2021 Judicial and Bar Conference

Join Hon. Allyson K. Duncan (Ret.), Michael K. Lewis, Esq., and Linda R. Singer, Esq. at this spring's District of Columbia Judicial and Bar Conference, presented collaboratively by the District of Columbia Courts and the District of Columbia Bar. The event brings together judges, D.C. Bar leadership, and active members of the legal community to discuss timely issues facing the profession.

The 2021 conference, held virtually on April 22 and 23, will address the theme Virtual Reality: How COVID-19 Has Reshaped the Legal Profession. Join your colleagues as we discuss this important topic.

Featured JAMS Speakers:

"As the World Turns: A Global Response to a Global Pandemic" | Breakout Session 1 | 1.0 CLE Credit Hour
Thursday, April 22, 2021 | 11:40 AM – 12:40 PM EST
Moderator: Hon. Allyson K. Duncan (Ret.) | JAMS Washington, D.C.
Panelists:

• Hon. Vanessa Ruiz | District of Columbia Court of Appeals
• Wor. Juan P. Wolffe | Magistrates’ Court of Bermuda
• Jeffrey Apperson | National Center for State Courts

The COVID-19 pandemic has profoundly changed the face of justice worldwide. Judiciaries face backlogs, bandwidth shortages, and budgetary constraints in providing access to justice, which can demand practical accommodations and personal sacrifice. This diverse panel will discuss exemplars along the response spectrum, from hearings on Facebook to growing reliance on online dispute resolution.

"Update on Remote Mediations and the Virtual Evolution of ADR" | Breakout Session 3 | 1.0 CLE Credit Hour
Friday, April 23, 2021 | 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM EST
Moderator: Linda R. Singer, Esq. | JAMS Washington, D.C.
Panelists:

• Debra Katz | Katz, Marshall & Banks, LLP
• Michael K. Lewis, Esq. | JAMS Washington, D.C.
• Jason Schwartz | Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP

Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, attorneys, clients, and mediators have experienced the formerly inconceivable: conducting mediations by videoconference. What have we learned and how can we improve the process? Join our panel of experienced mediators and advocates as they discuss their experiences and offer tips for enhancing your performance during these virtual sessions.