The 2024 Bay Area MCLE Conference

Kristine Fowler Cirby

The 2024 Bay Area MCLE Conference, hosted by the Marin County Bar Association on November 19 and 20, brought together esteemed legal professionals to address pressing issues in law and society. From ethical complexities of artificial intelligence to the challenges of homelessness policies and threats to democratic institutions, the conference offered thought-provoking sessions and meaningful dialogue. Attendees gained fresh insights, explored innovative solutions, and connected with peers to discuss emerging trends in the legal profession.

Grants Pass Litigation: Implications for the Unhoused Population

The City of Grants Pass v. Johnson case marked a pivotal moment in constitutional law, permitting cities to regulate camping on public property without violating the Eighth Amendment. This Supreme Court decision overturned the Ninth Circuit’s ruling in Martin v. City of Boise, which restricted such ordinances. Attorneys Howard Belodoff and Bradley Hamburger explored the case’s trajectory, emphasizing humane approaches to homelessness policies and innovative strategies to balance public order with the rights of the unhoused.

Forgiveness and Healing Conflict

Barbara Monty and Eileen Barker led a transformative session on the role of forgiveness in legal practice. Through personal stories and practical strategies, they demonstrated how forgiveness reduces stress and resolves conflicts. The discussion linked civility, emotional well-being, and effective dispute resolution, offering actionable steps for practitioners to integrate compassion into their work. Attendees left with tools to foster professional fulfillment and a more humane approach to legal conflicts.

Day 1 Keynote: AI and Ethics: Exploring Consciousness and Its Legal Implications

Joshua P. Davis delivered a keynote on artificial intelligence’s (AI) ethical and legal implications, exploring whether AI could achieve consciousness and its effects on decision-making. He discussed AI’s limitations and theories of consciousness, urging legal professionals to align AI development with societal values. The session emphasized proactive engagement with AI’s ethical challenges, leaving attendees inspired to navigate this rapidly advancing field responsibly.

Creating Inclusive Workspaces: Addressing Unconscious Bias

Dr. Sacha Joseph-Mathews’ session focused on recognizing and mitigating unconscious bias in the workplace. She highlighted biases in communication, leadership, and interactions influenced by societal norms. Offering practical tools to address these biases, the session empowered attendees to foster equity and inclusivity in their practices. The discussion underscored the importance of creating fairer and more effective work environments.

The Reclassification of Marijuana: A Shift in Policy and Practice

In May 2024, the Attorney General proposed reclassifying marijuana from a Schedule I to a Schedule III drug under the Controlled Substances Act. Attorneys Habib Bentaleb, Alison Malsbury, Lauren Mendelsohn, and Lara DeCaro analyzed the implications for the cannabis industry, offering insights into navigating legal and commercial changes. The session highlighted challenges and opportunities arising from this significant policy shift.

Substance Abuse in the Legal Profession

David Mann’s session tackled the issue of substance abuse among attorneys, examining its causes and offering strategies for prevention and recovery. Mann shared a compelling case study, engaging attendees with practical tools for self-assessment and systemic solutions. The session emphasized fostering a supportive legal culture prioritizing well-being and professional competence.

Mental Health Well-Being in the Legal Profession

Moderated by MCBA Board Member Emily Harrington, this panel addressed mental health challenges unique to legal professionals. Christine O’Hanlon (also an MCBA Board Member), Diana Maier, and Rodney Johnson discussed balancing careers and personal lives, stress reduction, and fostering supportive workplace cultures. The session encouraged normalizing mental health conversations and building sustainable legal careers centered on self-care.

Reducing Conflict in Family Law Custody Cases

This session emphasized collaborative approaches to reducing conflict in high-stakes custody battles. David Donner, Paula Lawhon, and Dr. Stacey Shuster discussed alternatives to litigation, focusing on child-centered solutions. Attendees gained valuable insights into fostering healing and collaboration in family law.

Day 2 Keynote: David Jones on Climate Change and Insurance

David Jones, former California Insurance Commissioner, delivered a keynote on climate change’s impact on the insurance industry. He highlighted challenges from catastrophic events like wildfires and explored regulatory efforts to address rising premiums and coverage reductions. The session underscored the urgency of mitigating climate change and its far-reaching implications for legal professionals.

Understanding Home Equity for Retirement and Legacy Planning

Huma Rassouli and Spencer Scheer explored the SECURE 2.0 Act’s implications for inherited IRAs, emphasizing Roth IRA conversions as estate planning tools. They analyzed the tax implications and innovative uses of reverse mortgage credit lines to fund conversions, providing attendees with actionable strategies for retirement and legacy planning.

Robes & Robots: AI and Legal Disputes

This session on artificial intelligence (AI) featured experts from litigation and technology fields discussing AI’s transformative impact on legal disputes. David Simons, Joshua Stein, James Park, and Juan Pablo Sandoval highlighted AI’s ability to analyze vast data efficiently while warning of risks from careless reliance. Representatives from Harvey and DISCO showcased AI applications reshaping trial preparation and courtroom tactics, urging vigilance in ethical considerations.

Democracy in Chains

Nancy MacLean’s session explored radical right strategies to undermine democratic institutions, based on her book Democracy in Chains. Moderated by Scott Buell, the presentation analyzed the long-term planning behind these movements and their influence on U.S. politics. Attendees left with insights into safeguarding democratic institutions and advocating for constitutional integrity.

As the 2024 Bay Area MCLE Conference concluded, attendees gained invaluable knowledge and six specialty MCLE credits. Covering diverse topics from AI ethics to substance abuse, the conference encouraged meaningful dialogue on critical societal issues. The Marin County Bar Association reinforced its commitment to equipping legal professionals with the tools and perspectives necessary for navigating an evolving world.