Representing Special Immigrant Juveniles

Speakers: Zachary K. Lyons, Esq.; Stephanie Gonzalez, Esq.; Hon. Cristine L. McBurney; Hon. Alberto Aponte Cardona; and Denise Acevedo Perez, Esq.

Amid ongoing discussions about the situation at the U.S.-Mexico border, there exists a legal avenue called Special Immigrant Juvenile Status (SIJS) that many immigrant youth can pursue for legal status in the U.S. This process involves Rhode Island probate and family court, as well as U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. The workshop introduces the legal framework for obtaining SIJS and offers practical insights into representing immigrant youth in probate and family court. Led by practicing immigration attorneys, a probate judge, and a family court magistrate, this session is perfect for those interested in exploring immigration options for immigrant youth or looking to enhance their skills in handling SIJS cases.

Effective Sentencing Advocacy: Telling the Client’s Story

Moderator: Michael A. DiLauro, Esq.

Speakers: Moneca Kennedy and

Kerin Hagan

As the percentage of criminal cases going to trial continues to shrink, effective sentencing advocacy has become perhaps the most critical role of defense counsel in a criminal case. This advocacy, required by the 6th Amendment and integral to the constitutional right to effective assistance of counsel, can significantly influence case outcomes. This workshop provides practical strategies for crafting compelling narratives. These include engaging social workers or mitigation specialists, employing effective interviewing techniques, constructing persuasive defense theories, utilizing factual evidence, exploring sentencing alternatives, and writing impactful sentencing reports.

The DOs and DON’Ts of Medical Expert Testimony at the

Workers’ Compensation Court

Moderator: Hon. Moira E. Reynolds

Speakers: Joyce A. Faraone, Esq.; Jonathan R. Myhre, Esq.; and Dr. Steven Blazer

This workshop focuses on navigating depositions of physicians at live trial. It also offers strategies for effectively preparing for direct and cross-examinations of physicians. The panel dives into prepping the witness, as well as preparing to challenge the expert's opinion.

Getting the VA to Pay: An Introduction to VA Disability Claims

Speakers: Dana N. Paulhus, Esq., and Michael P. Jolin, Esq.

Join us for an interactive presentation discussing an introduction to VA disability law from military and civilian perspectives. Panelists will touch on organizational history, the claims process, basic substantive law, and areas for improvement.

Combating Modern Lending Discrimination

Speakers: Zachary A. Cunha, Esq.; Amy R. Romero, Esq.; and Kevin Love Hubbard, Esq.

The panel discusses the Department of Justice's efforts to combat lending and housing discrimination in the modern context, covering the requirements of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Credit Opportunity Act. Topics include the objectives of fair housing law enforcement, emerging fair housing issues, investigation procedures, agency management, and the use of data and statistical analysis to ensure compliance.

This is just a small preview of the many excellent seminars we have scheduled. To see the other programs, click here to view the brochure.