California lawyers regularly treat mediation, MSCs and informal settlement conferences as interchangeable, especially when it comes to confidentiality. The law draws distinctions that they should be aware of. Two retired judges will break down the statutory framework covering settlement discussions in the Evidence Code and Rules of Court and some of the subtle differences between mediation, settlement conferences and informal “hallway” negotiations. The judges will also discuss how such differences might impact procedural and tactical approaches for MSCs and mediation, and common missteps.

This Panel is a sequel, by popular demand, to ADR Services, Inc.'s July 2025 "Good Fences Make Good Neighbors" Real Estate Litigation 101 CLE webcast with real estate litigation experts from Schorr Law, APC in Los Angeles and mediator Gideon Kracov, Esq. Last time, the panelists could not wrap up all the Q and A in the time allotted — more than thirty questions remained. This interactive "201 Advanced Class" will answer those remaining questions, ask for and answer your new questions, and delve into best practices and practical advice for how to litigate and resolve all variety of real estate disputes including sale, neighbor, property damage, land use, HOA and title matters.

Missed Part 1? Watch it free here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qKQOx8jwPlY&t=1s

Join us for a day of networking, learning, and empowerment at the 2026 AABA Women's Conference.

Sessions will cover topics like:

• Compensation, Promotion, and Negotiation
• Caregiving
• Reflections from Past Women AABA Presidents

Every trust and estate litigator knows that the first conversations with a client can shape everything that follows. Before responsibly recommending a legal strategy, attorneys should assess not only the merits of the case, but also their individual client’s priorities, expectations, and tolerance for litigation delay and risk. Using three realistic trust and estate litigation scenarios, Hon. Victoria Wood (Ret.) and Katie Capielo, Esq. will explore how experienced attorneys evaluate evolving facts, identify litigation and settlement opportunities, manage client expectations, and help clients make informed strategic decisions throughout the life of a case. Rather than focusing on substantive probate law, this practical discussion examines how thoughtful counseling at each stage of a dispute can lead to better outcomes for both clients and their families.

RSVP REQUIRED BY 10AM September 14.  Email to admin@EBTEL.org with “September 16 Meeting RSVP” in the Subject line and a Zoom code and materials will be provided.

This CLE will explore strategies and best practices for effective mediation, with a focus on the challenges that can arise in complex litigation and the role of counsel, neutrals, and the courts in facilitating successful resolution. The discussion will consider how timing, preparation, communication, client and counsel dynamics, and other practical considerations can influence the mediation process and its outcome. Further information to be shared.

Mark LeHocky - a former complex litigator turned general counsel turned mediator -- shares the behavioral science of handicapping errors of counsel and clients and provides a strategic road map to navigate toward satisfactory as well as attainable results. Based upon Berkeley Law course Managing Difficult Legal Conversations, Mark highlights the behavioral science data showing where errors germinate and specific strategies to preempt them where possible and to recover from them when not. Based on his ADR work premised on these concepts, Mark has twice been voted Mediation Attorney of the Year for the San Francisco region through Best Lawyers' peer rating organization.