CLE Newsletter

It's time to fill your calendar with our extensive program offerings covering a range of relevant legal topics. Whether you prefer the convenience of attending via Zoom on busy office days or the chance to network with peers through our hybrid programs, we've got you covered.

This email is just a glimpse of the exceptional programs we're offering this fall. To uncover the full spectrum of upcoming opportunities, don't hesitate to click here to access our comprehensive CLE calendar.

Understanding the PACT Act and Its Implications for Representing Veteran Clients

October 13 | 12:30-2:00 PM

1.5 credits | Live Webinar Only

Speaker: Maura Jean Black, Esq.

Signed into law in August 2022, the PACT Act was created to help provide generations of veterans and their families with the care and benefits they need and deserve. The PACT Act expanded VA health care and benefits to veterans exposed to burn pits, herbicides, and other toxic substances. This webinar will highlight the PACT Act’s provisions and the effects of those legal changes on the pursuit of VA disability benefits.

Information on available resources for veterans will be included.

This program will provide attendees with an understanding of the PACT Act’s provisions and the impact of those provisions on increased access to VA benefits.

🥪 Food for Thought! 🍕

Can you DIG It? Navigating Dual-Purpose Attorney-Client Communications Post U.S. Supreme Court’s DIG Order

October 31| 12:30-2:00 PM

.5 credit + 1.0 ethics | Hybrid Format

Lunch included for in-person attendees.

Speaker: Nicole J. Benjamin, Esq., RIBA President

Dive into the dynamic world of in-house counsel with Bar President Nicole Benjamin.

In today's legal landscape, in-house counsel wear multiple hats – part lawyer, part business advisor. But here's the twist: untangling legal advice from non-legal advice can be a challenge, even an impossibility.

In January 2023, the U.S. Supreme Court dropped a one-sentence bombshell, dismissing the certiorari in In re Grand Jury, No. 21-1397 as "improvidently granted." This case was set to settle the circuit split on the intricate matter of when communications mixing legal and non-legal advice enjoy attorney-client privilege. But, it left us all hanging. The result? Uncertainty looms large for in-house counsel, and it's time to address this legal quandary head-on.

Join us for a seminar that goes beyond the surface. We'll explore the ethical obligations attorneys have when balancing both legal and non-legal advice, and navigate the complex ethical terrain when serving clients in this multidimensional role.

Workers' Compensation: A Practical Skills Seminar

November 8 | 9:00 AM-2:30 PM

4.0 credits + 1.0 ethics | Hybrid Format

Breakfast and lunch included for in-person attendees.

Speakers:

Judges

Hon. Robert M. Ferrieri

Hon. George E. Healy, Jr.

Hon. Michael J. Feeney

Hon. Susan Pepin Fay

Attorneys

Michael S. Schwartz, Esq.

Michael A. St. Pierre, Esq.

Andrew S. Caslowitz, Esq.

Ready to master the art of Workers' Compensation law? Our stellar panel of Workers' Compensation judges and seasoned attorneys is geared up to take you on an immersive learning journey. In this comprehensive program, you'll unlock practical knowledge and hands-on skills essential for handling Workers' Compensation cases like a pro. From pretrial preparations to crafting winning trial strategies, we've got you covered.

Learn directly from industry experts and gain valuable insights into the intricate world of Workers' Compensation law. Whether you're a new attorney looking to dive into the Workers' Compensation arena or an experienced attorney seeking a fresh perspective, this program is for you!

The RIBA assumes no responsibility for opinions, statements, and facts in any Continuing Legal Education/Annual Meeting program. Neither the opinions expressed in any program, nor its content represent the official view of the Rhode Island Bar Association or the views of its members.

Call for CLE Proposals!

The Continuing Legal Education (CLE) Committee is eagerly accepting CLE proposal submissions! Our CLE programs present valuable opportunities for you to share your expertise, enhance your legal knowledge, and connect with like-minded professionals in the thriving Rhode Island legal community. Our CLE events have always been at the forefront of exceptional content and thought-provoking discussions. If you have stimulating topics, complex case studies, or practical workshops in mind, we encourage you to submit your proposals. Please click here to access the CLE Proposal Form.

Attorneys with questions about submitting a CLE proposals may email CLE Director Madeline Benner at mbenner@ribar.com.