Program

8:00-8:30

Registration and Continental Breakfast

8:30-8:45

Welcoming Remarks by Robert Enger, MSBA President
MSBA President welcomes all lawyers attending the fourth annual Nine Days in June program.  His remarks will highlight the important policy work of the MSBA and well as demonstrate how the MSBA can assist you to efficiently deliver high quality legal services.

8:45-9:45

Falling Through the Cracks: Developing Family Structures
Even if you do not practice family law, you regularly work with clients in non-traditional families.  It is essential you have a general understanding of how these individuals and families are treated.  This segment was developed by the Family Law Section.  The program will examine 5-7 developing family structures such as a GLBT family; an ARTS family; the traditional family without a marriage; etc.  For each of the alternative structures three questions will be asked:

• How does the law treat this structure differently from the traditional family structure?
• How does the law treat the dissolution of this structure (whether from breakup or death)?
• What should non family law practitioners advise clients in these situations to do? (1.0 credit)

9:45-10:45

The Bits, Bytes, and Gremlins in Your Electronic Devices:  Unlocking What E-Discovery Has to Offer Your Clients – Even When They Are Not in Litigation!Think that e-discovery is only an issue if you practice in Federal court or in litigation that does not involve huge corporations with reams of electronic documents?  Think again!  Learn about the exciting and unique ways that electronic data can be used in your practice – be it family law, employment, corporate transactions, or litigation.  You’ll also learn about unique challenges and how to tackle them.  Lastly, hear about the new e-discovery rules scheduled to take effect Minnesota in July, and how to use the rules in your efforts to keep e-discovery issues proportional with the size and import of your case.  (1.0 credit)

10:45-11:00

Break

11:00-12:00

Strategies for confronting the relentless economic pressures on the law firm
Success in the legal marketplace begins with an understanding of the trends and pressures facing lawyers in private practice.  With the relentless pressure to reduce costs and attract more clients in a competitive market, what strategies can lawyers adopt to find success and satisfaction?  The panel will examine the top trends that are affecting your ability to make money in private practice, and provide practical advice for meeting these challenges head on. (1.0 credit)

12:00-1:00

Lunch

1:00-1:30

State of the Judicial District
During this segment, you will hear from the Chief Judge of the First Judicial District about the operations of the district; any changes in rules and personnel; and announcements on any new initiatives in the district.  You will benefit from a better understanding of the district court and how you can improve your interaction with the judges and courts staff.  It’s also a great time to ask questions about the courts’ operations. (.5 credit)

1:30-2:00

How Changing Demographics Affect the Legal Profession
Dramatic changes in populations have produced major changes in those counties surrounding the core metropolitan area.  These changes have affected every institution including the legal profession and justice system.  Susan Bower, Minnesota’s State Demographer will review the historic changes in Minnesota and offer a glimpse at the future.  This information will prepare you to make better decisions.

2:00-2:15

Break

2:15-3:45

Recent Appellate Cases
A Justice from the Minnesota Supreme Court, a judge from the Court of Appeals, and one of the leading appellate lawyers in Minnesota will walk you through the most significant appellate cases over the last year.  If you have not kept current with developments in Minnesota case law, this is your opportunity to catch up.  In addition to the presentation, the electronic handouts will include the full text of these cases.  The segment will also include information on court rule changes. (1.5 credit)

3:45-4:45

The Art and Persuasion of Justice John Simonett
Justice Simonett was one of Minnesota’s greatest thinkers and most enjoyable writers.  He was famous for his wit and thoughtfulness, characteristics reflected both in his judicial opinions, and in his other writings. The segment, sponsored by the Supreme Court Historical Society, will examine Justice Simonett’s written work for the lessons they offer to legal writers today. (1.0 credit)