhancing mindset.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

From the Ground Up: Development and Construction Basics

Tue, 28 May 2024 12:39:00 -0300

Round out your skills as a “dirt,” or real estate, lawyer by learning about the basics of constructing a building from the ground up – from obtaining the permits or relief needed to unlock development potential on a site to entering into AIA contracts with the architects and contractors who will help design and construct the building. Join us for a discussion in which we will cover important concepts in development, construction and beyond.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

Basics of Bank Capital

Tue, 28 May 2024 12:13:13 -0300

The program will provide an introduction to bank capital, its uses and purposes, and the current debate on how to raise capital, including trade-offs between the benefits of raising capital and the impact of doing so on the economy.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

Administering Poorly Drafted Trusts

Thu, 23 May 2024 11:12:36 -0300

Join a panel of three experts in various areas of trust administration, including drafting, trusteeship, and fiduciary litigation. The panelists will delve into strategies for managing poorly drafted trusts and navigating worst-case scenarios that could lead to litigation. Topics will span from the initial drafting of the trust document to termination, offering comprehensive coverage of aspects in between.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

A Deep Dive into EPA’s Power Plant GHG Pollution Rule

Thu, 23 May 2024 11:11:46 -0300

This program will provide a comprehensive assessment of EPA’s recently released final greenhouse gas emissions limits for power plants, including the rule’s pollution control requirements, available control technologies, climate change benefits, environmental justice impacts, and electric reliability implications, as well as analysis of potential legal challenges to the rule that may be on the horizon. As many are aware, EPA’s attempts at setting greenhouse gas emissions standards for power plants has a storied and complex history spanning several presidential administrations and resulting in arguably one of the most consequential Supreme Court decisions in environmental law, West Virigina v. EPA. Come join our panel of preeminent environmental and energy law experts as they offer their analysis of this latest chapter in EPA’s efforts to rein in power sector greenhouse gas emissions.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

Representing Veterans in Discharge Upgrades: Appealing DOD Board Decisions in Federal Court

Tue, 21 May 2024 15:05:41 -0300

Many of the men and women who served in the U.S. armed forces are cut off from veterans’ services and benefits because they were given a less-than-honorable discharge. They may have served in combat or have suffered physical or mental wounds, but are nevertheless unable to access much-needed treatment and support from federal and state veterans agencies because of their discharge status. In many cases, the origin of their need for support—for example, service-related post-traumatic stress disorder or having experienced military sexual trauma—also contributed to the conduct that led to their less-than-honorable discharges. Fortunately, DOD record correction boards can change these unjust discharges. Unfortunately, despite recent increases in grant rates, the boards still deny or only partially grant most applications. But there is another way: appealing to federal court.

This program will offer an in-depth training on appealing negative board decisions under the Administrative Procedure Act. A panel of experts will share their experiences and offer best practices for challenging board decisions. The discussion will cover the when, where and why of deciding to go to federal court, EAJA fees, recent class actions, and other strategic considerations.

This program builds upon prior discharge upgrade pro bono trainings. Attorneys who did not attend the prior trainings are welcome to attend this training. To access previous recordings and supporting materials, click the link here. Attorneys who are interested in volunteering to represent a veteran in a discharge upgrade with the Veterans Justice Pro Bono Partnership, a project of the Veterans Legal Clinic at the Legal Services Center of Harvard Law School, should contact Margaret Kuzma at mkuzma@law.harvard.edu.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

2024 Special Needs Housing and Trust Updates

Tue, 21 May 2024 15:04:32 -0300

In this program, Attorney Karen B. Mariscal will guide us through the most recent developments relative to the HOTMA regulations and procedures. Executive Director of PLAN of Massachusetts and Rhode Island, Joan McGrath, will update us on changes to the policies surrounding the funding and use of pooled special needs trusts in Massachusetts.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

Public Participation in Energy and Environmental Law Proceedings

Fri, 17 May 2024 17:36:33 -0300

Join experts in issues pertaining to energy and environmental law to learn about how the public currently engages in agency procedure and how the Commonwealth and advocates are working together to enhance these processes to accomplish better and more equitable outcomes. Hear perspectives from attorney and non-attorney advocates and from the Commonwealth on efforts to increase engagement, protect environmental justice communities, and advance Massachusetts’ decarbonization goals.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

Family Vacation Homes: Pitfalls and Planning

Fri, 17 May 2024 17:24:57 -0300

Your clients envision leaving the family’s vacation home to their heirs to be enjoyed for generations to come. How forcefully should you dissuade them? And if they persist, how can you best structure the bequest in order to mitigate the problems that might arise in the future? In this hour-long session, an experienced estate planning lawyer and a probate litigator will address these questions, dive into the risks and downsides of leaving vacation homes to heirs, and talk about what you can do to reduce the prospects for trouble down the road.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

The Motherhood/Caregiver Penalty: A Discussion of Challenges and Solutions

Fri, 17 May 2024 17:23:38 -0300

This program is held in remembrance of Hon. Maureen Mulligan, whose collaborative and inspiring leadership as the Chair of the ABA's Commission on Women in Profession from 2020-2023 was integral to the formulation and publication of the ABA's "Legal Careers of Parents and Child Caregivers" report.

Last October, the ABA’s Commission on Women in the Profession issued a report entitled “Legal Careers of Parents and Child Caregivers: Results and Best Practices from a National Study of the Legal Profession”. Based on a national survey of lawyers and a series of national focus groups, this comprehensive study documents the continued pervasiveness of the “motherhood/caregiver penalty” in the legal profession and its negative impact on the advancement of women in the profession. Equally important, the report sets forth thirteen recommendations that lawyers and legal organizations can adopt to create a more equitable workplace.

Join us in conversation with one of the authors of the report and former ABA president, Paulette Brown, and the project’s co-chair, Michelle Browning-Coughlin, to discuss the findings and how to implement the recommendations. This program will offer the attendees an opportunity to more clearly understand the challenges and implications of the “motherhood/caregiver penalty” on women’s advancement in the legal profession and how legal organizations can implement practical policies and practices to remove it.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

Orange, Purple, and the Drugs Between Them

Fri, 17 May 2024 17:22:23 -0300

Panelists will discuss hot topics related to Hatch-Waxman and biosimilar litigation, including recent scrutiny from the FTC over what patents may be listed in the Orange Book.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

40T Compliance

Fri, 17 May 2024 17:21:28 -0300

Chapter 40T is designed to preserve the stock of affordable rental housing in Massachusetts that is at risk of loss due to expiring affordability restrictions, and to protect tenants in these developments from displacement. It applies to affordable housing properties that are assisted with or funded by any of 16 specifically identified federal and state programs, such as rental assistance (Section 8) and state and federal Low Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTC). Owners of properties subject to 40T must comply with its statutory and regulatory provisions in the event of a sale/transfer or termination of the rental restriction/subsidy.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

Navigating the FTC’s Non-compete Ban

Fri, 17 May 2024 17:20:38 -0300

In this program, our esteemed group of panelists will provide an overview of the FTC’s recently-announced Final Rule prohibiting most non-compete agreements. The panel will address the Final Rule and explain what it prohibits, and discuss its exceptions, practical implications for both employers and employees who may be affected, and the ongoing challenges to the Final Rule’s implementation.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

A View from the Front Lines – Current Issues in Estate and Gift Tax Audits and Litigation

Fri, 17 May 2024 17:19:33 -0300

Join tax litigator Keri Brown for a journey through the IRS’s current (and common) challenges to gift and estate tax audits. This presentation addresses valuation, formula transfers, installment sales, GRATs, penalties, Section 2036, split-dollar life insurance, and more – including how to best help your clients help themselves.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

Competency in Criminal Cases 101

Fri, 17 May 2024 17:18:19 -0300

How to deal with mental health issues in criminal cases, particularly focusing on client competency but also addressing criminal responsibility, including both the legal framework under chapter 123 and tactical and ethical advice, aimed primarily at students and new lawyers but also relevant to all experience levels.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

Update on Privacy Enforcement: View from the States

Fri, 17 May 2024 17:17:15 -0300

With comprehensive privacy laws now in effect in states across the country (and close to home), the panel will provide an update on privacy law enforcement, including developments in California, Colorado, Connecticut and other jurisdictions with comprehensive privacy laws in effect. The panel will feature a discussion with Michele Lucan, Chief of the Privacy and Data Security Section at the Connecticut Office of the Attorney General to understand how her office is approaching enforcement, including its recent report on Connecticut Data Privacy Act violations. Kevin Angle from Holland & Knight and Nick Farnsworth from Orrick will also discuss developments outside of Connecticut, including recent investigations in California.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

Trusts & Estates Practice Fundamentals: Preparing Estate Tax Returns

Fri, 17 May 2024 17:15:02 -0300

Join us in this month's installment of Trusts & Estate's Practice Fundamentals as we go over how to determine whether an estate tax return is required for a decedent’s estate; how to obtain and organize the information needed for an estate tax return and how to prepare an estate tax return. month's installment of Trusts & Estate's Practice Fundamentals as we go over how to determine whether an estate tax return is required for a decedent’s estate; how to obtain and organize the information needed for an estate tax return and how to prepare an estate tax return.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

What In-House Lawyers, Employment Counsel and White Collar Defense Counsel Need to Know About DOJ’s Pilot Program on Compensation Incentives and Clawbacks, One Year In

Tue, 07 May 2024 11:39:26 -0300

In March 2023, the Criminal Division of the Department of Justice announced a three-year Pilot Program Regarding Compensation Incentives and Clawbacks, which seeks to reward companies that incentivize compliance through their compensation systems and hold wrongdoers financially accountable for their misconduct. At the intersection of employment law and criminal law, this panel will discuss DOJ expectations under the program, its application to corporate criminal resolutions during year one, and strategic considerations for companies seeking to maximize credit under the program. Come hear from a leader of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Massachusetts and seasoned practitioners from the white-collar defense and labor and employment bars.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

AI in Estate Planning

Tue, 07 May 2024 11:38:00 -0300

This program dives deep into the realm of Artificial Intelligence (AI), scrutinizing its role in estate planning scenarios, and how its potential can be harnessed for greater efficiency. Furthermore, it aims to scrutinize the more human elements of estate planning with AI, observe court reactions to it, and furnish insightful recommendations for advisors working with AI in their practices.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

Creepy or Cool: How to Handle a Client Combining AI and Personal Data in Questionable New Ways

Tue, 07 May 2024 11:32:19 -0300

Clients sometimes get ahead of themselves. They can become so excited about a new thing they’ve discovered that they forget to ask whether they should do it. When those questions involve personal data and privacy, smart clients eventually approach their attorneys and ask “This new thing we can do, is it creepy or cool?” That new thing might involve using algorithmic analysis of existing data to infer new personal data about the client’s users, creating a new profiling function that improves functionality of existing user applications, etc. But the question “Is this creepy or cool?” is one that attorneys should be able to walk their clients through. In this webinar, John Weaver and Andrew Sutton from McLane Middleton’s artificial intelligence practice group discuss how they approach this question with clients and offer recommendations for how other attorneys can do the same thing.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

Subleasing Basics

Tue, 07 May 2024 11:30:17 -0300

This will be a primer on Subleasing, covering topics from reasons for subleases to market considerations to documenting the transaction.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

Tax Exempt Fundamentals: Dissolutions

Tue, 07 May 2024 11:28:26 -0300

Dissolution is the last part in our six-part Fundamentals Series on public charities and private foundations. The series will provide a basic overview geared toward new attorneys and attorneys new to the practice area on forming, operating and dissolving a tax-exempt organization in Massachusetts. The Dissolution program will describe the legal requirements and the steps involved for tax-exempt organizations in Massachusetts to be able to dissolve.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

Wiretaps – Basics and Beyond

Thu, 02 May 2024 15:10:10 -0300

This program will provide an overview of state and federal wiretap law, practice pointers for both criminal defense attorneys and prosecutors, and will discuss pending litigation. Hear from experienced prosecutors and defense attorneys about the unique aspects of any case involving wiretap evidence.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

Tax Exempt Fundamentals: Dissolutions

Thu, 02 May 2024 15:08:32 -0300

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

Well-Being Leadership Skills Series Part 2: Building Capacity for Difficult Conversations

Thu, 02 May 2024 15:07:09 -0300

Building Capacity for Difficult Conversations: Growing Your Leadership Skills for the Wellbeing of Your People and Your Business

While building connections will build trust, cohesion, and improve followership, self-management is key to developing the capacity to face challenging circumstances. Even while building capacity for self-management, there are techniques that can make difficult conversations more effective.

This session provides leaders with the opportunity to refine their communication skills specifically focusing on giving and receiving feedback. Using the foundations of interpersonal mindfulness, leaders will explore ways to enhance how they share information with others. Through experiential exercises, leaders will have the opportunity to practice giving and receiving feedback in a way that is productive and avoid the classic pitfalls of avoidant, hostile, indirect, or passive-aggressive communication.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

Trusts & Estate Fundamental: Overview of Estate Administration

Thu, 02 May 2024 14:59:01 -0300

This program will provide an overview of the basic steps to administer the estate of a deceased person, including probate, paying debts, satisfying creditor claims, preparing income and estate tax returns, accountings, and the distribution of the decedent’s assets.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

Rights of First Refusal

Thu, 02 May 2024 14:55:55 -0300

Massachusetts has a well-developed body of law on ROFRs. The panel will provide both a transactional and a litigation perspective on what they are, why they exist and what this body of law tells us (and does not tell us) about how courts will handle disputes over them. Additionally, the panel will address the still-open question of how to handle “unique” offers.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

Unveiling the Risks: AI Challenges in Labor & Employment Law

Thu, 02 May 2024 14:53:18 -0300

Employers and employees are learning how to best utilize AI and tools like ChatGTP in the workplace. Along the way they are being confronted, for the first time, with the legal issues that arise with the use (and misuse) of the new technology. This program will focus on the issues that AI and related tools pose for labor and employment attorneys and their clients, address the coming challenges, and explore potential best practices for the future.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

Not Selected In The Lottery? Visa Options Beyond The H-1B Cap

Thu, 02 May 2024 14:50:41 -0300

Panelists will discuss creative visa options for professionals not selected in the H-1B CAP, detailing relevant considerations, practical experiences, common questions, and potential implications for each option. Attendees will gain insight on “go to” approaches for each option and how to leverage new and existing immigration policies.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

Mental Health Advocacy within the Carceral System

Wed, 24 Apr 2024 12:45:39 -0300

This panel will focus on the mental health inequities that incarcerated individuals face within the prison system in Massachusetts. Panelists will also share strategies on how they are addressing these inequities and provide ways for others to get involved in pro bono efforts.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

Free and Clear of What? Recent Developments in 363(f) and Property of the Estate Disputes

Tue, 23 Apr 2024 14:47:18 -0300

Our group of panelists are prominent bankruptcy practitioners deeply involved in several cutting-edge decisions on these issues. Attendees will receive primer materials on this critical area of law, including summaries of recent opinions and references to helpful scholarship and additional practice materials. The panel will conclude with Q&A and debate among the panelists concerning, among other topics, Judge Katz's recent In re Worcester Country Club Acres decision.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

Payment Incentives that Promote Equity

Tue, 23 Apr 2024 13:44:00 -0300

The need to address health equity in the delivery of care is of paramount importance for providers and payors alike, as the health care industry seeks to increase access to care, improve patient outcomes, and lower costs. This panel will address innovative payment incentives being implemented in Massachusetts to help promote equity, including new services and initiatives that are reimbursable by Medicare, MassHealth, and private payors. Hear from representatives whose organizations are among those on the front lines in promoting health equity, including their perspectives on these innovative payment initiatives available to providers in Massachusetts and related opportunities and challenges in advancing health equity.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

Divorce Fundamentals: Pre-Trial Practice: The Memo, the 4-way and the Pre-Trial

Tue, 23 Apr 2024 13:41:39 -0300

What is a Pretrial Conference? When are they held? What are the procedures? Do they vary from county to county and judge to judge? What is expected of parties and lawyers? What is needed at a Pretrial Conference?

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

Fundamentals of an Investment Advisory & Investment Company Legal Practice

Tue, 23 Apr 2024 13:39:39 -0300

This program will provide an overview of the federal laws and regulations governing registered investment companies and investment advisers.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

Topics in Diversity Jurisdiction in Federal Court: Removal, Certified Questions, and Pitfalls for Closely-Held Companies

Tue, 23 Apr 2024 13:36:59 -0300

After an introductory refresher on diversity jurisdiction and removal protocol, this program will primarily focus on two frequently litigated, but perhaps not widely understood, issues that may arise when federal courts exercise diversity jurisdiction: certifying salient dispositive questions to state supreme courts, and overcoming unique challenges to establishing complete diversity when closely held companies are involved.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

Understanding Loss, Restitution, and Forfeiture in White-Collar Cases

Tue, 23 Apr 2024 13:23:11 -0300

Under the United States Sentencing Guidelines, loss is a critical factor in calculating a sentence for a defendant facing white-collar criminal charges. Yet methods of calculating loss can be far from clear. This panel of current and former federal prosecutors will walk through the basics of loss calculations and other financial penalties facing white-collar defendants. In addition, the panel will examine recent case law, including the Third Circuit’s recent decision in United States v. Banks, with the potential to impact how courts in Massachusetts and across the country approach loss calculations moving forward.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

Offshore Wind Developments – Challenges and Opportunities

Tue, 23 Apr 2024 13:10:07 -0300

Recently, the Commonwealth of Massachusetts received power from its first large scale offshore wind development, which was many years in the making. Large scale offshore wind projects are critical to the nation’s energy future and the cornerstone of regional and state efforts to achieve legislatively mandated clean energy implementations. These projects have also proven to be some of the most difficult to execute and controversial efforts in recent infrastructure history in this country. Come enjoy a brown bag lunch webinar with the BBA to listen and engage with an expert panel of representatives from the development, utility, regulator and non-governmental advocacy communities speaking on the challenges encountered by offshore wind developments over the past years and the notable opportunities that exist for successfully taking these projects forward to achieve a sustainable, equitable and clean energy transition and future.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

Consumer Debt Relief for Human Trafficking Survivors: Implementation of the Federal Debt Bondage Repair Act in Massachusetts

Tue, 02 Apr 2024 17:05:18 -0300

Many human trafficking survivors are coerced to incur consumer debt at the behest of their traffickers. This destroys the survivor’s credit and imposes significant barriers to housing, education and other important resources. The new federal Debt Bondage Repair Act provides a mechanism for survivors of trafficking to block this adverse information from their credit reports.

This webinar will provide an overview of the federal law, its accompanying regulations, and potential pathways to implementation in Massachusetts, including the critical role to be played by government agencies in enhancing access to this process. The speakers will also address ways that legal counsel, advocates and social service providers can assist survivors in accessing this important protection in the near term.

Additionally, this program will be relevant for government lawyers, pro bono programs and all lawyers and service providers who work with survivors of human trafficking.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

Top eDiscovery and Artificial Intelligence Trends in 2024

Tue, 02 Apr 2024 17:03:26 -0300

This panel will discuss new developments in eDiscovery and Artificial Intelligence for 2024, including continued evolution of eDiscovery protocols, collaboration tool and related collection strategies, as well as the integration of Artificial Intelligence into eDiscovery and related document review technologies. Speakers will feature plaintiff and defendant expert attorneys who specialize in eDiscovery and Artificial Intelligence and how it has and will continue to impact litigation. The panel will also discuss the top eDiscovery trends to watch in 2024.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

Nonprofit Health Care Transactions: Beyond the Hospitals

Tue, 02 Apr 2024 17:02:10 -0300

Join colleagues with expertise in health, non-profit and corporate law for a discussion about these intersecting areas of law in health care transactions. Bring your questions about the distinctions between charitable and non-charitable activities, use of transaction proceeds, entity conversion, board governance and more to explore in an open conversation with our speakers Emily Gabrault (Deputy Chief of the Non-Profit Organization/Public Charities Division of the Massachusetts Office of the Attorney General), Sheryl Howard (Partner at Krokidas & Bluestein LLP) and Michael McGrath (Partner at Ropes & Gray).

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

Well-Being Leadership Skills Series Part 1: Building Connection

Tue, 02 Apr 2024 17:00:22 -0300

Building Connection: Growing Your Leadership Skills for the Wellbeing of Your People and Your Business

In addition to emotional intelligence, leaders build rapport and relationships through connection to improve the quality of followership. This session provides the framework for leaders to develop methods to get to know their people (colleagues, associates, legal assistants, legal staff) and let them know you care. We will start with an overview of active listening, empathy, and paying attention and discuss how this creates a more cohesive workplace. Through experiential exercises, leaders will have an opportunity to practice active listening skills and refine their ability to stay present and connected with people in their workplace.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

The Supremes - A Review of Recent Labor and Employment Decisions at the U.S. Supreme Court and Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court

Tue, 02 Apr 2024 16:58:14 -0300

Watch a lively discussion of recent decisions from the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court and the United States Supreme Court affecting Labor & Employment law. Topics include important updates in discrimination and accommodation laws, procedural standards, affirmative action, Prevailing Wage Act claims, collective bargaining, and claims under the Fair Labor Standards Act (“FLSA”). The panel will examine the implications of these high court rulings on employers, employees, and the workplace environment.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

Tax Exempt Fundamentals Series: Taxes for Tax-Exempt Organizations

Tue, 19 Mar 2024 12:32:07 -0300

Taxes for Tax-Exempt Organizations is the fifth in our six-part Fundamentals Series on public charities and private foundations. The series will provide a basic overview geared toward new attorneys and attorneys new to the practice area on forming, operating and dissolving a tax-exempt organization in Massachusetts. The Taxes for Tax-Exempt Organizations program will cover unrelated business income tax (UBIT); Massachusetts-specific taxes; IRS intermediate sanctions rules and excise taxes; and executive compensation excise taxes.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

Commercial Real Estate Title Insurance

Tue, 19 Mar 2024 12:28:39 -0300

Join us for an overview of title insurance and its place within commercial real estate transactions. Learn the basics of title insurance policies and their differences from other types of insurance products. The program will focus on the practicalities of ordering and reviewing title for commercial real estate, selecting endorsements, negotiating commercial owners’ and loan policies, the title company’s role in closing a transaction, and some of the different considerations for commercial policies from residential.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

Financial Planning Considerations for Aging Clients

Tue, 19 Mar 2024 12:22:31 -0300

Join our panel of financial and elder care experts to discuss financial planning considerations for your aging clients. Topics include optimizing Social Security, using retirement plans effectively, and how to plan for future care costs such as assisted living and long-term care.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

Divorce Fundamentals: Child Support & Alimony

Tue, 19 Mar 2024 12:19:23 -0300

Discussion of the Alimony Reform Act and the Child Support Guidelines, including a discussion of tax consequences of each and the methodologies for calculating support which have both a child support and alimony component. Discussion will include timing, emancipation and dependency exemptions.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

Department of Revenue Child Support Enforcement Overview and Practice Tips

Wed, 06 Mar 2024 11:22:39 -0400

Learn about how the DOR agency operates and the various programs it offers to better enable practitioners to make use of those programs and navigate those processes to better serve their clients, whether child support recipients or payors. Also learn about recent changes to how DOR conducts hearings.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

New Guidance on Discharging Federal Student Loans, Part 2

Wed, 06 Mar 2024 11:21:17 -0400

You can do this! Hear from the government lawyers who review the new student loan discharge forms on behalf of the Department of Education as well as the lawyers that prepare the forms on behalf of debtors. This presentation will discuss the process for discharging student loans in light of new guidance issued by the Department of Justice in coordination with the Department of Education. The presentation will review step-by-step instructions for completing the new required form and supporting documents intended to streamline the fact-gathering process. The presentation will also discuss how counsel can identify cases in which the government may stipulate to facts demonstrating undue hardship. The discussion will be moderated by Grace Brockmeyer, Bankruptcy and Consumer Staff Attorney at the Volunteer Lawyers Project, and the panelists are Steffani Pelton of Madoff & Khoury LLP, and Brendan Mockler and Raquelle Kaye, Assistant United States Attorneys in the Asset Recovery Unit who handle bankruptcy litigation on behalf of the United States.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

The Affordable Homes Act: An Overview of the Housing Bond Bill

Thu, 22 Feb 2024 11:03:35 -0400

Eric Shupin, the Director of Public Policy for the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities will present an overview of the Affordable Homes Act, a $4.12 billion housing bond bill filed late last year by Governor Maura Healy. This legislation is a comprehensive package of spending, policy, and programmatic actions that would represent the largest housing investment in Massachusetts history.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

Preparing for a Legal Career While in College

Thu, 22 Feb 2024 11:02:29 -0400

Interested in law school but not sure where to start? Attend this program to learn about how you can chart a path to law school! The panelists will discuss what undergraduate students can do to prepare for a career in law school while in college. Topics will include how to choose courses that are helpful for law school and preparing for the LSAT, as well as other key items undergraduate students should know when thinking about law school.

Don't miss your chance to hear from practicing attorneys and law school admissions personnel!

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

Tax-Exempt Fundamentals Series: Private Foundations - Rules of Behavior

Thu, 22 Feb 2024 11:01:18 -0400

Private Foundations - Rules of Behavior is the fourth in our six-part Fundamentals Series on public charities and private foundations. The series will provide a basic overview geared toward new attorneys and attorneys new to the practice area on forming, operating and dissolving a tax-exempt organization in Massachusetts. The Private Foundations - Rules of Behavior program will describe the essential differences between private foundations and public charities and why these distinctions matter from a tax and donor perspective.

Speakers:

Valerie Sussman (Hurwit & Associates)

Kelly Guarino (Fiduciary Trust Company)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

Hot Topics in Life Sciences Enforcement

Mon, 12 Feb 2024 15:37:48 -0400

Hear from leading prosecutors in the Boston U.S. Attorney’s Office about recent enforcement trends in the life sciences industry involving the False Claims Act, Anti-Kickback Statute and fraud and abuse regulations, as well as the DOJ’s latest approach to self-disclosure and cooperation in civil and criminal investigations. How would you counsel your client about the self-disclosure process or cooperating with a government investigation? You will also learn key strategies from a seasoned member of the life sciences litigation Bar about the nuances to consider when advising your client, communicating with law enforcement, and designing a compliance plan.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

Sports Sponsorship and Licensing Deals: How Legal and Business Teams Work Together

Wed, 31 Jan 2024 18:43:01 -0400

This panel will explore how legal and business teams work together to properly vet, negotiate, and finalize sponsorship and licensing deals. We will hear from our esteemed leaders from marketing, sales, and legal departments with perspectives from apparel/footwear and professional sports industries.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

Tax-Exempt Organizations Section: Tips on Efficient Use of MA AGO Charities Division Charity Portal

Wed, 31 Jan 2024 18:40:57 -0400

Effective September 1, 2023, Massachusetts charities must submit their annual filings to the Attorney General’s Office (AGO) using the online Charity Portal that was launched in 2022. As part of the AGO’s effort to support the charities sector through this transition, the Non-Profit Organizations/Public Charities Division has offered interactive webinars to demonstrate the use of the Charity Portal. This Brown Bag program offers an opportunity for practitioners to learn tips on efficient use of the portal and to ask questions directly to members of the AGO team who were involved in the development of the Charity Portal.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

Recent Delaware Law Updates Affecting M&A Transactions

Wed, 31 Jan 2024 18:39:01 -0400

This program will cover recent opinions of the Delaware courts on important aspects of M&A agreements, including remedies for damages based on “lost premiums” available to sellers and the parties capable of brining those claims and equitable limits on specific performance, as well as equitable and process considerations, including the standard of review applicable in controller buyouts as well as claims for aiding and abetting breach of fiduciary duty on the part of buyers.

The program will address, among others, the Court of Chancery’s opinion in Crispo v. Musk finally resolving Delaware’s take on so-called “Con Ed provisions” as well as the opinions in Smart Local Unions and Councils Pension Fund v. BridgeBio Pharma, Inc., In re Columbia Pipeline Group, and 26 Capital Acquisition Corp. v. Tiger Resort Asia Ltd. Materials summarizing these and other opinions will be available.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

Bar Coaching Series – Stress Management

Wed, 31 Jan 2024 18:37:55 -0400

The BBA welcomes all who are preparing for the bar exam to a stress management workshop. Shawn Healy, Clinical Psychologist at Lawyers Concerned for Lawyers, will offer insight and guidance on managing the stresses and expectations that come with preparing for the bar exam.

Bar Exam coaches support students as they prepare to sit for the Bar Exam and confront all the stresses that come along with studying. This program helps law students prepare for the test and offers support on the non-substantive aspects of preparing for the exam.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

Tax-Exempt Fundamentals Series: Board Structure, Governance, and Fiduciary Duty

Wed, 31 Jan 2024 18:23:20 -0400

Nonprofit organizations must meet federal and state legal requirements and regulatory best practice expectations in the areas of board structure, governance and fiduciary duty. This program will review laws and rules that govern nonprofit corporation board operations, and the fiduciary duties board members assume when joining a nonprofit board as a director or officer. This is the third in a series of six Exempt Organization Fundamentals presentations.

Speakers:

Jocelyn Bishop (Hurwit & Associates)

Martha J. Nahill Frahm (Goulston & Storrs PC)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

Trust & Estates Mid-Year Review

Wed, 31 Jan 2024 18:22:07 -0400

An annual event not to be missed, the Trusts & Estates Mid-Year Review covers recent federal and state case law, legislation and tax law matters. This year's program will include updates from:

New Developments Committee: The committee will review recent cases regarding a trustee’s duty to account to remainder beneficiaries, issues involved when a charitable gift under a decedent’s will presents a latent ambiguity, the inclusion in the value of an irrevocable trust for the benefit of one spouse in the calculation and division of marital assets, the division of proceeds from a partition sale, and the severing of a joint tenancy by agreement.

Tax Law Updates Committee: The committee will report on recent developments in federal and Massachusetts tax law that are relevant to estate and tax planning including the Millionaire’s Tax, changes to the Massachusetts Estate Tax and final regulations issued under the Corporate Transparency Act. These are in addition to cases, private letter rulings and other written determinations in the estate, gift, GST, retirement benefits, and income taxes and tax compliance realms.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

Business Immigration Fundamentals

Wed, 31 Jan 2024 18:19:54 -0400

Comprehensive introduction to the basics of business immigration law; including overview of various employment-based temporary (non-immigrant) visas and employment-based immigrant visas. Panelists will discuss key points of different visa types and eligibility criteria. Attendees will come away with an understanding of the scope of visa types and some specific considerations for each type. This presentation will be beneficial for new immigration attorneys or law students interested in immigration law.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

Demystifying the Executive Director Position for Legal Services

Wed, 31 Jan 2024 18:13:43 -0400

Serving as the executive director for a legal services organization comes with many challenges and it is not a career path that many choose. Our panel of executive directors and board members hope to change that narrative and encourage you to consider leading a legal services organization.

The panelists will discuss their roles during the selection process, their career paths, and the requisite qualification and skills to lead a non-profit organization that provides legal services. Attend this webinar and learn how you can be a successful executive director for a legal services organization that helps to ensure access to justice throughout the commonwealth!

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

Trust & Estates Fundamentals: Charitable Giving Basics for Estate Planners

Wed, 31 Jan 2024 18:11:52 -0400

This program will provide an introduction to charitable planning. We will discuss the reasons for charitable giving, the types of property that can be used to make a charitable gift, and the techniques that can be used to achieve clients’ charitable goals.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

Divorce Fundamentals: Section 34: Income, Assets, Liabilities & Discovery

Wed, 31 Jan 2024 18:09:53 -0400

Chapter 208, Section 34 will be reviewed in detail with a focus on the factors the courts consider when assigning property and liabilities in a divorce. Discussion will include an overview of the various types of assets and liabilities and the best means of discovering those assets and liabilities. Discussion on discovery will include the different types of discovery available and what discovery is mandatory.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

Leaving a Legacy to My Neighborhood: Estate Planning Property Transfers to Community Land Trusts

Wed, 31 Jan 2024 18:06:50 -0400

In the face of our current housing crisis, community land trusts (CLTs) are emerging as a tool to develop and preserve affordable housing and land, and to stabilize neighborhoods. CLTs stand out from other models with their commitment to preserving affordable housing and land in perpetuity, and with a governance structure that ensures residents, neighbors, and other community members hold central decision-making roles. While CLTs acquire property through a variety of methods, many CLTs are developing pathways for local homeowners to transfer property through estate planning. Bequeathing property to a CLT is one impactful way homeowners may leave a legacy to their neighborhoods.

This program will introduce CLTs as potential beneficiaries of estate plans, illustrate a Boston-based case study that offers some initial lessons-learned, and outline key considerations for working with homeowners who are interested in transferring property to CLTs. Panelists will include estate planning and elder law attorney Harry Margolis, who has worked with Dudley Neighbors, Inc. (DNI), one of the oldest and largest CLTs in the country; CLT practitioner and consultant Harry Smith, who has served as the executor of an estate that included a property transfer to DNI; and land use attorney David Linhart, who represents DNI. Participants can expect to leave the program with a deeper understanding of CLTs and why they matter, model documents for estate plans facilitating CLT property transfers, and crucial lessons and considerations for supporting homeowners who want to transfer their property to CLTs.

This program is hosted by the Trust and Estates Section of the Boston Bar Association, in partnership with the Greater Boston Community Land Trust Network.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

Criminal Law Fundamentals: Discovery & Exculpatory Evidence

Wed, 31 Jan 2024 18:05:02 -0400

A primer on discovery for new lawyers or law students who are practicing or anticipate practicing in the District and Municipal Courts. The program will include both the prosecution and defense perspective on Rule 14 and Brady/exculpatory evidence.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

Navigating Unprecedented Challenges Addressing the Influx of Asylum Seekers and Migrants in Massachusetts

Wed, 31 Jan 2024 18:03:17 -0400

Join us for an essential conversation addressing the unprecedented surge of asylum seekers and migrants arriving to Massachusetts, posing. This surge has triggered sociopolitical and financial hurdles for cities like NYC, Chicago, and Boston, further complicated by the economic fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic.

The prolonged wait for migrants to acquire work permits, along with the arrival of individuals lacking established family connections, has strained resources and exacerbated existing housing market challenges. To meet housing needs Boston has innovatively repurposed spaces like hotels, motels, and uninhabited buildings. However, the absence of federal support intensifies this strain, amplifying difficulties in providing medical care, employment opportunities, and other essential services.

Our urgent discussion will delve deeply into the multifaceted responses of the state, municipalities, legal, and social service entities and emphasize the critical need for comprehensive solutions to address this pressing issue.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

Tax-Exempt Fundamentals Series: Formation of Tax-Exempt Organizations - Virtual

Fri, 22 Dec 2023 12:35:02 -0400

Formation of Tax-Exempt Organizations is the second in our six-part Fundamentals Series on public charities and private foundations. The series will provide a basic overview geared toward new attorneys and attorneys new to the practice area on forming, operating and dissolving a tax-exempt organization in Massachusetts. The Formation program will describe how to form a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization, choice of tax classification and state entity, state registration, and basics on advising clients.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

The Corporate Transparency Act Goes Into Effect January 1: Are You Ready?

Fri, 22 Dec 2023 12:23:39 -0400

The Corporate Transparency Act (CTA), which goes into effect January 1, 2024, is estimated to affect more than 32 million pre-existing entities in its first year and approximately 5 million new entities in 2024 and each year thereafter. The sweeping new law requires businesses with qualifying entities to disclose certain personal information about their owners and control persons. Our panelists will cover the following topics:

· Overview of the Corporate Transparency Act and its reporting requirements

· Impact of the new rules on particular client types:

o Emerging companies/VCs

o Private funds

o Sovereign wealth funds

o Financial institutions

· Challenges and concerns facing law firms representing reporting company clients

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

White-Collar Crime Section Boot Camp – Wire Fraud 101

Fri, 22 Dec 2023 12:21:31 -0400

Learn the fundamentals of one of the most powerful tools available to federal prosecutors: 18 U.S.C. § 1343, the Wire Fraud statute. This statute prohibits using electronic communication systems to execute fraudulent schemes, including small-scale telemarketing scams, long-running billion-dollar Ponzi schemes, and everything in between. Panelists will provide a broad overview of the statute, offer case examples, and discuss recent Supreme Court decisions that narrow the scope of this historically broad statute.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

Managing Superior Court Judicial Rotations

Fri, 22 Dec 2023 12:20:29 -0400

Join Superior Court judges and clerks for insights and practical guidance on managing cases through judicial rotations in Superior Court

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

Drafting and Enforcing Non-Competition Agreements Across State Lines

Fri, 22 Dec 2023 12:19:37 -0400

Non-Competition Agreements vary state by state and when employees find themselves working in a new state, headaches can arise. This program will feature perspectives from a management-side attorney and employee-side attorney on the issues that occur when non-competes cross state lines. The program will highlight the current landscape, specific challenges that can arise, and the questions that need to be on everyone's mind when considering the enforceability of non-competes across jurisdictions.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

Introduction to Tax Exempt Organizations

Fri, 22 Dec 2023 12:18:38 -0400

Introduction to Tax Exempt Organizations is the first in a six-part Fundamentals Series on public charities and private foundations. The series will provide a basic overview geared toward new attorneys and attorneys new to the practice area on forming, operating and dissolving a tax-exempt organization in Massachusetts. The Introduction program will describe what it means to be a nonprofit and a 501(c)(3), choice of tax classification, choice of entity (state law) and the basics on advising clients.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

Nonprofit Lobbying, Advocacy & Political Activities in the Upcoming Election Year

Fri, 22 Dec 2023 12:17:00 -0400

As 2024 approaches, it is a good time to refresh your knowledge on laws governing advocacy, lobbying and political activities your nonprofit or tax-exempt organization clients may engage in. This program will be particularly helpful for attorneys who represent organizations focused on social, economic, and political issues. Attendees will learn what constitutes advocacy, lobbying, or political activity; what rules apply, and what can happen if you break them; how these rules apply to social media; sample language for voter education and “get out the vote” efforts; and tips to prevent potential issues.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

Deposit Insurance Post-Silicon Valley Bank

Fri, 22 Dec 2023 12:15:32 -0400

The failure of Silicon Valley Bank and others in the spring of 2023 caused bank depositors around the country to as “Are my deposits safe?” This webinar will provide an explanation of how Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) deposit insurance works, why it covers what it does and why it does not cover all deposits, options for maximizing deposit insurance coverage and reducing exposure to a bank should it fail, including the use of sweep vehicles. The webinar will also cover the bank regulators’ response to the recent bank failures and bank regulatory developments since then.

This program is aimed at new lawyers and law students, as well as other seasoned attorneys looking to become more familiar with FDIC deposit insurance and to be prepared for any future market disruptions.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

NLRB Updates for Union and Non-Union Workplaces

Fri, 22 Dec 2023 12:14:02 -0400

This program will review recent decisions and guidance from the National Labor Relations Board on non-disclosure and non-disparagement clauses in settlement agreements, employer handbook policies, and bargaining orders. Emily Goldman, Supervisory Attorney for Region 1 of the NLRB, will provide attendees with an overview of these topics and employer and union-side attorneys will weigh in on the practical application of the NLRB’s recent decisions.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

Representing Clients with Diminished Capacity

Fri, 22 Dec 2023 11:42:45 -0400

In this program, Assistant Bar Counsel Sherri A. Gilmore will delve into the ethical rules surrounding representation of clients with diminished capacity. Neuropsychologist Rebecca Wershba will guide us through practical considerations for assessing capacity in our elder and special needs clients.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

Show Me the Money: Basics of a Commercial Real Estate Financing Transaction

Fri, 22 Dec 2023 11:39:30 -0400

A financing transaction is a critical piece of the real estate life cycle; these transactions can help equip borrowers with the funds to acquire, construct, and operate buildings as they envision. Join us for a discussion in which we will cover the basics of a commercial real estate financing transaction – from key loan documents and provisions to borrower- and lender-specific issues and best practices.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

Immigration Relief for Unaccompanied Children – Special Immigrant Juvenile Status

Fri, 22 Dec 2023 11:38:20 -0400

Please join staff from Kids In Need of Defense (KIND) as we cover the basics of Special Immigrant Juvenile Status (SIJS) and dig deeper into the state court processes for guardianship, custody, and other options for obtaining SIJS special findings. The training will cover governing state regulation and case law with regards to key findings a SIJS predicate order must contain, as well as a step-by-step guide on how to proceed in whatever type of state court process is best suited for your client.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

New Rules to Research Misconduct? How the Office of Research Integrity’s Proposed Revisions to PHS Rules on Research Misconduct May Affect You

Mon, 04 Dec 2023 17:11:01 -0400

Allegations of research misconduct deeply threaten academic research enterprises and individual investigators responsible for conducting responsible research and whose eligibility to receive federal funding rely upon assuring that this is the case year after year. Nevertheless, the numbers of reported research misconduct allegations continue to rise and demand growing attention of institutional grant recipients who must address the allegations to the satisfaction of federal oversight agencies.

Since 2005, the Public Health Service (PHS) Policies on Research Misconduct have provided the sole framework for how an institution must respond to purported research misconduct in PHS-funded research. The 2005 PHS Regulations have served as a model for countless institutions in implementing internal guidance and expectations on the topic of research integrity. Investigators facing research misconduct allegations regularly consult the 2005 PHS Regulations for guidance on procedure, substantive definitions, and for exercise of their due process rights, in addition to applicable institutional policies.

In October 2023, HHS and ORI issued a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking to update the 2005 PHS Regulations for the first time since enacted.

Among other notable changes, the Proposed Rules:

· Clarify and further define key terms and responsibilities of the parties

· Clarify responsibilities of federal agencies in overseeing the research misconduct process

· Suggest a streamlined appeal process for respondents seeking to dispute ORI’s findings or administrative actions

· Require sub-recipients of PHS funding comply with the regulation.

Our experienced panelists will discuss how the Proposed Rules will impact the evaluation of research misconduct claims and new challenges that may arise as a result of these changes in an interactive discussion.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

An Introduction to the Value of Patents to U.S. Businesses

Mon, 04 Dec 2023 17:06:50 -0400

Learn about patents and their role in building value across various industries including computers and software, medical devices, biotech/pharma, consumer electronics and more. Our expert panel will discuss how patents create and maintain economic value for businesses, as well as their place today among competing forms of intellectual property.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

MA Health Connector: Health Insurance Tax Credit and Appealing Penalties For Not Having Health Insurance

Mon, 04 Dec 2023 17:04:40 -0400

Hear it from the source. Staff from the Massachusetts Health Connector will describe the appeals process for taxpayers who did not have Minimum Creditable Coverage and face income tax penalties, and will also introduce advocates to some of the inner workings of the Health Connector. More specifically:

What is the health insurance mandate in Massachusetts?
Who can appeal a health care penalty, and how?
Who qualifies for assistance to pay for health insurance?
How do you avoid having to pay back the premium tax credit?

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

Divorce Fundamental Series - The Initial Divorce Filing Complaint

Thu, 16 Nov 2023 12:36:22 -0400

How to complete the Complaint or Joint Petition and what forms must accompany them. The differences between each process and the timeline for each process. Discussion will include Supplemental Probate Court Rule 411.

In the Motion practice segment, we will discuss when and how to file a Motion for Temporary Orders, what should be included, when the Motion should be supported by an affidavit and when to request an evidentiary hearing.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

Impacts to Massachusetts from SCOTUS’s decision in Sackett v. EPA

Tue, 14 Nov 2023 16:34:20 -0400

A conversation discussing how the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision in Sackett v. EPA will impact wetland and waterway protections in Massachusetts. The webinar will cover how to we got to where we are, impacts from the holding and subsequent rule makings, and predictions for the future.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

Challenging Blended Families: The Intersection of Trust Administration and Fiduciary Litigation when Two Families Become One

Tue, 14 Nov 2023 16:20:27 -0400

The program will focus on the myriad of challenges presented during the administration of trusts involving blended families. The panelists will provide practical tips from their collective experiences on the common issues which arise from trusts involving blended families and how to avoid, limit, or pursue litigation and ensure smoother administration when representing beneficiaries or fiduciaries in these scenarios.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

Divorce Fundamentals Series - The Divorce Client Interview

Tue, 07 Nov 2023 13:35:26 -0400

The discussion will include the format and content of the divorce client initial intake interview and advising the client about the divorce process.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

Five Things to Know: Recent Business-to-Business Chapter 93A Claims

Fri, 27 Oct 2023 17:17:36 -0300

Chapter 93A is ubiquitous in Massachusetts business litigation. Courts continue to shed new light on business-to-business claims. This program highlights some recent decisions from the state and federal courts with an eye toward providing attendees with five things they need to know.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

Pro Bono Opportunities with Prisoners’ Legal Services

Fri, 27 Oct 2023 17:16:04 -0300

Please join us this Pro Bono Month to learn about the important work that Prisoners’ Legal Services does on behalf of incarcerated people in Massachusetts and to explore our many pro bono opportunities. Our pro bono offerings are suitable for attorneys of all experience levels and practice settings; they range from small one-time research projects, to limited scope representation such as medical parole petitions, to a growing referral network for attorneys looking to take on civil rights cases on a pro bono or contingency fee basis.

Through our pro bono program, attorneys have the ability to radically change the lives of people incarcerated in Massachusetts jails and prisons while also developing valuable skills like relationship-building with clients, litigation skills, and more.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

Cori Sealing Clinic Training

Fri, 27 Oct 2023 17:13:45 -0300

Join the Boston Bar Association and Greater Boston Legal Services (GBLS) in learning the skills needed to volunteer at the virtual CORI Sealing Clinic. This volunteer opportunity is open to licensed attorneys.

This project was launched in partnership with GBLS to serve our low-income communities in Boston. As CORI records can present a significant barrier to housing, employment, and educational opportunities, assisting clients with sealing is an important way that volunteers can make a difference in someone’s life.

Following the training, attendees will be able to volunteer with GBLS to accept referrals from the virtual CORI Sealing Clinic. We ask that in exchange for this free training by subject matter experts, Pauline Quirion and Ventura Dennis, attendees agree to accept at least one case in 2023-2024.

At this training you can expect to learn:

What is CORI
CORI and the various levels of access to CORI by employers and others
The waiting periods to seal records
How to seal criminal and juvenile records through the administrative process
How to seal criminal records in court
How to expunge records and how expungement differs from sealing
FBI provisions in the law related to CORI
New provisions in the law for automatic sealing of "not guilty" dispositions
New case law and new statute on expungement

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

Climate Change and the MCP

Fri, 27 Oct 2023 17:11:19 -0300

The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) issued its final Massachusetts Contingency Plan (MCP) regulatory revisions on September 1, 2023, which will become effective March 1, 2024. Among the changes, for the first time, the regulations will require consideration of foreseeable climate change impacts that may affect the permanency of a disposal site cleanup. This program will update stakeholders on these changes and provide tools for understanding how to consider climate impacts when complying with the MCP. Panelists are among members of the Climate Change Subcommittee of the LSP Association made up of Licensed Site Professionals, climate consultants, and DEP.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

Privacy in the Home From Voice Assistants to Vacuums—Children, Privacy and Our Daily Lives

Fri, 27 Oct 2023 17:10:14 -0300

The home is increasingly a hub of technology. We use voice assistants to help organize our lives, watch smart TVs, and rely on virtual security solutions to protect us. Even our vacuum may learn the layout of our house to more efficiently clean. But what are we teaching our technology about ourselves? How does that technology learn? And does it change the equation when our technology talks back? This panel will assess the risks and also the benefits of using technology in the home and will discuss the ways that our laws and regulations are coping with these challenges. It will pay particular attention to the needs of children in the context of connected technologies and what companies, legislators and parents can do to ensure they are protected.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

What Does the IT Bond Bill Cover: With Court Administrator Thomas Ambrosino and Chief Information Officer Steven Duncan

Fri, 27 Oct 2023 17:01:50 -0300

Join us to hear from Court Administrator Thomas Ambrosino and Chief Information Officer for the Trial Court Steve Duncan about the impacts of the Court IT Bond Bill. Passed last session with support from the BBA, the Bill provides for $164 million in bond funding to modernize technology in the state courts, develop digital courtrooms, and modernize court operations and security. This virtual program will give an overview of what the IT Bond Bill covers, and what changes attorneys can expect.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

Summary Process Eviction Defense Basics

Tue, 24 Oct 2023 16:53:13 -0300

After the training, attendees will walk away with a general understanding of the eviction process in Massachusetts and specifically what defenses and resources are available to tenants to prevent or win an eviction case. Program participants will gain enough knowledge to begin volunteering with VLP’s housing unit.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

How to Increase Your Visibility as a New Lawyer

Tue, 24 Oct 2023 16:51:48 -0300

Thinking about getting more involved outside of the [home] office lately? Interested in sharing your knowledge and skills with the greater legal community? Join us for a panel-style webinar to learn more about how you can increase your visibility as a new lawyer by contributing to journals and publications such as Mass Lawyers Weekly and at your firm, planning and speaking at educational events, presenting at bar association events and more. Listen in as a panel of speakers including experienced attorneys, an editor of Massachusetts Lawyers Weekly, and a member of the professional development team at a large law firm speak to the opportunities available for new lawyers and their own experiences expanding their impact in the legal community.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

209A Restraining Orders Basics Training

Thu, 12 Oct 2023 17:21:35 -0300

This training, in partnership with the Women's Bar Foundation, covers the basics of advocating for clients in 209A Abuse Prevention proceedings and equips attorneys with the tools necessary to represent survivors of abuse in restraining order hearings. We encourage all attorneys interested in making a difference for families impacted by domestic abuse to attend. (10/12/2023)

Attendees will leave with:

An overview of 209A law and procedure
Advice for preparing and conducting a 209A hearing
Knowledge of the dynamics of an abusive relationship
Guidance for advocating for survivors of abuse in court

The Women's Bar Foundation will receive a list of registrants for this program after it concludes to follow up with opportuntites that you can get involved in. Please contact Noah, by the end of the program, at nwilliams@bostonbar.org if you would like to be removed from the distribution list.

Housing Advocacy for Landlords The Basics and How to Get Involved

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 13:14:37 -0300

This live webinar training will provide a basic overview of how to assist and represent low-income, owner-occupant landlords, many of whom have been financially impacted by the pandemic. It will provide information on why this underserved population needs assistance and how to help by volunteering with Volunteer Lawyer's Project's Landlord Advocacy Program. Law students and attorneys are encouraged to attend this training and volunteer with VLP.

Why we advocate for low-income landlords:

To keep legal system even-handed, low-income landlords need access to free legal advice too
Advocating for small, low-income landlords helps keep the rental market affordable and stable
Mom-and-pop landlord demographic is vulnerable – typically elderly, non-native English speakers who survive on pensions and moderately priced rental income to pay bills, maintain properties, and keep mortgages up to date
Owner-occupant landlords live in the property they rent out, so their tenants are also their neighbors; these circumstances can create unique challenges

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

Rian Immigrant Center Forms Workshop Training: Help our Immigrant Neighbors!

Wed, 04 Oct 2023 12:39:28 -0300

During the 2023-24 bar year, the Rian Immigrant Center will be hosting regular clinics in partnership with the BBA to help immigrant members of our community complete basic, but necessary immigration paperwork, including green card renewals, work permit applications, family-based petitions, and citizenship applications. The clinics will happen on the second Monday of every month at 2 pm.

This training will prepare law students and attorneys to participate in our clinics by giving you an overview of the US immigration system, of the applications we complete in the clinics, and of our clinic model.

While these might be basic applications, they make a world of difference to our neighbors who need these documents to continue working, going to school, and contributing to our city. Register today so you can help.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

Pro Bono as a New Lawyer: How Do I Start?

Tue, 26 Sep 2023 16:09:47 -0300

Are you a newly admitted lawyer interested in pro bono work and serving your community? With Pro Bono Month starting in October, you may be wondering how you can get involved. Hear from experienced attorneys as they discuss their own career pathways in pro bono work and how you can get started. (9/26/2023)

Attendees will walk away with:

- Insight about pro bono advocacy
- Guidance on representing clients of different backgrounds
- Tips for gaining your firm's/organization's support for your pro bono work

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

Rise of Anti-LGBTQ Laws across the US: What You Need to Know

Fri, 22 Sep 2023 12:24:13 -0300

We are all reading headlines about discriminatory new laws passing in other states that are targeting our LGBTQ community. These include anti-trans laws on health care, sports and bathrooms, educational restrictions on sexual orientation and gender identity and many others. While we in Massachusetts have not seen these enacted locally, lawyers here often represent and work for organizations with regional and national footprints. We need to know about these laws as we advise our clients and assist them in complying with the law while staying true to inclusive, equitable, and diverse values that we share and that make our organizations successful. (9/20/2023)

Attendees of this program will leave this program with knowledge about:

Anti-LGBTQ policies across the country
How anti-LGBTQ policies elsewhere can impact your practice here in Massachusetts

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

The Path Forward for Affirmative Action in Higher Education

Fri, 15 Sep 2023 16:35:07 -0300

The recent Supreme Court decision in Students for Fair Admission, Inc. v. President and Fellows of Harvard College substantially limited the use of race as a consideration in the admissions process for higher education institutions. The decision will trigger colleges and universities across the U.S. to reassess their admissions processes to ensure compliance with this new Supreme Court guidance. This BBA webinar is aimed at understanding the Supreme Court’s opinion, navigating continued diversity recruitment, and discussing ongoing barriers to diversity, including admissions processes that offer preferential treatment to applicants with familial ties to donors and alumni (“legacies”). (9/15/2023)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

Protecting Trade Secrets as Your Tools are Taken Away by the NLRB, the FTC, and Others

Fri, 14 Jul 2023 13:47:21 -0300

For over 200 years, noncompetes have provided protections for companies’ trade secrets and other legitimate business interests. But the FTC, the NLRB, and some state governments are starting to take them away, and the tide of public opinion is reaching further.

What will your clients and companies do? How will employees be affected? Will it be good? Will it be bad?

Join us for a 1-hour webinar to answer those questions.

This program will provide the state of the law, explain what the NLRB, the FTC, and others are doing to erode the available trade secret protections, and discuss how to protect your company and your clients now. (7/13/2023)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

Bar Coaching Series: Stress Management

Fri, 14 Jul 2023 13:45:51 -0300

The BBA welcomes all that are preparing for the bar exam to a stress management workshop. Shawn Healy, Clinical Psychologist at Lawyers Concerned for Lawyers, will offer insight and guidance on managing the stresses and expectations that come with preparing for the bar exam. (7/12/2023)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Trenon Browne at tbrowne@bostonbar.org

Paths to the Judiciary

Thu, 13 Jul 2023 15:08:55 -0300

The Paths to the Judiciary panel will engage with the Chief Justice of the Supreme Judicial Court Kimberly Budd, Associate Justice of the Supreme Judicial Court Dalila Argaez Wendlandt, and Superior Court Judge Catherine Ham on their journey to the bench, their experiences as judges and women of color jurists, and their insights in thinking about how an attorney (at whatever stage of her career) might consider charting her path to the judiciary. (7/12/13)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

An Introduction to Working With Environmental Consultants and Technical Experts

Thu, 22 Jun 2023 13:31:09 -0300

This program will provide an introductory overview on working with environmental consultants and technical experts. A moderated panel composed of environmental lawyers from the public and private sectors, as well as an environmental consultant, will discuss lessons learned on how to best leverage these types of partnerships from procurement to trial. (6/21/2023)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Massachusetts Sports Betting Has Arrived: How Did We Get Here and What Can We Expect in the Future?

Thu, 22 Jun 2023 13:29:07 -0300

Sports betting arrived in Massachusetts on January 31, 2023. This program will look at some of the key moments leading up to the enactment of the Massachusetts Sports Wagering Act (“MSWA”), how technology and more specifically block chain and cryptocurrency based sports gambling will impact the industry, and finally what types of issues can we expect to see on the regulatory and enforcement side as sports gambling takes off in Massachusetts. (6/14/2023)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Divorce Fundamentals Series: Post-Judgment Issues: Division of Retirement Assets, Contempts & Modifications

Thu, 22 Jun 2023 13:27:07 -0300

The Divorce Fundamentals Training Series is designed to provide new lawyers or attorneys new to the practice of family law with an overview of the “life of a divorce case.” This training series will cover topics such as the divorce client interview; filing the divorce complaint; child support and alimony; custody and parenting plans; discovery; motion practice; separation agreements and post-judgment issues. (6/13/2023)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

PFAS Regulatory Update – State and Federal Regulators Take Aim at a “Forever” Problem

Thu, 22 Jun 2023 13:23:41 -0300

Join key state and federal environmental regulators as they discuss their agencies’ evolving policies to address PFAS, followed by commentary from the regulated community and advocates pressing for tougher rules. This panel--the second half of the BBA’s spring series on PFAS—will focus on drinking water and wastewater regulation. (6/13/2023)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Trusts & Estates End of Year Review 2023

Thu, 22 Jun 2023 13:22:00 -0300

An annual event not to be missed, the Trusts & Estates End of Year Review covers recent federal and state case law, legislation and tax law matters. This year’s program will touch on: New Developments Committee, Public Policy Committee, Tax Law Updates Committee. (6/13/2023)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

New Guidance on Discharging Federal Student Loans in Bankruptcy Cases

Mon, 12 Jun 2023 14:57:27 -0300

“Ray of Light” - The Department of Justice and the Department of Education just adopted a new process for handling cases in which individuals seek to discharge their federal student loans in bankruptcy court. Learn why the new process was adopted and what DOJ and DOE hope it will accomplish. Hear from the experts about best practices, potential pitfalls and planning opportunities in connection with the new Attestation Form, and learn about the ways that the bankruptcy courts are reacting.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

ESG and Trusts: Fiduciary Considerations

Mon, 12 Jun 2023 14:55:42 -0300

ESG (environmental, social and governance) investing is showing up in headlines everywhere. Increasingly, clients and trust beneficiaries are asking for ESG factors to be incorporated in routine trust administration. What fiduciary duties are at play in these situations? We will discuss definitions and evolution of ESG, and the fiduciary standards all estate planners must consider.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Parallel Civil Litigation and Criminal Enforcement in IP, Antitrust and No-poach

Mon, 12 Jun 2023 14:52:36 -0300

This program will review current trends in criminal trade secret, antitrust and no-poach cases. The panel will discuss parallel civil and criminal actions and what firm lawyers and in-house practitioners should consider in dealing with these matters.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Bar Coaching Series: Essay Workshop

Mon, 12 Jun 2023 14:49:26 -0300

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Affordable Housing Acronyms

Mon, 12 Jun 2023 14:47:58 -0300

Anyone who lives or works in Boston can attest to the dire need for more affordable housing. But putting together the financing for an affordable housing development is a complicated mix of institutions, programs, and funding sources. All of the acronyms used to shorthand these aspects can make working on an affordable housing transaction feel like diving into alphabet soup. We put together a list of commonly used acronyms to help attorneys get started or improve their in this practice area and help address our severe affordable housing shortage.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Digital Forensics for Criminal Practitioners 2.0: Compelled Decryption & Biometrics

Mon, 12 Jun 2023 14:43:36 -0300

This program will briefly review the historical origins of the compelled production of physical evidence from targets in criminal investigations to set the stage for applying this doctrine to compelled production of passcodes to digital devices and compelled use of biometrics to similarly facilitate access to digital devices. The program will then explore the primary challenges courts have faced when applying compelled production principles in the digital space, highlighting the issues driving splits in authority nationally. Finally, the presenters will discuss some practical considerations for employing these techniques in investigations and litigating the issues that arise as cases progress.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Crimmigration Basics in Post-Conviction Practice

Fri, 02 Jun 2023 15:48:21 -0300

Panelists will explain the legal framework for challenging criminal convictions based on immigration consequences, and give attendees a brief introduction to the impacts that criminal convictions can have on non-citizens.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Planning for Persons with Disabilities: Special Needs Trusts

Fri, 02 Jun 2023 15:47:15 -0300

Attorney Sarah Hartline, along with Kathy Vitello, LSW and Joan McGrath of PLAN of MA and RI will discuss special needs trusts as a planning tool for people with disabilities. The program will cover considerations for both establishing and administering special needs trusts. This discussion will be beneficial for those caring for loved ones with disabilities, estate planning practitioners and Trustees. (5/30/2023)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

The Role of the Law in Cleaning Up the Charles River

Fri, 26 May 2023 16:25:56 -0300

Charles River Watershed Association (CRWA) was founded in 1965 to demand action to clean up the Charles River and has played a leadership role in improving water quality and reducing pollution ever since. The Clean Water Act and other environmental laws have provided important leverage for CRWA’s efforts to reduce sewage discharge into the Charles, prod EPA to impose stronger limits on cities and towns to reduce polluted stormwater runoff and ensure compliance with those limits, prevent roadway intrusion into the river, and require commercial and institutional landowners to pay their fair share when it comes to reducing phosphorus pollution.

CRWA has a long history of successful legal intervention to protect the Charles, but our work isn’t done yet! Join us to learn more about past accomplishments and the road ahead.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Navigating the Massachusetts Court System in a Language Other than English

Fri, 26 May 2023 16:24:41 -0300

Are you interested in language access in the Massachusetts Court System and how the needs of the deaf and hard of hearing population are being served? Do you have a client that is limited English proficient or a member of the deaf and hard of hearing community? Have you ever had an opposing party who requires the assistance of a court interpreter and did not know how to properly communicate with the party? Did you know that translation and interpretation have two different meanings and should not be used interchangeably? Are you interested in knowing how to request court interpreters for non-English speakers?

If so, please join the Delivery of Legal Services Section for an informative training on how to work with court interpreters and individuals who require the assistance of court interpreters. Most lawyers are unfamiliar with how to work with court interpreters, or the rules of professional conduct associated with them. This is a great opportunity to expand your knowledge.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Estate Planning in Massachusetts in 2023 – It’s Not One Size Fits All

Fri, 26 May 2023 16:23:19 -0300

Don’t miss this deep dive into estate planning in Massachusetts in 2023. Our expert panel will cover planning techniques in light of the Massachusetts millionaire’s tax, the Corporate Transparency Act, SECURE 2.0, the federal “sunset” in 2025-26, rising interest rates and volatile markets, and more!

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Voir Dire in Federal Court

Fri, 26 May 2023 16:19:57 -0300

What is voir dire and why is it important? Is there a standard process to conduct voir dire in Federal Court? What are useful sample juror questions to identify potential bias, social desirability bias, explore juror backgrounds, and how to effectively determine how a juror might view your legal theory?

For both prosecution and defense lawyers, voir dire can work to identify jurors who can be fair and impartial, rather than unfair and biased. Join our distinguished panel to learn best practices, and common mistakes to avoid and to hear about their experiences conducting voir dire in Federal Court.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

The Promise and Peril of Generative AI

Fri, 26 May 2023 16:15:51 -0300

Artificial intelligence applications that can generate original images, natural language documents, and other content are receiving significant press attention, but are they worth the hype? In this program, our expert panelists will discuss generative AI’s capabilities and the problems it may create.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

A Higher Bar: How to Exceed Client Expectations in a Virtual World

Fri, 26 May 2023 16:15:33 -0300

The program will provide tips and trends for lawyers to grow their practice. The panel will discuss strategies for increasing efficiency to increase your return on investment, laying a strong marketing foundation to generate more leads consistently, providing a personalized experience to turn leads into clients, and getting more out of the tools you're using. All of these strategies lead to an improved client experience which in turn leads to more billable hours and more time spent being a lawyer.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

New SEC Recordkeeping Requirements for Broker-Dealers and Related Compliance Considerations

Fri, 26 May 2023 16:12:18 -0300

The SEC is increasingly focused on recordkeeping requirements and recently adopted amendments to Exchange Act Rule 17a-4. A panel of experts will discuss compliance considerations in this area, including significant recent SEC and CFTC enforcement actions related to social media and text recordkeeping lapses. (5/23/2023)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org”

The Basics of Medical Deferred Action

Mon, 22 May 2023 12:52:35 -0300

Defending and representing individuals before immigration officials can be a daunting experience for practitioners who are new to Immigration Law. This program will walk through the basics of preparing a request for Medical Deferred Action for people seeking legal status, a work permit, and a social security number based on their urgent medical care in the Boston area. It will also review the unique aspects of the Deferred Action program and discuss common pitfalls and issues that arise during the course of a request. (5/18/2023)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

PFAS Litigation Update: Exploring the Range of Potential PFAS Claims in Massachusetts

Mon, 22 May 2023 12:51:19 -0300

Seasoned litigation attorneys share their experiences litigating matters involving per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in Massachusetts. These “forever chemicals” are ubiquitous in the environment and thus give rise to a broad range of potential claims. This panel will discuss the PFAS Multi-District Litigation, class actions, consumer fraud cases, and actions under Chapter 21E and the common law. (5/18/2023)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Classroom Censorship A Panel Discussion Among Civil Rights and Education Lawyers

Thu, 18 May 2023 14:11:14 -0300

Public schools are at the center of a political firestorm. In school boards, legislatures, and courts, efforts have been underway to censor classroom discussions, to remove books from libraries, and to undermine protections against discrimination, all with the effect of rolling back education opportunities for LGBTQ students and students of color. Experts will discuss legal developments in the counter-efforts aimed at protecting public schools and vulnerable students. (5/16/2023)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Using Single Transaction Conservatorships

Thu, 18 May 2023 14:09:41 -0300

Learn strategies for determining when a “single transaction” conservatorship may be useful, the benefits and pitfalls, how to successfully move your petition through the probate court, and how to discharge the special conservator after the single transaction is completed. (5/16/2023)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Employment Law in a Recession

Tue, 16 May 2023 15:59:11 -0300

The practice of employment law can change meaningfully during a recession, even if the practice itself is somewhat recession proof. Hear from panelists who represent both employees and employers regarding some of the unique topics that arise in a recession, including issues around: reductions in force, payment of wages, and executive / deferred compensation. (5/13/2023)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Attorney-Client Privilege, In re Grand Jury, and Dual-Purpose Communications

Tue, 16 May 2023 15:57:51 -0300

Using the recent Supreme Court matter of In re Grand Jury as an introduction, this program will explore the tricky terrain of the attorney-client privilege’s application to dual-purpose communications. (5/11/2023)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

China Privacy and Cybersecurity Legal Developments

Tue, 16 May 2023 15:56:23 -0300

Chinese law has evolved rapidly over the past few years, with the introduction of the Personal Information Protection Law in 2021, new cybersecurity laws and regulations, and new standard contractual clauses. It’s hard to keep up! Our expert panelists will recap major changes, provide guidance on compliance challenges, and answer audience questions. (5/16/2023)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Divorce Fundamentals Series: Separation Agreements

Thu, 11 May 2023 12:32:27 -0300

Please note - this purchase is for a digital download of the Learn Online Materials, including online viewing / download of the video presentation.

The Divorce Fundamentals Series is designed to provide new lawyers or attorneys new to the practice of family law with an overview of the “life of a divorce case.” This training series will cover topics such as the divorce client interview; filing the divorce complaint; child support and alimony; custody and parenting plans; discovery; motion practice; separation agreements and post-judgment issues. [05/09/2023]

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Negative Capital and the Freeze Partnership Solution: Estate Planning with Leveraged Low Basis Real Estate

Wed, 10 May 2023 14:42:52 -0300

Although business or investment held real estate can be a significant driver of wealth accumulation, incorporating an owner’s interests in industrial, commercial and/or multi-family properties into a comprehensive wealth plan can present unique challenges. In this session, the speaker will explore considerations in planning with these properties, which may have “negative capital” attributes, and how the freeze partnership could be an effective tool to accomplish an owner’s highest priority tax, wealth, and succession planning goals. (05/09/2023)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

The Epidemic of COVID Vaccine Litigation

Wed, 10 May 2023 14:39:19 -0300

Panelists will discuss the latest developments in litigation over COVID-19 vaccine technology playing out in the United States in Europe, including the technology and the unique policy considerations related to these cases. (05/05/2023)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

“Reliable and Relevant”: Preparing and Challenging Expert Evidence

Tue, 09 May 2023 09:53:34 -0300

It is never too early to consider whether your case will require expert evidence. This course will cover the considerations of whether expert evidence is necessary and if so, what steps are needed to ensure that your expert’s testimony will survive a Daubert/Lanigan challenge. In addition, this course will also cover the steps needed to develop a challenge to the other side’s expert evidence. Lastly, this course will address the December 2023 amendment to Federal Rule 702 and recent federal case law and how to best prepare for the Court’s reclaiming of its “Gatekeeper” role. (5/4/2023)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Rule 4 and Proper Service of Process in Family Court: A Crash Course for Immigration Practitioners

Tue, 09 May 2023 09:51:58 -0300

Service of process can be a challenge for immigration attorneys practicing before the Massachusetts Probate and Family Court. This webinar will touch on the types of cases immigration attorneys bring before the state court when seeking special findings in Special Immigrant Juvenile Cases, and then take a deep dive into Domestic Relations Procedure Rule 4 and Massachusetts Civil Procedure Rule 4. The webinar will address what constitutes proper service and the instances where it may be appropriate to serve by alternate means. (5/4/2023)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Impact of Mifepristone Legal Challenges in Massachusetts

Tue, 09 May 2023 09:50:38 -0300

Recent cases have challenged the approval of FDA’s expanded access to mifepristone, the first pill taken in a two-drug regimen to terminate pregnancy. The Supreme Court issued a decision on April 21 that maintained FDA’s approval while an appeal moves forward. Panelists will discuss the recent mifepristone cases and the impact of the legal challenges on providers in Massachusetts. (5/4/2023)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

What You Need to Know About Litigating Under 28 U.S.C. § 1782

Tue, 09 May 2023 09:49:00 -0300

Section 1782, a once-obscure path to U.S. discovery in aid of foreign and international proceedings, has gone mainstream. In this webinar, you will hear from international litigators and in-house counsel about the scope of section 1782 following last year’s Supreme Court decision in ZF Automotive and the mechanics of pursuing and opposing 1782 discovery. (5/3/2023)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Representing Veterans in Discharge Upgrades: the Alternate Path of a VA Character of Discharge Determination

Tue, 09 May 2023 09:47:12 -0300

This program will offer an in-depth training about the VA COD process. All veterans, regardless of their discharge status, are eligible for a VA COD review. While only discharge upgrades can change a veterans discharge status, COD cases are an alternative route to VA access for less-than-honorably discharged veterans. Both types of cases involve similar evidence and fact development and can be brought simultaneously.

A panel of experts will share their experiences and offer best practices for representing veterans in VA COD cases. The program will also offer updates on discharge upgrade law including the recent class action settlements against the Army, Naval, and Air Force DRBs. The information will benefit both attorneys new to discharge upgrade practice and attorneys with some prior experience. (5/3/2023)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Construction Dispute Resolution: Making the Most of Your Mediation & Arbitration

Tue, 09 May 2023 09:44:55 -0300

Mediation and arbitration have become the most common (and often mandatory) methods of resolving construction disputes. The complexity and document-dependent nature of construction litigation poses special challenges in presenting cases effectively in these ADR forums. In this program, one of the industry’s most accomplished construction neutrals, Wally McDonough, Esq. of ELK Consulting Services, LLC, will offer his experienced perspective on how construction lawyers can make persuasive and efficient presentations at both mediation and arbitration. Join us for a valuable discussion moderated by Jon Elder, Esq., of Anderson Kreiger LLP. (5/2/2023)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Jack Daniels v. Bad Spaniels – A Discussion Regarding the Intersection Between the First Amendment and Trademark Infringement

Mon, 01 May 2023 11:02:21 -0300

Please join the Boston Bar Association’s Intellectual Property Section as we hear from leading industry professionals in a discussion on the Jack Daniel’s Properties, Inc., v. VIP Products LLC case which was argued in front of the Supreme Court on March 22, 2023. Our panelists will provide an overview of the case and the Supreme Court oral arguments, discuss the possible effects and implications of the Supreme Court decision, and highlight other similar cases that have been decided in the past. (4/27/2023)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Police Reform and Accountability in Massachusetts

Mon, 01 May 2023 11:01:17 -0300

Please join members of the BBA’s Civil Rights & Civil Liberties Section and experts in police reform to discuss state and national efforts to prevent and address police misconduct and patterns or practices of racially biased or unconstitutional policing. (4/27/2023)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Bankruptcy Law 101

Thu, 27 Apr 2023 12:10:28 -0300

This program will offer an overview of the bankruptcy process as it relates to individuals and businesses from both the debtor and creditor perspectives. The presentation will describe the parties to a bankruptcy proceeding, how the various chapters of the Bankruptcy Code work, how creditors are paid, and litigation in bankruptcy court.

Substantive topics will include property of the bankruptcy estate, the automatic stay, non-dischargeable debts, and treatment of executory contracts and leases. This program is designed as an introduction for attorneys interested in exploring bankruptcy as an area of practice, as well as those practicing in other areas where bankruptcy issues may arise. (4/26/2023)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

New Rules for Longstanding Questions 501(c)(3) Status for LLCs and Group Exemptions

Wed, 26 Apr 2023 16:06:35 -0300

This one-hour program features two critical and evolving topics for practitioners of nonprofit and exempt organization law in advising their clients. Both presentations will be led by widely-recognized leaders in the field and will focus on recent and proposed changes.

Susan Abbott, Chair of Goodwin Procter LLP’s Tax-Exempt Organization Group, will present on the IRS’s current position regarding LLCs wishing to obtain 501(c)(3) status. Melissa Sampson McMorrow, Chair of Tax Department and Co-Chair of Nonprofit and Social Impact Practice Group of Nutter McClennen & Fish LLP, will present on group exemptions, including eligibility and compliance related considerations under recent guidance. (4/26/2023)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

VISA Options beyond the H-1B Cap for Professionals in the Sciences, Business, and IT Industry

Tue, 25 Apr 2023 14:03:09 -0300

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Jury Selection in Criminal Cases

Mon, 24 Apr 2023 14:26:12 -0300

Jury selection can mean victory even in the most difficult cases. Hear from experienced attorneys, judge, defense attorney, and prosecutor about effective tips and strategies for selecting a jury for your criminal case. This program is meant to demystify jury selection, providing guidance on how to effectively communicate with prospective jurors. (4/20/2023)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Tax-Exempt Fundamentals Series: Dissolution

Thu, 20 Apr 2023 13:54:36 -0300

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Sales in Bankruptcy Proceedings

Tue, 18 Apr 2023 13:34:15 -0300

Learn the ins and outs of the Selling property in Bankruptcy Proceedings. You will learn about the Bankruptcy Code’s §363 sale process, the Court’s requirements under the Local Rules, good draftsmanship of Motions, Notices and Orders, and what to prepare for to pass title standards.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Home Sweet Home – Important Fundamentals Concepts in Residential Real Estate Transactions

Tue, 18 Apr 2023 12:26:04 -0300

Join us for a discussion about important residential real estate concepts, including residential leasing transactions, residential condominium law, and the title clearing process for buyers and lenders.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

What Cultural Incompetence Costs you in a Pro Bono Relationship

Tue, 18 Apr 2023 12:24:46 -0300

A panel of grassroot organizers/leaders and pro bono practitioners reflect on what they would do differently, what they would want people to know, and what they would need, in a pro bono relationship in which all parties engaged intentionally and in a culturally sensitive manner.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Demystifying In-House Counsel

Tue, 18 Apr 2023 12:21:59 -0300

Are you interested in learning more about what it means to be In-House Counsel? Hear from a diverse panel of In-House attorneys who will share what it means to be a part of In-House Counsel. This program will discuss the various types of In-House Counsel, their similarities and distinctions, and what you should consider if you are thinking about making a transition to, or joining, In-House Counsel.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Divorce Fundamentals Series: Pre-Trial Practice: The Memo, the 4-way and the Pre-Trial

Thu, 13 Apr 2023 16:40:49 -0300

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Intro to ESG- What You Need to Know and Looking Ahead

Thu, 13 Apr 2023 16:27:33 -0300

Environmental and Social Governance (“ESG”) has become a fast-growing topic in environmental law and a top priority for companies. Come hear from lawyers practicing in this space, as they provide a general overview and a look ahead into the future for ESG. (4/11/2023)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Stay Ahead of the Game – Essential Online Marketing Tactics for Law Firms

Thu, 13 Apr 2023 16:26:08 -0300

Are you struggling to keep up with the rapid shift in online marketing? We'll reveal the top four essentials of successful online marketing for law firms--and give you concrete steps to improve your website, maximize social media, gather reviews, and stay top-of-mind with clients and referrals. Don't fall behind your competitors - these marketing strategies are now a must-have for any successful law firm. Register now to transform your marketing game. (4/11/2023)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Fundamentals of an Investment Advisory & Investment Company Legal Practice

Wed, 12 Apr 2023 12:54:16 -0300

This program will provide an overview of the federal laws and regulations governing registered investment companies and investment advisers. (4/11/2023)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

U Visa Basics: U Visa Process, Removal Defense for U Visa Petitioners

Tue, 11 Apr 2023 16:56:30 -0300

Join the BBA for a training that will cover the basics of preparing and filing U Visa petitions with USCIS for eligible non-citizens. Immigrants who are victims of qualifying crimes and who are helpful to a law enforcement agency are eligible to petition for U nonimmigrant status with USCIS. This training will provide a basic overview of the U visa eligibility requirements and filing process, how U visa relief impacts immigrants in removal proceedings, and the U visa certification process in Massachusetts under MGL 258F. (4/11/2023)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

The Lis Pendens Statute

Thu, 06 Apr 2023 16:59:12 -0300

The panel will discuss the mechanics and impact of a Lis Pendens on property, from both the transactional and litigation perspectives. (4/6/2023)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Preparing Estate Tax Returns, Fiduciary Income Tax Returns, and Gift Tax Returns

Thu, 06 Apr 2023 15:49:16 -0300

This program will provide an overview of the federal estate tax return (Form 706) and the federal gift tax return (Form 709), which are used to report and pay tax on bequests and lifetime gifts and are an integral part of estate planning and administration. This presentation will cover the general purposes and structure of the forms, as well as provide tips for preparing them. (4/5/2023)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Campus Bias Response Teams – Benefits, Risks and Practical Guidance

Thu, 06 Apr 2023 15:04:41 -0300

Bias incident reporting has proliferated on campuses across the nation. Bias response teams serve as a clearinghouse for these incidents and provide support to students and community members who may have experienced a bias-motivated incident. While bias teams have been generally well-received, there are some who are concerned that many reported bias incidents involve speech protected under the First Amendment. This program will help counsel to navigate the balance between upholding the ideals of a college’s or university’s anti-bias culture with its commitment to free speech. (4/4/2023)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Securities Enforcement Priorities Focusing on Insider Trading and New Rules

Thu, 06 Apr 2023 12:16:24 -0300

Join us at the BBA for a lunch program that will cover the SEC’s and DOJ’s continued focus on insider trading, tailored to reflect current trends, including novel legal theories (like shadow insider trading), areas of emphasis (such as 10b5-1 trading plans), and new rules (such as insider trading policy and procedures disclosure obligations). The program will be led by two SEC Market Abuse Unit (the specialized investigative unit that focuses on insider trading) alumni—Caitlyn Campbell and Eric Forni—and will be joined by the SEC’s Boston Regional Office Regional Director (and former market abuse unit assistant director)—Silvestre Fontes—and the Chief of the Securities, Financial, and Cyber Fraud Unit, Stephen Frank. (4/4/2023)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

What to Do If Someone Has a Record? Employment Law Implications of Criminal History

Mon, 03 Apr 2023 18:22:14 -0300

Many employees and job applicants have had interactions with the criminal legal system at some point in their lives. State and federal laws provide rights and limitations in this area. What options are available to workers if a background check will show CORI information, and what are best practices for employers in deciding what questions to ask and what to do with criminal history information? This program will provide insight into the information available under the CORI law, including options for sealing or expunging records; protections available to individuals with a record of criminal charges; and guidance for employers to deal with these issues responsibly. (3/30/2023)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Everything in Moderation – Free Speech and Online Content

Mon, 03 Apr 2023 16:33:44 -0300

Content moderation on social media platforms has been a hot topic since 2016. Social media platforms struggle to balance respect for free speech with the need to create a compelling social space that minimizes toxicity and misinformation. The complexity of content moderation is partly driven by user demand and political pressure, but ultimately by the social media platform's need to ensure that users keep logging in. This session will discuss how businesses are navigating the complex constitutional questions relating to state rights, free speech, the role of politics in business, and the influence of a small group of billionaires in making these decisions. (3/30/23)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Insuring the Transaction - Navigating Insurance Issues in Leases & Loan Documents

Mon, 03 Apr 2023 14:22:37 -0300

Insurance requirements in real estate documents are sometimes glossed over by transactional lawyers. However, this language is critical to the indemnification and other risk allocation goals of the parties, and miscommunications between clients regarding insurance requirements can lead to delays in closing dates and other deadlines. This program will walk attendees through common insurance issues that could arise in a hypothetical “soup to nuts” commercial transaction in which a property owner negotiates a commercial lease with a new tenant, and then turns around to finance the property with a bank. Panelists from an insurance agency will provide an insider’s perspective on key provisions and the underwriting process, and a real estate litigation attorney will advise on traps for the unwary. (3/30/23)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

What’s it Really Like Working in Energy Law?

Fri, 31 Mar 2023 18:23:04 -0300

If you're a law student or new lawyer interested in energy law, don't miss this event! A panel of experienced energy practitioners focused on issues including solar development, climate change, and electrification will discuss their roles and perspectives in the always evolving field of energy law in Massachusetts. (3/28/23)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

The Rise of AI-Assisted Innovations and Intersection with Patent Law

Fri, 31 Mar 2023 16:38:27 -0300

An expert panel will provide a high-level overview of the applications of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in cutting-edge research, and the related patent challenges. The discussion will include the use of AI in applications such as cancer detection, autonomous vehicles, surgical robotics, clinical trials, and other industries such as financial services, consulting and advertising. The panel will also discuss the hurdles faced when trying to obtain patent coverage and where we may be headed next. (3/28/23)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Navigating Foreign Direct Investment Regimes

Fri, 31 Mar 2023 11:37:48 -0300

Join experts from Hogan Lovells’ Global Regulatory team for a review of the foreign direct investment (“FDI”) regimes in three key countries: the US, the UK, and Germany.

The panel will compare these three FDI regimes; address national trends, including mitigation measures/remedies employed; and highlight best practices for managing transactions involving multi-jurisdictional FDI assessments – topics that are becoming increasingly important in cross-border deal-making. (3/29/23)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Tax-Exempt Organizations Fundamentals Series: Taxes for Tax-Exempt Organizations

Fri, 31 Mar 2023 11:30:56 -0300

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Use Your Legal Skills for Good – Pro Bono Opportunities Here and Now

Tue, 28 Mar 2023 17:10:35 -0300

Please join legal services leaders in the Boston community to learn about the acute need for lawyers to provide pro bono services to low-income members of the Boston community. Panelists will discuss their participation in innovative remote and in-person pro bono projects. You will leave this session with concrete ways to start helping! (3/27/23)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Recent Key Decisions by the National Labor Relations Board- Understanding the Implications

Mon, 27 Mar 2023 11:01:46 -0300

Over the last several months, the NLRB has been busy issuing decisions and reversing many Trump-era legal standards. These cases address far-reaching issues, include confidentiality and non-disparagement provisions, micro bargaining units, the type of damages available for labor law violations, and third-party access to employers’ worksites. This panel discussion will feature experienced labor lawyers providing analysis of these recent developments and previewing the practical implications for employers and workers. We will also discuss NLRB enforcement priorities and share predictions for future NLRB developments. (3/24/23)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Divorce Fundamentals Series: Custody & Parenting Plans

Tue, 21 Mar 2023 16:46:30 -0300

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Impact of Chronic & Toxic Stress in Legal Services: Befriending and Tending to Your Central Nervous System, Part 2

Tue, 21 Mar 2023 16:43:17 -0300

Kathleen and Anna will continue to lead the discussion of chronic and toxic stress in legal services and how it may show up in our professional world. The second part of the training, based on the information that Kathleen and Anna have shared, will help attendees create a toolkit to build resilience, tend to one’s biology, self-care, and adopt skills for central nervous system regulation/stress management so we can thrive in our work. (3/14/23)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org”

The European Unified Patent Court – At the Advent of a New Era of Patent Litigation

Tue, 21 Mar 2023 16:36:56 -0300

The European Unified Patent Court (UPC) is about to take off with the beginning of a sunrise period starting in March 2023, leading up to the opening of the court in June 2023. Litigation in the UPC will change patent litigation in Europe from an atomistic (country-by-country) approach to a single procedure covering most of the important European markets. The presentation will give US lawyers insight into the need-to-know about this new system, enable the audience to understand the most important differences to US litigation and provide them with the necessary background on what their clients should do now concerning their European Patents in order to prevent surprises. (3/9/23)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Venture Financings in a Downturn

Tue, 21 Mar 2023 16:33:06 -0300

The terms of these “down-round” transactions can differ significantly from the terms that have been typical in recent years, which creates challenges and opportunities for companies, existing investors, and new investors. This webinar will provide an overview of traditional down-round terms and deal structures, and discuss new terms and structures that are becoming more prevalent than in prior market downturns. It will also address how the various constituencies navigate through the complexities and conflicts of interest presented by these deal structures. (3/8/23)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Impact of Chronic & Toxic Stress in Legal Services: Understanding the Basics of Your Central Nervous System to Thrive at Work, Part 1

Tue, 21 Mar 2023 16:28:01 -0300

Come join expert medical professionals Kathleen Flinton, MAR, MSW, LICSW, and Anna Mancuso, MSW, LICSW, as they provide a basic understanding of stress and its impact on the body’s central nervous system and brain. Kathleen and Anna will explain the effects of chronic and toxic stress and how it may show up in our professional world and legal services. The first part of the training will be a comprehensive overview and introducing cutting-edge theories in the field of neuroscience about stress and trauma, something that many legal service providers may bring and carry in their vital work to serve others. (3/7/23)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Practicing Before EPA’s Environmental Appeals Board

Tue, 21 Mar 2023 16:25:19 -0300

The Environmental Appeals Board is an appellate tribunal established by regulation to hear administrative appeals under all major environmental statutes that EPA administers, including importantly where EPA is the permit-granting authority under the federal Clean Water Act National Pollution Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) like in Massachusetts and New Hampshire. The Board’s caseload consists primarily of appeals from permit decisions and administrative civil penalty decisions, as well as petitions for reimbursement of costs incurred in complying with cleanup orders issued under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act.

(3/6/23)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Best Practices for Bankruptcy Appeals

Tue, 21 Mar 2023 16:22:04 -0300

In this program, the Chief Judge and the Clerk of the United States Bankruptcy Appellate Panel for the First Circuit and a seasoned bankruptcy practitioner with appellate experience will provide guidance on best practices for bankruptcy appeals and discuss appellate practice in the intermediate appellate courts and courts of appeals. (3/2/23)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Public Charge: A Training for Immigration Legal Representatives

Tue, 21 Mar 2023 16:17:47 -0300

New official rules on public charge went into effect on December 23, 2022. This training will provide an overview of the new rules and is aimed at helping attorneys and legal representatives provide proper advice to would-be adjustment of status clients about this complex area of law. (3/1/23)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Introduction to Title Insurance: Considerations for Residential Real Estate Transactions

Tue, 21 Mar 2023 16:15:00 -0300

Katherine Prifti, Regional Counsel at First American Title Insurance Company will go over the basics of title insurance in residential real estate transactions. This program will cover why you need it, what a commitment is, and what a policy covers. (3/1/23)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

So You Think You Can Sue Me in Massachusetts? Personal Jurisdiction: Beyond the Basics

Tue, 21 Mar 2023 16:04:25 -0300

Join three experienced practitioners to hear about recent developments in the law of personal jurisdiction in Massachusetts and around the country. Topics include the Supreme Court’s recent decisions on general and specific jurisdiction, recent noteworthy developments in Massachusetts and the First Circuit, and practical tips for deciding whether and how to pursue a personal jurisdiction defense. (2/28/23)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Immigration Law Section Roundtable on EOIR’s New Limited Representation Rule

Tue, 21 Mar 2023 16:02:33 -0300

The Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR) recently instituted a new final rule for immigration practitioners providing limited representation in matters before the immigration court. The rule went into effect on November 14th, and has immediate implications for many attorneys already providing limited immigration services, or wishing to do so in the future. Join us for a roundtable discussion featuring attorneys from both nonprofit and private immigration practice, who will explore the parameters of the new rule and discuss the opportunities, as well as potential concerns, that it offers practitioners working in a variety of legal settings. (2/22/23)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Health Law Regulatory Hot Topics

Tue, 21 Mar 2023 15:53:03 -0300

The Health Law landscape is changing every day. Join us for a discussion on the current health law regulatory hot topics. (2/16/23)

During this conversation we will discuss:

Regulatory issues surrounding the use of artificial intelligence
Regulation of healthcare products and prescription diagnostics
The Federal Trade Commission Proposed Non-Compete Clause Rule and its potential impact within the health industry.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

PSA Fundamentals for Commercial Real Estate Transactions

Tue, 21 Mar 2023 15:48:51 -0300

Join us for a discussion in which we will cover the basics of purchase and sale agreement (“PSA”) provisions in commercial real estate transactions, how these provisions guide transactions from start to finish, and how to protect your client from potential pitfalls, whether you are representing a buyer or seller. (2/16/23)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Tax-Exempt Organizations Fundamentals Series: Private Foundations - Rules of Behavior

Tue, 21 Mar 2023 15:46:06 -0300

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Divorce Fundamentals Series: Child Support & Alimony

Tue, 21 Mar 2023 15:42:32 -0300

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Don’t Touch My Hair: A Candid Discussion about the Massachusetts CROWN Act, Civil Rights, and Inclusivity

Tue, 21 Mar 2023 15:38:18 -0300

As of July 26, 2022, Massachusetts joined 17 other states in codifying the prohibition of discrimination against employees, students and other individuals with natural hair and protective hairstyles through the CROWN Act. Join a candid conversation about the origins and motivations for passing this legislation and how it could impact civil rights and employment litigation. Additionally, hear professional DEI insight on hair discrimination in the workplace and its impact on diverse talent inclusion and retention. Additional speakers pending. (2/14/23)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Bar Exam Coaching Workshop: Essay Writing

Tue, 21 Mar 2023 15:29:58 -0300

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Bar Exam Coaching Workshop: MBE/MPT Strategies to Crush the Bar Exam

Tue, 21 Mar 2023 13:52:45 -0300

Join the BBA for a workshop on attacking the Multistate Bar Exam, Multistate Performance Test, and overall exam strategies. Nick Horan, Assistant Dean of the Academic Success Program and Associate Teaching Professor at Northeastern University School of Law will provide tips and tricks on studying for both the MBE and MPT as well as the best ways to prepare for the exam itself. This interactive program will help all those sitting for the exam gain additional skills and preparation. (2/2/23)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

CORI Sealing Clinic Training

Tue, 21 Mar 2023 13:50:39 -0300

Join the Boston Bar Association and Greater Boston Legal Services in learning the skills needed to volunteer at the virtual CORI Sealing Clinic. This project was launched in partnership with GBLS to serve our low-income communities in Boston. As CORI records can present a significant barrier to housing, employment, and educational opportunities, assisting clients with sealing is an important way that volunteers can make a difference in someone’s life. (2/2/23)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Privacy and Cybersecurity Law Fundamentals

Tue, 21 Mar 2023 13:48:37 -0300

Privacy and Cybersecurity laws are becoming increasingly relevant in other spaces of the law. (2/1/23)

Come learn the basic laws and principles in this area, including:

- Breach notification laws

- Data security regulations

- Basic cybersecurity principles

- Unfair and deceptive acts and practices and their relationship to privacy

- Personal Privacy statues like GDPR, CCPA/CPRA, and the new Connecticut Personal Data Privacy Act

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Bar Exam Coaching Workshop: Stress Management

Tue, 21 Mar 2023 13:44:32 -0300

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Developing and Managing Cybersecurity Policies In-House

Tue, 21 Mar 2023 13:42:19 -0300

Our program will be a discussion around the development, implementation, and ongoing management of business cybersecurity policies in an in-house environment. (1/26/23)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

21st Century Philanthropy: The Crypto Crash and Cryptocurrency Basics for Charities

Tue, 21 Mar 2023 13:33:19 -0300

This program will provide an overview of the cryptocurrency shakeup of 2022 and a practical introduction to digital assets, including cryptocurrencies and non-fungible tokens (NFTs). Key considerations that charities and their advisors must be aware of when venturing into this new asset class will be discussed. Sharon C. Lincoln, an expert on tax and charitable organization matters, will highlight the tax implications that come with holding digital assets and the governance issues charities must address when deciding to accept such assets. (1/25/23)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Hot Topics in Post-Acute Health Care: An Industry Leader Roundtable

Tue, 21 Mar 2023 13:29:58 -0300

The post-acute health care sector—including Skilled Nursing Facilities, Assisted Living Facilities, Home Health, Hospice, and technology-enabled care in the home—is undergoing unprecedented change. A panel of New England leaders in this space will share their insights into these challenges and opportunities, through a moderated roundtable that will discuss: (1/25/23)

Cutting edge innovations, including hospital care in the home, new model nursing facilities, SUD and TBI treatment, value-based long-term care, virtual care delivery, and clinical research.
Federal and state regulatory and compliance initiatives, including quality and patient safety, fraud enforcement and bed de-densification.
High deal volume, including mergers and acquisitions, and the role of private equity investment in the sector.
Financial challenges for the sector, with related reimbursement trends.
Workforce issues, and the continued impact of COVID on operations.
Quality assurance and post-hospital care transition issues.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Preparation for 2023 Proxy and Reporting Season

Tue, 21 Mar 2023 13:23:57 -0300

In preparation for the 2023 proxy and reporting season, panelists from Mintz and WilmerHale will discuss a range of recent and year-end disclosure and governance topics impacting Form 10-K. Topics will include: (1/24/23)

Pay-for-performance
Recent amendments to Rule 10b5-1
Clawback policies

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Effective Strategies for Maintaining Your Stamina and Avoiding Burnout

Tue, 21 Mar 2023 13:21:36 -0300

This program will address the all-too-common experience of waning stamina and feeling burnt out during times of continuous high demands (e.g., finals, bar prep, starting your career, etc.) and provide effective strategies to reduce the drain on your stamina, prioritize where to expend energy, and utilize useful techniques to refuel before, during, and after periods of high demands. (1/20/23)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Understanding the 2022 Revisions to the AAA Commercial Arbitration Rules

Tue, 21 Mar 2023 13:16:21 -0300

A revised version of the American Arbitration Association’s Commercial Arbitration Rules became effective on September 1, 2022. The changes were designed to promote efficiency and reflect advances in technology. A discussion will be led by the head of the AAA’s Boston office and an experienced arbitrator, addressing the changed rules and their practical impact on drafting of arbitration clauses, conducting arbitration proceedings, and case strategy. (1/19/23)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

COVID and PPP Fraud

Tue, 21 Mar 2023 13:14:32 -0300

This panel will discuss recent criminal and SEC cases involving fraud related to the COVID-19 pandemic and the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). Hear from speakers at the U.S. Attorney’s Office, SEC, and AG’s Office about their office’s experiences with this line of investigations and cases. (1/19/23)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Blockchain Litigation in a Crypto Winter

Tue, 21 Mar 2023 13:12:29 -0300

The onset of a crypto winter has brought with it a marked uptick in blockchain-related litigation. In this program, experienced blockchain litigators will address recent litigation trends impacting the blockchain space and provide some practical insights for navigating these suits. (1/18/23)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

How to Build MBTA Communities

Tue, 21 Mar 2023 13:08:20 -0300

The new MBTA Communities legislation (M.G.L. c. 40A, Section 3A) The members of the panel helped design the legislation, and want to help you learn how to use it. We hope to help lawyers better assist their real estate developer or lender clients plan and structure new housing developments that take advantage of these brand new zoning districts. (1/12/23)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Divorce Fundamentals Series: Section 34: Income, Assets, Liabilities & Discovery

Tue, 21 Mar 2023 12:56:16 -0300

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Guns, Public Safety, & Criminal Practice: The Supreme Court’s Decision in NYSRPA v. Bruen

Tue, 21 Mar 2023 12:53:47 -0300

This panel of experts will discuss the implications of Bruen for Massachusetts gun laws, constitutional law, racial justice, public safety, and criminal practice. This program will be indispensable to those interested in policies impacting public safety and practitioners in Massachusetts criminal courts. (1/6/23)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

The New M.G.L. Ch. 188 Homestead Statute –Changes to the Law and Its Impact on Your Practice

Tue, 21 Mar 2023 12:50:26 -0300

This program will analyze the changes in the new M.G.L. Ch. 188 Homestead statute passed in August 2022 and effective in November 2022. Learn from seasoned counsel who represent Debtors and Trustees what the changes may mean to your bankruptcy and non-bankruptcy practice. (1/5/2023)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Allyship in Action

Fri, 09 Dec 2022 13:36:37 -0400

Being an ally is a powerful tool toward making an environment more inclusive and equitable. None of us are perfect allies and we can all learn more about when to stand up, how to be sensitive to language and when to stand back. Hear from lawyers who are allies, those who benefit from allies and those who have been on both sides. (Dec 8, 2022)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Ensuring Accountability for Atrocity Crimes in the War in Ukraine

Thu, 17 Nov 2022 12:31:30 -0400

Since the beginning of the war in Ukraine, the legal community has been involved in establishing and implementing mechanisms to obtain accountability for atrocity crimes. Dr. Mark Ellis, Executive Director of the International Bar Association, speaks about those efforts and the important roles played by Ukrainian attorneys and the international legal community. (Nov 17, 2022)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

MA Appleseed: Supporting the Safety and Well-Being of Girls of Color in Schools

Thu, 10 Nov 2022 10:44:07 -0400

In this discussion, MA Appleseed staff provide an overview of how this crisis is impacting girls across the Commonwealth and offer immediate and long-term advocacy solutions to stop the criminalization of students. (Nov 8, 2022)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

The Value of Volunteering to Help Our Military Veterans

Thu, 27 Oct 2022 16:42:09 -0300

In the face of pandemic disruptions and economic turmoil, legal assistance and representation are key to veterans securing adequate and permanent housing; accessing specialized benefits; capitalizing on their full economic potential; and facilitating their financial, social, health, and domestic well-being. (Oct 25, 2022)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Project Citizenship Training: Completing Form N-400 as Application Assistance

Mon, 24 Oct 2022 16:43:16 -0300

This one-hour training prepares you to volunteer and provide application assistance at Project Citizenship's virtual and in-person workshops to help pre-screened lawful permanent residents start their pathway to citizenship. (Oct 3, 2022)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

KIND Pro Bono Training: Representing Children in Immigration Matters

Tue, 18 Oct 2022 14:47:55 -0300

KIND attorneys provide an overview of child migration; the basics of practicing before USCIS and Immigration Court; and the requirements for obtaining Special Immigrant Juvenile Status and asylum. They also provide tips and best practices for working with unaccompanied children and review the comprehensive mentorship KIND offers pro bono attorneys. (Oct 18, 2022)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Creating and Managing Your Professional Social Media Presence

Mon, 17 Oct 2022 12:08:04 -0300

Living in today's digital landscape means that networking online is just as crucial as making in-person connections. With over 500 million active users, LinkedIn has become the most important social media platform for lawyers. This powerful online tool allows lawyers to build their brand, professional network, and book of business while enhancing the connections made in-person. (Oct 14, 2022)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Eviction Training Basics

Fri, 14 Oct 2022 10:36:25 -0300

This training provides attendees with a basic overview of the different types of evictions and how the eviction (Summary Process) works in the housing court system. (Oct 13, 2022)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Issue Briefing: Exploring the Martha’s Vineyard Migrant Crisis

Thu, 13 Oct 2022 13:50:28 -0300

This expert panel provides a local perspective on the crisis and discuss what unfolded on Martha’s Vineyard, the mobilization efforts on the ground, and the legal action being taken in response to assist the asylum-seekers individually, as well as collectively, through a Federal Class Action suit filed on behalf of the affected migrants. (Oct 13, 2022)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Rian Immigrant Center Training: Help our Immigrant Neighbors!

Tue, 11 Oct 2022 15:19:17 -0300

Beginning on October 20th, the Rian Immigrant Center will be hosting regular forms workshops to assist members of our community. This training will prepare you to participate in our forms workshop on October 20th by giving you a basic overview of the US immigration system and an overview of our workshop model. (Oct 7, 2022)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Housing Advocacy for Landlords: The Basics and How to Get Involved

Tue, 11 Oct 2022 15:03:10 -0300

This training provides a basic overview of how to assist and represent low-income, owner-occupant landlords, many of whom have been financially impacted by the pandemic. (Oct 6, 2022)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Protecting Access to Abortion in a Post-Roe World

Wed, 27 Jul 2022 15:07:36 -0300

Listen to legal and policy experts for a discussion of the post-Dobbs national landscape and creative strategies and policy responses to help protect and promote access to abortion in the absence of a federal constitutional right. (July 27, 2022)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Report Launch: The Impact of the School-to-Prison Pipeline on Girls of Color in Massachusetts

Wed, 13 Jul 2022 16:25:49 -0300

Listen to the Massachusetts Appleseed and the Community Advisory Board as they release their new report that explores stories from girls of color about the impact of exclusionary discipline on their lives and amplifies how we can change discipline practices in our state to eradicate these racial and gender-based disparities. (July 12, 2022)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Everything You Need to Know About Crypto (Enforcement) but Were Afraid to Ask

Tue, 21 Jun 2022 10:52:56 -0300

Listen to industry leaders, regulators from the SEC and DOJ, and former federal agents in a wide-ranging discussion that touches on all things crypto, from the basic terminology to hot topics in crypto-enforcement and predictions for the future. (June 15, 2022)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Strategies for Success

Fri, 10 Jun 2022 13:44:26 -0300

Listen to our expert panel of attorneys offer practical tips about professional development, making a lasting impression in the workplace, and cultivating professional relationships. (June 8, 2022)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

When Veterans Face Possible Bankruptcy, You Can Help

Wed, 01 Jun 2022 11:24:41 -0300

This program seeks to educate the private bar in the ways in which we can help veterans facing massive amounts of debt and/or possible bankruptcy. (May 26, 2022)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Public Loan Forgiveness

Mon, 23 May 2022 15:20:43 -0300

As time is running out on recent changes to the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program, it is a perfect time to learn the ins and outs of the program and how to position yourself and your organization to take full advantage of this invaluable benefit. (May 23, 2022)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Pro Bono Representation of Students in School Discipline Matters

Tue, 17 May 2022 11:20:59 -0300

This training provides an introduction to representing children in school discipline cases. (May 16, 2022)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Privacy, Cybersecurity, & Digital Law

Fri, 13 May 2022 15:48:32 -0300

Experts in the field review common legal issues arising in civil litigation, as well as explore the role of the federal and state government in prosecuting cybercrimes. Finally, Panelists also discuss the day-to-day realities of practicing in this area in both the civil and criminal realms. (May 13, 2022)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Charitable Board Service Connection

Wed, 11 May 2022 10:47:09 -0300

Hear from the experts regarding charitable board services by attorneys. (May 10, 2022)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Best Practices for Effective Appellate Brief Writing

Tue, 10 May 2022 13:44:00 -0300

In this program, a three person panel of seasoned, experienced appellate attorneys and the Clerk of the United States Bankruptcy Appellate Panel for the First Circuit provide guidance and advice on writing excellent appellate briefs to persuade and win a bankruptcy appeal. (May 9, 2022)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Charitable Board Service Workshop

Fri, 06 May 2022 12:53:35 -0300

This discussion is particularly valuable for those who have little or no significant experience serving on charitable boards but would like to. Lawyers and other professionals who are already serving on boards will also benefit and find this discussion informative. (May 5, 2022)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Representing Veterans in Discharge Upgrades: Advocating at Discharge Review Board Hearings

Wed, 27 Apr 2022 12:16:16 -0300

The Post-9/11 generation has the highest rate of receiving a less-than-fully-honorable discharge but also still have the right to obtain an in-person hearing before a Discharge Review Board to seek to upgrade their discharge - which greatly increases the likelihood of success. (April 26, 2022)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Mass & Cass and the Crisis of Homelessness

Thu, 14 Apr 2022 15:25:59 -0300

The Mass and Cass humanitarian crisis, and, more generally, the crisis of homelessness in Greater Boston, has attracted wide media and public attention. This panel discussion, which brings together experts with direct experience in the field, sheds much-needed light on the many legal dimensions of this crisis. (April 13, 2022)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Time for your Legal Department to have a Law Student Internship Program

Wed, 13 Apr 2022 12:42:05 -0300

A panel discusses why a law student internship program is great for in house legal departments. (April 12, 2022)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Cybersecurity – What your Firm and its Clients Need to Know

Fri, 25 Mar 2022 10:54:57 -0300

This program provides an update on the cybersecurity threat landscape. Listeners will learn about issues relevant to law firms and their clients in order to help their organizations against current cyber-attacks. (March, 23 2022)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Blockchain Law: Financial Regulation and Privacy in the Era of Cryptocurrencies, NFTs, and other Blockchain-based Technology

Thu, 17 Mar 2022 12:52:53 -0300

For individuals and businesses alike, staying up to date with the ever evolving state of blockchain-based technologies is more important than ever. Listen to a two-part panel that covers key regulatory and privacy topics. (March, 16 2022)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Housing Advocacy for Landlords: The Basics and How to Get Involved

Wed, 16 Mar 2022 10:10:39 -0300

This training will provides a basic overview of how to assist and represent low-income, owner-occupant landlords, many of whom have been financially impacted by the pandemic. (March, 15 2022)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

AALAM Presents: Our Pathways to the Bench

Fri, 14 Jan 2022 11:12:34 -0400

The Asian American Lawyers Association of Massachusetts presented a panel event in which panelists spoke about their career paths and experiences as attorneys and judges and provided helpful insight to attorneys interested in pursuing judicial positions and those curious about the process. (Jan, 13 2022)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Demystifying Reporting Incidents of Bias and Discrimination in the Massachusetts Trial Courts

Tue, 11 Jan 2022 11:37:31 -0400

The staff of the Trial Court Office of Workplace Rights and Compliance (OWRC) presents an overview of the complaint process that anyone can use when they experience or witness discriminatory misconduct or unprofessional behavior by a judge, clerk, or other Trial Court employee. (Jan, 6 2022)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Exploring the Haitian Migrant Crisis – A Boston Perspective

Wed, 15 Dec 2021 16:14:50 -0400

This expert panel provides a local perspective on the repercussions of this crisis and discusses the historical context that led us here, what unfolded at the border, and the legal action being taken in response. (Dec, 15 2021)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Special Considerations when Representing Immigrant Youth, Part 2

Thu, 18 Nov 2021 11:10:50 -0400

In this session, Attorney Elizabeth Badger covers other forms of immigration relief that undocumented immigrant youth may be eligible for, specifically asylum law for those who are fleeing persecution, U visa relief for victims of certain crimes committed in the U.S., and T visa relief for those who are victims of trafficking. (Nov, 17 2021)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

StoneTurn Presents - Embracing Analytics as Next Gen Effective Compliance

Fri, 12 Nov 2021 13:32:50 -0400

This 60 minute workshop highlights the evolution of proactive compliance, present actual case studies of effective data analytics platforms and discusses the working dynamic between Compliance and Legal functions when establishing analytics programs. (Nov, 10 2021)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Special Considerations when Representing Immigrant Youth, Part 1

Wed, 10 Nov 2021 16:47:47 -0400

Listen to PAIR's Elizabeth Badger's introductory pro bono training on working with undocumented immigrant youth. (Nov, 9 2021)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

A Conversation with Werten Bellamy: Coaching Associates of Color During the COVID-19 Crisis: Lessons Learned and the Path Forward

Thu, 04 Nov 2021 15:15:59 -0300

This program is open for all – law students, new lawyers and associates are encouraged to listen to hear tips on how to succeed, and partners and those with influence in their legal offices will learn tips on how to build strong relationships with new lawyers. (Nov, 3 2021)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

A Survivor‘s Perspective: On Interacting with Systems Before, During, and After Being Trafficked

Fri, 29 Oct 2021 16:21:32 -0300

Human Trafficking Sub-Committee of the Delivery of Legal Services Steering Committee in conversation with Jose Alfaro, human trafficking survivor, speaker, author and activist, and Julie Dahlstrom, the Director and Clinical Associate Professor of Boston University Law School's Immigrants' Rights and Human Trafficking Program. (Oct, 29 2021)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

How to be a Successful Pro Bono Attorney

Fri, 29 Oct 2021 14:53:55 -0300

The New Lawyers Forum's Public Service & Pro Bono Committee hosted a free forum to discuss how you can be successful pro bono attorney. (Oct 28, 2021)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Environmental Justice Is Front of Mind - Federal and State Agency Actions

Thu, 28 Oct 2021 16:30:11 -0300

Listeners will learn how the Massachusetts environmental and energy agencies are implementing new state law environmental justice requirements and gain insight on what the federal government is doing to implement the Biden-Harris Administration's environmental justice agenda. (Oct 27, 2021)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Volunteering with Veterans Legal Services 101

Tue, 26 Oct 2021 14:42:41 -0300

Hear from VLS’s Pro Bono Director about various volunteer opportunities and trainings as well as Staff and Volunteer Attorneys who discuss issues currently affecting the veteran community, what volunteering with VLS looks like, and how to get involved with their volunteer program. (Oct 26, 2021)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

CORI Sealing Clinic Training

Fri, 15 Oct 2021 13:31:45 -0300

As CORI records can present a significant barrier to housing, employment, and educational opportunities, assisting clients with sealing is an important way that volunteers can make a difference in someone’s life. (Oct 14, 2021)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

MBLA Insights Series: Superior Court Judge Panel

Thu, 14 Oct 2021 11:04:54 -0300

A panel of distinguished Superior Court judges discuss their paths to the bench, offer their perspectives on successful practice in Superior Court, and provide practical tips for lawyers of all levels. (Oct 13, 2021)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Pro Bono Naturalization Training

Wed, 13 Oct 2021 09:42:54 -0300

This training will prepare volunteers to conduct one-on-one interviews with pre-screened citizenship applicants to review Form N-400 naturalization applications. (Oct 12, 2021)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Eviction Defense: Basics and How to Get Involved

Thu, 07 Oct 2021 15:28:59 -0300

This training provides attendees with a basic overview of how the eviction process works in the courts and the most common defenses and counterclaims to look out for when assisting tenants. (Oct 7, 2021)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Adjudicatory Proceedings During COVID: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly

Tue, 21 Sep 2021 15:14:29 -0300

Three experienced practitioners discuss adjudicatory proceedings that they took part in during the COVID-19 pandemic, including a bench trial, an arbitration with a sitting Superior Court Judge, and an in-person jury trial. (Sept 21, 2021)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

MLAC Presents: 2021 DEI Conference - Creating Anti-Racist Employment Practices

Wed, 04 Aug 2021 09:31:40 -0300

This conference is part two of the conference series, which started in May at the MCLE Annual Legal Services Conference, focusing on lessons that lead to action and sustainable long term change. (July 22, 2021)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

MLAC Presents: 2021 DEI Conference - Dismantling the Dominant Culture

Fri, 30 Jul 2021 12:02:28 -0300

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

MLAC Presents: 2021 DEI Conference - Legal Aid post George Floyd and Breonna Taylor

Fri, 30 Jul 2021 12:01:09 -0300

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

MLAC Presents: 2021 DEI Conference - Centering Racial Justice in Civil Legal Aid Advocacy

Fri, 30 Jul 2021 12:00:04 -0300

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

MLAC Presents: 2021 DEI Conference - Networking Lunch with Gilly Segal

Fri, 30 Jul 2021 11:56:20 -0300

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

MLAC Presents: 2021 DEI Conference - Closing Keynote with Gilly Segal

Fri, 30 Jul 2021 11:54:17 -0300

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

MLAC Presents: 2021 DEI Conference - Tens Across the Board

Fri, 30 Jul 2021 11:51:36 -0300

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

MLAC Presents: 2021 DEI Conference - Lunch with Merf Ehman & Kimberly Merchant

Fri, 30 Jul 2021 11:50:05 -0300

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

MLAC Presents: 2021 DEI Conference - Lunch with Ayana Wallace

Fri, 30 Jul 2021 11:47:56 -0300

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

MLAC Presents: 2021 DEI Conference - Closer to Freedom

Fri, 30 Jul 2021 11:46:23 -0300

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

MLAC Presents: 2021 DEI Conference - The Evolving Role of Legal Aid

Fri, 30 Jul 2021 11:44:58 -0300

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

MLAC Presents: 2021 DEI Conference - Learning from one Another

Fri, 30 Jul 2021 11:41:31 -0300

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

MLAC Presents: 2021 DEI Conference - Empowering Attorneys of Color

Fri, 30 Jul 2021 11:39:25 -0300

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

MLAC Presents: 2021 DEI Conference - Networking Lunch With Kimberly Jones

Fri, 30 Jul 2021 11:37:23 -0300

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

MLAC Presents: 2021 DEI Conference - Opening Keynote With Kimberly Jones

Fri, 30 Jul 2021 11:34:58 -0300

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Amplifying Unheard Voices Program: Perspectives of Trans and Gender Nonconforming Attorneys, Organizers and Advocates of Color

Tue, 29 Jun 2021 10:46:07 -0300

This discussion in the series focuses on amplifying the perspectives of transgender, non-binary, and gender nonconforming attorneys, organizers and advocates of color. (June 28, 2021)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

AALAM Presents: AAPI In Counsel: The Ins and Outs of IHC Life

Fri, 25 Jun 2021 10:14:01 -0300

A panel featuring an AAPI in-house counsel, discussing the ins and outs of IHC Life. (June 24, 2021)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Friday Fundamentals: Privacy, Cybersecurity & Digital Law

Wed, 23 Jun 2021 15:45:25 -0300

A fundamental program that provides insights into current trends in privacy law and in prosecuting cybercrimes. (June 18, 2021)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Expanding Access for Low-Income and Elder Clients to Pro Bono Bankruptcy Relief

Fri, 28 May 2021 13:02:17 -0300

Learn how you can help assist low-income and elder clients preparing and filing their bankruptcy petitions. (May 25, 2021)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

AALAM Presents: Civil Rights Violations & Hate Crimes - Enforcement at the Federal, State and Community Levels

Tue, 25 May 2021 11:31:56 -0300

A timely and salient discussion about federal, state and community efforts to enforce and prosecute civil rights violations, including hate crimes, bias-motivated conduct, as well as housing, employment and disability discrimination, among others. (May 18, 2021)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Restorative Justice: A New (Old) Way to Address Crime – A Multipart Introduction

Tue, 25 May 2021 11:02:05 -0300

The fifth of a series of distinct programs about restorative justice from different perspectives, features Middlesex District Attorney Marion Ryan and Assistant U.S Attorney James Herbert discussing their perspectives of restorative justice as prosecutors in the state and federal system. (May 18, 2021)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

CPCS Info Session- Representing Families through CAFL

Tue, 18 May 2021 16:20:08 -0300

Learn how to grow your practice by representing indigent parents and children for the Committee for Public Counsel Services (CPCS) Children and Family Law (CAFL) Division panels. (May 18, 2021)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Challenges for the International Criminal Court

Thu, 06 May 2021 16:54:05 -0300

Listen to our discussion with international experts and practitioners in their view of the historical challenges of the ICC, the recent election of the new prosecutor and hopes for the future of the organization. (May 6, 2021)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Restorative Justice: A New (Old) Way to Address Crime – A Multipart Introduction

Tue, 27 Apr 2021 10:02:14 -0300

This session features Tavon Robinson, an “offender” who went through the D. Mass. restorative justice program after being convicted on a federal drug charge, and his attorney, Jessica Hedges. (April 26, 2021)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Friday Fundamentals: Business Immigration 101

Fri, 23 Apr 2021 15:50:31 -0300

This program provides updates for employers and immigration practitioners on timely business immigration topics. (April, 23 2021)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Succeeding as a Junior Associate in a Remote Workplace

Thu, 22 Apr 2021 10:49:03 -0300

Our panel of firm associates provide the most up to date tips and tricks for how to succeed in your first years of practice--whether you will be returning to work full time, working from home indefinitely, and everything in between. (April 21, 2021)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Project Citizenship: Naturalization Interview Advocacy for Individuals with Disabilities

Fri, 16 Apr 2021 10:09:25 -0300

A training for attorneys interested in attending USCIS interviews with applicants seeking a waiver of the English and civics requirements for naturalization. (April 15, 2021)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Environmental & Energy Public Service Opportunities During COVID

Wed, 14 Apr 2021 16:18:49 -0300

You will hear from leaders in environmental organizations about various volunteer and public service opportunities and learn about how these organizations have managed to pivot during the pandemic. (April 14, 2021)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Going the Distance with our Clients: Vicarious Trauma, Resilience in Ourselves & COVID-19

Wed, 14 Apr 2021 11:17:17 -0300

In this program, we focuses on ways to sustain staff, especially at this time, with practical tips along with time to interact with one another. We explore strategies and best practices to minimize the impact of VT/STS both personally and professionally. (April 13, 2021)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Representing Veterans in Discharge Upgrades: Crafting Arguments Based on Post-Service Conduct and the Wilkie Memorandum

Mon, 12 Apr 2021 16:45:12 -0300

This discussion focuses on a strategic question in every discharge upgrade case: how to address a veteran client's post-service conduct in a petition to the military review boards, particularly in light of the new Wilkie Memorandum guidance to the boards. (April 12, 2021)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Friday Fundamentals: Exempt Organizations Fundamentals Series – Taxes for Tax-Exempt Organizations

Fri, 09 Apr 2021 15:19:21 -0300

The Taxes for Tax-Exempt Organizations program covers unrelated business income tax (UBIT); Massachusetts-specific taxes; IRS intermediate sanctions rules and excise taxes; and executive compensation excise taxes. (April 9, 2021)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Restorative Justice: A New (Old) Way to Address Crime – A Multipart Introduction

Wed, 07 Apr 2021 10:00:15 -0300

This session features Cristina Rodrigues, a staff attorney in the Public Defender Division of the Committee for Public Counsel Services (CPCS), and Ziyad Hopkins, a staff attorney in CPCS’s Youth Advocacy Division. (April 6, 2021)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Esquire Deposition Solutions Presents : The Lasting Impact of COVID on Litigation and the Law Firm

Tue, 30 Mar 2021 14:38:09 -0300

This program explores key trends we are likely to see in the law office, on trials and courts, ADR and depositions, and the lasting impact of remote on the law firm and legal proceedings. (March 30, 2021)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Friday Fundamentals: Bankruptcy Law 101

Fri, 26 Mar 2021 16:24:08 -0300

This program is designed as an introduction for attorneys interested in exploring bankruptcy as an area of practice, as well as those practicing in other areas where bankruptcy issues may arise. (March 26, 2021)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

The Impaired Colleague: Ethical, Legal and Practical Issues

Wed, 24 Mar 2021 16:39:52 -0300

This program discusses the issues that arise with impaired colleagues. You will hear from an experienced clinician about warning signs and steps to take when helping a person in distress. (March 24, 2021)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Restorative Justice: A New (Old) Way to Address Crime – A Multipart Introduction

Mon, 22 Mar 2021 09:53:33 -0300

The second session of a multi-part program is designed for anyone interested in learning more about restorative justice. This session features Kim Odom, co-pastor at True Vine Church in Boston and BEC, Equity & Inclusion Unit Coordinator at The City of Boston. (March 19, 2021)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Friday Fundamentals: Criminal Evidentiary Motions

Fri, 19 Mar 2021 16:04:33 -0300

The discussion reviews the types of evidentiary motions that a new lawyer can expect in District Court, and the burden requirements, how to proceed/respond and how lawyers can expect a motions hearing to unfold. (March 19, 2021)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Friday Fundamentals: First Amendment 101

Fri, 12 Mar 2021 14:54:14 -0400

This program provides a lecture on First Amendment law, giving an overview of how it works and its scope of protection. (March 12, 2021)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Choosing Service: Advocating for Underserved Populations Through a Career in Public Service

Tue, 09 Mar 2021 15:15:11 -0400

This program endeavors to demystify the barriers to a successful career in public service while providing an opportunity for panelists and attendees to share what they have learned, how their careers have changed over time, and how far we must go on the path to equity and justice through public service. (March 9, 2021)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Essentials of Professional Malpractice and Cyber Liability Insurance

Tue, 09 Mar 2021 10:38:50 -0400

The program includes how to fill out the insurance application, who's covered at your firm, how much coverage you need, how high risk your practice area is for suits, and how to address cyber threats to your client and employee data. (March 8, 2021)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Friday Fundamentals: Drafting Your First Design Application

Fri, 05 Mar 2021 17:26:46 -0400

Topics include questions for your client before you begin, preventing 112 issues and strategies for broadening protection. (March 5, 2021)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Restorative Justice: A New (Old) Way to Address Crime – A Multipart Introduction

Tue, 02 Mar 2021 11:46:58 -0400

The first session features Susan Maze-Rothstein, Co-Director, Center for Restorative Justice at Suffolk University, and Janet Connors, a nationally renowned restorative justice practitioner. They discuss the nuts and bolts and benefits of restorative justice and current practices in Massachusetts. (February 24, 2021)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan I. Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Friday Fundamentals: Title Mechanics- Overview of Recording and Land Registration

Fri, 26 Feb 2021 16:00:48 -0400

This program provides an overview of the role played by conveyancing attorneys and paralegals, the Registries of Deeds and the Land Court in processing property transfers, financings, subdivisions, and various other real estate records. (February 26, 2021)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Update on Changes to Immigration Law for Pro Bono & Legal Services Attorneys

Mon, 22 Feb 2021 17:17:49 -0400

This program provides insight into potential changes to immigration law under the new United States Congress and presidential administration. (February 22, 2021)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Friday Fundamentals: Do’s and Don’ts of Depositions

Mon, 22 Feb 2021 10:04:55 -0400

A panel of experienced practitioners discuss their experiences taking and defending depositions and will share valuable insight into preparing for depositions, effectively questioning deponents and objecting while defending a deposition. (February 19, 2021)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Navigating the Massachusetts Vacatur Law for Human Trafficking Survivors: A Panel Discussion

Fri, 19 Feb 2021 10:35:41 -0400

This program features a panel discussion addressing the new Massachusetts law that enables survivors of human trafficking to vacate certain Massachusetts criminal convictions related to their trafficking. (February 18, 2021)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Enhancing Your Bankruptcy Practice: Advising Veterans and Servicemembers Facing Bankruptcy

Thu, 18 Feb 2021 10:30:44 -0400

This program provides an overview for Bankruptcy attorneys on how to work with veteran and servicemember clients. (February 17, 2021)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

When Worlds Collide: Federal-State Immigration Enforcement Tensions in Transition

Tue, 16 Feb 2021 16:28:56 -0400

A lively discussion with our expert panelists about the tensions between state and federal immigration enforcement priorities, including the conflicts that arise, the coordination that occurs, and the legal and legislative attempts that have been made to protect immigrants and immigrant communities. (February 16, 2021)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Access to Justice Fellows Program Information Session

Tue, 16 Feb 2021 16:04:48 -0400

The Access to Justice Fellows Program, a project of the Massachusetts Access to Justice Commission and the Lawyers Clearinghouse, enables senior lawyers and retired judges to partner with nonprofit organizations, courts, and other public interest entities to increase equal justice for all. (February 16, 2021)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Friday Fundamentals: Fundamentals of Liability and Property Insurance

Mon, 08 Feb 2021 11:31:01 -0400

We tour three common types of insurance policies—general liability, professional liability, and commercial property—to learn the basics of how they work and what they cover. We also explore some of the more common coverage issues that can arise under each type of policy, as well as some traps for the unwary. (February 5, 2021)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Bar Exam Coaching Workshop: Stress Management

Thu, 04 Feb 2021 10:11:56 -0400

Shawn Healy, Clinical Psychologist at Lawyers Concerned for Lawyers, offers insight and guidance on managing the stresses and expectations that come with preparing for the bar exam. (February 3, 2021)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Ethical Issues for Legal Aid Lawyers

Tue, 02 Feb 2021 17:03:25 -0400

The program addresses several pressing ethical issues confronting legal services attorneys. (February 2, 2021)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Crafting an Online Presence

Thu, 28 Jan 2021 10:14:28 -0400

Rather than emphasizing what not to post online, the program encourages recent law school graduates to view social media as an asset to showcase their personalities in ways that can’t be done in resumes and cover letters. (January 27, 2021)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

How to Stand Out in Your Job Search

Fri, 18 Dec 2020 15:05:05 -0400

Sponsored by our Committee for New Lawyer Employment, this program features a panel discussion for recent law school graduates on how to stand in your job search. (December 18, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Representing Consumers in Small Claims Debt Collection Cases

Tue, 15 Dec 2020 11:37:54 -0400

This training allows attendees to review common paperwork submitted by debt collectors to prove their case and how to investigate defenses based on that evidence. (December 14, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Owning Your Career Development

Mon, 14 Dec 2020 11:12:39 -0400

Hear from a panel of attorneys that proactively took actions to advance their careers in the directions they wanted. (December 11, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Virtual CORI Sealing Clinic Training

Fri, 11 Dec 2020 15:16:11 -0400

Virtual CORI Sealing Clinic Training. (December 10, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Amplifying Unheard Voices Series: Perspectives of Black and Latinx Court Users

Fri, 04 Dec 2020 10:11:16 -0400

This third discussion in the series focuses on amplifying the perspectives of court users from underrepresented and historically excluded populations through the Black and Latinx experience. (December 3, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Fundamentals, Insights and Tips from Chapter 7 Panel Trustees for the Bankruptcy Practitioner

Tue, 01 Dec 2020 16:31:48 -0400

Panelists include Chapter 7 Trustees Jonathan Goldsmith, Donald Lassman, and Anne White, who present their best suggestions and observations about the representation of bankruptcy clients. (December 1, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Law Student Forum Event: "A Day in the Life" as an Attorney

Tue, 01 Dec 2020 11:57:46 -0400

Attorneys with varying practice areas and levels of experience provide insight and guidance aimed at law students who are still deciding on a particular area of law to pursue. (November 30, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Basics Training

Mon, 23 Nov 2020 12:40:14 -0400

This training provides you with the building blocks of Chapter 7 Bankruptcy laws and procedures, and allow you to deepen your skills for your private practice and pro bono cases. (November 19, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Left Out and Left Behind: A Discussion on Women of Color in the Legal Profession

Fri, 20 Nov 2020 16:21:54 -0400

Two authors of the ABA Commission on Women in the Profession study, Left Out and Left Behind: the Hurdles, Hassles, and Heartaches of Achieving Long Term Legal Careers for Women of Color, Paulette Brown, Chief Diversity Officer, Locke Lord LLP, and Eileen Letts, Partner, Zuber Lawler & Del Duca LLP, share the results of this study and the impact that the paucity of women lawyers of color has on the administration of justice. (November 19, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Environmental Justice Stories: Community, Municipal, and State Updates

Fri, 13 Nov 2020 14:04:07 -0400

An expert panel discusses efforts led by people of color and low-income residents working to achieve environmental justice and the biggest environmental issues facing Massachusetts. (November 12, 2020).

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Veterans and Servicemembers Law Forum Meet and Greet with CDR Marc Knowlton (Ret.)

Mon, 09 Nov 2020 15:13:45 -0400

Commander Marc W. Knowlton from State Street Bank speaks on the topic of veterans’ strength in leadership, stemming from leadership as the focus and source of success in our armed forces. (November 6, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Thriving in an Uncertain Job Market: 2008-12 Graduate Panel

Thu, 29 Oct 2020 15:33:53 -0300

The BBA’s Committee for New Lawyer Employment and their panel of distinguished speakers who graduated law school between 2008-2012 talk about their various pathways to success in the legal profession. (October 28, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Lawyer for the Day in Housing Court Training: Answer and Discovery

Thu, 29 Oct 2020 15:30:28 -0300

This training will take a more granular look at the answer and discovery stage of an eviction case so that volunteers can feel confident advising and assisting clients. (October 28, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Election Protection 2020 Training - Protect the Right to Vote and Learn About Election Law

Mon, 26 Oct 2020 12:45:08 -0300

This training provides all of the necessary information to ensure that you are well-prepared to assist voters on election day. Attorneys and law students are welcome to volunteer. (October 23, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Lawyer for the Day in Housing Court Training- Benefits and Resources Available to Veterans Facing Eviction

Thu, 22 Oct 2020 11:49:10 -0300

This training introduces attorneys to tools and resources available to veterans facing eviction. (October 21, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Amplifying Unheard Voices Series: The Black Female Perspective

Tue, 20 Oct 2020 17:00:35 -0300

This second discussion in the “Amplifying Unheard Voices” series focuses on amplifying the Black, female perspective in a discussion moderated by April English, Chief of Organization Development & Diversity at the Massachusetts Attorney General’s Office. (October 19, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

How Do We Create a Comprehensive and Lasting Privacy Law?

Tue, 20 Oct 2020 12:42:06 -0300

Proposed facial recognition technology bans aim to address the potential for hard-coding discrimination into technology. And states are considering, and in some notable cases, enacting and enforcing relatively comprehensive privacy legislation. How do we create a law that allows for advances in industry and technology while addressing consumer and other concerns? (October 19, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Lawyer for the Day in Housing Court Training: Frequently Arising Issues for Tenants and Landlords

Fri, 16 Oct 2020 14:10:53 -0300

For LAR certified attorneys, part-two of our Lawyer for the Day in Housing Court training covers frequently arising legal issues for tenants and landlords in housing court, and how to handle them. (October 14, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Navigating the Evolving Cyber-Attack Landscape: “What You Need to Know”

Fri, 16 Oct 2020 12:56:42 -0300

This discussion features leaders who share their first-hand experience about how companies can be cyber resilient when facing evolving cyber threats and discuss best practices in tackling cybersecurity issues from a business, legal and law enforcement standpoint, and more, when preparing for and responding to cyber-attacks. (October 13, 2020).

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Lawyer for the Day in Housing Court Training: Limited Assistance Representation (LAR) Certification

Wed, 07 Oct 2020 15:37:46 -0300

This discussion is part of the BBA’s broader effort to promote housing stability for low-income Massachusetts residents who have been disproportionately impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, and also part of the BBA's Pro Bono Month and Housing Court training series. (October 7, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

AALAM Allyship A Call to Action

Tue, 06 Oct 2020 11:43:48 -0300

This panel will discusses the history of cooperation and mutual support between the AAPI and Black communities in the United States. Panelists examine shared experiences and differences between these two groups, with a focus on the criminal justice system. (October 5, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Civil Appeals Clinic Training

Mon, 28 Sep 2020 15:17:32 -0300

The training will explain the history and purpose of the Pro Bono Appellate Program, and provide the nuts-and-bolts for volunteer attorneys who will staff the clinic. (September 25, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

40 - Day Countdown: Election 2020 Voting Update and Volunteer Opportunities

Thu, 24 Sep 2020 16:39:47 -0300

Professor Rachael Cobb of Suffolk University provides an overview of the most pressing voting rights-related matters emerging in the lead-up to the election. Following that overview, a variety of attorneys and organizations discuss how you can get involved to help ensure voting rights and access this election season. (September 24, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Panel on Actionable Allyship

Wed, 23 Sep 2020 11:15:02 -0300

Presidents of the Massachusetts Black Lawyers Association and the Massachusetts Black Women Attorneys, along with a former chair of the Boston Bar Association's Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Section, discuss their experiences as Black attorneys and ways that minority attorneys can help and support each other in the ongoing struggle for justice and equal rights. Presented and moderated by the South Asian Bar Association of Greater Boston. (September 22, 2020).

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

DGC Presents - Why Now is the Time to Gift Assets at Lower Valuations

Wed, 16 Sep 2020 16:55:32 -0300

DGC’s Private Client Group and Advisory Practice discusses how high lifetime gift exemptions coupled with lower asset values create a unique opportunity to leverage and efficiently transfer assets—and why now is the time to act. (September 16, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Mediation Training for Consumer Bankruptcy Cases

Wed, 16 Sep 2020 15:17:20 -0300

This Bankruptcy Section kickoff discussion is designed to provide listeners with basic information about the use of mediation to help solve intractable issues arising in consumer matters. (September 16, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Virtual Workshop Managing Bar Exam Stress

Wed, 02 Sep 2020 17:10:49 -0300

The BBA welcomes all graduates preparing for the bar exam, as well as those participating in the BBA’s Law School Graduate Mentoring Program, to a stress management workshop. Shawn Healy, Clinical Psychologist at Lawyers Concerned for Lawyers, offers insight and guidance on managing the stresses and expectations that come with preparing for the bar exam. (September 2, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Virtual Bar Exam MBE Workshop

Thu, 20 Aug 2020 12:28:13 -0300

Professor Robert Coulthard of New England Law, Boston provides tips and tricks on studying for the MBE and improving one’s score. (August 17, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Amplifying Unheard Voices Series: The Black Male Voice

Thu, 20 Aug 2020 10:47:15 -0300

This first discussion in the “Amplifying Unheard Voices” series will focus on amplifying the Black, male perspective in a discussion moderated by Rahsaan Hall, Director of the Racial Justice Program of the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of Massachusetts. In addition to uplifting the voices of Black men within the legal profession, this panel will provide an opportunity for attorneys to hear from non-attorney professionals such as community organizers. (August 19, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Probate and Family Court COVID-19 Impact Series: Conciliation Program

Wed, 19 Aug 2020 10:45:13 -0300

The panel explores the conciliation programs available to help resolve Probate and Family Court matters. (August 18, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Law School Graduate Mentoring Program Workshop- Bar Exam Essay Writing

Mon, 17 Aug 2020 15:57:53 -0300

Jonny Schreiber, Legislative and Regulatory Counsel at the Massachusetts Association of Realtors and Adrian Velazquez, Research Analyst with the Commonwealth of Massachusetts present their strategies and advice on improving one’s score on the Bar Exam. (August 3, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Probate and Family Court COVID-19 Impact Series: Summer Summary with William Levine

Mon, 17 Aug 2020 12:48:30 -0300

Series moderator David Bilodeau and his guest William Levine (retired family law attorney, mediator, conciliator, master) talk about the state of the probate and family courts, possible upcoming issues as the court continues to work around the pandemic, and Attorney Levine's take on the future of ADR. (August 14, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

BBA Webinar: Probate and Family Court COVID-19 Impact Series: Review of Special Master Appointments

Wed, 05 Aug 2020 14:39:26 -0300

Our COVID-19 impact review series continues as we review special master appointments and importantly we will explore the creative ways we can incorporate masters into our litigation cases on a variety of issues (not simply discovery). Given the access to court during the pandemic this will be a great subject to explore to help practitioners be more efficient on behalf of their clients. (August 4, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Summer Associate Program Series: Focusing On The Year Ahead

Wed, 05 Aug 2020 10:34:45 -0300

In the final installment of our summer program series, summer associates are invited to participate in a virtual round table discussion about leveraging the summer program experience in the coming year. (August 4, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

COVID-19 Class Actions: Complex Litigation in Uncertain Times

Mon, 03 Aug 2020 10:38:17 -0300

This discussion provides an overview of recently filed consumer, investor, and employee class actions, covering key developments and trends in amidst the pandemic. (July 30, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Probate and Family Court COVID-19 Impact Series: Review of Parenting Coordinator Appointments and Resolution of High Conflict Parenting Issues

Thu, 30 Jul 2020 11:18:59 -0300

Panelist review and discuss parenting coordinator appointments, when appointments should be made and its role in resolution of parenting conflict, particularly throughout the pandemic, which has created a variety of new struggles for families to manage. (July 28, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Environmental Justice, Public Health, and Covid 19

Wed, 29 Jul 2020 16:47:54 -0300

In this discussion, you will learn about the evidence supporting this connection, including the findings of the June 2020 report from the Massachusetts Attorney General's Office about the unequal impacts of COVID-19, and potential policy solutions to mitigate these effects on Environmental Justice communities and avoid disparate impacts in the future. (July 27, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Probate and Family Court COVID-19 Impact Series: Review of 209A Restraining Order and Domestic Violence Hearings

Mon, 27 Jul 2020 11:12:08 -0300

This discussion explores the ways to bring an emergency before the Court, the various hearing options that may be available, and how to proceed (which will include the various considerations in having a 209A or other domestic violence related hearing virtually). (July 21, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Help! I Need Somebody: Emergency Planning For Lawyers In a Post-Covid-19 World

Wed, 22 Jul 2020 15:59:15 -0300

In this discussion, bankruptcy (and other) lawyers will gain indispensable insights into the ethical and practical issues that should be addressed in an emergency plan that protects clients and the lawyer’s business when disaster strikes. (July 16, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Probate and Family Court COVID-19 Impact Series: Virtual Hearings (the Practical and the Procedural)

Wed, 15 Jul 2020 10:38:52 -0300

This is a discussion about procedural and practical tips, tricks, dos and don'ts for telephonic and Zoom hearing that can (and very likely will) be scheduled for most matters in the Probate and Family Court for some time to come. (July 14, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Probate & Family Court Practice During Covid-19 Virtual Registry System Pilot

Tue, 07 Jul 2020 15:12:42 -0300

Ms. Pamela A. Casey O’Brien showcases the new Essex Register of Probates virtual registry system and will also discuss and answer questions about various procedural items related to the Trial Court’s July 13th reopening. (July 2, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Family Law Mentoring Program Kickoff Event

Wed, 01 Jul 2020 13:00:37 -0300

BBA members with five years or more of family law experience can sign-up as mentors. Mentors will be matched with a new lawyer. A mentor can offer guidance on topics like networking and business development skills, resume writing or interview prep, professionalism, general information regarding the Boston legal community and what it’s like to practice family law here. (June 30, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

How to be an Effective Ally

Wed, 01 Jul 2020 12:11:41 -0300

This program illustrates the many ways in which any one individual can make a positive impact in a workplace as well as in society as a whole. With a focus on self-reflection, the program will help attendees who are interested in being an ally educate themselves on the lived experience of others. (June 30, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Remote Litigation—the “New Normal”?

Wed, 01 Jul 2020 12:03:50 -0300

This is an opportunity for professionals to hear from attorneys that have been knee deep in various aspects of remote litigation to hear what they have learned about the process, and how to best prepare. Be ready! (June 30, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

2020 Bankruptcy Bench Meets Bar: Part 2

Mon, 29 Jun 2020 12:17:43 -0300

This discussion is part 2 of the 2020 Bench Meets Bar, and is an opportunity for bankruptcy professionals to hear from the Massachusetts Bankruptcy Judges and bankruptcy practitioners about legal issues that have arisen in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. (June 25, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Protecting Voting Rights in the Pandemic Era

Thu, 25 Jun 2020 12:02:11 -0300

In this discussion, panelists, all experts in voting rights, explore the danger to voting rights that now exists and will likely continue to exist during the coronavirus pandemic, both locally and across the country, and how we might go about protecting our voting rights through the November elections in 2020. (June 24, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

International Arbitration in the Time of COVID-19

Thu, 25 Jun 2020 11:28:06 -0300

A panel of international arbitration experts discuss the state of international arbitration in the time of COVID-19. (June 24, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Commercial Leasing During and After COVID

Mon, 22 Jun 2020 16:33:34 -0300

This discussion provides insight into the types of issues and questions leasing attorneys have been dealing with during the COVID-19 pandemic, and also how commercial landlords and tenants are preparing for re-occupancy and looking ahead in a post-COVID world. (June 22, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

The Shak Decision and Beyond

Mon, 22 Jun 2020 11:07:48 -0300

Experts discuss the recent Supreme Judicial Court decision, Shak v. Shak. Learn how a decision in favor of First Amendment Rights, which invalidated a non-disparaging order, will impact what divorcing parents can say about the other parent, and how this First Amendment right to free speech will impact the children. (June 19, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Data Management & Protection In A Public Health Emergency

Mon, 22 Jun 2020 10:57:39 -0300

An expert panel discusses hot topics in health data privacy during the current pandemic, with a focus on how to protect the privacy of health data of COVID-19 patients from collection to commercialization. (June 18, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Public Charge Rule- A Quick Primer on the Basics of the New Rule Impacting Immigrants

Mon, 22 Jun 2020 10:46:00 -0300

This training is intended to provide a basic overview of the public charge rule to allow practitioners to be able to spot potential areas of concern for their clients. (June 18, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Business Litigation Session Year in Review 2020

Thu, 18 Jun 2020 11:04:33 -0300

Our annual BLS Year in Review provides practitioners an opportunity to hear the justices of the BLS discuss significant updates and trends in the session. (June 17, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

2020 Law School Graduate Mentoring: Bar Coaching and Career Coaching Mentee Kickoff Event

Thu, 18 Jun 2020 10:34:29 -0300

This discussion provides a comprehensive update of what has changed with the fall 2020 bar exam, and what might still change in light of COVID-19. (June 12, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Preparing Estate Tax Returns

Thu, 18 Jun 2020 10:25:03 -0300

This discussion provides an overview of the federal estate tax return (Form 706) and the Massachusetts estate tax return (Form M-706), which are used to report and pay tax on bequests and lifetime gifts and are an integral part of estate planning and administration. (June 17, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Global Trademark Searching and Clearance: Strategies and Tips for a Post-Pandemic World

Thu, 18 Jun 2020 10:08:41 -0300

In-house and law firm trademark experts to discuss strategies for global trademark searching and clearance. (June 17, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

The Supremes: A Review of Recent Labor and Employment Decisions at the U.S. Supreme Court and Supreme Judicial Court

Wed, 17 Jun 2020 11:50:30 -0300

A lively discussion of the recent employment decisions from the Supreme Judicial Court and the U.S. Supreme Court. (June 16, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Divorce Law Fundamentals - Post-Judgment Issues: Division of Retirement Assets, Contempts & Modifications

Wed, 17 Jun 2020 11:42:42 -0300

This discussion includes:

The process for dividing retirement accounts, including when to use QDRO’s and Letters of Instruction.
Contempt actions and the process for enforcing the terms of the Judgment of Divorce including when an award of attorney’s fees is appropriate.
Modification actions and the process for modifying the terms of the Judgment of Divorce Nisi.

(June 16, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Bail and Dangerousness Hearings in the Era of Brangan & COVID-19

Wed, 17 Jun 2020 11:39:32 -0300

This program discusses the SJC's Brangan decision and how it has changed practice in the trial courts. (June 15, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Delaware Case Law Developments for M&A Practitioners

Mon, 15 Jun 2020 14:22:21 -0300

This discussion focuses on recent Delaware case law of critical importance to M&A practitioners, addressing the scope of director and officer fiduciary duties and potential liability risks as well as interplay with shareholder books and records demands. (June 12, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Asylum - Best Practices Preparing Your Case and the Importance of Forensic Evaluation

Mon, 15 Jun 2020 12:02:05 -0300

Experts collectively share their expertise on how to address legal, evidentiary, and procedural issues arising in their cases, along with the importance of preparing and submitting forensic evaluations on behalf of clients. (June 11, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Annual Massachusetts Tax Update

Mon, 15 Jun 2020 10:42:07 -0300

Hear the latest developments directly from the Commissioner and other officials of the Massachusetts Department of Revenue, as well as from experienced practitioners. (June 11, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Addressing the Insurer in the Tripartite Relationship – Panel for New Attorneys on Insurance Defense Cases

Thu, 11 Jun 2020 16:07:50 -0300

This discussion addresses an insurer’s perspective, strategy and best practices for when and how to provide information to insurers. (June 11, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Best Practices for Financial Services Lawyers in Remote Work Environments

Thu, 11 Jun 2020 15:04:42 -0300

A discussion on the challenges of remote work, collaboration between in house and law firm attorneys, marketing your expertise, virtual networking, business development tips and other ways to navigate this new world. (June 11, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Protecting Trade Secrets in the Face of Remote Workforces, New Technology, and Laid Off Employees

Thu, 11 Jun 2020 09:29:51 -0300

Panelists discuss heightened threats to trade secrets as a result of COVID-19; what constitutes “reasonable measures” to protect trade secrets in this new environment; enforcing non-competes during times of high unemployment; preparing for and pursuing trade secret litigation while courts are largely shut down; and succeeding in a post-pandemic world. (June 10, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Trusts & Estates End of Year Review 2020

Mon, 08 Jun 2020 16:01:19 -0300

An annual discussion not to be missed, the Trusts & Estates Mid-Year Review covers recent federal and state case law, legislation and tax law matters. (June 8, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Telephonic 341 Meetings: Insights from the United States Trustee and Chapter 7 Panel Trustees

Thu, 04 Jun 2020 16:32:15 -0300

United States Trustee William Harrington and Chapter 7 Trustees Jonathan Goldsmith and Donald Lassman discuss the ins and outs of effectively representing your client during telephonic 341 meetings. (June 4, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Trial Court Practice From the Appellate Perspective

Thu, 04 Jun 2020 10:56:39 -0300

This discussion covers important aspects of making the best record possible for appeal, how to pursue an interlocutory appeal, petitions for relief under G.L. c. 211, s. 3, and important steps to take after a trial loss to perfect an appeal. (June 3, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

How to Avoid Losing Your Priority Date at the EPO

Wed, 03 Jun 2020 14:34:10 -0300

This discussion by the European IP firm Carpmaels & Ransford provides an update on how the transfer of the right to claim priority is currently treated in Europe, including a discussion of the EPO’s recent CRISPR decision and its wider ramifications.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Protecting the Interests of Incapacitated Persons: Issues and Considerations for Fiduciaries and Agents

Tue, 02 Jun 2020 16:12:47 -0300

A panel of experts address questions concerning how they protect the interests of incapacitated persons in the roles of trustee, guardian, conservator, health care proxy and attorney-in-fact. In addition, they will discuss the interplay of these roles and best practices for drafting to minimize the risk of litigation or exploitation. (June 2, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Competitive Energy Supply: Regulation and Litigation in 2020

Mon, 01 Jun 2020 15:44:07 -0300

In this discussion individuals will learn about the laws creating and regulating the competitive energy supply market for individual residential consumers and the current controversies balancing the benefits of competition against the potential for harm to residential consumers. (June 1, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Friday Fundamentals: Business Immigration 101

Mon, 01 Jun 2020 11:49:37 -0300

This introductory session and Q&A focuses on the most common visas used by foreign nationals for business travel and employment in the U.S., as well as common categories of employment-based Lawful Permanent Residence sponsorship. (May 29, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Demystifying the On Campus Interview Process in Light of Covid-19

Fri, 29 May 2020 14:48:42 -0300

This informational discussion will provide law students with an unparalleled opportunity to learn more about the On Campus Interview (“OCI”) process from the perspective of a recruiter, law firm partner, and law student. (May 28, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Telehealth During the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency (and Beyond?)

Fri, 29 May 2020 11:26:27 -0300

This discussion provides information on Telehealth, starting with a discussion of Medicare coverage, waivers and policies. (May 28, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Return to Work and COVID-19: What Employers and Employees Need to Know

Thu, 28 May 2020 16:42:20 -0300

As both state and local governments begin loosening the stay-at-home and shelter-in-place orders that prevented workers from returning to work, employers are starting to focus on what the “new normal” looks like in their respective workplaces. Experts discuss the issues facing employers.

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

The Experts Speak: Best Practices on Selecting and Working with Expert Witnesses

Thu, 28 May 2020 11:26:33 -0300

Experienced litigators and expert discuss best practices and tips for identifying expert witnesses and working together to prepare testimony for court proceedings. (May 27, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Recent Guidance for Employee Benefit Plans in Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic

Wed, 27 May 2020 17:09:02 -0300

Panelists will discuss recent guidance issued by the IRS and Department of Labor with respect to retirement plans and health and welfare arrangements in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. (May 27, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Practicing Inclusivity While Working Remotely: How are Organizations Maintaining and Advancing D&I Initiatives During a Pandemic?

Wed, 27 May 2020 16:59:02 -0300

Diversity, equity & inclusion officers from across the legal profession discuss how organizations have tackled inclusion in remote work environments, and what lessons we might carry forward when things start to transition back to "normalcy.” (May 26, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Fundamental Construction Law Issues at each Stage of a Construction Project

Tue, 26 May 2020 11:49:36 -0300

This discussion will provide the attendees with an introduction to several important construction and engineering law-related topics. (May 22, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

How To Increase Your Visibility As a New Lawyer

Fri, 22 May 2020 10:32:38 -0300

Listen in as a diverse panel of speakers including partner level attorneys, an editor of Massachusetts Lawyers Weekly and a member of the professional development team at a large law firm speak to the opportunities available for new lawyers and their own experiences expanding their impact in the legal community. (May 21, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

2020 Bankruptcy Bench Meets Bar

Thu, 21 May 2020 12:25:42 -0300

This discussion is an opportunity for bankruptcy professionals to hear from the Massachusetts Bankruptcy Judges about the Bankruptcy Court’s operations since the COVID-19 pandemic and how practitioners are adapting. (May 20, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

The State and Federal Responses to Covid-19: What Massachusetts Employers and Employees Need to Know

Wed, 20 May 2020 17:18:35 -0300

The co-chairs of the Committee discuss their recently published Ethics Committee Advisory, which addresses new challenges for attorneys and the practice of law on a range of matters brought on by the COVID-19 Pandemic. (May 20, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Pretrial and Compassionate Release During COVID-19: A Focus on White Collar Defendants in the Federal Courts

Wed, 20 May 2020 12:00:38 -0300

There is heightened concern for our clients facing sentencing or in the prison system who are particularly vulnerable given the institutional obstacles to social distancing and lack of PPE. Tune into this discussion to hear from the U.S. Attorney's Office, Federal Defenders Office and defense attorneys who are in the midst of advocating for their clients. (May 19, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Divorce Fundamentals: Separation Agreements

Tue, 19 May 2020 16:20:53 -0300

Panelists discuss the essential provisions for all Separation Agreements related to: alimony, custody/parenting plans, child support, the division of the marital estate, health insurance, income taxes, and life insurance, as well as the key provisions related to the enforcement and modification of a Separation Agreement. (May 19, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Coming Changes to the Multisector General Permit for Industrial Stormwater

Tue, 19 May 2020 10:45:52 -0300

Experts provide an overview of the changes proposed to the NPDES Multi-Sector General Permit (MSGP) for industrial stormwater discharges. The webinar will give participants an overview of the MSGP including the scope of facilities subject to the MSGP, a summary of the proposed changes in the draft 2020 MSGP including sampling requirements and benchmark modifications, and the general permit's implementation by EPA Region 1 in Massachusetts. (May 18, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Governing Massachusetts Nonprofits Remotely During the COVID-19 Crisis

Mon, 18 May 2020 15:10:20 -0300

A new emergency law, Section 16 of Chapter 53 of the Acts of 2020, gives Massachusetts nonprofits temporary additional flexibility in holding board and members’ meetings and taking other governance actions during the COVID-19 crisis. Learn about these new options, find out what steps are required to take advantage of them and participate in a practical discussion on remote meetings, member proxies, appointing directors and officers, and more. (May 15, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Friday Fundamentals: District Court Boot Camp: First Appearance & Arraignment

Mon, 18 May 2020 12:20:33 -0300

This is a crash course in the fundamental procedures and common practices utilized to handle criminal cases in the District and Municipal Courts of Massachusetts that can help defense attorneys and prosecutors effectively advocate. (May 15, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Representing Veterans in Discharge Upgrades: Effectively Advocating for Veterans with Mental Health Conditions

Mon, 18 May 2020 10:44:29 -0300

This discussion offers in-depth training about veterans who have mental health conditions related to their service. A former Army psychiatrist with expertise in forensic evaluations and a psychologist with expertise in veterans and trauma disorders will present basic information about mental health disorders and how they are treated, how the military addresses mental health, best practices for working with mental health experts, and tips for how to work with and interview a client who has experienced trauma. (May 15, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Massachusetts Class Actions Versus Federal Class Actions – Know the Difference

Fri, 15 May 2020 10:34:31 -0300

An effective class action attorney knows the differences between state and federal class actions and may use those differences to advance a client’s position. This discussion highlights those differences for actions filed in Massachusetts state versus federal court. (May 14, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Money Market Funds - Uncertainty, Intervention, and the Road Ahead

Thu, 14 May 2020 14:47:54 -0300

Clair Pagnano and Jon-Luc Dupuy, partners from K&L Gates highlight the issues related to money market funds during the COVID-19 pandemic. (May 13, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Best Practices for Remote Proceedings

Thu, 14 May 2020 11:20:33 -0300

This discussion features a panel of top-notch litigators who have recent experience conducting remote proceedings in a COVID-19 world. The panelists provide tips and suggestions for handling remote discovery, mediations, and oral arguments. (May 13, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Civil Litigation in the Superior Courts During the Pandemic

Thu, 14 May 2020 10:21:55 -0300

Massachusetts Superior Court judges and business litigation practitioners discuss the status of the Superior Courts and the challenges of conducting civil business during the coronavirus crisis and going forward as restrictions are relaxed. (May 12, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Building Business Relationships in a Time of Social Distancing

Tue, 12 May 2020 16:43:56 -0300

Relationship building is the foundation of all business development, and in this webinar, we discuss how relationship building can advance your career and why relationship building can be hard for new associates. (May 12, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Friday Fundamentals: An Introduction to the Practice of Tax Law

Mon, 11 May 2020 11:08:57 -0300

Speakers will discuss an overview of practicing tax law in four different contexts: private practice (i.e., law firm or solo), Big Four” accounting, CFO/in house tax counsel, and IRS/government practice. (May 8, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Decarbonizing the Transportation Sector: Where We Are and Pathways Forward

Fri, 08 May 2020 11:46:38 -0300

Learn about cutting-edge efforts to decarbonize the transportation sector, including the Transportation and Climate Initiative, expanding electric vehicle infrastructure, and Department of Public Utility proceedings detailing who will pay to transition us toward a 21st century clean transportation system. (May 7, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Understanding and Planning For Your Clients’ Assets

Thu, 07 May 2020 15:25:21 -0300

Learn from experts on important considerations and effective strategies when estate planning for clients with retirement assets (including within the context of the SECURE Act), literary and intellectual property rights, vacation residences, and insurance. (May 6, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Practical Mindfulness During Extraordinary Times

Thu, 07 May 2020 12:02:00 -0300

In a time when stress management and self-care is especially critical, join us for a discussion focused on the specific benefits that attorneys and law students can get from a mindfulness practice. (May 6, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Insurance Issues for New Personal Injury Attorneys

Thu, 07 May 2020 11:33:31 -0300

One of the first things that a lawyer learns when they start to represent plaintiffs in personal injury actions is that in most cases the defendant’s liability insurer calls all the shots, from who represents the defendant to whether or not the case will settle. An understanding of the role and logistics of insurance is crucial for effectively representing claimants. (May 6, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

State Tax Trends in 2020 and Beyond

Wed, 06 May 2020 09:52:21 -0300

This discussion explores some of the new (and old) topics likely to dominate the state tax landscape over the next few years (May 5, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

USI Affinity Presents: Cyber Risks For Law Firms – the Need for a Standalone Cyber Liability Policy

Tue, 05 May 2020 10:44:09 -0300

Greg Cooke, Cyber Liability Practice Leader at USI Affinity, the BBA’s partner for its professional liability insurance program, discusses data breach risks and exposures as well as steps law firms can take to ensure proper coverage with a cyber liability insurance policy. (May 4, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Introduction to Privacy and Cybersecurity

Mon, 04 May 2020 10:34:05 -0300

This discussion features experts of privacy and cybersecurity lawyers who have worked in the field in several different capacities, including as law firm partners, in-house lawyers, prosecutors, and cybersecurity consultants. They provide insights into different aspects of privacy and cybersecurity, and opportunities and career paths in the area. (April 30, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Getting Back To Business While In Quarantine

Thu, 30 Apr 2020 12:27:13 -0300

This discussion is designed to provide information and tips on how to maintain a litigation practice while mostly working remotely. The program will focus on court closures, “emergency” rules and practices, and planning for an extended quarantine period. (April 16, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Divorce Fundamentals - Pre-Trial Practice: The Memo, the 4-way and the Pre-Trial

Wed, 29 Apr 2020 15:58:16 -0300

What is a Pretrial Conference? What is a four-way conference? When are they held? What are the procedures? Do Pretrial Conferences vary from county to county and judge to judge? What is expected of parties and lawyers? What is needed at a Pretrial Conference? How has all this changed in the midst of COVID-19? (April 28, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Practicing Social Distancing in Discovery: The Virtual Deposition

Wed, 29 Apr 2020 09:56:01 -0300

In this discussion, attorneys will learn the ins-and-outs of taking effective virtual depositions, including swearing in witnesses remotely, using available technology to conduct depositions, and other practical considerations when taking a deposition remotely. (April 27, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

USI Affinity Presents: Everything You Need to Know About Malpractice Insurance

Wed, 29 Apr 2020 09:50:33 -0300

This discussion covers everything from how to fill out the insurance application to who's covered at your firm, how much coverage you need and how high risk your practice area is for suits. (April 23, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Navigating Permitting and Appeals Under New COVID Rules

Wed, 29 Apr 2020 09:45:37 -0300

Permitting experts discuss and highlight important changes to deadlines and procedures resulting from the recent and rapidly released COVID-19 related rule changes. (April 22, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Divorce Fundamentals: Custody and Parenting Plans

Wed, 29 Apr 2020 09:39:55 -0300

This discussion will include an understanding of legal versus physical custody; how to handle custody disputes; what are GALs and when are they needed; what are Parent Coordinators and when are they needed; how to draft parenting plans; what types of provisions should be included in parenting plans. (April 21, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

COVID-19 Relief for Nonprofits – Demystifying the CARES Act, FFCRA, and Other Forms of State and Federal Relief

Mon, 27 Apr 2020 14:53:30 -0300

In this Legislative update, speakers will provide an informative overview of recent state and federal legislation providing relief to nonprofit organizations affected by COVID-19. (April 21, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

COVID-19 Insurance Claims

Mon, 27 Apr 2020 14:51:23 -0300

Members of the Insurance and Tort Litigation Steering Committee cover what we know so far, what we don’t, about how insurance can help firms and clients through shutdowns, deep-cleans, and quarantine. (April 17, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

The Elusive H-1B: Making Odd Jobs Work

Mon, 27 Apr 2020 14:48:36 -0300

This discussion is a practical deep-dive into how to approach out-of-the-box H-1B petitions. (April 16, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Part 2: The State and Federal Responses to COVID-19: Updates on What Massachusetts Employers and Employees Need to Know

Mon, 27 Apr 2020 14:36:38 -0300

Led by three experienced employment attorneys, this discussion will explore key updates on these recent efforts taken by the federal government and Massachusetts to address the risks to the public health and economic damage resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic. (April 16, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Transitioning a Law Practice to a Remote Workforce: Addressing Cyber Security & Data Privacy

Mon, 27 Apr 2020 14:31:10 -0300

This talk will address data privacy and security challenges to provide guidance on the transition of rendering legal services on a remote basis. (April 15, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

For Public Interest Attorneys: Loan Repayment and Student Loan Forgiveness

Mon, 27 Apr 2020 14:25:12 -0300

Covering all of the essential details, including repayment plan options, loan forgiveness, and the five financial planning elements, this discussion will provide the information and next steps you need to get you on the road to zero student debt as well as an update on student loan relief provided in the recently passed relief act. (April 7, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Renewable Energy Interconnection: Challenges, Opportunities

Fri, 24 Apr 2020 17:20:40 -0300

Experts discuss current actions to address interconnection issues and opportunities as the Commonwealth makes progress toward integrating more renewable technologies and working toward our greenhouse gas emissions reduction goals, utilities, regulators, solar developers. (April 6, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Navigating Operational Issues for Life Sciences Companies During the COVID-19 Crisis

Fri, 24 Apr 2020 17:11:15 -0300

Attorneys take questions emerging issues and concerns confronting the life sciences industry during the COVID-19 pandemic, including impact on continuing manufacturing and clinical trials and best practices for keeping employees safe and critical life sciences companies operational. (April 3, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Jury Trials in the Age of Social Media

Fri, 24 Apr 2020 17:07:37 -0300

This discussion explores how white-collar criminal and civil practitioners can use social media during jury selection as well as at (and after) trial to uncover juror misconduct and will highlight the discussion using recent case examples. (April 2, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Digital Accessibility Priorities in Times of Transition

Fri, 24 Apr 2020 17:01:51 -0300

This discussion will help individuals understand the overarching challenges faced by individuals with disabilities in accessing an online education environment. (April 1, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

LinkedIn 101: Build Your Brand and Grow Your Network

Fri, 24 Apr 2020 14:22:09 -0300

Linkedin is a powerful online tool allows lawyers to build their brand, professional network, and book of business while enhancing the connections made in-person. (March 27, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Safeguarding Best Interests via Remote Document Review, Signing, Witnessing, & Notarization

Fri, 24 Apr 2020 14:14:14 -0300

Learn how you can safeguard your clients' best legal, financial, and health interests, while also safeguarding the financial, physical, and mental health and well-being of your firm (including your own and your employees) and the public health by employing secure technology to share, review, sign, witness, and notarize documents. (March 26, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

The State and Federal Responses to Covid-19: What Massachusetts Employers and Employees Need to Know

Thu, 23 Apr 2020 10:26:58 -0300

As COVID-19 has exploded into a worldwide pandemic, the federal government and various state governments have taken unprecedented action to respond to the risks to the public health as well as the economic damage caused by the virus and the efforts in place to combat it. (March 25, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org

Contract Litigation Post-Pandemic

Wed, 22 Apr 2020 12:35:45 -0300

This podcast provides an overview of the defenses that will be asserted where the failure to perform was based on the pandemic and how Massachusetts courts are likely to respond to these defenses. (March 25, 2020)

Questions? Inquiries about program materials? Contact Alan Johnson at ajohnson@bostonbar.org