CLE Program

Women in Trial can face a unique yet important experience. From jurors, to judges, to opposing counsel, every level of trial can affect the ultimate outcome for you and your client. Come hear various perspectives from all levels of trial practice about what is out there and what to do about it when walking into the courtroom as or with a woman. From dealing with the slightly unprofessional to the absolutely unacceptable, this array of panelists will provide tips and tricks to navigate every angle of the courtroom. They will shed light on how to spot and when and how to support when a colleague who might bear the brunt of such experiences. The panel will be interactive and include question and answer opportunities, and will analyze real-world scenes from past trials. Come early to mingle and network with these accomplished panelists and other attendees while you grab a drink and a bite!

This program will focus on the art of persuasion, the “Dos and Don’ts” of law and motion. Tune in to learn everything you ever wanted to know about law and motion but were too afraid to ask.

Having served as an Independent Calendar Judge in the West District for over 14 years, ruling on upwards of 7,500 motions, if not more, with as many as 730 general jurisdiction cases assigned to him at one time, recently retired Judge Karlan has handled a complex and complicated law and motion calendar under a variety of circumstances and time constraints.

In this program Judge Karlan will provide insight from his over twenty years on the bench, including motions to quash, demurrers, motions to strike/anti-SLAPP motions, MSJs, electronic service, discovery and motions in limine. HOWEVER, beyond the technical legal requirements, successful motion practice requires careful crafting, a compelling argument and attention to detail. It also involves thinking of and paying attention to your Judge, both with respect to what you submit and how you argue.

Join two experienced retired judicial officers as they delve beyond the Dissomaster into advanced child support issues in family law disputes. The speakers will get into the real details as they discuss deviations from guideline child support, child support add-ons, imputed and unusual income items, and proof of income. This program is targeted towards family law practitioners. This program is presented by the Alameda County Bar Association. Please contact membershipassistant@acbanet.org with any registration questions. Speakers: Comm. Glenn P. Oleon (Ret.) Hon. Anita Santos (Ret.) Cost: FREE to ACBA Members $75 for Non Members

Learn to effectively tell your clients’ story and formulate a cogent opening statement that will win over your jury before you call a single witness.

In Hollywood, we are surrounded by some of the most compelling storytellers in the world. Their techniques for captivating an audience and persuading a listener translate perfectly to the courtroom but are applied far less often than expected. A case can be won with a compelling opening statement; it can also be made far more difficult to win with one that is disjoint and emotionless.

In this program, learn from recently retired LA Superior Court Judge Craig Karlan how to present a successful opening statement. Judge Karlan is not only an experienced trial lawyer and trial judge – having tried countless jury trials as both a lawyer and a judge over the past 32 years – Judge Karlan is also a writer, one who has optioned several pilots. Like a theater audience, the jury needs to feel what your client has gone through to care about your case.