Schedule

Briefs, Briefings & Brain Fog: Menopause in the Legal Lane 

This dynamic session, led by nationally recognized menopause and women’s health expert Dr. Arianna Sholes-Douglas, explores the hidden but significant impact of perimenopause and menopause on high-performing professionals—particularly in demanding fields like law. Symptoms such as brain fog, fatigue, mood shifts, and sleep disturbances often occur at the peak of a woman’s career, yet remain misunderstood, stigmatized, or unaddressed in workplace cultures.

Drawing from decades of clinical experience and the latest evidence-based research, Dr. Sholes-Douglas sheds light on the biological realities of midlife hormonal transitions, why they are frequently misdiagnosed or overlooked, and how they uniquely intersect with leadership, productivity, and retention. Participants will gain practical insights into effective management strategies—ranging from hormone therapy to lifestyle interventions—and learn how organizational policies and culture can better support employees during this critical life stage.

Wellness Competence  (Specialty Credit): 1.0 CLE

Speakers:  Dr Arianna Sholes-Douglas MD

Introduction:  Kristine Fowler Cirby

Blind Justice: Addressing Implicit Bias in the Courtroom

Retired Marin Superior Court Judge Verna Adams and Marin Superior Court Judge Sheila Lichtblau will lead an engaging workshop on the ways implicit bias can affect all aspects of courtroom practice. From the treatment of parties and witnesses to the tone of advocacy and judicial decision-making, unconscious attitudes can influence outcomes in subtle but powerful ways.  

Drawing on their extensive experience, the judges will share practical tools for recognizing and addressing bias, including strategies for voir dire, communication, and courtroom management. 

Participants will leave with concrete approaches to fostering fairness, strengthening professionalism, and ensuring that the promise of equal justice is carried out in every case.

Implicit Bias (Specialty Credit): 1.0 CLE 

Speakers: Hon. Verna A. Adams (ret.) and Hon. Sheila Lichtblau

Introduction:   Kristine Fowler Cirby

KEYNOTE Hour: Leah Litman 

Expect More Lawlessness - Supreme Court October 2025 Preview

This event will feature a recap of the recently completed Supreme Court term, emerging trends in the Court's approach to cases involving the Trump administration, and some commentary related to Leah's recent book LAWLESS.

Her book Lawless: How the Supreme Court Runs on Conservative Grievance, Fringe Theories, and Bad Vibes is available for purchase here. 

General Credit:  1.0 CLE

Speaker:  Prof. Leah Litman

Introduction: Kristine Fowler Cirby

The Rise of Women's Sports

Women's sports are on the rise, breaking records in viewership, attendance, and sponsorship.  Athletes like Caitlin Clark, Trinity Rodman, and Coco Gauff, and global events like the Women's World Cup, are drawing mainstream attention, while streaming and social media expand visibility.  Corporate investment is accelerating, new pro leagues are launching, and cultural shifts toward equity are fueling momentum.  The result: women's sports are no longer a niche - they're becoming a major force in the global sports industry.  With that, a number of legal and business issues have surfaced including - equal pay, labor rights, collective bargaining agreements, and women's specific stadiums.  Join us for a discussion on the various legal issues women's sports are facing today and hear from sports attorneys who are on the front lines.

General Credit:  1.0 CLE

Speaker:  Leonard Lun; Meghann Burke; Kate Porter; Gabrielle McKee 

Introduction:  Tom McInerney

Ethics in Privacy, Cybersecurity and AI Law

The rapid proliferation of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies since 2022 has underpinned a seismic shift in business, government, and society, accelerating innovation but also spawning a host of practical, ethical, and legal dilemmas. High-profile incidents involving AI failure, data breaches, misinformation, and irresponsible use have made global headlines, eroding public trust and posing novel risks for companies, consumers, and legal professionals. The urgency to develop robust governance and accountability frameworks for AI is now recognized by regulators, industry leaders, and the legal sector alike. This course provides: (1) an in-depth look at the rules of professional conduct and specifically Formal Opinion 512 from the American Bar Association Standing Committee on Ethics and Professional Responsibility covering the growing use of generative AI in the practice of law; and (2) key risks and legal considerations for organizations deploying AI systems, as well as the emerging responsibilities and risks for lawyers and business executives when using AI tools.

Technology in the Practice of Law (Specialty Credit): 1.0 CLE

Speakers:  Jeewon Serrato

Introduction: Roni Pomerantz

Price Gouging and Natural Disasters:  CA Enforcement 

Deputy Attorney General Daniel Osborn and Deputy Attorney General Roni Pomerantz lead the CA AG’s price gouging response in times of natural disaster emergencies. In a discussion led by Roni, Daniel will review recent disaster history, including the Sonoma and LA Fires, describe experience and challenges, and give an overview of the CA price gouging statute, Penal Code Section 396.  The discussion will focus on civil and criminal enforcement.

General Credit: 1.0 CLE

Speaker:  Daniel Osborn

Introduction: Roni Pomerantz

The Anti-DEI Agenda: What Lawyers Need to Know
Enormous changes and uncertainty in the polarized DEI landscape continue to emerge, raising complex legal and professional challenges. This session will examine the evolving legal frameworks, enforcement priorities, and actions by federal and state government agencies, as well as emerging litigation and policy trends. The speakers will provide information on benchmark practices as well as risks and opportunities in today’s seismically shifting environment.

Recognition and Elimination of Bias (Specialty Credit):  1.0 CLE 

Speakers:  Nonnie Shivers and T. Scott Kelly of Ogletree Deakins

Introduction: Tom McInerney

Generative AI in Legal Practice: Opportunities, Risks and Best Practices

This one-hour course offers attorneys a concise introduction to generative artificial intelligence (GAI) and its implications for legal practice. Attendees will gain foundational knowledge of AI technologies, including GAI, learn practical use cases that can create efficiencies, and explore ways to implement GAI use in their legal practice.

The course will also cover the potential risks associated with GAI use, such as bias and confidentiality issues, and provide a framework for ethical GAI use in legal settings. Designed for attorneys looking to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving field, this course provides essential insights into the benefits and challenges of GAI in law, preparing participants to make informed decisions about AI adoption.

Legal Ethics (Specialty Credit):  1.0 CLE 

Speakers:  Catherine Ongiri, Rachel Brewer with the CA State Bar

Introduction: Nestor Schnasse

KEYNOTE Hour:   John Keker, Robert Van Nest, Eliot Peters 

A Lawyer’s Obligation When the Rule of Law is Under Attack:  A Panel Discussion

President Trump issued a series of executive orders attacking by name various law firms that have handled pro bono and other legal matters adverse to the government or to the president personally. While some firms have stood their ground and challenged the constitutionality of these orders in court, others have cut deals with the Administration to avoid business and legal repercussions. Powerhouse SF-based litigation firm Keker, Van Nest & Peters is a leader in the effort to confront the Trump Administration’s efforts to undermine the law firms.  In this hour-long panel discussion, the leaders and named partners of that firm—John Keker, Robert Van Nest, and Elliot Peters—discuss what led their firm to stand up for the Rule of Law, their view of a lawyer’s obligation when the legal profession is under attack, and where they see these legal battles going in 2026 and beyond. 

General Credit:  1.0 CLE

Speaker: John Keker, Robert Van Nest, Elliot Peters 

Introduction:  Tom McInerney

On the Path to Wellness in the Legal Profession

Those working in the legal profession face many challenges, not the least of which is the importance of supporting and enhancing the mental and physical wellness of attorneys and their professional staff members. Here, Cameron Stout will present, “On the Path to Wellness in the Legal Profession.” Cam, in addition to being a nationally known securities litigation attorney and mediator, is a grateful survivor of major depression and alcohol use disorder. As CEO of his mental wellness advocacy organization, Stout Heart, Inc., Cam has been telling his story of resilience, healing, and hope over the last eleven years with legal professionals, students, and faith-based organizations around the country.

In addition to sharing his inspirational journey with us, Cam will cover the following topics in his one-hour talk:

• Law firm mental health best practices, including a blueprint for a robust mentoring program.

• Strategies for identifying and preventing possible mental health conditions and addiction issues, and empathetic ways of supporting colleagues who may be at risk.

• Developing everyday resilience with fresh perspectives and mindsets, including overcoming impostor syndrome, fear of failure, and perfectionism.

• Simple, sustainable self-care habits including exercise, mindfulness/ meditation, and working in the service of others at work and in life.

Prevention and Detection Competence (Specialty Credit):  1.0 CLE

Speakers: Cameron Stout

Introduction: Nestor Schnasse

Six Practical Tools: How to Control Your Stress Response

Whatever you may have heard in the past about lawyer stress and how to manage it, the landscape has changed. Today, we have more research-backed strategies and science-based tools at our fingertips than ever before. Stress is not just an abstract concept—it has very real effects on the body and brain, often pushing us into automatic reactions that can leave us feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or out of control.

The good news is that you don’t have to stay stuck in those cycles. By learning to use practical, proven tools, you can shift the way your mind and body respond to pressure. Instead of stress running the show, you can take back control and develop healthier, more effective ways of navigating challenges. These aren’t just quick fixes; they are skills that, once integrated, can build resilience, improve focus, and help you find greater balance both personally and professionally.

Wellness Competence  (Specialty Credit):  1.0 CLE

Speakers:  Carolyn Rosenblatt and Dr. Mikol Davis

Introduction: Kristine Fowler Cirby

The Burren House Irish Pub & Kitchen 

You’ve Earned It! Join Us for an Evening of Connection & Celebration

After two days of learning, growing, and sharpening your skills at the MCLE Conference, it’s time to kick back and enjoy the company of your colleagues. The Marin County Bar Association invites you to The Burren House Irish Pub & Kitchen in San Rafael for a relaxed and festive networking evening.

 What to Expect: 

• No agenda, no speeches, no pressure—just authentic conversations and genuine connections.

• A lively Irish pub atmosphere, perfect for winding down after a long conference.

• The chance to meet new colleagues, reconnect with friends, and build relationships that extend beyond the virtual conference walls.

• Great food, refreshing drinks, and the warm camaraderie of the MCBA community.

• No-host bar so you can enjoy your favorite beverage while you mingle.

Whether you’re a first-time attendee, a seasoned attorney, or somewhere in between, this is the perfect opportunity to celebrate the close of the MCLE Conference, share insights from the past two days, and toast to all your hard work.

So, grab a drink, pull up a chair, and let’s turn conference networking into real community.

The Burren House Irish Pub & Kitchen 

925 4th St, San Rafael, Ca

No Credits for this, just fun!