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!

Previous Studio Webcasts Now Available On Demand

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!

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!

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!

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!

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!

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!

First Friday Ethics (October 2024)

STUDIO WEBCAST – Oct 4, 2024

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) State Bar Election Results and New Disciplinary Rules In a referendum from April 1-30, the members of the State Bar of Texas voted on proposed amendments and additions to the Texas Disciplinary Rules of Professional Conduct. The Bar approved the Rules and the Texas Supreme Court gave final approval to them. This presentation gives an overview of the new Rules. Robert L. Tobey, Johnston Tobey Baruch, P.C. - Dallas, TX 11:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. (1.00 hr | 1.00 hr ethics) Ethics Lessons from HBO’s Succession 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. In this presentation, Brent Turman, Partner at Bell Nunnally, tracks 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.). Through the lens of this captivating series, Turman provides an entertaining way for attorneys to obtain ethics credit. Brent A. Turman, Bell Nunnally - Dallas, TX 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 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     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!

First Friday Ethics (September 2024)

STUDIO WEBCAST – Sep 6, 2024

9:30 a.m. to 12:50 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: 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. (1.00 hr | 1.00 hr ethics) Privileged Communications: Ethical Challenges and Best Practices for Tax Practitioners with Organizational Clients 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, Internal Revenue Service - Washington, DC 10:40 a.m. to 11:40 a.m. (1.00 hr | 1.00 hr ethics) Ethical Concerns of AI and the Practice of Law (Replay) This presentation defines 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 will destroy industries, and much more likely that companies that embrace artificial intelligence will take overtake those companies that do not embrace artificial intelligence. Mark G. McCreary, Fox Rothschild LLP - Philadelphia, PA 11:50 a.m. to 12:50 p.m. (1.00 hr | 1.00 hr ethics) Client Selection, Contracts and Handling Complaints (Replay) During a long career, almost no lawyer can completely avoid conflicts and complaints from Clients. The nature of our adversary system provides many opportunities for stress, misunderstandings and disagreements about how the legal system works – or the client’s expectations.  Many times, these matters can be avoided in the intake process. But when a complaint arises, lawyers need to know how to respond and handle those attorney client disagreements in ethical and empathetic ways. This course takes you through the interview process, the execution of clear attorney fee agreements, maintaining clear communications, and ultimately handling an attorney client dispute. Dozens of great tips, sound advice, and reminders of our fiduciary duty under the Disciplinary Rules. 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!

First Friday Ethics (August 2024)

STUDIO WEBCAST – Aug 2, 2024

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) Lessons Learned From GCs Behaving Badly (Allegedly) (Replay) It is always better to learn from someone else’s mistakes. Examine examples of in-house counsel allegedly (or admittedly) behaving badly—from alleged assaults and slurs to embezzlement—and what in-house counsel can learn from those situations. Discuss examples of in-house counsel allegedly being punished for doing the right thing, and review applicable Model Rules of Professional Conduct, including Rules 1.13 and 8.4. Joseph T. Clees, Ogletree, Deakins, Nash, Smoak & Stewart, P.C., Phoenix, AZ 10:55 a.m. to 11:40 a.m. (0.75 hr | 0.75 hr ethics) Ethics and Cybersecurity in the Virtual Practice of Law (Replay) Explore some of the ethical hazards associated with practicing law virtually including unauthorized practice of law, confidentiality and cybersecurity, and the challenges of remote supervision. Anthony Hendricks, Crowe & Dunlevy, Oklahoma City, OK Paige A. Masters, Crowe & Dunlevy, Oklahoma City, OK 11:50 a.m. to 12:35 p.m. (0.75 hr | 0.75 hr ethics) Brady v. Maryland, the Michael Morton Act, and the Texas Disciplinary Rules (Replay) The obligation to disclose evidence comes from multiple sources, including constitutional, statutory, and ethical. This presentation discusses each source and recent, significant cases in the area. Carson R. Guy, Texas Court of Criminal Appeals, Austin, TX 12:45 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. (0.75 hr | 0.75 hr ethics) What We Say and Do Matters…(Replay) Discuss the various approaches to ensuring that clients with disabilities are treated with the respect and dignity they deserve and is ethically required. Gain insight on how to approach family members, clients, and other professionals as well as practical dos and don'ts when handling cases where the client has limitations. Amanda E. Carter, Matthew Harris Law, PLLC, Lubbock, TX Jennifer L. Coulter, Townsend Allala, Coulter & Kludt, PLLC, 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!

First Friday Ethics (July 2024)

STUDIO WEBCAST – Jul 5, 2024

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) Let’s Chat About ChatGPT: Ethical Considerations in the Use of Generative AI (Replay) Since the introduction of ChatGPT and other generative AI tools, lawyers around the country have been getting into ethical hot water over their misuse of generative AI. Courts have responded with mandatory AI disclosures and certifications by attorneys. What are your ethical obligations in using AI, and how can you stay within the lines? Come find out in this informative and entertaining presentation! Hon. John G. Browning, Of Counsel, The Cole Law Firm, McKinney, Texas and Distinguished Jurist in Residence, Faulkner University School of Law - Plano, TX 11:10 a.m. to 12:10 p.m. (1.00 hr | 1.00 hr ethics) Attorney Wellness: Speaking Up, Reaching Out (Replay) Mental health issues are taboo discussions at the workplace, yet when attorneys consider suicide, it's often a result of work-related stress. Explore real-world tips and information on how to spot a mental health crisis in someone you work with, and what to do once you are aware of a problem. Stephanie Townsend Allala, Townsend Allala, Coulter & Kludt PLLC - El Paso, TX 12:20 p.m. to 1:20 p.m. (1.00 hr | 1.00 hr ethics) How to Avoid Malpractice in a Post-Pandemic Legal World (Replay) Law practice has been forever changed by the Covid-19 pandemic with the widespread adoption of remote work. While “work from home” has been eagerly embraced by many lawyers, it has caused an increase in age-old ethical problems for lawyers. This course is designed to help practitioners avoid conflicts and unintended clients, safeguard client confidentiality, maintain competence, and form better communication habits with their clients, other attorneys and staff. Robert L. Tobey, Johnston Tobey Baruch, 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!

First Friday Ethics (May 2024)

STUDIO WEBCAST – May 3, 2024

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) Techniques for Negotiating With Difficult Counterparties (Replay) Hear advice on how to negotiate contracts with difficult counterparties, and explore the importance of our own mindset and how to manage our emotions in these situations. Walk through five types of outrageous negotiation positions and effective responses to defuse and reset the tone of the discussions. Laura Frederick, How to Contract - Austin, TX 10:55 a.m. to 11:40 a.m. (0.75 hr | 0.75 hr ethics) The Grievance Process and Most Common Violations (Replay) The presentation is intended to provide general information regarding the amendments made to the grievance process in 2018, the proper way to respond to a grievance identifying attorney misconduct, and common problems to avoid in practice. Nicole E. Jackson, Rosenblatt Law Firm - San Antonio, TX 11:50 a.m. to 12:20 p.m. (0.50 hr | 0.50 hr ethics) Practical Uses of AI in M&A: Large Language Models to Create New Realities (Replay) What if you could review thousands of contracts, determine the potential risk of anti-assignment clauses, and have a first draft of a memo in under 15 minutes? Over the past year, the legal profession has seen incredible advances in the use of artificial intelligence that are making these possibilities a reality. Large Language Models, such as those fueling ChatGPT, have introduced incredible transformational potential for M&A work. Learn more about what is possible, including ethical considerations, in this new reality. Kenton S. Brice, University of Oklahoma College of Law - Norman, OK 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. (1.00 hr | 1.00 hr ethics) Work Product and Attorney-Client Privilege after In Re Grand Jury: Where Do We Go from Here? (Replay) The law regarding when privileges and protections apply to tax advice was anything but clear leading up to the Supreme Court oral argument in In re: Grand Jury; the Court’s decision to dismiss the case as “improvidently granted” dashed the hopes of tax professionals hoping for a nationwide standard! Hear a review of the current state of the law post-In re: Grand Jury with an emphasis on the Fifth Circuit and how the law there differs from others around the country. Melissa L. Wiley, Lowenstein Sandler LLP - Washington, DC   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!

First Friday Ethics (April 2024)

STUDIO WEBCAST – Apr 5, 2024

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) Practical Considerations and Implications of Generative AI (Replay) An overview of practical considerations and implications for the in-house use and governance of generative AI.   Emily Westridge Black, Shearman & Sterling LLP - Austin, TX Steven Gyeszly, Marathon Oil - Houston, TX Karl V. Hopkins, Bradley - Houston, TX 11:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. (1.00 hr | 1.00 hr ethics) Mum’s the Word: Maintaining Client Confidentiality 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.  Jeff Chadwick, Winstead PC - The Woodlands, TX 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. (1.00 hr | 1.00 hr ethics) Understanding the Changes to the Texas Disciplinary Rules in the 2024 Referendum The State Bar is holding a referendum from April 1-30 for the Bar to vote on 12 new and amended disciplinary rules. The presentation will discuss each of the proposed changes and additions to the rules. Robert L. Tobey, Johnston Tobey Baruch, 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!

First Friday Ethics (February 2024)

STUDIO WEBCAST – Feb 2, 2024

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) 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 Dominique Baldwin, Haynes Boone, LLP, Houston, TX 11:10 a.m. to 12:10 p.m. (1.00 hr | 1.00 hr ethics) Deal Ethics (Replay) A discussion on a number of ethical issues that come up in an M&A 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 12:20 p.m. to 1:20 p.m. (1.00 hr | 1.00 hr ethics) Setting Boundaries with Clients and Colleagues (Replay) Using mindset mastery practices to improve attorney wellness by setting boundaries in your work. 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!

First Friday Ethics (October 2023)

STUDIO WEBCAST – Oct 6, 2023

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) AI and Effective Corporate Governance (Replay) This discussion covers artificial intelligence (AI) fundamentals and business opportunities to utilize AI responsibly and strategically. The panelists also address corporate governance and compliance frameworks to enable boards and business leadership to proactively and effectively manage risks posed by AI. Regina Jones, Baker Hughes - Houston, TX Ryan D. McConnell, R. McConnell Group PLLC - Houston, TX Meagan Baker Thompson, R. McConnell Group PLLC - Austin, TX 11:10 a.m. to 11:55 a.m. (0.75 hr | 0.75 hr ethics) Requests from on High: Keeping In-House Counsel Out of Hot Water (Replay) One of internal counsel’s many functions is to avert problems for their employers. But sometimes in keeping their client away from the fire, they risk being singed. These concerns implicate challenging attorney-client privilege issues, clarity in communicating to employees and management who they represent, educating others about how to maintain confidentiality, engaging the right counsel and consultants for the proper purposes, and knowing when to stay away from direct interaction in depositions, mediations and regulator meetings and interactions, or when to interact directly. Joel Cohen, White & Case LLP - New York, NY 12:05 p.m. to 12:50 p.m. (0.75 hr | 0.75 hr ethics) Ethics on the Edge (Replay) Whether in-house or in private practice, technology lawyers increasingly find themselves counseling clients operating at or beyond the edge of what the law has contemplated—and sometimes with business models so “disruptive” they may even be illegal. Explore the ethics issues that come into play in such situations, through real-world examples of how experienced in-house lawyers have counseled their clients though high-risk innovation and legal uncertainty.   Christopher T. Brown, KASTNER/GRAVELLE LLP - Austin, TX Cara Connolly, Reality Labs at Meta - Austin, TX Catherine Dawson, AffiniPay - Austin, TX  1:00 p.m to 1:30 p.m. (0.50 hr | 0.50 hr ethics) Pro Bono Opportunities for Business Attorneys (Replay) Texas Accountants and Lawyers for the Arts (TALA) offers attorneys the opportunity to work with creatives, non-profits, and others who qualify based on their income on various legal issues such as entity formation, contracts, trademark/patent/copyright filings, and other general legal needs. An in depth discussion on these opportunities as well as give several examples of cases or matters handled by volunteer attorneys. Angela L. Lee, TALA - Austin, TX Adrian Resendez, Brough & Resendez PLLC - 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!

First Friday Ethics (August 2023)

STUDIO WEBCAST – Aug 4, 2023

11:00 a.m. to 2:30 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: 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. (1.00 hr | 1.00 hr ethics) AI and Effective Corporate Governance This discussion covers artificial intelligence (AI) fundamentals and business opportunities to utilize AI responsibly and strategically. The panelists also address corporate governance and compliance frameworks to enable boards and business leadership to proactively and effectively manage risks posed by AI. Regina Bynote Jones, Baker Hughes - Houston, TX Ryan D. McConnell, R. McConnell Group PLLC - Houston, TX Meagan Baker Thompson, R. McConnell Group PLLC - Austin, TX 12:10 p.m. to 1:10 p.m. (1.00 hr | 1.00 hr ethics) Ethics: Can We Talk? (REPLAY) Jason Boulette, Boulette Golden & Marin L.L.P. - Austin, TX   1:20 p.m. to 1:50 p.m. (0.50 hr | 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 2.00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. (0.50 hr | 0.50 hr ethics)  Securing Client Communication (REPLAY) Lisa Angelo, Angelo Law Firm PLLC - 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!

First Friday Ethics (April 2023)

STUDIO WEBCAST – Apr 7, 2023

9:45 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 3.25 hrs ethics credit. Fulfill your entire annual ethics requirement in Texas in one day!   This month includes:   9:45 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. (0.75 hr | 0.75 hr ethics) A Lawyer's Duty in a Democracy Under Attack Michael Curry, Attorney-Mediator - Austin, TX   10:40 a.m. to 11:25 a.m. (0.75 hr | 0.75 hr ethics) Ethics “Game Show” (REPLAY) Elizabeth G. (Heidi) Bloch, Greenberg Traurig, LLP - Austin, TX Mia Lorick, Locke Lord LLP - Houston, TX Laurie Ratliff, Laurie Ratliff LLC - Austin, TX Jane M. N. Webre, Scott Douglass & McConnico LLP - Austin, TX   11:35 a.m. to 12:05 p.m. (0.50 hr | 0.50 hr ethics) Ted Lasso Ethics (REPLAY) Charlie Ginn, McCraw Law Group - McKinney, TX 12:15 p.m. to 1:15 p.m. (1.00 hr | 1.00 hr ethics) There Is No Bias, Said Nobody Ever (REPLAY) Hon. Audrey Moorehead, Dallas County Criminal Court #3 - 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!

Fourth Amendment and More: 2022 Technology Case Law Wrap-Up

STUDIO WEBCAST – Mar 22, 2023

1:00 p.m to 2:00 p.m. (1.00 hr) Fourth Amendment and More: 2022 Technology Case Law Wrap-Up This CLE reviews important recent cases that deal with technology developments in 2022 including: surveillance cases, digital signatures, and Internet-induced human trafficking. Pierre Charles Grosdidier, City of Houston - 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!

First Friday Ethics (January 2023)

STUDIO WEBCAST – Jan 6, 2023

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) Sign Right Here A survey of provisions for your attorney client agreements from “must haves” to “optional”clauses. Claude E. Ducloux, Attorney at Law - Austin, TX   11:10 a.m. to 12:10 p.m. (1.00 hr | 1.00 hr ethics) You’ve Received a Grievance or Sanctions Motion – What Now? (REPLAY) Receiving a grievance or a sanctions motion can be very upsetting for lawyers, but it doesn’t have to be. Please join Scott Rothenberg for an informative, reassuring, step-by-step process on what to do when a grievance or sanctions motion comes knocking at your office door. Scott Rothenberg, Law Office of Scott Rothenberg - Bellaire, TX   12:20 p.m. to 12:50 p.m. (0.50 hr | 0.50 hr ethics)  Mental Health in Light of Difficult Clients and Difficult Practices (REPLAY) How to develop post-traumatic growth and be psychologically and emotionally strong when working in the ongoing stress of working with trauma survivors. Review self-care and maintaining balance both professionally and personally. Bernadette Hassan Solórzano, Our Lady of the Lake University Community Counseling Service - San Antonio, TX 1:00 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.  (0.50 hr | 0.50 hr ethics)TBD Redaction “Fails" (REPLAY) This presentation explains how to properly shield confidential information in public filings. Matthew Murrell, The University of Texas at Austin School of 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!

Website Accessibility Lawsuits

STUDIO WEBCAST – Dec 15, 2022

10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. (1.00 hr) Website Accessibility Lawsuits The ADA requires that websites be accessible to those with disabilities. Hear what “accessibility” means for websites and the legal theories behind such suits, and take away effective strategies for dealing with a claim against your client. Richard M. Hunt, Hunt Huey PLLC - 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!

First Friday Ethics (November 2022)

STUDIO WEBCAST – Nov 4, 2022

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) Client Selection, Contracts and Handling Complaints Claude E. Ducloux, Attorney at Law, Austin, TX   11:10 a.m. to 12:10 p.m. (1.00 hr | 1.00 hr ethics) Conflict and Privilege Issues in LLC Member Disputes (Replay) Greg Sapire, Soltero Sapire Murrell PLLC - Austin, TX   12:20 p.m. to 12:50 p.m. (0.50 hr | 0.50 hr ethics)  Diversity and Equity Issues for Small Businesses (Replay) Meagan Harding, Rosa Rebellion - Houston, TX 1:00 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.  (0.50 hr | 0.50 hr ethics) Cybersecurity and Protecting Against Cyber Scams (Replay) Elizabeth Rogers, Michael Best & Friedrich 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!