| 2026 Annual Convention - Sessions |
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b 2026 Annual Convention Sessions* *Speakers, topics, and times are subject to change Earn up to 11 CLEs if you participate on both Thursday & Friday and one session on Saturday. Click the drop-down menu below to view full session details, categorized by each day.
7:30 - 8:30 AM
Continental Breakfast 8:00 - 8:20 AM
Welcome 8:30 - 9:30 AM
Education Session #1
Beyond The Draft: Engineering File-Ready Motions Through Strategic Collaboration (1.0 CLE) Presented By: Molly Gulbrandson, Founder and Senior Paralegal, ParaOne Legal Services, LLC; Jeffrey Justman, Attorney, Faegre Drinker In litigation, excellent motion work is more than just persuasive argument; it is meticulously constructed pleading process where every fact and legal citation is bulletproof. This session explores the sophisticated partnership between an attorney and senior litigation support. We will pull back the curtain on the workflow used to synchronize legal research, fact and legal-cite checking, and complex exhibit management. Attendees will learn how to transform a standard filing into a high-caliber file-ready work product that builds immediate credibility with the court. --- A Litigator's Playbook (1.0 CLE) Presented By: Evan Nelson, Attorney, Maslon LLP This CLE will delve into the complexities of modern trust and estate litigation, covering topics such as breach of fiduciary duty, will contests, and trustee removal. Participants will gain practical insights about how discovery impacts these claims and how litigators can prepare for and mitigate potential family conflict. The session will also address recent case law and legislative updates impacting trust and estate administration and litigation. --- Evolving Legal Practice In An Age of AI – An Inhouse Perspective (1.0 CLE) Presented By: Yen Florczak, Attorney, 3M Company This CLE program examines how artificial intelligence is reshaping legal practice from an in-house counsel perspective. The session will explore emerging opportunities and risks associated with AI, including professional responsibility, confidentiality, accuracy, governance, and practical considerations for legal departments adopting AI-enabled tools. Participants will gain insight into how in-house teams can support innovation while maintaining sound legal judgment, regulatory awareness, and ethical compliance. 9:30 - 10:00 AM Networking Break with Exhibitors 10:00 - 11:00 AM
Education Session #2
The Role Of The Paralegal In IP And Brand Protection, Including The Art Of Becoming Trademarkable (1.0 CLE) Presented By: Cheryl Hodgson, Attorney, Remarkable Legal Trademark paralegals play a vital role in the registration process and beyond, supporting portfolio management and brand enforcement across an increasingly complex IP landscape shaped by AI-driven innovation. Working in both law firms and in-house legal teams, they contribute throughout the lifecycle of a brand—from search and clearance, filing applications, managing foreign associates, and preparing specimens of use, to navigating TEAS, docketing, responding to Office Actions, handling maintenance filings, supporting TTAB proceedings, and overseeing brand enforcement and portfolio management. This session reviews these core responsibilities while focusing on three essential pre-filing steps that are critical to achieving successful outcomes. With more than 70% of applications receiving an initial refusal, the ability to overcome these challenges often depends on the groundwork completed before filing. By mastering the art of becoming “trademarkable,” participants will learn how to improve success rates while reducing inefficiencies, time, and costs in the registration process. --- Reimagining The Practice Of Law: The Paralegal's Rising Role In A Deregulated Era (1.0 CLE) Presented By: Eric Voogt, Founder and Executive Chair, Proof As states across the country explore or adopt deregulation models, the boundaries of who can deliver legal services are expanding. This presentation will break down what deregulation really means for paralegals including new opportunities, expanded responsibilities, and the shifting expectations of clients and firms. We will examine current regulatory developments, discuss what authorized practice looks like in a changing landscape, and outline practical steps paralegals can take now to prepare for a broader role in legal service delivery. --- Access To Justice: The Paralegal's Role In Equity (1.0 DEI CLE) Presented By: NFPA DEI Committee - Jennifer Echikson; Elizabeth Dear; Kay Palacios; Patrice Givens This program explores how paralegals can meaningfully expand legal access for marginalized and underserved communities. Participants will examine the ways diversity, equity, and inclusion principles shape pro bono work and community ‘based legal services, gaining insight into how equitable practices strengthen the profession. The program also highlights emerging technologies that can reduce barriers and enhance access to legal information and support. Together, these elements underscore the essential role paralegals play in advancing fairness and justice within the legal system.
11:00 - 11:30 AM 11:30 AM - 12:00 PM Lunch 12:00 - 1:00 PM
Keynote Session The Evolving Attorney-Paralegal Relationship: Past, Present, and Future (1.0 CLE) Presented By: Kevin Rhodes, Attorney, 3M Company This program examines the evolving attorney-paralegal relationship through the lens of past practice, present realities, and future opportunities. Attendees will explore how this professional partnership has developed from a traditional support model into a more collaborative and strategic working relationship shaped by changing client demands, legal technology, and operational expectations. The session will also feature practical examples and stories illustrating paralegal involvement in areas such as product enforcement, litigation, M&A transactions, and other key legal functions, highlighting the breadth and value of the paralegal role in supporting complex legal work. 1:00 - 1:30 PM
Networking Break with Exhibitors
1:30 - 2:30 PM
Education Session #3
Governance Isn't A Document, It's A System (1.0 CLE)
Presented By: Tracy Salwei, Paralegal Governance systems don’t magically run themselves, paralegals keep them alive, aligned, and out of trouble. This session brings fresh energy to the fundamentals of board and entity management and shows why paralegals are the operational force that General Counsel and leadership rely on every single day. We’ll kick off with a fast, practical Governance 101 foundation, then dive into the real‑world role of the paralegal as the cross‑department connector linking legal, compliance, finance, HR, operations, and board activity to keep governance transparent, consistent, and defensible. Through lively activities and group discussions, we’ll unpack the good, the bad, and the “what now” moments of governance. You’ll leave with new ideas, real strategies you can use immediately, and a network of professionals who understand the realities of governance work and how to do it well. --- Post-Death Representation Of Fiduciaries – Who Is Your Client? (1.0 CLE) Presented By: Angela M. Gonzalez, SBWCP, Paralegal, Ruder Ware, L.L.S.C. All of us will experience post-death situations in our lifetime, and some of us will be fiduciaries ourselves – professionally or personally. The role of a fiduciary in trust and estate administrations can be difficult to navigate, especially when the fiduciary is also a heir/beneficiary or friend of the family. In addition, states vary in terms of defining the “fiduciary exception” and whether the estate, fiduciary, or beneficiary is the client. We will discuss relevant factors to help paralegals work with their firms to strengthen their engagement letters. In addition, we will discuss tips for handling various situations and possible pitfalls that may lead to litigation or at the very least, uncomfortable administrations. --- An Ethical Dilemma: How Legal Practitioners And Community Justice Workers Avoid The Unauthorized Practice Of Law (1.0 Ethics CLE) Presented By: NFPA Advocacy Committee - Brenda Cothary; Beth Bialis, RP; Donnie Shedd; Christine Flynn; Angie Vohsing This CLE examines the ethical challenges that legal practitioners and community justice workers, collectively, allied legal professionals, must be mindful of to avoid the unauthorized practice of law (UPL). Through a rules-based overview and real-world hypotheticals, participants will examine common ethical dilemmas that allied legal professionals face in their daily work life. This seminar emphasizes how allied legal professionals serve their clients and the public while meeting their professional ethical responsibilities. Attendees will gain an understanding of the rules that allied legal professionals navigate to identify potential pitfalls and to avoid UPL.
2:30 - 3:00 PM
Networking Break with Exhibitors
3:00 - 4:00 PM
Education Session #4
Succeeding At Trial (1.0 CLE) Presented By: Theda Yandell, RP, Paralegal This presentation will discuss court rules and tips for succeeding at trial including: preparing client and lay/expert witnesses for testifying; preparing pleadings; identifying exhibits, preparing exhibits including demonstrative exhibits; creating charts, indexes, lists to facilitate a successful trial; suggestions for assisting with jury selection and guidance for assisting attorney in court. --- Wounds From The Workplace: The Role Of A Compassionate And Trauma-Informed Paralegal In Employment Law (1.0 CLE) Presented By: Kristen Comstock, JD Paralegals working in employment law are frequent witnesses to the effects of trauma. This presentation provides a foundation in the physiology of trauma and its impacts and the way it may influence behavior. Then Kristen will discuss compassionate care, which asks us to consider the other person’s perspectives, what it might be like to be them, and how we can help. Finally, drawing on personal and professional experience, Kristen will suggest practical strategies for working effectively with clients impacted by trauma in the employment law context. --- AI Is Changing Legal Work - Here How Paralegals Can Stay Ahead And Work Smarter (1.0 CLE) Presented By: Tony Sipp, Professor, College of the Canyons; Nikki Mehrpoo, Esq., IgovernAI This course is designed specifically for paralegals who are new to AI and want clear, practical guidance, without technical complexity or overwhelm. Artificial intelligence is already shaping how legal work gets done. Appearing
in research, drafting, document review, and everyday tasks, whether it has been formally introduced in your workplace or not. The real difference today isn't who is using AI. It is who understands how to use it correctly, responsibly,
and with confidence. For paralegals, that distinction matters. Because your work directly supports legal outcomes that must remain accurate, reliable, and aligned with professional responsibility expectations, including those
outlined in ABA Formal Opinion 512 on generative AI.
4:15 - 5:00 PM Workshop Mindset In A High Stress Environment Presented By: Tony Prakash, Senior Litigation Paralegal, Estavillo Law Group This workshop will be on mindset and how to achieve a better day to day life balance while working in a high stress environment by implementing some basic neuro linguistic programing and affirmation strategies. 5:15 - 6:00 PM
NFPA Board Meeting
6:15 - 7:30 PM Networking / Vendor Reception 7:30 - 8:30 AM
Continental Breakfast 8:00 - 8:20 AM
Welcome 8:30 - 9:30 AM
Education Session #1
A Day At Trial For The Paralegal (1.0 CLE) Presented By: Presented By: Lucinda Miller, Principal and Paralegal, LKM Litigation Solutions, LLC This session will briefly discuss the culmination of the litigation process into Trial. It will also discuss courtroom technology; not just trial prep but actual multiple week attendance at trial. Discuss my use of Trial Director at Trial, but it won't be a tutorial of Trial Director. In my region there are not a lot of paralegals involved in multi-week attendance at trial, in a larger case they hire an IT individual to present exhibits at trial, when this can be done by the Paralegal. I have attended more trials than many attorneys, as many cases do not make it to trial. --- Why Mobile Data Is The Legal Evidence (1.0 CLE) Presented By: Shawn Huston, Co-Owner, LSP Data Solutions LLC In this session we will focus on the most rapidly growing source of evidence in legal discovery, Mobile Device Data. We will discuss what is, and is not, available from cell phones, how to use it, and considerations for how to access it. We will provide a sample forensic report to attendees so they can see different data formats and provide best practices for reviewing and producing mobile device data. --- Algorithmic Bias: The Paralegal’s Role in Ethical AI Auditing (1.0 Ethics CLE) Presented By: June Hunter, Technical Enablement Lead, CS Disco; Tony Sipp, Professor, College of the Canyons This session empowers paralegals to move from passive users to "Active Auditors." We will deconstruct how bias enters the legal workflow—through training data, proxy variables, and "black box" logic—and provide a practical framework for performing internal AI audits. Attendees will learn how to champion Explainability and Traceability, ensuring their firm's use of AI aligns with the 2026 ethical updates to ABA Model Rules 1.1 (Competence) and 5.3 (Supervision). 9:30 - 10:00 AM Networking Break with Exhibitors
10:00 - 11:00 AM
Education Session #2
Will Power: The Strength Of Legacy Plans (1.0 CLE) Presented By: Scott Ruhsam, Attorney, Kennedy & Ruhsam Law Offices PA Estate planning (“legacy planning”) ensures clients’ final wishes are honored and helps families avoid costly disputes. In 2026, 56% of U.S. adults had no basic estate documents (will, trust, powers of attorney, etc.), even though 73% agree planning is personally important. Without a solid plan, state intestacy laws (which vary by state) dictate inheritance, often against the deceased’s wishes, and spouses may nonetheless claim forced shares. Studies show this gap has real consequences: a LegalShield survey found nearly 60% of Americans lack a will despite 90% saying one is important, and 58% have seen family conflict due to missing estate plans. Paralegals have a key role in closing this gap – through client education, careful document preparation, and ethical guidance – helping families preserve legacies and reduce drama. --- From Overwhelmed To Efficient: How Paralegals Can Use AI (Copilot, ChatGPT & Claude) The Right Way (1.0 CLE) Presented By: Bathsheba Francis, Paralegal III, City of Atlanta --- Effectively Utilizing The Paralegal In Estate And Trust Administration (1.0 Ethics CLE) Presented By: Donald Bristol, RP, Paralegal, MacElree Harvey, Ltd.; Carolina Heinle, Attorney, MacElree Harvey, Ltd This session (authored by a paralegal and an attorney) will provide examples of how a well-crafted partnership between attorney and paralegal can effectively and successfully navigate the administration of trusts and estates. This area of law is frequently "paralegal heavy" and is a very client-relationship driven practice. The authors will address ways to avoid the pitfalls of unauthorized practice of law by paralegals, provide attorneys guidance on the impactful role the paralegal can play, and offer examples of cases that highlight an effective paralegal-attorney team.
11:00 - 11:30 AM 11:30 AM - 12:00 PM Lunch 12:00 - 1:00 PM
Keynote Session The Minnesota Legal Paraprofessional Program (1.0 CLE) Presented By: Associate Justice Paul Thissen, Minnesota Supreme Court This session will discuss the Minnesota Legal Paraprofessional program and process to approve the program. 1:00 - 1:30 PM
Networking Break with Exhibitors
1:30 - 2:30 PM
Education Session #3
Bankruptcy Law for Paralegals: Decoding Tax Dischargeability Requirements (1.0 CLE)
Presented By: Julianne Di Benedetto, Executive Law Office Administrator/Senior Supervising Paralegal, Thinking Outside the Box Law, Inc. Contrary to common belief, discharging taxes in a Chapter 7 or a Chapter 13 bankruptcy is possible. The presentation will review the applicable law and discuss the process to determining the dischargeability of a debtor's tax liability. --- Leveraging Legal AI - The Future Is Here (1.0 CLE) Presented By: Kelley Chaney, Senior eDiscovery Paralegal, Ballard Spahr Overview of AI; outline policies (in-house and client) that may govern the way we use AI; discussion of tools that law firms use for legal writing, discovery review and contract management - Clear brief, Harvey AI, KIRA, Westlaw/Lexis, Relativity (many people do not realize they are already using AI); understanding risks and limitations of AI; case law and Sedona Conference best practices --- Ethics Without Borders: Professional Responsibility For Virtual & Traveling Paralegals (1.0 Ethics CLE) Presented By: Corrin Swintosky, Owner and Freelance Paralegal, Lucid Legal Support As virtual legal services expand, important professional responsibility considerations are raised for paralegals. This ethics‑focused CLE examines unauthorized practice of law (UPL) boundaries, attorney supervision, confidentiality, and conflicts of interest in a virtual and mobile work environment. Using practical examples and real‑world scenarios, the session explores how ethical obligations remain constant regardless of location. Participants will gain insight into maintaining professional standards while supporting attorneys in a location‑independent practice.
2:30 - 3:00 PM
Networking Break with Exhibitors 3:00 - 4:00 PM
Education Session #4
ADR 101: What Every Paralegal Needs To Know (1.0 CLE) Presented By: Kristi Paulson, Founder and Attorney, PowerHouse Mediation Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) is a key part of resolving legal disputes efficiently and effectively outside the courtroom, and as a paralegal, you play an essential role in the process. Whether you are new to ADR or looking to refine your skills, this session will provide you with the knowledge and tools to be an indispensable member of your legal team. We will break down the essentials of ADR, including when and why it is used, explore the differences between mediation and arbitration, and look at what happens behind the scenes of these processes. We will discuss how to best organize case materials, prepare confidential mediation statements, assemble arbitration books, and manage critical deadlines. Additionally, we will explore how to support attorneys and clients at every stage of the ADR process—helping clients feel confident and prepared for mediation or arbitration, as well as navigating ethical considerations and responsibilities. By the end of this session, you’ll have practical tips and a solid understanding of how to effectively assist in ADR, ensuring smooth and successful out-of-court resolutions --- Navigating Mental Health Law: Legal Framework, Patient Rights and Ethical Consideration (1.0 CLE) Presented By: Brenda Cothary, Paralegal, Coordinated Care This session is designed to equip paralegals with a practical understanding of mental health law and its application across civil, family, and criminal legal settings. As mental health issues increasingly intersect with legal practice, paralegals play a critical role in case management, client communication, and documentation involving individuals with mental health conditions. Participants will gain a foundational overview of key legal concepts, including mental capacity, informed consent, confidentiality, and the rights of individuals receiving mental health treatment. The session will also examine the legal standards and procedures governing voluntary and involuntary commitment, with attention to due process protections and the balance between individual rights and public safety. Through practical examples, attendees will explore how mental health issues arise in disciplinary areas such as guardianship, family law, estate planning, and criminal proceedings. Emphasis will be placed on recognizing legal and ethical obligations, maintaining confidentiality, and supporting attorneys in drafting filings, organizing records, and preparing case materials involving mental health components. --- Building A Resilient Career As A Paralegal From Underrepresented Backgrounds (1.0 DEI CLE) Presented By: NFPA DEI Committee - Jennifer Echikson; Elizabeth Dear; Kay Palacios; Patrice Givens This program focuses on practical strategies for navigating and thriving within the legal profession. Participants will explore common barriers faced by paralegals from marginalized communities and learn effective approaches for overcoming them. The session highlights networking techniques that foster genuine professional connections and open doors to advancement. It also addresses the importance of self advocacy how to speak up for one's needs and ambitions while maintaining well‘ being and avoiding burnout. Together, these insights support the development of a sustainable, empowered, and resilient paralegal career.
4:00 - 4:15 PM
Break 4:15 - 5:00 PM Workshop Secondary Trauma In Legal Practice Presented By: Sarah MacGillis, Outreach Director and Attorney, Lawyers Concerned for Lawyers This presentation will explain what secondary trauma is, explain other conditions including burnout, compassion fatigue, depression, anxiety and substance use disorder that can be the result of the stress we experience in repeatedly working with people's traumatic experiences. The purpose of this program is to assist legal professionals in recognizing their exposure to other’s trauma and how that exposure can harm their ability to do their job. Finally, the presentation will give strategies for the individual and the institution to better equip themselves to handle the effects of working with this vulnerable population, in other words, how to employ strategies to assist the legal professional in self-protective behaviors
7:00 - 9:00 PM Friday Night Social Event Featuring The Reasonable Doubts Band* | Location: Conference Hotel - DoubleTree by Hilton Minneapolis Airport *Event is an Extra Charge
The Reasonable Doubts, a band made up of Minnesota Supreme Court justices and District Court judges, began as a way to bring people together and relieve stress, “because music and art are so good for people.” The name is a nod to the legal standard of proof in criminal cases because most shows are to entertain people in the legal profession and support free legal services for those who cannot afford an attorney. The band plays covers ranging from AC/DC to Elvis to Beyoncé. The only rule at a Reasonable Doubts show is that you get up and dance. 7:30 - 8:30 AM
Continental Breakfast 8:30 - 10:00 AM
State of Federation & Awards 10:00 - 10:30 AM
Break
10:30 - 11:45 AM
Region Meetings
11:45 AM - 1:00 PM
Lunch & Keynote Session The Rise Of The Paralegal: Redefining Value, Power, And What’s Now Possible (1.0 CLE) Presented By: Jaclyn Foster, Paralegal, Founder of The Paralegals in Business Society The paralegal profession is entering a defining moment. Across the legal industry, expectations are shifting, opportunities are expanding, and the work of paralegals is becoming more visible, strategic, and essential than ever
before. In this presentation, Jaclyn Foster will explore the evolving role of the modern paralegal, the value paralegals bring beyond traditional job descriptions, and the new possibilities emerging across law firms, legal
departments, and independent professional paths. This session is designed to challenge outdated assumptions, reignite professional confidence, and inspire paralegals to see themselves not just as part of the legal industry,
but as professionals helping shape what comes next. Attendees will leave with a renewed sense of what is possible, a deeper understanding of their professional value, and a bold reminder that the next era of legal work
will not be built without paralegals at the center of it. 1:15 - 5:00 PM
Region Meetings
5:00 - 8:00 PM
Region Dinners
8:00 - 10:00 PM
Board Game Night
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