Bench-Bar Schedule

(Click here to download a web-PDF of the program booklet)

 

THURSDAY, JUNE 12

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MORNING – ATHLETIC EVENTS

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7:00 a.m.


DONALD W. BEBENEK BENCH-BAR GOLF TOURNAMENT


Highlands Golf Club

Sponsored by SWMW Law
Pre-registration required

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Hit the links on one of the region's most picturesque courses.

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POST-GOLF LUNCH AND RECEPTION

Highlands Golf Club

Sponsored by Perry Calder Law

Pre-registration required

 

Enjoy a post-round gourmet lunch and refreshments.

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8:30 a.m.


SPORTING CLAYS


Highlands Sporting Clays

Sponsored by Husch Blackwell

Pre-registration required

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Whether you’re an avid shooter or you’ve never fired a gun, there’s no better way to enjoy the Laurel

Highlands than a round of sporting clays.

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AFTER SHOOT LUNCH AND RECEPTION
Highlands Sporting Clays

Sponsored by Tucker Arensberg PC

Pre-registration required

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After the shoot, enjoy food and beverages while the winners collect prizes.

 

10:00 a.m.
PICKLEBALL TOURNAMENT
The Courtyard

Pre-registration required

Sponsored by University of Pittsburgh School of Law

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Whether you’re a pro or brand new to the sport, this tournament will be a blast.

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11:00 a.m.


CONFERENCE REGISTRATION DESK OPENS
Hotel Lobby

Please check in so that you can enjoy all that Bench-Bar has to offer.

Welcome Drink – Sponsored by Phillips Froetschel
Lanyard – Sponsored by Aligned Partners Trust Company
Welcome Gift – Sponsored by ACBA Insurance Program - USI Affinity

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AFTERNOON – EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS


Dress for the day is resort casual with a 60s flair

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2:00 p.m.


WOMEN IN THE LAW DIVISION PROGRAM
1 Substantive CLE credit


Seasons 1 and 2

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So Now She’s a Star

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The wide world of women’s sports is exploding with tons of new, incredible and inspiring athletes. Ilona Maher brought rugby to the forefront of the world stage at the Olympics. Angel Reese and Caitlin Clark spent months going toe-to-toe in college basketball and then competing for Rookie of the Year in the WNBA. Nike put together its first Super Bowl commercial in 27 years to the tune of $16 million and what was the feature? Women’s sports. Women athletes are becoming more lucrative than ever both nationally and internationally. Paige Bueckers of UConn cashed in by selling her sport and herself as she became the first NIL athlete to design and launch a basketball sneaker. This CLE will discuss various expected, and surprising, legal hurdles that these athletes face. Panelists will address Title IX concerns for college athletes, issues with agents and contracts and how social media can catapult these stars, or send them crashing to Earth. Join this session to talk sports (law).

 

Speakers:

The Hon. Robert J. Colville, United States District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania

Heather Lyke, FBS Athletic Directors Association
Daniel Kunz, Allegheny County Court of Common Pleas, Orphans’ Court Division
 

Moderator:

Sarah Krolikowski, Krolikowski Law, LLC

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2:00 p.m.


BANKRUPTCY AND COMMERCIAL LAW SECTION PROGRAM


1 Substantive CLE credit


Sunburst


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Should I Stay or Should I Go Now? How Pending Litigation May Clash with the Automatic Stay

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A bankruptcy filing can wreak havoc on a carefully orchestrated litigation strategy. This program will provide an overview of the Bankruptcy Code’s automatic stay and discuss how it applies to litigation that is pending outside of the Bankruptcy Court. The panelists will help non-bankruptcy practitioners navigate the applicability and impact of the automatic stay and will discuss how to protect a client’s interests while avoiding a potential violation of the Bankruptcy Code.

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Speakers:

Elizabeth Slaby, Buckingham, Doolittle and Burroughs, LLC

Michael A. Shiner, Tucker Arensberg, P.C.

Maribeth Thomas, Tucker Arensberg, P.C.

Andrew Pratt, Calaiaro Valencik

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2:00 p.m.
CONSTRUCTION LAW SECTION PROGRAM
1 Substantive CLE credit


Wintergreen

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What is a Construction Lawyer Anyway?

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Attorneys from other practice areas, and even other civil litigators, often wonder: What exactly is a construction lawyer? How does construction law differ from “regular” civil litigation? In this program, three leading construction practitioners will outline the interdisciplinary nature of construction law, highlighting both legal and practical issues.

 

Panelists will discuss transactional services, including contract drafting and negotiations; review of insurance provisions; bonding issues; assisting clients seeking minority or woman business enterprise status; and addressing intellectual property issues related to construction design documents. The panel also will discuss governmental compliance services, such as assisting clients who might be bidding projects involving public facilities or public financing, including bid disputes, change order issues and project close-out issues.

 

Additionally, the panel will discuss construction claims, dispute resolution and litigation services. This portion will cover assisting clients involved in claims related to a construction project, including counsel on disputes during the course of the project; change order claims; insurance coverage disputes; assisting clients with prosecuting or defending mechanics lien claims; advising clients related to disputes submitted at various stages in the dispute resolution process including negotiation, mediation, arbitration and litigation; and advising clients on the selection of appropriate dispute resolution forums, including ADR.

 

Speakers:

Lori Wisniewski Azzara, Cohen Seglias

Chad I. Michaelson, Meyer Unkovic & Scott

Julian E. Neiser, Spilman Thomas & Battle

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3:15 p.m.


HOMER S. BROWN DIVISION PROGRAM

1 Substantive CLE credit


Snowflake


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Truth in the Shadows: The Impact of Intellectual Property on People of Color

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This program is an interactive session intended to highlight different creations and works of art from people of color and how intellectual property law has treated such works. The program will educate attendees about creations that have been misperceived throughout history and provide an understanding of measures that can remedy injustices in this area of law.

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Speaker:

Renel Datulma, InnovaPriva PLLC

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3:15 p.m.


COMMITTEE FOR DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION PROGRAM


1 Substantive CLE credit


Sunburst


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Invisible Disabilities, Lawyers and the Law

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“Invisible disabilities” affect every class, gender, race and age of society. This program will dive into what it means to have an invisible disability. It also will cover the shared experiences of those who have invisible disabilities and of those who care for persons with invisible disabilities. Finally, the program will cover federal protections for those with invisible disabilities, and where those protections may fall short.

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Speakers:

Sima Lotfi, Bookoff McAndrews

Ian Michel, Allegheny County Law Department

Sarah Itzkoff, Allegheny County Law Department

​Danielle Mundekis, K&L Gates

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3:15 p.m.


CRIMINAL LITIGATION SECTION/CRIMINAL DIVISION PROGRAM

1 Substantive CLE and 1 Substantive CJE credit

Wintergreen

Program open to all registrants

Happy Birthday! The First Year of Pennsylvania’s Act 44: Probation Reform

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Pennsylvania’s Act 44 went into effect on June 11, 2024, with a focus on reforming probation in criminal cases. This program will address how the first year of the new Act has fared. Act 44 was meant to reduce additional incarcerations for minor probation violations while putting an emphasis on rehabilitation. Most notably, the Act allows for the early termination of probation in certain instances. The panel will introduce the Pennsylvania Act 44 including defendant eligibility or ineligibility. The panel will discuss how the Act has impacted courtrooms during the first year and a discussion will address unintended consequences that have been observed. Judges and attorneys will discuss the implications of the Act during plea negotiations and how judges use the Act during their acceptance or rejections of proposed plea agreements.

 

Speakers:​

The Hon. Beth A. Lazzara, Allegheny County Court of Common Pleas, Criminal Division

The Hon. Thomas P. Caulfield, Allegheny County Court of Common Pleas, Criminal Division

Lyle Dresbold, Shrager Defense Attorneys

Mike Sullivan, Krolikowski Law, LLC

 

Moderator:

Sarah Krolikowski, Krolikowski Law, LLC

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4:30 p.m.


YOUNG LAWYERS DIVISION PROGRAM

1 Ethics CLE credit
Seasons 1 and 2

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Mentorship, Networking and Professionalism Throughout Your Legal Career

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Have you ever wanted to get more involved with the ACBA or another professional organization but didn’t know where to start?  Do you feel overwhelmed by the prospect of attending another happy hour where you don’t know anyone? Have you ever had anyone call and ask you a question about an issue outside of your practice area? If you said “yes” to any of these questions, this is the program for you. Listen to a panel of experienced lawyers, judges and leaders to discuss the importance of mentorship and networking throughout your career and involvement with professional associations. With the advice from a knowledgeable panel, you’ll learn how to improve your career skills and be more involved with the community at large.

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Speakers:

The Hon. Nicola Henry-Taylor, Allegheny County Court of Common Pleas, Family Division

Daniel Kunz, Allegheny County Court of Common Pleas, Orphans’ Court Division

Jesse Exilus, City of Pittsburgh

Julian E. Neiser, Spilman Thomas & Battle

 

Moderator:

The Hon. Lisa Pupo Lenihan (Ret.), Judge Lenihan ADR

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4:30 p.m.


ALTERNATIVE DISPUTE RESOLUTION COMMITTEE PROGRAM

1 Ethics CJE credit

Sunburst

Program open to Judges Only

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Code of Judicial Conduct Rule 2.6 Ensuring the Right to Be Heard – Court Access and Judicial Conciliations

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The Rule of Law is paramount to a functioning democracy. Litigants need confidence that judges will apply the law fairly and effectively to their cases. The Pennsylvania Code of Judicial Conduct provides essential rules and guidance to assist judges and enhance their abilities to evenhandedly hear disputes, try cases and conduct meaningful conciliations. This program will address Judicial Code Section 2.6: Ensuring the Right to Be Heard. In this session participants will explore best practices for applying this rule and complying with this Code of Judicial Conduct. Additionally, the program will outline best practices for working with attorneys, their clients and pro se litigants throughout judicial conciliations.

 

Speakers:

The Hon. Terrence R. Nealon, Lackawanna County Court of Common Pleas

The Hon. Mary C. McGinley, Allegheny County Court of Common Pleas, Civil Division

The Hon. W. Scott Hardy, United States District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania

 

Moderator:​

The Hon. Andrew F. Szefi (Ret.), Knox McLaughlin Gornall & Sennett, P.C.

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EVENING – SOCIAL EVENTS


Dress for the evening is resort casual with a 60s flair

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5:30 p.m.


WOMEN IN THE LAW DIVISION RECEPTION

Seasons 3 and 4

Sponsored by Vuono & Gray​

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Women in the Law Division members are invited to celebrate the end of the bar year at this informal social gathering.

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5:30 p.m.

YOUNG LAWYERS DIVISION RECEPTION AND PASSING OF THE GAVEL


Timberstone


Sponsored by Compass Rose Financial​

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Fresh off of the 60th anniversary of the formation of the ACBA Young Lawyers Division, the YLD is holding its 20th Bench-Bar Conference Division meeting and reception this year. Rebeca Himena Miller will be formally introduced as the new chair of the YLD, succeeding Danielle Parks. YLD members are invited to join their colleagues for open bar refreshments, networking and information about the YLD. If you ever wanted to get involved with the YLD but did not know how, attend this event to get information on the opportunities from current council members and officers. 

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6:30 p.m.


CRAFT BEER AND CHAIRMAN SELECT WINE TASTING


Pavers Circle


Sponsored by Very Law

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Choose from a selection of craft microbrews and fine wines while enjoying an array of fun appetizers.  
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7:30 - 9:00 p.m.


THURSDAY NIGHT BARBECUE


Outside Ski Lodge 
Sponsored by ACBA Insurance Program – My Benefit Advisor

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Enjoy delicious barbecue cuisine at this popular Bench-Bar tradition.

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9:00 - 10:30 p.m.
ACBA TEAM TRIVIA

Timbers

Pre-registration required

 

What’s more fun than a game of bar trivia? ACBA member David Fudor – who routinely conducts trivia contests at bars throughout the Pittsburgh area – will conduct this trivia game. With a bunch of lawyers playing trivia, do you think this might get competitive…? Come with a team already assembled, or form one on the spot with other Bench-Bar attendees looking to join the fun. Your Bench-Bar drink ticket can be redeemed at this event; cash bar available as well.

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9:00 - 10:30 p.m.

CIGAR AND BOURBON TASTING

Matterhorn Deck

Sponsored by Fort Pitt Capital

Pre-registration required

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After a long day of CLEs and networking, join your fellow members on the Matterhorn Deck for an evening of cigars and bourbon. John Sabino and ACBA member Donald Murano, proprietors of Cigar and Ash, will have their traveling humidors on site where members can browse and purchase cigars from around the world. Your Bench-Bar drink ticket can be redeemed at this event; cash bar also available.

 

9:00 - 10:30 p.m.

NETWORKING COCKTAIL RECEPTION

Matterhorn

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With a day of CLEs, sporting events and dining under your belt, kick back and mingle with your fellow Bench-Bar attendees. Your Bench-Bar drink ticket can be redeemed at this event; cash bar also available.

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9:00 - 11:00 p.m.
SNACKIN’ AND RELAXIN’
Suite 436

Open to all registrants

 

Stop by and enjoy an array of non-alcoholic beverages, snacks, candy and more.

 

10:30 p.m. - 12:00 a.m.

DRAG SHOW

Matterhorn

Open to all registrants
 

Cut loose and enjoy an entertaining drag show, performed by DJ Etzi & Company. Your Bench-Bar drink ticket can be redeemed at this event; cash bar also available.

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FRIDAY, JUNE 13

Dress for the day is resort casual with a 60s flair

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MORNING – ATHLETIC EVENTS

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7:00 a.m.
YOGA
Lake Tahoe Area
(Weather back up location: Maple Room)

Sponsored by F.N.B. Wealth Management
Pre-registration required

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Whether you’re an experienced yogi or brand-new, all attendees are welcome to start the day with a yoga session, conducted by ACBA member Lisa Standish.

 

7:00 a.m.
RUNNING

Lodge Hotel Lobby

Open to all registrants

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Start the day with an invigorating run, led by ACBA member Bill Labovitz.
 

7:45 a.m.
CONFERENCE REGISTRATION DESK OPEN
Stag Pass

Please check in so that you can enjoy all that Bench-Bar has to offer.

 

7:45 - 9:00 a.m.

BREAKFAST AND BLOODY MARY/MIMOSA BAR

Grand Ballroom

Sponsored by Nemeroff Law Firm

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Recharge with a refreshing Mimosa or tasty Bloody Mary.

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EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS

 

8:45 - 9:45 a.m.


BREAKFAST WITH THE JUSTICES AND JUDGES PROGRAM

1 Ethics CLE credit


Grand Ballroom
Sponsored by Shrager Defense Attorneys

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AI and the Law

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The use of artificial intelligence is becoming more widespread in all areas of life, including the legal field. Two Justices of the Pennsylvania Supreme Court and a Judge from the Superior Court of Pennsylvania will be featured on stage, along with a Commonwealth Court Judge and a retired Judge from the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Pa. Additionally, several Pennsylvania Appellate, Federal and Court of Common Pleas judges will be seated among the audience. Together with legal practitioners, they will discuss the ethical issues surrounding the use of AI in the legal profession.

How it works: A question will appear on video screens throughout the ballroom, then each table will have 15 minutes to discuss the first question. Start by selecting one person to serve as your table’s spokesperson. After 15 minutes, select participants will be asked to report on their discussion. The panel of judges also will provide their input and perspectives on these topics.

 

After each segment, judges at each table will be asked to get up and move to another table so that more attorneys can interact with each judge, then the discussion will continue.

 

Speakers:

The Hon. Christine Donohue, Supreme Court of Pennsylvania

The Hon. David N. Wecht, Supreme Court of Pennsylvania

The Hon. Alice Beck Dubow, Superior Court of Pennsylvania

The Hon. Michael H. Wojcik, Commonwealth Court of Pennsylvania

The Hon. Lisa Pupo Lenihan (Ret.), Judge Lenihan ADR

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10:00 - 11:30 a.m.


FEATURE PRESENTATION


1 Substantive CLE credit

Grand Ballroom

Sponsored by UPMC, UPMC Health Plan and bit-x-bit

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AI: Legal Tech or Legal Trick – Don’t Worry, It Knows What You Don’t Know

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Artificial intelligence or AI is here to stay, and its impact on the legal industry is enormous. AI is also rapidly evolving, leaving many attorneys feeling as if they do not know where to start, much less keep up.

This presentation will offer a brief overview of what AI is and how it works, along with information regarding the various types of AI and their applications for lawyers. Simulations will provide real world examples of how AI can benefit your practice, increasing your efficiency and competency in line with the Pennsylvania Rules of Professional Conduct.

The program will end with a robust discussion regarding the ethics of AI, including its implications on privilege, billing and disclosure and how these considerations are being handled by the courts.

 

Speakers:

Wesley M. Oliver, Thomas R. Kline School of Law of Duquesne University

Morgan A. Gray, Thomas R. Kline School of Law of Duquesne University

David Horrigan, Relativity

Jeffrey W. Chivers, TLATech Inc. (Syllo)

 

Moderator:

Tricia A. Martino, Pion, Nerone, Girman & Smith, P.C.

11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.


GOURMET COFFEE BREAK STATION


Conference Center Landing

Sponsored by Network Deposition Services

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Need some pep for those CLEs? Stop by for a cup of joe.

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11:45 a.m.


APPELLATE PRACTICE COMMITTEE PROGRAM

1 Substantive CLE credit and 1 Substantive CJE credit

Wintergreen

Program open to all registrants

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Supreme Court ‘Secrets’ – A Look at Internal Review Processes at the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania

 

A knowledgeable panel will provide a review and discussion of Pa. Supreme Court’s procedures in cases other than published, precedential opinions so that attendees can learn all the work that goes into the Court’s per curiam dispositions. Topics include what the Court looks for from both practitioners and judges alike in the context of petitions for allowance of appeal, direct appeals from Commonwealth Court decisions and the Court’s miscellaneous docket.

 

Speakers:

The Hon. Christine Donohue, Supreme Court of Pennsylvania

The Hon. David N. Wecht, Supreme Court of Pennsylvania

The Hon. Kevin M. Dougherty, Supreme Court of Pennsylvania

 

Moderators:​

Corrie Woods, Kline & Specter, PC

Zachary N. Gordon, Del Sole Cavanaugh Stroyd LLC

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11:45 a.m.


FAMILY LAW SECTION/FAMILY DIVISION PROGRAM

1 Substantive CLE credit and 1 Substantive CJE credit
Seasons 1 and 2
Program open to all registrants

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Family (Law) Feud

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This program will focus on substantive hot topics and best practice tips for the family law bench and bar. Inspired by the famous evening gameshow “Family Feud,” family division judges and divorce hearing officers will face off and provide tips and tools for trying cases in front of our fact finders. Survey says…topics will include rules of evidence and discovery disputes. 

 

Speakers:

The Hon. Kim D. Eaton, Allegheny County Court of Common Pleas, Family Division

The Hon. Sabrina Korbel, Allegheny County Court of Common Pleas, Family Division

The Hon. Cathleen Bubash, Allegheny County Court of Common Pleas, Family Division

Jacqulyn Obara, Allegheny County Court of Common Pleas, Family Division

Serena Newsom, Allegheny County Court of Common Pleas, Family Division

Chris Stachtiaris, Allegheny County Court of Common Pleas, Family Division

 

Moderator:

Joseph R. Williams, Pollock Begg

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11:45 a.m.


LAWYERS CONCERNED FOR LAWYERS PROGRAM

1 Ethics CLE credit


Sunburst

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‘I Don’t Belong’ – Imposter Syndrome in the Legal Profession

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Imposter syndrome – also called “perceived fraudulence” – involves feelings of self-doubt and personal incompetence that persist despite your education, experience and accomplishments. While early studies focused on highly successful women, it is now clear that it can affect anyone in the legal profession – from law students to Big Law executives.

 

Living in constant fear of discovery, those impacted strive for perfection in everything they do. They might feel guilty or worthless when they can’t achieve it, not to mention being burned out and overwhelmed by the continued efforts. The results can be devastating.

 

An experienced speaker discusses the impact of the untimely death of his mentor and how trying to “fill his shoes” became more than a job; it took over his life. The consequences were a decades-long effort to cope with and then conceal those feelings with alcohol and drugs.

 

This program will look at the impacts of imposter syndrome, and lawyers’ ability to uphold the Rules of Professional Conduct. It also will offer practical guidance for overcoming imposter syndrome, how to support attorneys battling imposter syndrome, and the confidential, safe, free and supportive resources available through Lawyers Assistance Programs.

 

Speaker:

Brian S. Quinn, Lawyers Concerned for Lawyers of Pennsylvania

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11:45 a.m.


LGBTQ+ RIGHTS COMMITTEE PROGRAM

1 Substantive CLE credit

Snowflake

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Transgender Rights Post-Skrmetti – A State Law Approach

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On Dec. 4, 2024, the U.S. Supreme Court heard arguments in United States v. Skrmetti, regarding laws passed in Tennessee and Kentucky prohibiting gender-affirming care for transgender minors. The Supreme Court will decide whether categorical bans on transgender healthcare are a form of sex-based discrimination in violation of the Equal Protection Clause. The arguments in this case get to the core of transgender rights and will have wide-ranging impacts on the right to bodily autonomy.

 

With uncertainty at the federal level, many advocates are turning to state constitutions for civil rights protections, especially considering the broad ramifications of Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization. Regardless of the outcome of Skrmetti, Pennsylvania’s Constitution is binding on state law claims regarding sex-based discrimination and affords broader protections than the federal Equal Protection Clause. In January 2024, the Pa. Supreme Court affirmed this in Allegheny Reproductive Health Center v. Pa. Department of Human Services, reinvigorating the Equal Rights Amendment in defense of bodily autonomy.

 

This is a novel issue, as Pennsylvania’s ERA and Right to Privacy have not yet been interpreted to protect against discrimination based on gender identity. Although, decisions from other states may be instructive in this regard. This panel will cover relevant arguments from these cases and discuss potential safeguards for transgender rights in Pennsylvania going forward.                                               

 

Speakers:

Christine Porter, Education Law Center

Jason Landau Goodman, Pennsylvania Youth Congress

Richard T. Ting, ACLU of Pennsylvania

Elizabeth Lester-Abdalla, Women’s Law Project

 

Moderator:

Nicky Ripley, Hugh Lane Wellness Foundation​

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AFTERNOON EVENTS

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12:45 p.m.


LUNCHEON AND CEREMONIES

Grand Ballroom


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Enjoy lunch, comments from ACBA leaders and recognition ceremonies.

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LUNCHEON
Sponsored by Plummer Slade

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OFFICIAL CONFERENCE WELCOME
Hon. Lisa P. Lenihan
Chair, Bench-Bar Conference Committee

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ALLEGHENY COUNTY BAR ASSOCIATION PASSING OF THE GAVEL
Regina C. Wilson
K&L Gates LLP
ACBA President

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REMARKS BY INCOMING ACBA PRESIDENT
Amy J. Coco
DiBella Weinheimer
ACBA President-Elect

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ALLEGHENY COUNTY BAR FOUNDATION PASSING OF THE GAVEL
Daniel J. Sinclair
Eckert Seaman Cherin & Mellott, LLC

ACBF President

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REMARKS BY INCOMING ACBF PRESIDENT
Bryan S. Neft
Spilman Thomas & Battle, PLLC
ACBF President-Elect

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REMARKS
David A. Blaner
Allegheny County Bar Association
Executive Director

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AMRAM AWARD PRESENTATION
Award presented by the Hon. Christine A. Ward

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The Amram Award is a truly unique award, and it is given in the spirit of the Bench-Bar Conference and honoring the ideals and legacy of Philip Werner Amram. The Bench-Bar Conference is dedicated to professional development and to enhancing and improving the bar association and the justice system in our community. Similarly, the Amram Award recognizes individuals who personify professional excellence and who have demonstrated substantial commitment to the ideals of the ACBA, as well as to the betterment of the greater community.​

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PREVIOUS AMRAM AWARD WINNERS
Dennis C. Harrington 1990
  |  Hon. Joseph A. Weis, Jr. 1991
  |  Michael Louik 1992
  |  Seymour A. Sikov 1993
  |  Hon. I Martin Wekselman 1994
  |  Donald W. Bebenek 1995
  |  June S. Schulberg 1996
  |  Hon. Robert E. Dauer 1997
  |  Lester E. Zittrain 1998
  |  Hon. Lawrence W. Kaplan 1999
  |  John L. Doherty 2000  |  G. Daniel Carney 2001
  |  Hon. Jeffrey A. Manning 2002
  |  Ruth A. Zittrain 2003  |  
Donald P. Minahan 2004
  |  Carol S. Mills McCarthy 2005  |  
John M. Feeney 2006
  |  Hon. Livingstone M. Johnson 2007
  |  Robert Raphael 2008
  |  William A. Goyette 2009
  |  Hon. Debra Todd 2010
  |  Shelly R. Pagac 2011  |  Hon. Kim Berkeley Clark 2012
  |  Craig E. Simpson 2013
  |  Mary Sue Ramsden 2014
  |  Vincent J. Grogan 2015
  |  John F. Becker 2016  |  
Hon. Kim D. Eaton 2017
  |  Barry M. Simpson 2018
  |  Hon. Eugene B. Strassburger III 2019  |  Hon. Christine A. Ward 2022  |  Hon. Lisa Pupo Lenihan 2023 |  Elizabeth L. Hughes 2024

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AFTERNOON EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS

 

2:30 p.m.


CIVIL LITIGATION SECTION (AND ANNUAL MEETING)/CIVIL DIVISION PROGRAM

1 Substantive CLE credit and 1 Substantive CJE credit
Seasons 2, 3 and 4

Program open to all registrants

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Same Robes, New Roles: Administrative Updates from the Civil Division Judges

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This program is designed to educate the bench and bar on a host of new administrative updates within the Allegheny County Court of Common Pleas Civil Division, as implemented this year under newly appointed Administrative Judge Alan D. Hertzberg. Featuring four of the court’s judges and its Deputy Court Administrator, the CLE will delve into both new administrative procedures and the reasons for them, providing insight to all judges in attendance on best judicial practices, as well as to members of the bar on new procedural developments to consider in their civil cases. The program will discuss the court’s envisioned transition from an attorney-controlled trial scheduling system to a court-controlled trial scheduling system, along with previews of new practices and procedures in the court’s specialized handling of commerce and complex litigation, discovery matters and construction cases. ACBA Civil Litigation Section annual meeting to follow CLE.

 

Speakers:

The Hon. Alan D. Hertzberg, Allegheny County Court of Common Pleas, Civil Division

The Hon. Arnold I. Klein, Allegheny County Court of Common Pleas, Civil Division

The Hon. Mary C. McGinley, Allegheny County Court of Common Pleas, Civil Division

The Hon. Daniel D. Regan, Allegheny County Court of Common Pleas, Civil Division

Dianne S. Wainwright, Allegheny County Court of Common Pleas, Civil Division

 

Moderator:​

Michael K. Feeney, UPMC

​

2:30 p.m.


PROBATE AND TRUST LAW SECTION/ORPHANS’ COURT DIVISION PROGRAM

1 Substantive credit


Snowflake

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2025 Probate, Trust, Tax and Orphans’ Court Primer

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Stay informed on the ever-evolving landscape of Pennsylvania probate and estate law. Recent legislative changes, impacting everything from taxes to guardianship, have made this a key focus, with the Orphans’ Court playing a central role. This presentation will feature expert panelists for a discussion on the latest legislative updates and Orphans’ Court rulings. This engaging and informative conversation is a must for practitioners in this collaborative field.

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Speakers:

The Hon. Susan Evashavik DiLucente (President Judge), Allegheny County Court of Common Pleas, Orphans’ Court Division  

Todd T. Jordan, Williams Coulson

Carol Sikov Gross, Sikov and Love, P.A.

​Daniel Kunz, Allegheny County Court of Common Pleas, Orphans’ Court Division

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2:30 p.m.


LABOR AND EMPLOYMENT LAW SECTION PROGRAM


1 Substantive credit


Wintergreen

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Legal Jeopardy: Employment Law Edition

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Get ready for a fun, interactive experience in a game show-style CLE designed for both employment and non-employment law attorneys. This fast-paced and engaging program will test your legal knowledge on recent developments in employment law. Whether you’re an expert in employment law or just looking to brush up on your knowledge, this fun, competitive format will keep you on your toes. Prizes will be awarded.

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Speakers:

The Hon. Lisa Pupo Lenihan (Ret.), Judge Lenihan ADR

Nicholas Kennedy, Horne Daller

Brian D. Lipkin, Riverpath Law

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