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First Friday Ethics (August 2026)

STUDIO WEBCAST – Aug 7, 2026

12:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. (3.00 hr ethics)   Need ethics credit? We’ve got you covered! UT Law CLE’s First Friday Ethics streams live every first Friday of the month, and features some of our best ethics speakers and presentations for a total of 3.00 hrs ethics credit. Fulfill your entire annual ethics requirement in Texas in one day!   Marla Mattenson, Founder of Beacons Global dedicated to teaching ethical practices behind the scenes in business, empowering Texas lawyers to achieve. You struggle because your nervous system is doing exactly what it was designed to do: prioritize urgency over restoration. In the high-pressure environment of a modern legal practice, this pattern can lead to chronic stress, burnout, and reduced clarity in communication and decision-making.  In this wellness CLE, you’ll learn why traditional self-care often feels impossible for lawyers and how to regulate stress while continuing to work. You’ll leave with practical tools, including the Capture & Compost Method, to recover clarity under pressure, communicate more effectively (including through vocal tone awareness), boost productivity, and experience relief.12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. (1.00 hr ethics)Why Self-Care Feels Impossible for Lawyers You know self-care matters, yet during a demanding workday it often feels unrealistic or indulgent. In this session, discover why a stressed nervous system naturally prioritizes urgency over restoration and why traditional self-care advice rarely works for lawyers. Learn how to embed small regulation practices throughout your workday to shorten stress cycles, “timebending” how long you remain in a stress response. 1:15 p.m. to 2:15 p.m. (1.00 hr ethics) Your Brain on Burnout Burnout is not just emotional exhaustion, it is a physiological state that changes how your brain processes information, decisions, and reacts to pressure. In this session, learn how chronic stress affects your cognition, communication, and professional judgment, and how to recognize your own stress signals through thoughts, emotions, body sensations, and shifts in vocal tone. Understanding these signals helps you respond more effectively in conversations with clients, colleagues, and opposing counsel. 2:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. (1.00 hr ethics) Turning Stress Into Relief The thoughts and emotions you push aside during a demanding workday do not disappear, they accumulate. In this session, learn the Capture & Compost Method for recording stressful thoughts and later reflecting on them to identify patterns between thoughts, emotions, body sensations, and behaviors. This practice helps you recover from pressure faster, restore mental clarity, and bring greater focus, meaning, and renewal to your work.  If you cannot watch the entire webcast at its scheduled time, register now and view the recording and eCourse when it is available in “Your Briefcase” after the webcast. Earn CLE credit (in TX and CA) on your time!

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First Friday Ethics (July 2026)

STUDIO WEBCAST – Jul 3, 2026

10:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. (3.00 hr ethics)  Need ethics credit? We’ve got you covered! UT Law CLE’s First Friday Ethics streams live every first Friday of the month, and features some of our best ethics speakers and presentations for a total of 3.00 hrs ethics credit. Fulfill your entire annual ethics requirement in Texas in one day! 10:00 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. (0.75 hr ethics)Maintaining Your Ethics in Trying Times: One Lawyer’s Tale (Replay) Lawyers know that hard cases make bad law. Likewise, maintaining your professional ethics in a difficult situation is very different than day-to-day practice. Hear ethical perspectives and lessons learned from serving as a local elected official and a defendant in lengthy litigation while still practicing as a lawyer.Leah Stewart, Reed, Claymon, Meeker, Krienke & Spurck, PLLC - Austin, TX 10:55 a.m. to 11:40 a.m. (0.75 hr ethics)Ethics: My Opinion, My License – Is It a Business Decision? (Replay) This session reviews the ethical rules and principles that lawyers must consider when advising clients on land development issues, with a hard look at situations where a client’s mileage may vary from the legal advice given, and the outcomes to the lawyer—is the matter ultimately a risk-taking analysis, where all a lawyer can do is advise the client, leaving them the business decision to make in following (or not) the lawyer’s advice.Alan J. Bojorquez, Bojorquez Law Firm, PC - Austin, TX Kimberley Mickelson, Downtown Houston+ - Houston, TX 11:50 a.m. to 12:50 p.m. (1.00 hr ethics)Generative AI in Litigation: Practical Uses, Pitfalls, and Guardrails (Replay) Generative AI is rapidly reshaping litigation for attorneys and experts—from discovery and expert analysis to drafting and research. This session explores current AI trends, provides concrete real-world use cases, and discusses the legal, ethical, and evidentiary risks that need to be managed.Kristofer Buchan, StoneTurn Group, LLP - Houston, TX 12:55 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. (0.50 hr ethics) Legal Privilege: Understanding Who You Represent and Avoiding Other Ethical Pitfalls (Replay) This topic focuses on the perennially-important ethical issues concerning how to create privilege; how to maintain it; and how, as in-house counsel, to instruct the business to maintain it. Examine (in)famous examples of where things went wrong, and advise on how to avoid similar situations.Allison Standish Miller, Steptoe LLP - Houston, TX If you cannot watch the entire webcast at its scheduled time, register now and view the recording and eCourse when it is available in “Your Briefcase” after the webcast. Earn CLE credit (in TX and CA) on your time!

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First Friday Ethics (June 2026)

STUDIO WEBCAST – Jun 5, 2026

10:00 a.m. to 1:20 p.m. (3.00 hr ethics)  Need ethics credit? We’ve got you covered! UT Law CLE’s First Friday Ethics streams live every first Friday of the month, and features some of our best ethics speakers and presentations for a total of 3.00 hrs ethics credit. Fulfill your entire annual ethics requirement in Texas in one day! 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. (1.00 hr ethics)Ethics Lessons from the Hit TV Show “Suits” The hit series "Suits" follows new associate Mike Ross in his adventures in big law working under partner Harvey Specter. In aggressively advocating for their clients, this duo uses tactics most attorneys wouldn't normally see in a merger or a hearing before a judge. In this presentation, Texas litigator Brent Turman tracks these fictional attorneys' cases as well as the power struggles within this firm of diverse and interesting characters, explaining whether their on-screen actions comply with specific ABA Model Rules of Professional Conduct (spoiler alert: most of the time they don't.). Through the lens of this captivating series, Turman provides an entertaining way for attorneys to obtain ethics credit. Brent A. Turman, Munsch Hardt Kopf & Harr, P.C. - Dallas, TX 11:10 a.m. to 12:10 p.m. (1.00 hr ethics)Burnout is Real and so is Bliss (Replay) You’ve heard of burnout, but this session goes deeper into the real data, the neuroscience behind overwhelm, and why burnout is especially pervasive in law and on the rise. We’ll define both burnout and bliss in clear, grounded terms—no fluff, just facts—while introducing a practical spectrum to help you recognize where you truly are. If you’ve ever rolled your eyes at the idea of “self-care” yet still feel the weight of your profession, this hour is your invitation to recalibrate—without losing your edge. Marla Mattenson, Mattenson Coaching & Consulting, Inc - Santa Barbara, CA 12:20 p.m. to 1:20 p.m. (1.00 hr ethics)Ethical Obligations for Lawyers Using AI (Replay) In 2026 all lawyers rely on some form of AI while working trials and transactions so it is imperative that all lawyers understand their ethical obligations using AI. Actually AI has been in use for more than 50 years, but not all lawyers realized that they were using Machine Learning with search engines.Peter S. Vogel, Vogel IT Law - Dallas, TX If you cannot watch the entire webcast at its scheduled time, register now and view the recording and eCourse when it is available in “Your Briefcase” after the webcast. Earn CLE credit (in TX and CA) on your time!

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First Friday Ethics (May 2026)

STUDIO WEBCAST – May 1, 2026

10:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. (3.00 hr ethics)  Need ethics credit? We’ve got you covered! UT Law CLE’s First Friday Ethics streams live every first Friday of the month, and features some of our best ethics speakers and presentations for a total of 3.00 hrs ethics credit. Fulfill your entire annual ethics requirement in Texas in one day! 10:00 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. (0.75 hr ethics)Ethics Game Show (Replay) Watch shameless appellate practitioners try to outgame each other as they answer ethics questions savvy practitioners need to know.Hon. Tanya Garrison, 157th District Court - Houston, TXHon. Daryl L. Moore, Ahmad Zavitsanos & Mensing PLLC - Houston, TX Alan York, Reed Smith LLP - Houston, TX 10:55 a.m. to 11:40 p.m. (0.75 hr ethics)What is a Lawyer’s Responsibility in a Democracy Under Duress? (Replay)How should lawyers respond to actions that threaten democracy and the rule of law? Michael Curry, Attorney-Mediator - Austin, TX 11:50 a.m. to 12:20 p.m. (0.50 hr ethics)Forgetting Who Your Client Is (Replay) The cooperation between trustees, beneficiaries, and other interested parties often seen in Special Needs Trusts may create a trap for the unwary practitioner. This presentation provides practical guidance and ethical requirements for maintaining appropriate attorney/client relationships, not accidentally forming attorney/client relationships, and keeping in mind the client’s needs and duties in forwarding the progress of a SNT. Jennifer L. Coulter, Townsend Allala, Coulter & Kludt, PLLC - El Paso, TX 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. (1.00 hr ethics)Negotiating Tactics in Energy Disputes: From Good to Ugly (Replay) Break down negotiation approaches commonly used in energy disputes—the “good” (effective and ethical), the “bad” (ineffective), and the “ugly” (counterproductive and potentially unethical). Using real-world hypotheticals, discuss actionable strategies to avoid wasted leverage, spot ethical pitfalls, and recognize when aggressive negotiation tactics cross the line into ethical violations. Austin W. Brister, McGinnis Lochridge - Houston, TX Paul D. Clote, JAMS - Houston, TX If you cannot watch the entire webcast at its scheduled time, register now and view the recording and eCourse when it is available in “Your Briefcase” after the webcast. Earn CLE credit (in TX and CA) on your time!

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First Friday Ethics (April 2026)

STUDIO WEBCAST – Apr 3, 2026

10:00 a.m. to 1:20 p.m. (3.00 hr ethics)  Need ethics credit? We’ve got you covered! UT Law CLE’s First Friday Ethics streams live every first Friday of the month, and features some of our best ethics speakers and presentations for a total of 3.00 hrs ethics credit. Fulfill your entire annual ethics requirement in Texas in one day! 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. (1.00 hr ethics)Deal Ethics (Replay) In the high-stakes world of M&A, deal lawyers must balance the interests of their clients with the demands of professional conduct, navigating the maze that is confidentiality, conflicts of interest, and the ever-present temptation to push boundaries. Explore more real-world ethical challenges that can make or break a deal—all while keeping you from being the target of a disciplinary investigation.David I. Albin, Finn Dixon & Herling LLP - Stamford, CT Nathaniel L. Doliner, Carlton Fields - Tampa, FL 11:10 a.m. to 12:10 p.m. (1.00 hr ethics)Ethical Obligations for Lawyers Using AI (Replay) AI has been in use for more than 50 years, but not everyone realized they were using Machine Learning with search engines. In 2026, all lawyers will rely on some form of AI while working trials and transactions, so it imperative that all lawyers understand their ethical obligations using AI. Peter S. Vogel, Vogel IT Law - Dallas, TX 12:20 p.m. to 1:20 p.m. (1.00 hr ethics)What You Need to Know About the IRS Office of Professional Responsibility and Circular 230 (Replay) Join Sharyn Fisk, the former Director of the IRS Office of Professional Responsibility, for an insider’s view of OPR, including a discussion of recent developments, current trends, and how these changes will affect your practice.Sharyn Fisk, Cal Poly Pomona - Los Angeles, CA If you cannot watch the entire webcast at its scheduled time, register now and view the recording and eCourse when it is available in “Your Briefcase” after the webcast. Earn CLE credit (in TX and CA) on your time!

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First Friday Ethics (March 2026)

STUDIO WEBCAST – Mar 6, 2026

10:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. (3.00 hr ethics)  Need ethics credit? We’ve got you covered! UT Law CLE’s First Friday Ethics streams live every first Friday of the month, and features some of our best ethics speakers and presentations for a total of 3.00 hrs ethics credit. Fulfill your entire annual ethics requirement in Texas in one day! 10:00 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. (0.75 hr ethics)The Use of AI in Drafting and Negotiating Leases: Ethical Considerations and Landmines (Replay) This presentation examines how AI is transforming lease drafting and negotiation, with a focus on ethical considerations and the risks of treating title and survey review as isolated tasks rather than interconnected analyses. It highlights why only purpose-built legal AI paired with human expertise, can deliver the precision, quality, and competitive advantage required to manage trillions in real estate transactions while safeguarding client interests. Lauren Hirt, Orbital - London, England, United Kingdom 10:55 a.m. to 11:40 a.m. (0.75 hr ethics)Ethical Challenges Facing Lawyers in the Constantly Changing Immigration World (Replay) Explore how immigration lawyers can continue to practice safely and ethically in the wake of the March 2025 presidential memo, which has raised concerns about potential intimidation of the immigration bar. Discuss recent asylum developments and how to navigate shifting policies and political scrutiny while upholding our professional responsibilities. Craig Dobson, Dobson Law LLC - New York, NY 11:50 a.m. to 12:50 p.m. (1.00 hr ethics)From Stressed to Steady: Four Techniques You’ll Actually Use (Replay) Now that you know how burnout works, this session gives you three science-backed tools you can actually use even when your calendar is packed and your brain feels fried. You’ll learn how to recognize early signs of burnout (in yourself and others), use negative thoughts as valuable signals, and move through stress in under a minute using the Capture & Compost Method™. This is where theory meets practice—because resilience isn’t a personality trait, it’s a skill you can build. Marla Mattenson, Mattenson Coaching & Consulting, Inc - Santa Barbara, CA 1:00 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. (0.50 hr ethics)Don’t Do It: Legal Temptations to Resist (Replay) This presentation is a reminder of the things lawyers are tempted to do, but the Rules of Professional Conduct, Standards of Appellate Conduct, and the good manners we were all raised on prevent. Hon. Tanya Garrison, 157th District Court - Houston, TX If you cannot watch the entire webcast at its scheduled time, register now and view the recording and eCourse when it is available in “Your Briefcase” after the webcast. Earn CLE credit (in TX and CA) on your time!

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First Friday Ethics (February 2026)

STUDIO WEBCAST – Feb 6, 2026

10:00 a.m. to 1:45 p.m. (3.00 hr ethics)  Need ethics credit? We’ve got you covered! UT Law CLE’s First Friday Ethics streams live every first Friday of the month, and features some of our best ethics speakers and presentations for a total of 3.00 hrs ethics credit. Fulfill your entire annual ethics requirement in Texas in one day! 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. (1.00 hr ethics)Avoiding Ethical and Sanctions Risks using AI-Based Legal Research (Replay)  Hundreds of lawyers and law firms around the country face sanctions or grievance problems resulting from the use of AI-based legal research. Learn how you can avoid the traps that snared your unfortunate colleagues.Scott Rothenberg, Law Offices of Scott Rothenberg - Bellaire, TX 11:10 a.m. to 11:40 a.m. (0.50 hr ethics)Fifth Amendment: The Right Way and The Wrong Way (Replay) This presentation focuses on the application of the Fifth Amendment in a discovery context.Anjali Nigam, The Nigam Law Firm, PLLC - Houston, TX 11:50 a.m. to 12:20 p.m. (0.50 hr ethics)Don’t Forget to Check Your Boxes Before You Close (Replay)This presentation covers a few commonly overlooked items in the lender’s closing checklists that can have a detrimental impact on closing and closing timelines.Clinton J. Kuykendall, Jackson Walker LLP - Houston, TX 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. (1.00 hr ethics)Closing the Case and the File: How to Ethically Terminate a Representation When Completed (Replay) Explore the recommended procedures you should have in place to ethically handle both the intake side of client matters, but also what is involved in “closing” files.Claude E. Ducloux, Attorney at Law - Austin, TX  If you cannot watch the entire webcast at its scheduled time, register now and view the recording and eCourse when it is available in “Your Briefcase” after the webcast. Earn CLE credit (in TX and CA) on your time!

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First Friday Ethics (January 2026)

STUDIO WEBCAST – Jan 9, 2026

10:00 a.m. to 1:45 p.m. (3.00 hr ethics)   Need ethics credit? We’ve got you covered! UT Law CLE’s First Friday Ethics streams live every first Friday of the month, and features some of our best ethics speakers and presentations for a total of 3.00 hrs ethics credit. Fulfill your entire annual ethics requirement in Texas in one day!   10:00 a.m. to 10:40 a.m. (0.50 hr ethics) Cyberjustice Interrupted: How Ransomware Turns Risk Into Liability (Replay) This CLE explores how ransomware and cyberattacks are impacting law firms and small businesses highlighting their legal, operational, financial, and compliance consequences. Participants gain practical insights into litigation trends, evolving cybersecurity threats, and how to build a human-centered defense through staff training, behavior-based awareness programs, and proactive risk mitigation. The session closes with actionable steps to lower risks and strengthen firm-wide defenses. Stefanie Alexander, Attorney at Law, PLLC - Houston, TX Melecia McLean, MeltalksCyber - New York, NY 10:50 a.m. to 11:25 a.m. (0.50 hr ethics) Legal Ads: Advice From Veteran Lawyers in Small Firms (Replay) This presentation explores how to ethically advertise according to the ​Texas Disciplinary Rules of Professional Conduct. Jefferson K. Brim III, Brim & Brim, P.C. - Austin, TX Rick Freeman, Austin, TX 11:35 a.m. to 12:35 p.m. (1.00 hr ethics) Conflict Transactions: Developments in Navigating Perilous Waters (Replay) Recent court opinions and amendments to state legislation have changed the rules for conflict transactions. Panelists discuss steps companies and their stockholders, directors and officers should take before and during deals in light of the changes, and what happens if they don’t. Michael G. O'Bryan, Morrison & Foerster - San Francisco, CA Scott B. Crofton, Sullivan & Cromwell LLP - New York, NY Abby Davis, Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP - Houston, TX Robert R. Kibby, Munsch Hardt Kopf & Harr, P.C. - Dallas, TX Kimberly Spoerri, Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton LLP - New York, NY 12:45 p.m. to 1:45 p.m. (1.00 hr ethics) The Use and Governance of AI in Legal and Compliance Departments (Replay) Engage in, and leave with actionable suggestions for, how legal and compliance teams are supporting the use of AI, from piloting a single model within the department  to supporting AI governance across the enterprise. Steven Gyeszly, Valaris - Houston, TX Chris Miller, General Motors - Detroit, MI   If you cannot watch the entire webcast at its scheduled time, register now and view the recording and eCourse when it is available in “Your Briefcase” after the webcast. Earn CLE credit (in TX and CA) on your time!

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First Friday Ethics (December 2025)

STUDIO WEBCAST – Dec 5, 2025

10:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. (3.00 hr ethics)   Need ethics credit? We’ve got you covered! UT Law CLE’s First Friday Ethics streams live every first Friday of the month, and features some of our best ethics speakers and presentations for a total of 3.00 hrs ethics credit. Fulfill your entire annual ethics requirement in Texas in one day!   10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. (1.00 hr ethics) A Legal Ethics Holiday Season Wish List (Replay) It’s the Holiday Season, y’all, and even law firm General Counsels and Risk Managers have Holiday Wish Lists…of what they hope their colleagues already know about the Rules of Professional Conduct and how to apply them. This presentation explores many things that are, no doubt, on those Wish Lists, including a working understanding of the conflict of interest rules, tools to help navigate those rules (like engagement letters and “I’m Not Your Lawyer” letters), the difference between the attorney-client privilege and the lawyer’s ethical duty of confidentiality, and a proper appreciation of the application of the “No Contact” Rule. The presentation also provides some practical tips to help create a culture of sound risk management practices to help keep the attendee from getting on the General Counsel’s or Risk Manager’s Naughty List.  A.J. Singleton, Stoll Keenon Ogden PLLC - Lexington, KY 11:10 a.m. to 11:55 a.m. (0.75 hr ethics) Generative Artificial Intelligence (Replay) A discussion centered on IP concerns and what to watch out for when applying AI use models and negotiating AI related agreements.  Skyla R. Banks, Amplitude, Inc. - Dallas, TX Bria Riley, Citibank, N.A. - Dallas, TX 12:05 p.m. to 12:35 p.m. (0.50 hr ethics) Avoiding Difficult Clients (Replay) Lawyers are faced with many ethical challenges both in representing, and in deciding whether to represent, all kinds of people and entities. Identify what lawyers need to know to hopefully prevent, or if necessary disengage from, inappropriate representations involving difficult clients. William J. Chriss, The Snapka Law Firm - Corpus Christi, TX 12:45 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. (0.75 hr ethics) Emotionally Healthy Lawyering (Replay) This presentation provides an overview of obstacles to lawyer wellness and examines evidence-based strategies for building or maintaining mental health while engaging in the very demanding practice of law. Michelle Fontenot, Texas Lawyers' Assistance Program - Austin, TX f you cannot watch the entire webcast at its scheduled time, register now and view the recording and eCourse when it is available in “Your Briefcase” after the webcast. Earn CLE credit (in TX and CA) on your time!

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First Friday Ethics (November 2025)

STUDIO WEBCAST – Nov 7, 2025

10:00 a.m. to 2:20 p.m. (3.00 hr ethics)   Need ethics credit? We’ve got you covered! UT Law CLE’s First Friday Ethics streams live every first Friday of the month, and features some of our best ethics speakers and presentations for a total of 3.00 hrs ethics credit. Fulfill your entire annual ethics requirement in Texas in one day! 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. (1.00 hr ethics) Your Emergency Grievance Toolkit (Replay) For many lawyers, the grievance process can be upsetting, confusing, frightening, and anger-producing. Learn the most effective techniques for dealing with a grievance from the immediate past-Committee Chair of the District 4 grievance committee. Scott Rothenberg, Law Offices of Scott Rothenberg - Bellaire, TX 11:10 a.m. to 12:10 p.m. (1.00 hr ethics) The Ethical Use of AI (Replay) Explore the patchwork of state-level professional rules and advisories addressing the use of artificial intelligence by lawyers in the practice of law, as well as the rise of standing court orders addressing the use of AI in connection with material submitted to the court. Also touch on the ways in which lawyers are in fact using AI in the practice (and some of the ways they are not). Jason Boulette, Boulette Golden & Marin L.L.P. - Austin, TX 12:20 p.m. to 1:20 p.m. (1.00 hr ethics) Privileged Communications: Ethical Challenges and Best Practices for Tax Practitioners with Organizational Clients (Replay) The question of whether and how the rules under Circular 230, which governs federal tax practice before the IRS, apply to in-house counsel is often raised. Join the Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR), the IRS responsibility for oversight of practitioner, to learn about how in-house counsel may come within OPR’s jurisdiction, OPR's role, mission, and procedures, pertinent Circular 230 provisions applicable to in-house counsel and other practitioners, and OPR’s investigative and disciplinary processes. Also touch on procedures that should be put in place to ensure compliance with Circular 230 and other best practices.  Sharyn Fisk, Cal Poly Pomona - Los Angeles, CA If you cannot watch the entire webcast at its scheduled time, register now and view the recording and eCourse when it is available in “Your Briefcase” after the webcast. Earn CLE credit (in TX and CA) on your time!

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First Friday Ethics (October 2025)

STUDIO WEBCAST – Oct 3, 2025

12:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. (3.00 hr ethics)   Need ethics credit? We’ve got you covered! UT Law CLE’s First Friday Ethics streams live every first Friday of the month, and features some of our best ethics speakers and presentations for a total of 3.00 hrs ethics credit. Fulfill your entire annual ethics requirement in Texas in one day!   Join us for a transformative 3-hour CLE session Presented by Marla Mattenson, Founder of the Ethical Sales Institute that empowers Texas lawyers to achieve greater wellness and professional success.  12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. (1.00 hr ethics) Burnout is Real and So Is Bliss You’ve heard of burnout, but this session goes deeper into the real data, the neuroscience behind overwhelm, and why burnout is especially pervasive in law and on the rise. We’ll define both burnout and bliss in clear, grounded terms—no fluff, just facts—while introducing a practical spectrum to help you recognize where you truly are. If you’ve ever rolled your eyes at the idea of “self-care” yet still feel the weight of your profession, this hour is your invitation to recalibrate—without losing your edge. 1:15 p.m. to 2:15 p.m. (1.00 hr ethics) Your Brain on Burnout: The Science Behind StressThis isn’t your average “stress management” talk, this is about what’s actually happening in your nervous system when you can’t focus, snap at loved ones, or can’t fall asleep without wine or a sleep aid. We’ll unpack the Polyvagal Theory in plain English, use color-coded states (Red, Yellow, Green) to track your stress in real-time, and reveal why your thoughts aren’t the problem, they’re just messengers. You’ll leave with a clear understanding of how your biology influences your burnout and what to do about it that doesn’t involve toxic positivity or pushing harder. 2:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. (1.00 hr ethics) From Stressed to Steady: Four Techniques You’ll Actually UseNow that you know how burnout works, this session gives you three science-backed tools you can actually use even when your calendar is packed and your brain feels fried. You’ll learn how to recognize early signs of burnout (in yourself and others), use negative thoughts as valuable signals, and move through stress in under a minute using the Capture & Compost Method™. This is where theory meets practice—because resilience isn’t a personality trait, it’s a skill you can build.  If you cannot watch the entire webcast at its scheduled time, register now and view the recording and eCourse when it is available in “Your Briefcase” after the webcast. Earn CLE credit (in TX and CA) on your time!

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First Friday Ethics (September 2025)

STUDIO WEBCAST – Sep 5, 2025

10:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. (3.00 hr | 3.00 hr ethics)  Need ethics credit? We’ve got you covered! UT Law CLE’s First Friday Ethics streams live every first Friday of the month, and features some of our best ethics speakers and presentations for a total of 3.00 hrs ethics credit. Fulfill your entire annual ethics requirement in Texas in one day! This month includes: 10:00 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. (0.75 hr | 0.75 hr ethics) What is a Lawyer’s Responsibility in a Democracy Under Duress? How should lawyers respond to actions that threaten democracy and the rule of law? Michael Curry, Attorney-Mediator - Austin, TX 10:55 a.m. to 11:40 a.m. (0.75 hr | 0.75 hr ethics) AI Update (Replay) Artificial intelligence has been in the legal and cultural zeitgeist for a few years now. Explore the transformative effects (and lack thereof) of artificial intelligence on the legal industry in that time. Examine both the advancements and limitations, highlighting how AI has streamlined processes, improved efficiency, and where it still falls short in replacing human expertise. Henson Adams, Haynes Boone, LLP - San Antonio, TX 11:50 a.m. to 12:35 p.m. (0.75 hr | 0.75 hr ethics) Texas Business Courts: The First 6+ Months (Replay) A view from the Business Court & Fifteenth Court of Appeals: rules, procedures, and cases. Hon. Sofia Adrogué, Texas Business Court Eleventh Division - Houston, TX Hon. Scott A. Brister, Fifteenth Court of Appeals - Austin, TX 12:45 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. (0.75 hr | 0.75 hr ethics) Ethics Lessons from HBO’s Succession (Replay) HBO's hit series "Succession" follows a fictional media company led by a legendary patriarch. As the title suggests, the patriarch's children are angling to seize the throne and succeed their father as the company's CEO. Track the power plays of the company's C-level executives and general counsel, explaining whether their on-screen actions comply with specific ABA Model Rules of Professional Conduct (spoiler alert: most of the time, they don't.). Brent A. Turman, Bell Nunnally & Martin LLP - Dallas, TX   If you cannot watch the entire webcast at its scheduled time, register now and view the recording and eCourse when it is available in “Your Briefcase” after the webcast. Earn CLE credit (in TX and CA) on your time!

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First Friday Ethics (August 2025)

STUDIO WEBCAST – Aug 1, 2025

10:00 a.m. to 1:20 p.m. (3.00 hr | 3.00 hr ethics)  Need ethics credit? We’ve got you covered! UT Law CLE’s First Friday Ethics streams live every first Friday of the month, and features some of our best ethics speakers and presentations for a total of 3.00 hrs ethics credit. Fulfill your entire annual ethics requirement in Texas in one day! This month includes: 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. (1.00 hr | 1.00 hr ethics) Artificial Intelligence Tools and Thoughtful Implementation and Use (Replay) We all see multiple stories about the rapid growth and entry into our daily lives of artificial tools. It is difficult to overstate how much things will change with the rise of these new technologies, or how important it is that companies embrace the opportunity to execute it correctly. Having conversations regarding the proper embrace of these technologies and these tools is a crucial first step, including drafting policies to assist companies with their beneficial and thoughtful adoption and use of these technologies, which are unique to each company and industry. This presentation will define the state of artificial intelligence tools, what benefits and risks exist, and finally steps to begin embracing these technologies with appropriate guardrails, policies, and training. It is less likely that artificial intelligence destroys industries, and much more likely that companies that embrace artificial intelligence will take overtake those companies that do not embrace artificial intelligence. Mark McCreary, Fox Rothschild LLP - Yardley, PA 11:10 a.m. to 12:10 p.m. (1.00 hr | 1.00 hr ethics) Ethics Potpourri: 10 Tips to Help You Sleep at Night (Replay) Regardless of their credentials, experience, and the setting in which they work, tax professionals risk uncertainty and sleepless nights in balancing duties to their clients, companies, and the community at large. This session offers 10 tips to mitigate tax ethics insomnia, from confirming who your client is, what professional standards apply, how to keep up to date and safeguard confidences, when to rely on outside experts, and what your obligations and options are when conflicts arise or when you, your client, or an outside expert makes a mistake.   Timothy J. McCormally, Arlington, VA 12:20 p.m. to 1:20 p.m. (1.00 hr | 1.00 hr ethics) Thrive Together: Cultivating Wellness for You and Your Legal Team (Replay) Explore the essential role of burnout prevention in the legal profession and discover practical strategies to cultivate wellness for yourself and your staff. This session equips you with actionable tools for fostering a thriving, resilient legal team. Alicia Freeman, Texas Lawyers' Assistance Program (TLAP) - Austin, TX Kiele Linroth Pace, Pacefirm Consulting, LLC - Austin, TX   If you cannot watch the entire webcast at its scheduled time, register now and view the recording and eCourse when it is available in “Your Briefcase” after the webcast. Earn CLE credit (in TX and CA) on your time!

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First Friday Ethics (July 2025)

STUDIO WEBCAST – Jul 11, 2025

10:00 a.m. to 1:35 p.m. (3.00 hr | 3.00 hr ethics)  Need ethics credit? We’ve got you covered! UT Law CLE’s First Friday Ethics streams live every first Friday of the month, and features some of our best ethics speakers and presentations for a total of 3.00 hrs ethics credit. Fulfill your entire annual ethics requirement in Texas in one day! This month includes: 10:00 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. (0.75 hr | 0.75 hr ethics) Use of AI in Litigation (Replay) Understanding the basics of how AI works, the dangers and pitfalls with current AI technology, and ways AI can (or should not) be used in litigation. J. Hoke (Trey) Peacock III, Susman Godfrey LLP - Houston, TX 11:00 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. (0.75 hr | 0.75 hr ethics) When Lawyers Make the News: It’s Not About You. It’s About Your Client. (Replay) With the guidance provided by the Texas Rules of Professional Conduct, the Texas Lawyer’s Creed, and existing ethics opinions, this presentation focuses on ethical considerations lawyers often face when handling cases that make the news and will offer practical guidance on avoiding common pitfalls that arise when your case makes the spotlight. Consider lessons learned from stories and examples of lawyers who themselves made headlines and faced legal trouble for ethical lapses in the scope of client representation. Thomas P. Brandt, Fanning Harper Martinson Brandt & Kutchin, P.C. - Dallas, TX John Husted, Fanning Harper Martinson Brandt & Kutchin, P.C. - Dallas, TX 11:55 a.m. to 12:55 p.m. (1.00 hr | 1.00 hr ethics) Who’s Your Client? (Replay) Identifying your client seems like a simple issue, but it is frequently complicated, particularly with organizational clients such as partnerships, LLCs, corporations or trusts, or even simply joint return filers. The client’s identity in turn bears on all sorts of ethical and practical issues, including conflicts, where your duties lie, how to advise organizational clients, protect client confidences and privileges, handle communications with others and common interest agreements, etc. Christopher S. Rizek, Holland & Knight - Washington, DC 1:05 p.m. to 1:35 p.m. (0.50 hr | 0.50 hr ethics) Updated Texas Disciplinary Rules: What You Should Know (Replay) New and amended disciplinary rules took effect in October 2024, adding a number of clarifications and additional provisions. Hear a summary of rule changes relevant to Texas practitioners. Olga Kobzar, Scott Douglass & McConnico LLP - Austin, TX   If you cannot watch the entire webcast at its scheduled time, register now and view the recording and eCourse when it is available in “Your Briefcase” after the webcast. Earn CLE credit (in TX and CA) on your time!

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First Friday Ethics (June 2025)

STUDIO WEBCAST – Jun 6, 2025

10:00 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. (3.00 hr | 3.00 hr ethics)  Need ethics credit? We’ve got you covered! UT Law CLE’s First Friday Ethics streams live every first Friday of the month, and features some of our best ethics speakers and presentations for a total of 3.00 hrs ethics credit. Fulfill your entire annual ethics requirement in Texas in one day! This month includes: 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. (1.00 hr | 1.00 hr ethics) Deep in the Heart of the Texas Business Courts: What Attorneys Need to Know (Replay) Hear the ins and outs of the new Texas Business Court, including its jurisdiction, its judges, and its unique procedures. Mitch Ackal, Gray Reed - Houston, TX Brock Niezgoda, Gray Reed - Houston, TX 11:05 a.m. to 12:05 p.m. (1.00 hr | 1.00 hr ethics) Developing an AI Governance Program (Replay) Practical guidance and considerations in developing and implementing governance around the internal use of AI. Emily Westridge Black, Shearman & Sterling LLP - Austin, TX Steven Gyeszly, Houston, TX 12:15 p.m. to 1:15 p.m. (1.00 hr | 1.00 hr ethics) Avoiding Burnout (Replay) Delve into the crucial importance of wellness and burnout prevention in the legal profession. Discover why safeguarding your well-being is essential for sustaining a successful and fulfilling legal career. Kiele Linroth Pace, Pacefirm Consulting, LLC - Austin, TX Michelle Fontenot, Texas Lawyers' Assistance Program - Austin, TX   If you cannot watch the entire webcast at its scheduled time, register now and view the recording and eCourse when it is available in “Your Briefcase” after the webcast. Earn CLE credit (in TX and CA) on your time!

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First Friday Ethics (May 2025)

STUDIO WEBCAST – May 2, 2025

10:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. (3.00 hr | 3.00 hr ethics)  Need ethics credit? We’ve got you covered! UT Law CLE’s First Friday Ethics streams live every first Friday of the month, and features some of our best ethics speakers and presentations for a total of 3.00 hrs ethics credit. Fulfill your entire annual ethics requirement in Texas in one day! This month includes: 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. (1.00 hr | 1.00 hr ethics) Update on Conflicts of Interest (Replay) An overview and analysis of the rules, case law and ethics opinions regarding conflicts of interest rules including simultaneous representation of potentially adverse clients, positional conflicts, conflicts involving the lawyer’s personal interest, imputed disqualification, conflicts involving insurance, conflicts regarding former or prospective clients, and conflicts arising from pre-retention contacts. Dennis P. Duffy, Kane Russell Coleman & Logan PC - Houston, TX 11:10 a.m. to 11:55 a.m. (0.75 hr | 0.75 hr ethics) Special Needs Trusts Ethics Jeopardy (Replay) Attorneys and trustees need to clearly understand their ethical obligations. Using the Jeopardy game show format, in this interactive session, the presenters cover various ethical issues encountered in a special needs practice, providing the answers while the audience provides the questions. Mary Alice Jackson, Boyer & Boyer P.A. - Sarasota, FL Bryn A. Poland, Mayo & Poland PLLC - Baytown, TX 12:05 p.m. to 12:50 p.m. (0.75 hr | 0.75 hr ethics) Privacy, Cyber, and Ethical Challenges of Data Governance (Replay) Learn about the challenges faced by in-house and outside counsel in harmonizing ethical practices and privacy compliance in data governance programs as new technologies continuously change the way data can be collected and used. Kristy Sambor, SailPoint Technologies - Austin, TX Ken Suh, Troutman Pepper Locke - Chicago, IL 1:00 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. (0.50 hr | 0.50 hr ethics) Artificial Intelligence as a Core Competence: And Ethics Lesson (Replay) Identify the ethical issues raised under the Texas Disciplinary Rules of Professional Conduct. In further exploring the practical use cases for AI products, platforms, and machine learning technology within an underdeveloped security regime, this presentation will alert practitioners to common pitfalls relating to clients communications, confidentiality, and fees within the rapidly evolving landscape of generative AI usage. Wesley Nute, Walsh Gallegos Treviño Kyle & Robinson, P.C. - Irving, TX   If you cannot watch the entire webcast at its scheduled time, register now and view the recording and eCourse when it is available in “Your Briefcase” after the webcast. Earn CLE credit (in TX and CA) on your time!

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First Friday Ethics (April 2025)

STUDIO WEBCAST – Apr 4, 2025

10:00 a.m. to 1:20 p.m. (3.00 hr | 3.00 hr ethics)  Need ethics credit? We’ve got you covered! UT Law CLE’s First Friday Ethics streams live every first Friday of the month, and features some of our best ethics speakers and presentations for a total of 3.00 hrs ethics credit. Fulfill your entire annual ethics requirement in Texas in one day! This month includes: 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. (1.00 hr | 1.00 hr ethics) Your Emergency Grievance Toolkit For many lawyers, the grievance process can be upsetting, confusing, frightening, and anger-producing. Learn the most effective techniques for dealing with a grievance from the immediate past-Committee Chair of the District 4 grievance committee. Scott Rothenberg, Law Offices of Scott Rothenberg - Bellaire, TX 11:10 a.m. to 12:10 p.m. (1.00 hr | 1.00 hr ethics) ChatGPT Ethics (Replay) Topic description generated by ChatGPT: Using ChatGPT for legal purposes promises efficient information processing, yet raises ethical concerns including client confidentiality and the risk of providing inaccurate advice. It is paramount that attorneys ensure adequate supervision, maintain professional discretion, and stay vigilant about the tool's limitations to uphold their ethical obligations. Henson Adams, Haynes Boone, LLP - San Antonio, TX Adam Sencenbaugh, Haynes Boone, LLP - Austin, TX 12:20 p.m. to 1:20 p.m. (1.00 hr | 1.00 hr ethics) Deal Ethics (Replay) A discussion on a number of ethical issues that come up in practice, including whether the same firm can represent two bidders for the same target, other conflicts of interest, the no-contact rule, managing the lawyer’s duty for truthfulness and protecting the client’s privilege. David I. Albin, Finn Dixon & Herling LLP - Stamford, CT Nathaniel L. Doliner, Carlton Fields - Tampa, FL Robert R. Kibby, Munsch Hardt Kopf & Harr, P.C. - Dallas, TX   If you cannot watch the entire webcast at its scheduled time, register now and view the recording and eCourse when it is available in “Your Briefcase” after the webcast. Earn CLE credit (in TX and CA) on your time!

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First Friday Ethics (March 2025)

STUDIO WEBCAST – Mar 7, 2025

10:00 a.m. to 1:35 p.m. (3.00 hr | 3.00 hr ethics)  Need ethics credit? We’ve got you covered! UT Law CLE’s First Friday Ethics streams live every first Friday of the month, and features some of our best ethics speakers and presentations for a total of 3.00 hrs ethics credit. Fulfill your entire annual ethics requirement in Texas in one day! This month includes: 10:00 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. (0.75 hr | 0.75 hr ethics) My Mind Has A Mind of Its Own: Why Even Good Lawyers Are Lured Into Unethical Behavior by the Way Their Brains Work (Replay) Modern behavioral psychology research has revealed that our brains lead us into behaviors that are inconsistent with logic, our own self-interest, and ethical principles. This presentation explains how scientifically identifiable justifications, rationalizations, and heuristics can present challenges in legal ethics. Kevin Dubose, Alexander Dubose & Jefferson LLP - Houston, TX 10:55 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. (0.75 hr | 0.75 hr ethics) Fixing Federal Tax Return Mistakes (Replay) Mistakes happen in tax. Fixing those mistakes usually gets harder as time goes by. This presentation surveys a range of potential options: rescission, tax elections including Section 9100 relief, amended returns, method changes, attribute redeterminations, and more. The presentation also highlights ethical obligations that arise when considering how to best address prior mistakes. Tom Greenaway, KPMG LLP - Boston, MA 11:55 a.m. to 12:55 p.m. (1.00 hr | 1.00 hr ethics) Ted Lasso and Lawyer Ethics (Replay) What can a fictional soccer coach, goldfish, and biscuits teach us about attorney ethics? Lace up your cleats and find out. Christie L. Hobbs, Northwest ISD - Fort Worth, TX 1:05 p.m. to 1:35 p.m. (0.50 hr | 0.50 hr ethics) Social Media, Ethics, and TMI: Why you won't be ROFL (Replay) Priscilla de Mata, Ysleta Isd - El Paso, TX   If you cannot watch the entire webcast at its scheduled time, register now and view the recording and eCourse when it is available in “Your Briefcase” after the webcast. Earn CLE credit (in TX and CA) on your time!

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First Friday Ethics (February 2025)

STUDIO WEBCAST – Feb 7, 2025

10:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. (3.00 hr | 3.00 hr ethics)  Need ethics credit? We’ve got you covered! UT Law CLE’s First Friday Ethics streams live every first Friday of the month, and features some of our best ethics speakers and presentations for a total of 3.00 hrs ethics credit. Fulfill your entire annual ethics requirement in Texas in one day!   This month includes: 10:00 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. (0.75 hr | 0.75 hr ethics) Cyber Attacks: Are Your Customers, Outside Counsel and Vendors Doing Enough to Protect Your Information? (Replay) So, you’ve signed the NDA, given your company’s confidential information to a third party, now what? Learn about ways to further protect your company before and after a security incident and how important your role is. John Thomas A. Malatesta, Polsinelli PC - Birmingham, AL 10:55 a.m. to 11:40 a.m. (0.75 hr | 0.75 hr ethics) Did You Just Waive Privilege? Protecting Privilege and Attorney Work Product (Replay) Discuss the latest developments on protecting privilege in the business environment, especially when clients seek both business and legal advice at the same time, and what to do about protecting privileged documents when the government comes calling. J. Nicholas Bunch, Haynes Boone, LLP - Dallas, TX 11:50 a.m. to 12:20 p.m. (0.50 hr | 0.50 hr ethics) Effective Screening and Onboarding of New Clients (Replay) Learn time-tested techniques for minimizing the risk of grievances and malpractice lawsuits in your appellate practice. Scott Rothenberg, Law Offices of Scott Rothenberg - Bellaire, TX 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. (1.00 hr | 1.00 hr ethics) Closing the Case and the File: How to Ethically Terminate a Representation When Completed (Replay) Explore the recommended procedures you should have in place to ethically handle both the intake side of client matters, but also what is involved in “closing” files. Claude E. Ducloux, Attorney at Law - Austin, TX   If you cannot watch the entire webcast at its scheduled time, register now and view the recording and eCourse when it is available in “Your Briefcase” after the webcast. Earn CLE credit (in TX and CA) on your time!

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First Friday Ethics (January 2025)

STUDIO WEBCAST – Jan 3, 2025

10:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. (3.00 hr | 3.00 hr ethics)  Need ethics credit? We’ve got you covered! UT Law CLE’s First Friday Ethics streams live every first Friday of the month, and features some of our best ethics speakers and presentations for a total of 3.00 hrs ethics credit. Fulfill your entire annual ethics requirement in Texas in one day!   This month includes: 10:00 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. (0.75 hr | 0.75 hr ethics) Mum's the Word: Maintaining Client Confidentiality and Dealing with Ethical Challenges while Working from Anywhere and Everywhere (Replay) Working remotely and virtual meetings are here to stay. This presentation provides practical suggestions for structuring engagement letters, addressing conflicts of interest, and safeguarding client communications across all mediums. Braxton Wilks, Winstead PC - Austin, TX   10:55 a.m. to 11:40 a.m. (0.75 hr | 0.75 hr ethics) Serving Two Masters (Replay) Discuss conflicts that arise between “clients,” the tripartite relationship, Tilley and its aftermath, the ethical dilemmas lawyers face, and knowing who you really represent. Gayla Corley, MehaffyWeber, P.C. - San Antonio, TX   11:50 a.m. to 12:50 p.m. (1.00 hr | 1.00 hr ethics) Generative AI: Developments and Ethical Implications (Replay) Harnessing the power of AI to drive new ways of doing business and increasing growth is something all organizations are trying to do. The use of generative AI creates risks to organizations including violation of privacy, inaccurate or false representations, and unethical practices, to name a few. Implementing the right controls and ethics training alongside generative AI is necessary – so where do you start? Brooke A. Hopkins, Alvarez & Marsal - Dallas, TX Emily R. Apte, King & Spalding - Austin, TX Robert Denby, Vinson & Elkins LLP - Houston, TX Daniel Meyers, TransPerfect Legal - Dallas, TX Matt Wernz, Federal Trade Commission - Dallas, TX 1:00 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. (0.50 hr | 0.50 hr ethics) Sanctions and Privileges (Replay) Sanctions: How to get them or avoid them. Privileges: How to keep them or lose them. Hon. H. DeWayne "Cooter" Hale, Retired U.S. Bankruptcy Judge - Dallas, TX Trip Nix, Holland & Knight LLP - Austin, TX   If you cannot watch the entire webcast at its scheduled time, register now and view the recording and eCourse when it is available in “Your Briefcase” after the webcast. Earn CLE credit (in TX and CA) on your time!

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