The Florida Bar's LegalFuel Podcast

Depression and The Law: Maintaining Your Mental Health and Your PracticeStudies have shown us time and time again that working in the field of law can take a toll on your wellbeing. The pressure to win cases, provide for your family, impress the partners, make sure your client is satisfied, and take some time for yourself can be overwhelming. May is Mental Health Awareness Month and with depression running rampant in the field, we’re going to do what many have trouble with: we’re going to talk about it.In today’s episode host Autumn Chadwell welcomes Dan Lukasik to discuss the stigma behind depression, the symptoms to watch out for, and how to take care of yourself and your practiceDan is a lawyer, mental health advocate, law professor, and public speaker who has delivered over 250 presentations on stress, anxiety, burnout, and depression across the United States. Dan is an instructor at the New York State Judicial Institute, as well as a member and major contributor to the New York State Bar Association’s Well-Being Task Force. He is the executive producer of three documentaries on mental health and has created two websites: Lawyers with Depression and the Buffalo Depression Project, both dedicated to mental health.This podcast has been approved by The Florida Bar Legal Specialization and Education Department for 1.0 hour of General CLE credit, including 1.0 hour of Mental Health and Wellness credit. Course #9832REFERENCED RESOURCES:The Florida Bar’s Mental Health and Wellness CenterLawyers with DepressionThe Buffalo Depression ProjectHow to Be Productive When You’re a Depressed Lawyer (article)Lawyer Mental Health: Lawyers Reaching Out to Those with Problems (article)How to Support a Loved One with Depression – The Depression ProjectNational Alliance on Mental IllnessDepression and Bipolar Support Alliance

The legal industry has reached a pivotal turning point where the integration of artificial intelligence is no longer a futuristic concept but a daily operational reality. Recent industry insights suggest that over 80% of legal tasks ranging from contract review and research to client intake now have the potential to be automated or significantly altered by AI. As these technologies begin to handle the routine work traditionally assigned to junior associates, the profession faces a critical shift. Survival in this post-AI landscape requires practitioners across all firm sizes to actively level up their skills to navigate a world where traditional task-based legal work is rapidly evolving.In today’s episode hosts Christine Bilbrey and Jamie Moore welcome Jordan Furlong, to discuss what firms should be doing to successfully prepare for the reality of the post-AI world is Jordan Furlong. Jordan Furlong is a forecaster and analyst of trends and developments in the global legal market, a strategic consultant to law firms and legal organizations, and a globally renowned author and speaker in the field of legal services evolution. He is widely considered to be North America’s leading “legal futurist.”A lawyer by training and a legal journalist by experience, Jordan has been studying critical new developments and discerning emerging patterns in the legal services ecosystem for the last 25 years. Since the launch of his award-winning “Law21” blog in 2008, he has provided incisive commentary and practical guidance to the legal profession worldwide. His 2017 book, Law is a Buyer’s Market, presented a template for the law firm of the future; his upcoming book, The Lawyers We Need, sets out a new lawyer formation system for the post-AI legal sector.This podcast has been approved by The Florida Bar Continuing Legal Education Department for 1.0 hour of General CLE credit including 1.0 hour of Technology CLE credit. Course # 9777. REFERENCED RESOURCES: Law Is a Buyer's Market: Building A Client-First Law Firm (Jordan Furlong book)JordanFurlong.Substack.comJordan Furlong LinkedInABA Techshow keynote, Furlong says lawyers need to level up to survive in post-AI worldThe Claude-Native Law Firm (article) Zack ShapiroHow To Create a Claude- Native AI Law Firm with Zack Shapiro (YouTube video)2026 AI and the Practice of Law Summit ABA Center for InnovationAI: Miracle and Menace for the Law Firm Business Model (Crunched Credit by Rick Jones)What specifically are Articling Students? (Article by Kooner Priddle Law Group)The Role of Intuitive Reasoning in Lawyering and Legal Education (St. Thomas University Law Review)What skills do new lawyers need? Lawyers asked to provide answers in new survey (ABA Journal)LegalFuel: The Practice Resource Center of The Florida Bar

In today’s episode hosts Christine Bilbrey and Jamie Moore welcome Nicole Browning, of CuraLinc, to discuss the Florida Lawyers Helpline and the additional wellness benefits and resources available through the program.The practice of law can be extremely stressful. When stress becomes overwhelming, it can affect an attorney’s ability to deliver the best service to their clients. Proactively taking care of mental health issues including stress, anxiety, and depression helps attorneys better serve their clients and can even reduce potential disciplinary actions caused by missed deadlines and unhappy clients. To assist members with these issues, The Florida Bar began offering a 24-hour Helpline and five free therapy sessions back in May of 2020. Florida lawyers, judges, and Florida Registered Paralegals can call 833-FL1-WELL or 833-351-9355 to access it.Nicole Browning is the Director of Client Success at CuraLinc Healthcare and is a Licensed Professional Counselor with more than 20 years of experience in behavioral health. She began her career providing direct clinical care to young adults and individuals navigating addiction and recovery, and she continues to hold her LPC today. Nicole now partners with organizations, including state bar associations, to deliver accessible, high-quality mental health programs, bringing together clinical insight and strategic leadership to help remove barriers to care, and support wellbeing.This podcast has been approved by The Florida Bar Continuing Legal Education Department for 0.5 hour of General CLE credit including 0.5 hour of Mental Health and Wellness CLE credit. Course # 9719. REFERENCED RESOURCES: Florida Bar Mental Health and Wellness CenterFlorida Lawyers Helpline 833-351-9355Online Helpline Web PortalMindfulness and Secondary Trauma (Florida Bar News)Five Things Attorneys Should Know About Vicarious Trauma (American Bar Association)LegalFuel: The Florida Bar’s Practice Resource Center

The Florida Bar Member Benefits Program is comprised of more than 60 free or discounted products or services that are only for Florida Bar members. These benefits range from discounts on hotels and rental cars, legal research, helpful trust accounting software, free counseling sessions, discounted insurance, and more. We get calls every day from attorneys looking for services that our Member Benefits provide but may not be well known. In today’s episode hosts Autumn Chadwell and Jamie Moore are speaking with Rob Saravia to highlight some of the available member benefits that can help improve the day-to-day of a Florida Bar member and may even help keep you out of the discipline system. Rob Saravia is the Marketing Manager for The Florida Bar, driving growth and engagement across the Bar’s Programs Division. He brings over six years of experience in marketing. Rob is a graduate of Florida State University, where he earned a double major in Marketing and Economics.This podcast has been approved by The Florida Bar Continuing Legal Education Department for 1.0 hour of General CLE Credit. Course #9654.REFERENCED RESOURCESFlorida Bar Member Benefits and DiscountsMember Benefits At a GlanceNOTA Trust AccountingvLEX Fastcase (through the member portal)ProcertasMember Benefits Inc.

In 2025 The Florida Bar turned 75 and we now serve over 115,000 lawyers around the state. Comprised of six divisions, and twenty departments, the Bar has numerous services to assist members, but it can be overwhelming if you don’t know where to look or who to reach out to. Often confused with the Florida Board of Bar Examiners, The Florida Bar does not administer the bar exam or review applications to become an attorney. A member’s relationship with The Florida Bar begins after they have passed the bar exam and have been sworn in. In today’s episode hosts Christine Bilbrey, Jamie Moore, and Autumn Chadwell will be discussing the departments and services available to Florida Bar members and how each can help you maintain your practice, help you understand the rules and requirements to keep you out of the discipline process, and even save you some money.This podcast has been approved by The Florida Bar Continuing Legal Education Department for 1.0 hour of General CLE credit. Course # 9634. REFERENCED RESOURCESInventory Lawyers 850-561-5839Membership Records 850-561-5832The Florida Bar Member Portal (For assistance logging in 850-561-5820)Legal Specialization and Education Department (CLE) 850-561-5842vLex Fastcase (access through your Member Portal)Nota trust accountingSectionsEthics & Advertising 800-235-8619Unlicensed Practice of Law (UPL) 850-561-5840The Practice Resource Center (LegalFuel.com) 850-561-5616Lawyers Advising LawyersThe Florida Bar Lawyer Referral Service 800-342-8011The Florida Bar Career Center and Career Benchmark DashboardFlorida Bar Member BenefitsThe Florida Lawyers Helpline 833-FL1-WELL (833-351-9355)

The Florida Bar’s Lawyer Regulation Department plays a critical role in maintaining the integrity of the legal profession in Florida. Yet many attorneys have little interaction with the department until they’re faced with a question, a complaint, or a compliance issue of their own. Today, we’re taking a practical, behind-the-scenes look at how the Lawyer Regulation Department works and what every Florida lawyer should understand to stay compliant and avoid preventable problems. In today’s episode hosts Autumn Chadwell and Jamie Moore welcome Karla Eckardt, Legal Administrator in The Florida Bar’s Lawyer Regulation Department, to discuss processes within Lawyer Regulation.Karla Eckardt, a Miami native, moved to Tallahassee in 2007 to pursue a bachelor’s degree in international affairs and criminology at Florida State University. She began her career as a paralegal and later became a legal administrator at a local law firm. Although she initially expected the experience to lead her to law school, she soon realized that her strengths and professional interests aligned more closely with legal administration than with the practice of law.Instead of pursuing a J.D., Karla earned a Juris Master’s degree from Florida State University, concentrating in legal risk management and HR compliance. In 2017, she joined The Florida Bar as a practice management advisor in what was then the Practice Resource Institute (now the Practice Resource Center).In June 2023, Karla became the legal administrator for the Bar’s Division of Lawyer Regulation. In this role, she assists the Division Director with administrative and strategic oversight, manages operations and non-attorney personnel within the Division’s Headquarters Department, oversees many of the Division’s financial functions, evaluates and maintains operating and information systems, and serves as the primary liaison to key vendors and contract partners. This podcast has been approved by The Florida Bar Continuing Legal Education Department for 1.0 hour of General CLE credit including 1.0 hour of Ethics CLE credit. Course # 9586. REFERENCED RESOURCES: The Lawyer Discipline ProcessThe 10 Most Important Things to Know About Lawyer Regulation by The Florida BarLawyer Discipline – A Roadmap to Florida’s Lawyer Regulation System (Florida Bar Journal)The Florida Bar – Lawyer Complaints and DisciplineFlorida Bar Rules & StandardsFlorida Bar Branch OfficesFlorida Bar Grievance CommitteesAttorney/Consumer Assistance Program (ACAP)Ethics HotlineTrust Account Compliance Certificate InstructionsLegalFuel: The Florida Bar’s Practice Resource Center

Board certification recognizes an attorney’s special knowledge, skill, and experience in a specific area of law. Established in 1982 by the Florida Supreme Court, board certification helps consumers identify specialists in 27 different areas of practice. Although the certification program has been an option for over four decades, only around four percent of Florida Bar members are Board Certified.In today’s episode hosts Autumn Chadwell and Jamie Moore welcome Lisa McNelis, Chair of the Civil Trial Board Certification Committee, to discuss the requirements and benefits of board certification.Lisa McNelis is a partner at the South Florida law firm of Roselli & McNelis. She graduated from the University of Notre Dame and attended law school at Nova Southeastern College of Law. She has been Board Certified in Civil Trial since 1996. For more than 40 years, Lisa has represented the injured and their families, initially becoming the first female partner at a well-respected law firm in Ft. Lauderdale and thereafter opening her own law firm with her husband. Lisa has served on various Boards and committees over the years, including Family Central, Broward Legal Aid, and Florida Legal Aid. She is currently serving as Chairperson of the Palm Beach Grievance Committee and The Florida Bar Civil Trial Certification Committee.This podcast has been approved by The Florida Bar Continuing Legal Education Department for 1.0 hour of General CLE credit. Course #9542.REFERENCED RESOURCES:Florida Bar Board CertificationFlorida Bar News – Board Certification Isn’t Just a Title – It’s a Commitment to ExcellenceRules Regulating The Florida BarFlorida Bar Find a Lawyer

When you're a lawyer, keeping accurate records is crucial. It's not just about good business; it's about protecting yourself from potential disciplinary action and ensuring you can deliver the best service to your clients. A bad record-keeping system can lead to lost files, missed deadlines, and a host of other issues that can land you in trouble.In today’s episode hosts Christine Bilbrey and Jamie Moore welcome Jeff Hazen, Assistant Ethics Counsel at The Florida Bar, to discuss records retention Rules and best practices. Jeff Hazen serves as the Assistant Ethics Counsel for the Florida Bar, with over 16 years of dedicated service. Throughout his tenure at The Florida Bar, Jeff has handled thousands of inquiries on the Ethics Hotline, assessed numerous lawyer advertisements, and issued dozens of staff Ethics Opinions. Jeff is a distinguished alumnus of the University of Florida Levin College of Law.This podcast has been approved by The Florida Bar Continuing Legal Education Department for 1.0 hour of General CLE credit including 1.0 hour of Ethics CLE credit. Course # 9506. REFERENCED RESOURCES: LegalFuel Article: How long should I keep closed file?LegalFuel: Records Management, Retention, and Destruction GuideLegalFuel Document LibraryClient Communications Forms and LettersClient Fee Agreements and Letters of RepresentationLawyer Changing FirmsRules Regulating The Florida Bar – View the Full SetRule 4-1.6 Confidentiality of InformationRule 4-5.8 Procedures for Lawyers Leaving Law Firms and Dissolution of Law FirmsEthics Hotline – 800-235-8619Ethics Informational PacketsEthics Opinions by SubjectOpinion 06-1Opinion 10-2Opinion 12-3Opinion 88-11 Unclaimed Trust Account FundsLegalFuel: The Florida Bar’s Practice Resource Center

Attorneys and law firms are increasingly being targeted by sophisticated scams, including phishing schemes, fraudulent check scams, wire fraud, and even identity theft. These scams can cause devastating financial losses, erode client trust, and damage professional reputations.In today’s episode host Jamie Moore welcomes Steve Weisman, lawyer and nationally recognized expert on scams, to discuss why lawyers are such attractive targets and what can be done to protect the legal profession from these threats. Steve Weisman is a lawyer and nationally recognized expert on scams, identity theft, and cybersecurity. Steve holds a JD from Boston College Law School and a BA from the University of Massachusetts Boston. He is also a professor at Bentley University and is the author of more than ten books, including The Truth About Avoiding Scams, which Smart Money Magazine recognized as one of the year’s ten best money book. Steve earned a Certificate of Merit for excellence in legal journalism from the American Bar Association and he has written columns for USA Today, Bankrate.com, the American Institute of Economic Research, and the Saturday Evening Post. This podcast has been approved by The Florida Bar Continuing Legal Education Department for 1.0 hour of General CLE credit including 1.0 hour of Technology CLE credit. Course # 9386. REFERENCED RESOURCES: ScamicideAbout SteveAll Books – Steve Weisman - AmazonBeware of Scam Emails Targeting Lawyers [Florida Bar News]FBI Issues Alert on Fake Lawyers Scamming Crypto Victims [Florida Bar News]Scams and Phishing Attacks Powered by AI [American Bar Association]What we know about the cybercrime group Scattered Spider [Cybersecurity Dive]State-of-the-art phishing: MFA bypass [Talos Intelligence]SIM Card Swap Scams [National Cybersecurity Alliance]LegalFuel: The Florida Bar’s Practice Resource Center

Many attorneys have now been working fully virtual for years. During the pandemic most firms experimented with different levels of remote or hybrid work models. For some it worked well, and they continued, but other firms chose to return to the office. While supporters of remote work point to increased flexibility, autonomy, and efficiency, critics worry about the loss of mentorship opportunities and the potential impact on productivity and quality. In today’s episode hosts Christine Bilbrey and Jamie Moore welcome Marelize Dingman, of Florida Appeals, to discuss the key to running a successful law firm without a physical office.Marelize Dingman earned her BA in Social Work from the North-West University in South Africa. After moving to the United States, she was hired at the firm Palmer and Palmer P.A. Following Bill Palmer’s appointment to the Fifth District Court of Appeal, Marelize joined another well-respected Orlando law firm and began managing large corporate events and promoting South African musical artists. When Bill Palmer returned to private practice, Marelize was thrilled to join him and the whole Florida Appeals team as their Firm Administrator. This podcast has been approved by The Florida Bar Continuing Legal Education Department for 1.0 hour of General CLE credit. Course #9354. REFERENCED RESOURCES: Florida AppealsMarelize DingmanBeyond Brick and Mortar: The Evolution and Impact of Virtual Law Firms (NYSBA)How to Work Remotely as a Legal Professional: A Guide (Clio)LegalFuel: The Florida Bar’s Practice Resource Center

Succession planning is vital for any law firm, but it's about more than just retirement. It ensures business continuity through the expected transitions and the unexpected ones like incapacity, death, or disaster. For solo and small firms, it is critical to uninterrupted client service, while also maximizing firm value. In today’s episode hosts Christine Bilbrey and Jamie Moore welcome Tom Lenfestey, of The Law Practice Exchange, to discuss succession planning. In his role as the Founder & CEO of The Law Practice Exchange, Tom’s goal is to guide lawyers through the next chapter of their legal career, whether that’s succession planning, exit planning, or strategic growth through law firm acquisition. As a respected leader in law firm sales, Tom has guided The Law Practice Exchange to be the leading marketplace and expert team specializing in aiding attorneys and law firms in buying and selling law firms through continuation, exit and succession strategies. Its mission is to provide education and essential services to facilitate seamless law firm sales and acquisitions and lawyer transition planning.This podcast has been approved by The Florida Bar Continuing Legal Education Department for 1.0 hour of General CLE. Course # 9312. REFERENCED RESOURCES: The Law Practice ExchangeSelling Your Practice with Tom Lenfestey (Podcast)Selling Your Law Practice: Insights from Tom Lenfestey on Building a Saleable Business (Podcast)How to Value Your Law Firm with Tom Lenfestey (Podcast)Rule 4-1.17 Sale of Law Practice Florida Bar Ethics Informational Packet: Notifying Clients of Change in Firm CompositionFlorida Bar’s Ethics Informational Packet: Of CounselABA LPM: Succession Planning for Your Next Firm AdministratorA Guide to Law Firm Succession Planning: From Emergency Plans to Exit StrategiesChecklist for Lawyers Retirement, Law Office Closure, Or Law Firm DissolutionThe 16-Pager: How to Avoid Boredom in Retirement with the Greatest of Ease (ABA Journal)Book: Designing a Succession Plan for Your Law Practice: A Step-by-Step Guide for Preparing Your Firm for Maximum Value (Amazon)Book: Younger Next Year – A Guide to Living Like 50 Until You’re 80 and Beyond (Amazon)Book: Traction – Get a Grip on Your Business (Amazon)Succession Planning GuideLegalFuel: The Florida Bar’s Practice Resource Center

The use of generative artificial intelligence by lawyers has shown enormous potential for efficiency, quality, and improved client service, but it also requires the careful consideration of ethics, data security, and an understanding of the degree of human supervision needed. Agentic AI is now emerging and could further transform the business of law.In today’s episode host Christine Bilbrey and Jamie Moore welcomes Tom Martin, of LawDroid, to discuss the impact of Agentic AI on the business of law and the future of law practice. Tom Martin is a Generative AI expert who serves as CEO of LawDroid, Principal of Deep Legal, and Adjunct Professor at Suffolk Law School, where he literally wrote the textbook on AI and legal services. As an ABA Legal Rebel and Fastcase 50 Honoree appointed to the ABA Center for Innovation, he's transforming the legal industry through his companies, teaching, and speaking at major conferences like ABA TechShow and LegalWeek. A Yale and UCLA Law graduate, Tom hosts the LawDroid Manifesto podcast and conference while making a dent in the universe from his home in Vancouver, Canada.You can follow Tom's writings and podcast at: lawdroidmanifesto.com.This podcast has been approved by The Florida Bar Continuing Legal Education Department for 1.0 hour of General CLE credit including 1.0 hour of Technology CLE credit. Course # 9290. REFERENCED RESOURCES: Tom Martin, Founder and CEO of LawDroidLawDroid ManifestoThinking Like a Lawyer: Agentic AI and the New Legal PlaybookAI Agents: What Are They, How Do They Work, Why Should I Care?What is Agentic AI, and How Will It Change Work?Agentic AI and Legal: How It’s Redefining the ProfessionEnhancing Efficiency and Client Service with Legal Tech ToolsWhy Agentic AI is the Architect of AutonomyHarvey Launches Deep Research for LegalLawDroid Launches CiteCheck AI, a Fail-Safe Against AI Citation Hallucinations10 Agentic AI Use Cases for Contact CentersCoCounsel: The Industry-Leading GenAI Assistant for ProfessionalsZapier AIAnthropic: AI Research and Products That Put Safety at the FrontierThe Florida Bar Guide to Getting Started With AILegalFuel: The Florida Bar’s Practice Resource Center

Handling sensitive client data and funds has always come with some risk, but now with cyber threats on the rise, attorneys need to be even more proactive in protecting their practice and clients. Maybe you have already considered getting cyber insurance but don’t know what you need to look for in a policy? In addition to covering the costs associated with data breaches and ransomware, having cyber insurance protects your firm and clients and can even improve the delivery of legal services by offering attorneys some peace of mind.In today’s episode host Christine Bilbrey welcomes Cathy Agacinski, attorney and insurance expert, and Troy Riley, a cybersecurity consultant, to discuss all things cyber insurance.Cathy Agacinski graduated from Fairfield University with a Bachelor of Science in Finance and earned her Juris Doctor from Stetson University College of Law. She has been licensed as an attorney in Florida since 1992, and she is Board Certified in Workers’ Compensation and a Florida Bar Certified Circuit Court Mediator. She is also licensed in New Jersey and has experience as both a practicing attorney and insurance agent.Cathy is a shareholder at Silver & Agacinski, P.A., where she focuses on insurance disputes, representing injured workers and handling personal injury cases. She is also an agent and owner of 3 Generations Insurance Agency, specializing in professional liability and cyber insurance. Cathy also serves on the Florida Bar Standing Committee on Technology and the Workers’ Compensation Rules Advisory Committee.Troy Riley is a cybersecurity consultant with over 22 years of experience. He holds a Master of Science in Cybersecurity and a Bachelor of Science in Management Information Systems from the University of South Florida. Troy holds many professional certifications including the Certified Information Security Manager (CISM), Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA), and Project Management Professional (PMP). He has expertise in legal liability, manufacturing, healthcare, automotive & transportation, incident response readiness, security program assessments, and vulnerability management.Troy is a member of the Information Systems Audit and Control Association (ISACA), the SANS Institute for Cybersecurity training, and the National Cybersecurity Alliance. This podcast has been approved by The Florida Bar Continuing Legal Education Department for 1.0 hour of General CLE credit including 1.0 hour of Technology CLE credit. Course # 9232. REFERENCED RESOURCES: 3G InsuranceCybersecurity Committee Co-Chair Recommends Insurance to Protect Against Ransomware Attacks [Florida Bar News]New Florida Bar Guidelines Offer Framework for Law Firm Cyber Resilience [Florida Bar News]The Importance of Cyber Security Insurance for Law Firms [Clio]Cyber insurance for the legal industry [Coalition]What You Need to Protect Your Firm From Cyber Threats [LegalFuel Guest Post]LegalFuel: The Florida Bar’s Practice Resource Center

Trust accounting is one of the biggest compliance challenges for attorneys, and mistakes can lead to serious consequences—including disciplinary action. But what if there was a way to simplify the process, ensure compliance with Florida Bar Rules, and give attorneys peace of mind? Today, we’re exploring Nota trust accounting solution, a free Florida Bar member benefit designed specifically to help lawyers stay compliant with Florida Bar Trust Accounting Rules.In today’s episode host Jamie Moore welcomes Tim Jakubowski, Attorney Banking Consultant and Assistant Vice President at Nota, and Christina Potter Bayern and Mike Bayern, attorneys and Nota power users, who will share how Nota has helped them maintain compliance and avoid common pitfalls. Tim Jakubowski has worked with M&T Bank and small business clients for nearly 10 years. He prides himself on passion and partnership – understanding how his clients operate their businesses and providing the best-suited banking solutions to help achieve their goals. In 2022, Tim joined the Nota Division of M&T to help solo and small law firms become more efficient with Nota’s platform and the benefits it offers.Christina Potter Bayern is the founder of Potter Bayern Law, a firm focused on business litigation and personal injury. She currently serves as President of the Tampa Hispanic Bar Association and was recognized as a Super Lawyers Rising Star in 2024.Fully bilingual in English and Spanish, Christina advocates for individuals and families impacted by negligence, wrongful death, and catastrophic injuries. She also represents businesses in breach of contract and commercial litigation matters. Before launching Potter Bayern Law, she handled high-stakes litigation at a multi-state law firm in Tampa.Christina earned her Juris Doctor from American University - Washington College of Law, where she served as President of the Latin Law Students’ Association and Co-Editor-in-Chief of a legal publication. She is also a graduate of the University of South Florida in Tampa where she double majored in Economics and International Studies.Aside from her legal work and community service, Christina enjoys spending time with her husband and family and finding new places to eat.Michael Bayern is a co-managing member at Potter Bayern Law, where he represents business owners, entrepreneurs, and investors in complex business, commercial, and real estate litigation. He was recognized as a Super Lawyers Rising Star in 2023 and 2024.Michael earned his Bachelor of Arts in Crime, Law, and Justice, with a minor in Sociology, from Pennsylvania State University. He then obtained his law degree cum laude from American University Washington College of Law, where he served as Vice President of the Alternative Dispute Resolution Honor Society and was a national semi-finalist in the American Bar Association Arbitration Competition—showing his skill in negotiation and dispute resolution.Michael has extensive litigation and courtroom experience, including starting as an assistant public defender in Orlando, then transitioning to insurance defense work, insurance coverage work, and his current litigation practice in commercial and real estate litigation and disputes. Michael counsels clients on a wide range of commercial, business, and real estate disputes, including contractual disputes, partnership and shareholder disputes, business torts, and real estate disputes. He prides himself on being able to help clients mitigate risk and achieve favorable outcomes.Beyond his legal practice, Michael is committed to supporting business owners and entrepreneurs in protecting their investments and ensuring their businesses thrive. In his spare time, Michael enjoys spending time with his wife (and law partner), family, and dog. They enjoy time outdoors, taking their dog to the park or hiking on the weekends.This podcast has been approved by The Florida Bar Continuing Legal Education Department for 0.5 hour of General CLE credit including 0.5 hour of Technology CLE credit. Course # 9194. REFERENCED RESOURCES: Nota by M&T BankFree Trust Accounting Software Now Available [The Florida Bar News]Getting Down to the Basics – Free Nota Trust Accounting Resource [The Florida Bar Journal]IOTA Management for Lawyers [LegalFuel Free CLE]Rules Regulating Trust Accounts: Chapter 5Trust Accounting ResourcesTrust Accounting – Basic Records and ProceduresLegalFuel: The Practice Resource Center of The Florida Bar

Practicing law is stressful, but lawyers and judges who are involved in cases where the parties have experienced trauma may find themselves deeply affected by the individual’s trauma and can even experience post-traumatic effects themselves. Just as a victim experiences trauma in a way that can leave long-term post-traumatic effects, their lawyer’s ability to provide competent legal assistance can also be affected. The cumulative effect of this secondary trauma experience on lawyers or judges over time is known as vicarious trauma. In today’s episode hosts Christine Bilbrey and Jamie Moore welcome Libby Clark and Dr. Kerry Murray O’Hara, the co-founders of The Humanized Lawyer Project, to discuss Vicarious Trauma and the impact on attorneys. Elizabeth Clark is a passionate advocate for systemic transformation in the legal profession and is a co-founder of The Humanized Lawyer Project, a groundbreaking initiative created with Dr. Kerry Murray O’Hara aimed at helping lawyers reclaim autonomy and resilience in a profession prone to burnout and systemic dysfunction. Ms. Clark served as the Co-Chair of the landmark New York Attorney Well-Being Task Force from 2021 to 2022 and as the inaugural chair of the New York State Bar Association Standing Committee on Attorney Wellbeing. She received her JD from Albany Law School and is a member of the New York State Bar. She specializes in real estate development, finance, and operational strategy. Dr. Kerry Murray O’Hara is the Clinical Director & Founder of DBT Wellness & Psychological Services in Saratoga Springs, NY. She has over 25 years of Clinical Psychology experience in various settings including inpatient, residential, forensic, outpatient, and academic. Dr. O’Hara’s area of expertise is Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, a highly researched and evidence based psychological treatment. Dr. Kerry received her doctorate from the California School of Professional Psychology and has held clinical positions at Boston University School of Medicine and McLean Psychiatric Hospital, Harvard Medical School. During the past 8 years, Dr. O’Hara has focused on the mental health crisis and wellness related to the field of law and has been named as a clinical consultant to the New York State Bar Association Lawyer Taskforce for Lawyer Wellbeing. She currently sits on two working subcommittees for the Wellbeing Taskforce addressing Occupational Policy and Wellness Programing.This podcast has been approved by The Florida Bar Continuing Legal Education Department for 1.0 hour of General CLE credit including 0.5 hour of Ethics CLE credit and 0.5 hour of Mental Health and Wellness CLE credit. Course # 9087. REFERENCED RESOURCES:  Attorney Wellness & ConsultingThe Humanized Lawyer ProjectTrauma, Mental Health and the Lawyer - New York State Bar Association Finding the Compassion Balance: Mindful Lawyering & Vicarious Trauma (Webinar) - New York State Bar AssociationReport and Recommendations of the NYSBA Task Force on Attorney Well-Being (New York State Bar Association)Task Force on Mental Health and Trauma Impacted Representation (New York State Bar Association)Trauma-Informed (As a Matter of) Course by Natalie Netzel (American University Washington College of Law)The Impact of Secondary Trauma in the Legal Profession (LegalFuel Podcast)LegalFuel: The Florida Bar’s Practice Resource Center

As we step into 2025, technology continues to reshape how law firms operate and serve their clients. From advanced case management systems to cutting-edge artificial intelligence, which innovations will be essential for boosting efficiency and enhancing client interactions?In today’s episode host Jamie Moore welcomes Paul Unger, of Affinity Consulting, to explore the top tech tools transforming legal practices. He’ll share actionable insights on integrating these advancements into your firm, helping you improve operations and deliver exceptional client service.Paul Unger is the founding partner of Affinity Consulting and holds a degree in Political Science from Capital University and a law degree from Capital University Law School. A national speaker and author, Paul specializes in coaching lawyers how to be more efficient with time management by offering customized workshops. When he isn’t speaking or writing, he is usually performing technology assessments throughout the United States and Canada. Paul began his career working for the Governor of Ohio, and then went on to law school. He practiced law for six years, specializing in litigation and bankruptcy, before starting a legal technology consulting company with partner Barron Henley in 2000. Paul’s superpowers are cleaning up messes and turning digital chaos into well-organized machines. His favorite part of his job is helping people get organized and focused so they can find more enjoyment in their lives and jobs.This podcast has been approved by The Florida Bar Continuing Legal Education Department for 1.0 hour of General CLE credit including 1.0 hour of Technology CLE credit. Course # 8933.REFERENCED RESOURCES:Paul Unger, Esq.Affinity ConsultingStaying Ahead Of The Curve: Preparing Your Law Firm For 2025 [Forbes]Top Tech Tools for Lawyers [Clio]How to Secure Your 2025 Legal Tech [American Bar Association]What is Agentic AI, and How Will It Change Work?How Reasoning Models are Transforming Logical AI Thinking [Microsoft Developer Community Blog]2025 Law Firm Data Security Guide: How to Keep Your Law Firm Secure [Clio]What is mobile device management (MDM)? [IBM]Cybersecurity Assessments for Law Firms: How Not To Screw Them Up [Above the Law]LegalFuel: The Florida Bar’s Practice Resource Center

Running a law practice involves more than just handling cases—it comes with a unique set of challenges, from growing your client base to finding reliable advice on complex issues and streamlining daily operations. Every solo and small firm attorney has faced these hurdles. Today, we’re diving into resources designed to assist members with these challenges. From the Florida Bar’s Practice Resource Center, the Lawyer Referral Service, Lawyers Advising Lawyers, to the Career Center and more, we’ll explore tools that can help you deliver exceptional legal services while making practice management easier and more efficient. In today’s episode hosts Christine Bilbrey and Jamie Moore will discuss programs and tools designed to assist members in managing their law practices, available through The Florida Bar’s Practice Resource Center.This podcast has been approved by The Florida Bar Continuing Legal Education Department for 1.0 hour of General CLE credit. Course # 8877. REFERENCED RESOURCES: The Florida Bar’s Practice Resource CenterThe Florida Bar Lawyer Referral ServiceThe Florida Bar Career CenterLawyers Advising LawyersMental Health and Wellness CenterFlorida Lawyers HelplineLegal Fuel Document Library

In the rapidly evolving world of technology, few innovations have sparked as much curiosity—and controversy—as generative AI. Imagine a tool that can pass the bar exam, draft legal briefs, and redefine the very process of legal writing. But as we look to the future of AI in law, we're faced with profound questions: Can a machine truly understand the law? What happens to concepts like authorship, ethics, and attorney-client privilege in a world where AI is a co-author?In today’s episode hosts Christine Bilbrey and Jamie Moore welcome Dr. Kirsten Davis, Professor of Law at Stetson University College of Law, and an expert in generative artificial intelligence in legal writing to explore these questions. Kirsten Davis is a Professor and Provost's Faculty Fellow for Generative Artificial Intelligence and Higher Education at Stetson University College of Law. She earned her JD from Ohio State and a Ph.D. in Human Communication from Arizona State University. Prior to joining the faculty at Stetson Law, she was a federal judicial clerk, an attorney at Jones Day, and a faculty member at the Arizona State University College of Law.Dr. Davis has served on the board of the Association of Legal Writing Directors and the Legal Writing Institute. She is a past Chair of the Florida Bar's Standing Committee on Professionalism, serves as the Program Co-Chair for the Association of American Law Schools Section on Technology, Law, and Legal Education; as a member of the Legal Writing Institute’s AI Committee; and as a member of the Florida Bar Standing Committee on Technology.Dr. Davis’s work focuses on the intersection of legal communication and legal ethics. Most recently, she has been studying the impact of generative artificial intelligence on legal communication, legal ethics, and higher education. She is currently leading a group of over 400 law professors who are exploring the impacts of Generative AI on legal writing education and practice. Her course, Legal Writing with Generative AI, was one of the first of its kind to be offered to law students. This podcast has been approved by The Florida Bar Continuing Legal Education Department for 1.0 hour of General CLE credit including 0.5 hour of Technology CLE credit and 0.5 hour of Ethics CLE credit. Course # 8875. REFERENCED RESOURCES: Kirsten K. DavisA New Parlor Is Open: Legal Writing Faculty Must Develop Scholarship On Generative AI and Legal Writing [Stetson Law Review]Florida Bar Ethics Opinion 24-1Florida Bar Special Committee on AI Tools & ResourcesCo-Intelligence: Living and Working with AI [Amazon]The Florida Bar Guide to Getting Started with AILegalFuel: The Florida Bar’s Practice Resource Center

Professionalism, ethics, and courtroom presence are vital tools for every attorney striving to deliver exceptional service and build a strong reputation. Today, we’ll explore how these qualities can elevate an attorney's practice, enhancing credibility with judges, clients, and colleagues. Organizations like the American Inns of Court play a key role in promoting these standards, helping attorneys navigate the challenges of a demanding profession while upholding the values of integrity and civility. In today’s episode host Jamie Moore welcomes Judge Ross Bilbrey, to share insights on courtroom decorum, oral argument tips, and the value of the Florida Inns of Court. Judge Bilbrey has been on the First District Court of Appeal since 2015. Prior to this, he was a Circuit Court judge in Pensacola beginning in 2012 and was appointed to the Santa Rosa County Court in 2006.He received his B.A. and his J.D. from the University of Florida. Before taking the bench, Judge Bilbrey was in private practice where he focused on civil and commercial litigation. He also served as a legal assistance attorney for the JAG Corps at the Naval Legal Service Office at NAS Pensacola. Judge Bilbrey is active in the American Inns of Court and previously served as president of the Pensacola Chapter as well as president of the First DCA Appellate Inn, here in Tallahassee. This podcast has been approved by The Florida Bar Continuing Legal Education Department for 1.0 hour of General CLE credit including 1.0 hour of Ethics CLE credit. Course # 8824. REFERENCED RESOURCES: American Inns of CourtEnglish Inns of CourtCounsel to Counsel Mentoring Program [The Florida Bar]Lawyer Advising Lawyers [The Florida Bar]Oral Arguments Set for Proposed Amendments to Civil Procedure Rules Ahead of January Implementation [The Florida Bar]Supreme Court Declines to Erase ‘Zealous Advocacy’ From Bar Rules [The Florida Bar]Guidelines for Professional Conduct [The Florida Bar]Professionalism Expectations [The Florida Bar]Northern District of Florida [Courtroom Etiquette]Middle District of Florida [Courtroom Decorum]Guidelines for Professional Conduct [The Florida Bar]Effective Brief Writing and Oral Argument: Gaining the Inside Track [The Florida Bar]Florida Voluntary BarsLegalFuel: The Florida Bar’s Practice Resource Center

Every day, lawyers work diligently to solve their clients’ legal issues, but finding the right information in the most efficient manner can be a challenge. Enter vLex Fastcase, an innovative tool built to change the way legal work gets done. From AI-driven insights to seamless integration into daily workflows, this platform offers new ways for lawyers to work faster and smarter, and ultimately enhance the delivery of client services. Today, we’ll explore how this game-changing resource can assist attorneys and how Florida Bar members can benefit from it at no additional cost.In today’s episode hosts Christine Bilbrey and Jamie Moore welcome Alex Shaffer, a Customer Success Manager of vLex, to discuss the vLex Fastcase platform features. Alex graduated from the University of Texas School of Law and went on to litigate cases in the trial division of the Philadelphia District Attorney’s Office. While balancing a fast-paced litigation schedule, he quickly came to appreciate the need for quick and reliable research.Now, Alex leverages vLex's innovative solutions to eliminate the many research roadblocks that stand between attorneys and successful results. His work is centered on reducing attorneys' research hours so that they may redirect their focus to where it matters most— their clients' success. This podcast has been approved by The Florida Bar Continuing Legal Education Department for 1.0 hour of General CLE credit including 1.0 hour of Technology CLE credit. Course # 8825. REFERENCED RESOURCES:  Florida Bar Member Benefit – vLex Fastcase vLex Fastcase Benefit Introduction - Webinar  vLex – Your Ultimate Legal AI Platform vLex Resource GuidesvLex Videos Best Practices for Utilizing AI in Your Law Firm LegalFuel: The Florida Bar’s Practice Resource Center

The legal profession is known for its intensity and constant pressure. But what happens when personal challenges and mental health struggles start to affect those who uphold the law? Today, we’re diving into the often-overlooked mental health challenges faced by attorneys, judges, and courtroom staff, exploring how these issues impact professional conduct and what steps can be taken to find balance, support, and resilience in a demanding career.In today’s episode hosts Christine Bilbrey and Jamie Moore welcome Judge Alicia Latimore, circuit court judge in the Ninth Judicial Circuit in Florida to discuss strategies for balancing self-care with professional duties.The Honorable Alicia Latimore was appointed to the 9th Judicial Circuit Court of Florida in 2005. She has also served as the Administrative Circuit Judge for the Unified Problem Solving Court. Prior to her appointment, Judge Latimore was in private practice, specializing in marital, family, and juvenile law and served as an appeals referee and an administrative hearing officer for the Florida State Department of Labor Appeals for Unemployment Compensation. She was also a traffic infraction officer for the 9th Judicial Circuit Court from 1994 to 1997. Judge Latimore graduated from Duke University in 1985 and received her JD from the University of Florida in 1990.Judge Latimore gives back to her community in many ways outside of the courtroom, but she has focused on teaching the next generation of lawyers and jurists as an adjunct professor at Barry University's School of Law. Judge Latimore was recently elected as the circuit conference member of the Florida Judicial Qualifications Commission, which investigates allegations of judicial misconduct and disability against Florida state judges. She is also a longtime member of the Florida Bar’s Mental Health & Wellness Committee.This podcast has been approved by The Florida Bar Continuing Legal Education Department for 1.0 hour of General CLE credit including 1.0 hour of Mental Health and Wellness CLE credit. Course # 8823. REFERENCED RESOURCES: Florida Bar Mental Health and Wellness CenterFlorida Lawyer Helpline833-FL1-WELL (833-351-9355)Mental Health & Wellness of Florida Lawyers CommitteeFlorida Lawyers AssistanceLawyers Call (954) 566-9040Judges Call (888) 972-4040Florida Judicial Wellness ProgramWell-Being in Law (American Bar Association)Mental Health First Aid TrainingFlorida Bar Journal: The Surprising Master Key to Happiness and Satisfaction According to the Lawyer ResearchThe Impact of Secondary Trauma in the Legal ProfessionNational Library of Medicine: Dimensions of Wellness – Change Your Habits, Change Your LifeLegalFuel: The Florida Bar’s Practice Resource Center

Not every client interaction or legal matter goes as expected. Billing disagreements, unmet expectations, and misunderstandings can quickly escalate, leaving attorneys vulnerable to disciplinary action. Fortunately, mediation provides an alternative—a confidential, informal approach to resolving disputes before they escalate. Through The Florida Bar’s free mediation program, attorneys and clients can engage with a neutral mediator to find common ground, saving time, expense, and stress compared to formal proceedings. Today, we'll explore how this program helps attorneys navigate conflict, protect their practice, and reach resolutions that work for everyone involved.In today’s episode host Jamie Moore welcomes Shanell Schuyler and Christina Magee to discuss The Florida Bar’s mediation program. Shanell Schuyler serves as the Director of the Attorney Consumer Assistance Program (ACAP) and Intake Department of The Florida Bar. She also supervises the Bar’s Grievance Mediation and Fee Arbitration Program, the Practice and Professionalism Enhancement Programs, and Diversion/Discipline Consultation Services. Shanell is a graduate of Florida State University, cum laude, with a B.S. in Finance, and Stetson University College of Law. She began working for The Florida Bar as a senior attorney in 2007. She became director of the ACAP/Intake Department in February 2012. Shanell is an active member of the National Organization of Bar Counsel where she frequently speaks on topics pertinent to lawyer regulation.Christina Magee received her JD from the NYU School of Law and is a Florida Supreme Court Certified Circuit Civil, Appellate, and County Mediator. She is a Qualified Arbitrator and is on the AAA Arbitration and Mediation panel for Commercial and Employment matters. Ms. Magee founded Brevard Mediation Services in 2011 and restricts her practice to mediation, arbitration, and other forms of dispute resolution. She is on the roster of Mediators for the US District Court for the Middle and Southern Districts of Florida. She is also a member of the American College of Civil Trial Mediators and a diplomate of the National Academy of Distinguished Neutrals. She currently serves on the Florida Bar’s Grievance Mediation & Fee Arbitration Committee.This podcast has been approved by The Florida Bar Continuing Legal Education Department for 1.0 hour of General CLE credit including 1.0 hour of Ethics CLE credit. Course # 8800. REFERENCED RESOURCES: Attorney/Consumer Assistance Program (ACAP)Grievance Mediation & Fee Arbitration CommitteeRules Regulating The Florida Bar Chapter 14: Grievance Mediation and Fee ArbitrationMediation in Florida [Florida Courts]Consumer Pamphlet: Grievance Mediation ProgramMediation [Article: The Florida Bar]

While most attorney-client relationships end without disputes over fees, disagreements can sometimes develop. These disputes often result from misunderstandings or communication breakdowns and can occasionally lead to a bar complaint. Fee issues can occur between attorneys and clients or even between attorneys involved in the same case. Although these disputes can be resolved through the courts, alternative solutions are available. The Florida Bar offers a fee arbitration program, which functions like a mini trial. In this program, an arbitrator makes a final and binding decision after reviewing evidence and hearing testimony. This arbitration process is free, voluntary, and can be initiated by either the attorney or the client. By utilizing this program, attorneys can better serve their clients and avoid involvement in the disciplinary system. In today’s episode host Jamie Moore welcomes Shanell Schuyler and Steven Lesser to discuss The Florida Bar’s fee arbitration program.Shanell Schuyler serves as the Director of the Attorney Consumer Assistance Program (ACAP) and Intake Department of The Florida Bar. She also supervises the Bar’s Grievance Mediation and Fee Arbitration Program, the Practice and Professionalism Enhancement Programs, and Diversion/Discipline Consultation Services. Shanell is a graduate of Florida State University, cum laude, with a B.S. in Finance, and Stetson University College of Law. She began working for The Florida Bar as a senior attorney in 2007. She became director of the ACAP/Intake Department in February 2012. Shanell is an active member of the National Organization of Bar Counsel where she frequently speaks on topics pertinent to lawyer regulation.Steven B. Lesser chairs the national Construction Law and Litigation practice group at his firm. He is Board Certified in Construction Law by the Florida Bar and focuses solely on construction law and litigation, including governmental construction claims, defense, and hotel/condominium disputes. A Fellow of the American College of Construction Lawyers, he was elected to the Board of Governors in 2022 for a 3-year term. He has received numerous awards from the Florida Bar and American Bar Associations for his contributions to the construction industry.Mr. Lesser is a Past-Chair of the American Bar Association’s Forum on Construction Law, the largest construction lawyer group globally, known for its scholarly publications and programs on construction law. He also served as Past-Chair of The Florida Bar Board of Legal Specialization and Education committee, overseeing the Bar’s certification plan and 27 certification committees. Additionally, he has held leadership roles in various Florida Bar and American Bar Association Committees, including Past-Chair of the Florida Bar Construction Law Certification Committee. This podcast has been approved by The Florida Bar Continuing Legal Education Department for 0.5 hour of General CLE credit including 0.5 hour of Ethics CLE credit. Course # 8663. REFERENCED RESOURCES: Grievance Mediation & Fee Arbitration Committee [The Florida Bar]Keep Your Fee Dispute Out of Court [Video]Attorney/Consumer Assistance Program (ACAP)Complaint Alternatives [The Florida Bar]Bar’s Grievance Mediation and Fee Arbitration Program Seeks Volunteers [The Florida Bar]Grievance Mediation & Fee Arbitration Volunteer FormRules Regulating The Florida Bar Chapter 14 Grievance Mediation and Fee Arbitration

Many lawyers struggle with the pressures of practicing law and the impact it has on their mental health and work performance. Finding some satisfaction in your work and even a sense of purpose can go a long way in alleviating the misery that you may be feeling. While you may still not love practicing law, you can learn to adjust your view to see the value that your work brings to your clients or to the community.In today’s episode hosts Christine Bilbrey and Jamie Moore welcome Stuart Teicher, to discuss his book, “How to Stop Hating the Law”. He offers actionable strategies for making the practice of law more enjoyable or at least more tolerable.Stuart Teicher is a professional legal educator who focuses on ethics law and writing instruction. He is a Supreme Court appointee to the New Jersey District Ethics Committee where he investigates and prosecutes grievances filed against attorneys. Stuart teaches Professional Responsibility at Georgetown Law and undergraduate writing at Rutgers University in New Brunswick.A practicing attorney for over 25 years, Stuart’s career is now dedicated to helping fellow attorneys survive the practice of law and thrive in the profession through seminars, in-house training for law firms, CLE instruction, and keynote speeches at conventions and association meetings. Stuart helps attorneys get better at what they do (and enjoy the process) through his entertaining and educational CLE performances. His previous book, “Navigating the Legal Ethics of Social Media and Technology”, was published by Thomson Reuters.This podcast has been approved by The Florida Bar Continuing Legal Education Department for 1.0 hour of General CLE credit including 1.0 hour of Mental Health and Wellness CLE credit. Course # 8579.REFERENCED RESOURCES: Stuart TeicherContactBuy My BookHow to Stop Hating the Law: A path to hope for miserable lawyers [Amazon]Florida Bar Practice Resource Center CLEs with Stuart TeicherFlorida Lawyers HelplineHow to Start and Build a Law Practice [Amazon]LegalFuel: The Florida Bar’s Practice Resource Center

As an attorney, you rely on your staff, but HR issues with your staff can catch you off guard and when not handled properly, these issues can completely disrupt the successful delivery of service to your clients. Human Resource management is essential for every business, but in a small firm, the HR department is most likely just you. And like any business, firms must comply with federal and state labor laws on overtime, maternity leave, discrimination, etc. Unless you are a labor and employment law attorney, you may not be aware of all the requirements and best practices. This can result in inconsistent policy enforcement or inadequate documentation of performance issues, ultimately leading to some avoidable headaches.In today’s episode hosts Christine Bilbrey and Jamie Moore welcome Kevin Johnson, an employment defense attorney, and Shareholder of Johnson Jackson, to discuss HR best practices for law firms. Kevin Johnson graduated from the University of Florida Levin College of Law, and is Board Certified in Labor and Employment Law by The Florida Bar since 2007. For more than two decades, Kevin has represented and advised employers about laws that affect their relationships with employees, helped them solve problems when they arise, and defended them against discrimination charges and lawsuits filed by their employees. His clients range from national restaurant chains, retail employers, and large hospitals, to independent restaurants, medical practices, and other local employers. Kevin has experience litigating cases in jurisdictions throughout the United States, both in single-plaintiff cases and in nationwide class and collective actions. He has been recognized in the field of employment law by various publications, including Best Lawyers in America, Florida Trend, and Super Lawyers. Kevin is AV-rated by Martindale Hubbell. He has also been recognized by The Florida Bar for his involvement with promoting technology and practice-management education for Florida lawyers.This podcast has been approved by The Florida Bar Continuing Legal Education Department for 1.0 hour of General CLE credit including 1.0 hour of Labor and Employment Law CLE credit. Course # 8619. REFERENCED RESOURCES: Johnson Jackson PLLCKevin D. JohnsonSHRMHow Small-Business Owners Successfully Delegate HR [SHRM]U.S. Department of LaborFamily and Medical Leave Act [U.S. Department of Labor]Wages and the Fair Labor Standards Act [U.S. Department of Labor]Employee or Independent Contractor Classification [U.S. Department of Labor]U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity CommissionTitle VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 [U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission]What You Should Know About the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act [U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission]Americans with Disabilities Act [U.S. Department of Justice Civil Rights Division]U.S. Department of Labor mandates two salary threshold increases for white collar FLSA exemptions and a mechanism for future automatic increases [Employment Law Watch]LegalFuel: The Florida Bar’s Practice Resource Center 

The ABA 2023 Tech Survey highlights that 56% of respondents regularly utilize fee-based online services for legal research, with an additional 21% using them occasionally. Surprisingly, 12% never utilize these resources. Despite the abundance of technological options available for legal research, many lawyers still hold a preference for hard copy books. Research suggests that modern screens and e-readers struggle to replicate the tactile experiences of reading on paper, hindering the natural navigation of lengthy texts. For lawyers, books offer a tangible resource for easy browsing, annotation, and cross-referencing that online research might not offer. In today’s episode hosts Christine Bilbrey and Jamie Moore welcome Maggie O’Neill, to discuss why books are still relevant in the practice of law.Maggie O'Neill holds a bachelor's degree from the University of North Dakota, and a law degree from Northeastern University School of Law.For over 17 years, Maggie ran a solo practice specializing in family law and dependency cases, focusing on litigation and mediation. Maggie's experience in the publishing industry is extensive, having held key roles including Vice President of Product Management and Vice President of HR Publishing at Thomson Reuters and as Editor in Chief of Professional Publications at Reed Elsevier. Additionally, Maggie worked at Callaghan and Company as a Legal Editor and Project Manager. This podcast has been approved by The Florida Bar Continuing Legal Education Department for 0.5 hour of General CLE credit. Course # 8493.REFERENCED RESOURCES: Florida Bar Member Benefits: Legal PublicationsThe Florida Bar and LexisNexis StoreContact Sales 1-877-394-8826ABA to release TechReport 2023 survey on legal tech trends [American Bar Association]ABA Profile of the Legal Profession 2023 [American Bar Association]The Reading Brain in the Digital Age: The Science of Paper versus Screens [Scientific American]LegalFuel: The Florida Bar’s Practice Resource Center

While the legal field has historically been hesitant to adopt new technology, AI is now slowly sweeping into law firms. Integrating AI programs can dramatically boost a firm’s efficiency and reduce costs by assisting with many tasks including legal research, document drafting and review, and even automated client communication. There is a clear upside to implementing AI, but legal professionals must also be aware of the risks and ethical concerns that come with its use.In today's episode, hosts Christine Bilbrey and Jamie Moore welcome Damien Riehl, to discuss best practices for utilizing AI in the law firm. Damien Riehl is a lawyer, technologist, and lead product designer at vLex with experience in complex litigation, digital forensics, and software development. A coder since 1985 and for the web since 1995, Damien clerked for the chief judges of state and federal courts, practiced in complex litigation for over a decade, has led teams of cybersecurity and world spanning digital forensics investigations, and has led teams in legal-software development.Co-Chair of the Minnesota Governor’s Council on Connected and Automated Vehicles, he has helped recommend changes to Minnesota statutes, rules, and policies — all related to connected and autonomous vehicles. Damien is Chair of the Minnesota State Bar Association's working group on AI and the Unauthorized Practice of Law (UPL).At SALI, the legal data standard he helps lead, Damien develops and has greatly expanded the taxonomy of over 14,000 legal tags that matter, helping the legal industry's development of Generative AI, analytics, and interoperability.At vLex Group – which includes Fastcase, NextChapter, and Docket Alarm – Damien helps lead the design, development, and expansion of various products, integrating AI-backed technologies to improve legal workflows and to power legal data analytics. This podcast has been approved by The Florida Bar Continuing Legal Education Department for 1.0 hour of General CLE credit including 1.0 hour of Technology CLE credit. Course # 8473.  REFERENCED RESOURCES:  LLMs for Legal Tasks: Best Practices [by Damien Riehl]vLex – Your Ultimate Legal AI PlatformLatest version of ChatGPT aces bar exam with score nearing 90th percentile [ABA Journal]AI Agents and The Era of The Intelligent Interface [Forbes]Affective Computing: Advancing human wellbeing by developing new ways to communicate, understand, and respond to emotion [MIT]Why We Need to See Inside AI’s Black Box [Scientific American]Understanding AI Terms: What is a Foundational Model? [The National Law Review]AI in Law: Transforming Legal Practices [Clio]What is AI and How Can Law Firms Use it? [Clio]LegalFuel: The Florida Bar’s Practice Resource Center

The Rules Regulating The Florida Bar detail the required procedures and the professional conduct of our members. They are designed to protect the public and maintain ethical standards within the legal field. So often when the Bar receives a complaint, it’s due to a lack of understanding or awareness of the rules by the attorney. Here at the Practice Resource Center, we actively try to assist our members with guidance and resources so that they have the tools and knowledge to be compliant with the Rules.In today’s podcast, Christine Bilbrey, Director of the Practice Resource Center, and Jamie Moore, Practice Management Advisor, will discuss some essential, but perhaps less well-known Bar Rules that every lawyer should be aware of to avoid disciplinary action.This podcast has been approved by The Florida Bar Continuing Legal Education Department for 1.0 hour of General CLE credit including 1.0 hour of Ethics CLE credit. Course # 8346. REFERENCED RESOURCES: Supreme Court Reduces the Number of Mandatory CLE HoursSupreme Court-Mandated Professionalism CLE Now AvailableFrequently Asked Questions About CLE RequirementsDesignate Your Inventory Lawyer Today!If a lawyer is leaving a firm, which clients to notify?LegalFuel Document Library: Lawyer Changing FirmsTrust Accounting – Basic Records and ProceduresIt Is a Requirement That the Trust Account Compliance Certificate Be CompletedTrust Accounting FAQsAttorney/Consumer Assistance Program (ACAP)How long should I keep closed files?How to Establish an Interstate Law Practice? What are some pitfalls to avoid?Choose a Corporate StructureShould I form a professional service corporation? Do I have to?Modern Complexity Demands New Ways of Working: The Future of The Lawyer-Nonlawyer PartnershipThe Florida Bar Ethics Informational PacketsBest Practices for Law Firm Invoices [Guest Post]LegalFuel: The Florida Bar’s Practice Resource Center

Lawyers often invest in technology but may not utilize it effectively, leading to a missed return on investment. Strategic spending on impactful technology is crucial when you are a solo or small firm on a budget.In today’s episode, hosts Christine Bilbrey and Jamie Moore welcome Catherine Sanders Reach, to discuss cost-effective technology tools and services you may already have at your disposal.Catherine Sanders Reach provides practice technology and management assistance to lawyers and legal professionals. Formerly, she was Director of Law Practice Management and Technology for the Chicago Bar Association and the Director at the American Bar Association’s Legal Technology Resource Center. Prior to her work at the NCBA, CBA and ABA she worked in library and information science environments for several years, working at Ross and Hardies as a librarian. She received a master’s degree in library and information studies from the University of Alabama.Catherine’s professional activities include articles for Law Practice magazine, Law Technology News and GPSolo Magazine, as well as numerous other publications. She has given presentations on the use of technology in law firms for national bar conferences, state and local bar associations and organizations such as the National Association of Bar Council and the Association of American Law Schools. This podcast has been approved by The Florida Bar Continuing Legal Education Department for 1.0 hour of General CLE credit including 1.0 hour of Technology CLE credit. Course # 8284. REFERENCED RESOURCES: About Catherine Sanders ReachSubscribe to North Carolina Bar Association CPM ICYMI NewsletterArticles Written by Catherine Sanders ReachFree and Cheap Technology for Thrifty LawyersCan MS 365 Replace Law Practice Management Software?Expand MS 365 with Add-ins and IntegrationsAdobe Acrobat Has a New (Inter)FaceMicrosoft 365 versus Google WorkspaceTrying Out LinkedIn NewslettersOther ResourcesMicrosoft BookingsUse Planner in Microsoft TeamsRemoving sensitive content from PDFsFastcase Quick Reference GuideDashlane Authenticator appKeeper AuthenticatorZoom VoIP Phone ServicesMicrosoft Teams PhoneLegalFuel: The Florida Bar’s Practice Resource Center 

Back in the day, law firms either relied on their reputations and referrals from former clients or they paid for billboards and phone book ads. If you are a solo or small firm practitioner, you likely don’t have a lot of time or a huge marketing budget to compete with larger firms to attract new clients, but a simple, well-crafted digital marketing strategy can be all that you need for maintaining a steady flow of client activity.In today’s episode, hosts Christine Bilbrey and Jamie Moore welcome Rob Saravia and Jeff Hazen, to discuss practical marketing tips and Bar Advertising Rules. Rob Saravia is The Florida Bar’s new marketing manager aiding growth in the Programs Department. He brings over 4 years of experience in the marketing field, with a focus on the dynamic realm of retail marketing. Rob is a graduate of Florida State University with a double major in Marketing and Economics. Jeff Hazen serves as the Assistant Ethics Counsel for the Florida Bar, with over 15 years of dedicated service. Throughout his tenure at The Florida Bar, Jeff has handled thousands of inquiries on the Ethics Hotline, assessed numerous lawyer advertisements, and issued dozens of staff Ethics Opinions. Jeff is a distinguished alumnus of the University of Florida Levin College of Law.This podcast has been approved by The Florida Bar Continuing Legal Education Department for 0.5 hour of General CLE credit including 0.5 hour of Ethics CLE credit. Course # 8214. REFERENCED RESOURCES: • Article: Law Firm Marketing Strategy: Top 8 Ideas to Grow a Legal Practice (by Clio)• The Florida Bar Advertising Regulation and Information• Handbook on Lawyer Advertising and Solicitation• Chapter 4 Rules of Professional Conduct• 4-7.13 Deceptive and Inherently Misleading Advertisements• 4-7.16 Presumptively Valid Content• 4-7.18 Direct Contact with Prospective Clients• 4-7.20 Exemptions from the Filing and Review Requirement• Florida Bar Ethics Opinion 20-01: Negative Online Reviews• Florida Bar Ethics Opinion 21-1: Negative Online Reviews• Ethics Hotline 800-235-8619• Grow Your Practice – Join the Lawyer Referral Service• LegalFuel: The Practice Resource Center of The Florida Bar• LegalFuel: Marketing Resources

Microsoft 365 is a must for many legal professionals who rely on its wide range of time saving and regularly enhanced tools. There are also specifically designed features within the software to streamline your daily legal workflow that you may not be aware of. Now artificial intelligence has been integrated across Microsoft 365. It’s called Copilot and it is poised to become your new digital assistant inside of all the Microsoft applications that you are already using. Smart lawyers should take note and ask how Copilot can instantly and fundamentally change how you get work done in your firm. In today’s episode, hosts Christine Bilbrey and Jamie Moore welcome Ben Schorr, a Senior Content Manager at Microsoft, to discuss Microsoft 365 and Copilot. Ben Schorr is a Senior Content Program Manager at Microsoft. He is also the author of several books and articles on technology including “The Lawyer’s Guide to Microsoft Outlook,” “The Lawyer’s Guide to Microsoft Word” and “OneNote in One Hour.” He was a Microsoft MVP for 20 years and has been involved in management and technology for more than 30. In his free time, he’s a slow Ironman triathlete and a high school football coach. He currently lives with his family in Redmond, WA.This podcast has been approved by The Florida Bar Continuing Legal Education Department for 1.0 hour of General CLE credit including 1.0 hour of Technology CLE credit. Course # 8203. REFERENCED RESOURCES: Ben Schorr - LinkedInBooks by Ben SchorrArticle by Ben Schorr: Which Office 365 Package is Right for Your Law Firm?MicrosoftMicrosoft CopilotOfficial Microsoft Blog: Announcing Microsoft Copilot, your everyday AI companionMicrosoft: Rehearse your slide show with Speaker CoachSummarize an email thread with CopilotGet started with Microsoft 365 Chat in Microsoft TeamsMicrosoft OneDrive for BusinessNatural language search in Outlook LegalFuel: The Practice Resource Center of The Florida Bar

Beginning in March of 2020, the pandemic transformed every aspect of our lives. For most of us who had reported to an office every day, this meant a very sudden shift to remote only work. Law firms had to quickly adapt to stay connected to the courts, colleagues, and their clients. We are now more than three years out and while some firms found that remote work was seamless and chose to continue it, other firms have gone to a hybrid model or banned remote work completely. According to a recent ABA report, 89% of lawyers in private practice are allowed to work remotely, with 18% permitted to work out of the office all the time and 45% with the flexibility to choose their own schedule. Here at the Practice Resource Center, we were curious to hear how it’s all working out.In today’s episode, hosts Christine Bilbrey and Jamie Moore welcome Richard Rivera, Partner at Smith Gambrell Russell, to discuss how the firm’s Jacksonville office has adapted to the new normal. Richard Rivera received his B.A. in Economics from the University of Florida in 2009 and earned his J.D. degree, cum laude, from the Florida State University College of Law. Rich works in both the Litigation and the Intellectual Property Practice Groups. His IP practice is concentrated in trademark and copyrights, compliance with state and federal laws governing sweepstakes and other promotional activities, software and internet technology, marketing, and licensing issues. He also prosecutes trademark and copyright registrations before the United States Patent and Trademark Office and the United States Copyright Office. Rich is also the current Chair of The Florida Bar’s Mental Health and Wellness of Florida Lawyers Committee.This podcast has been approved by The Florida Bar Continuing Legal Education Department for 1.0 hour of General CLE credit including 1.0 hour of Mental Health and Wellness CLE credit. Course # 8185.REFERENCED RESOURCES:  Smith Gambrell RussellAbout Rich RiveraABA Article: Are law firm leaders having second thoughts on remote work? Intapp TimeArticle: How to Work Remotely as a Legal Professional: A Guide (from Clio)Article: Working remotely is now a top priority, says new ABA report highlighting lasting shifts in practice of lawABA 2022 Practice Forward Report: Where Does the Legal Profession Go from Here? LegalFuel: The Practice Resource Center of The Florida Bar

Chatbots and AI platforms have the potential to revolutionize the way law firms operate, bringing numerous benefits to both legal professionals and their clients. These technologies can streamline administrative tasks, enhance research capabilities, and provide quick and accurate responses to routine legal inquiries. By automating repetitive and time-consuming processes, chatbots can free up lawyers' time, allowing them to focus on more complex and strategic aspects of their work. However, it's crucial for legal professionals to be mindful of the ethical concerns surrounding the use of chatbots and AI in the legal field.In today’s episode, hosts Christine Bilbrey and Jamie Moore welcome Tom Martin, CEO of LawDroid, to discuss how AI and chatbots can automate a firm’s processes.About Tom Martin:Tom is a graduate of Yale and UCLA School of Law, and is a legal AI advocate, lawyer, author, and speaker. He is the CEO and founder of LawDroid, a Generative AI Legal Technology Company, and is a co-founder of the American Legal Technology Awards. Clients include ARAG Legal Insurance, Fasken, Tennessee Alliance for Legal Services, Palace Law, and many law firms.Tom has been recognized as an ABA Legal Rebel and a Fastcase 50 Honoree. He has presented at the ABA TECHSHOW, LegalWeek, ILTACON, ClioCon, and Legal Innovators. Tom’s writing has been published in the ABA’s Law Practice Today, Law Technology Today, and GP Solo Magazine.Tom has his own podcast: LawDroid Manifesto on iTunes. He also serves as a mentor at the Yale Tsai Center for Innovative Thinking and ATJ Tech Fellows.This podcast has been approved by The Florida Bar Continuing Legal Education Department for 1.0 hour of General CLE credit including 1.0 hour of Technology CLE credit. Course #7932. REFERENCED RESOURCES: Tom MartinLawDroidThe LawDroid PodcastAmerican Legal Technology AwardsArticle: New GPT-Based Chat App from LawDroid Is a Lawyer’s ‘Copilot’ for Research, Drafting, Brainstorming and MoreArticle: Chatbots sometimes make things up. Is AI’s hallucinations problem fixable?Harvard: Library Innovation LabLegalFuel: The Practice Resource Center of The Florida Bar

Fostering a thriving law firm culture not only ensures the growth of a successful legal practice but also nurtures a positive and uplifting company environment. Although the legal industry has long held assumptions about the inevitability of a highly competitive, burnout-inducing culture, it is vital to challenge these norms. By doing so, law firms empower their employees, clients, and overall business to thrive. When employees feel valued and appreciated, they are naturally more motivated and invested in their work, culminating in increased productivity and success for the entire business. Ultimately, investing in a strong law firm culture becomes a win-win situation for all involved.In today’s episode, hosts Christine Bilbrey and Jamie Moore welcome Paul Spiegelman, of Small Giants Community, to discuss the benefits of cultivating a positive company culture.About Paul Spiegelman:Paul is the co-founder of the Small Giants Community, a peer-group of purpose driven business leaders. Paul holds a bachelor’s degree in history from UCLA and received his JD from Southwestern University. He practiced law for two years before starting BerylHealth, where he was the co-founder and CEO. He is also the founder and chairman of The Beryl Institute and was the chief culture officer at Stericycle.Paul is a sought-after speaker and a New York Times best-selling author on leadership, employee engagement, entrepreneurship, culture, and leading a purpose-driven life. His book, Why is Everyone Smiling? The Secret Behind Passion, Productivity, and Profit, includes low- or no-cost practices that can impact the lives of employees and the success of small or large businesses. He has made numerous radio and TV appearances and his views have been featured in the Wall Street Journal and Inc. Magazine. He is currently a columnist for Forbes.com and has been honored with the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year award.This podcast has been approved by The Florida Bar Continuing Legal Education Department for 1.0 hour of General CLE credit including 1.0 hour of Mental Health and Wellness CLE credit. Course # 7923.REFERENCED RESOURCES: Paul SpiegelmanPodcast: Growing with PurposePaul Spiegelman BooksPatients Come Second: Leading Change by Changing the Way You LeadWhy is Everyone Smiling?: The Secret Behind Passion, Productivity, and ProfitSmile Guide: Employee Perspectives on Culture, Loyalty and ProfitSmall Giants CommunityAboutArticle: ‘Command and Control’ Leadership is Dead. Here’s What’s Taking Its PlaceArticle: Modernizing Law Firms’ Work Rules Enables Focus on Employee Well-Being

Traditionally, the workweek spans from Monday to Friday, but have you ever questioned the rationale behind this norm and whether it is optimal? Amongst growing anxiety and stress levels worldwide, some companies are envisioning a different approach to work by embracing a 4-day workweek. Not only can a shorter workweek benefit employees’ mental health, but it can also enhance productivity. Research indicates that a reduced workload can lead to lower stress levels and greater job satisfaction, as well as offer more opportunities for leisure outside of work.In today’s episode, hosts Christine Bilbrey and Karla Eckardt welcome Joe O’Connor, of the Work Time Reduction Center of Excellence, to discuss the 4-day workweek study.The Work Time Reduction Center of Excellence is a global initiative based in Toronto, Canada, launched in partnership with leading UK and US people-first transformation company Curium Solutions.Previously, as the chief executive officer of 4 Day Week Global, Joe led the design and implementation of four-day week trials all over the world, supporting hundreds of employers and thousands of employees to make the transition to reduced-hour, productivity-focused working in 2021 and 2022.Joe holds an MBS in Strategy and Innovation Management and a BBS with Honours in Accounting from the Galway Mayo Institute of Technology, as well as an Advanced Diploma in Employment Law from The Honorable Society of King’s Inns.Joe recently led a research project on work time reduction as a visiting research scholar with Cornell University in New York City. He is now based in Toronto, where he heads up Canadian operations for Curium Solutions in addition to directing the Work Time Reduction Center of Excellence.Joe is also formerly the chairperson of the Four Day Week Ireland campaign, having founded the coalition in 2019, where he developed the world's first four-day week pilot program and research project in 2021. He has been active on the issue of working time reduction since 2018, when he organized a major international conference and research paper on ‘The Future of Working Time’.This podcast has been approved by The Florida Bar Continuing Legal Education Department for 1.0 hour of General CLE credit including 1.0 hour of Mental Health and Wellness CLE credit. Course # 7651. REFERENCED RESOURCES: Joe O’Connor·        Work Time Reduction | Center of Excellence·        Mission·        Work Time Reduction Assessment·        Contact Work Time Reduction | Center of Excellence4-Day Week Trial ResultsArticle: What is Parkinson’s Law and why is it sabotaging your productivity?Article: The Effect of Long Working Hours and Overtime on Occupational Health: A Meta-Analysis of Evidence from 1998 to 2018Article: Operational Excellence – Key Principles and How to Implement ThemArticle: ABA – 8 steps for creating value-based pricing that worksLegalFuel: The Practice Resource Center of The Florida Bar

The legal profession has been grappling with the issue of lawyer well-being for a while now. Unfortunately, too many lawyers are still experiencing chronic stress and burnout resulting in high rates of substance abuse and depression. It is essential to acknowledge the importance of lawyer well-being and take actionable steps towards it. Healthy and happy lawyers provide better legal services to their clients, which improves their satisfaction and trust in the legal system.In today’s episode, hosts Christine Bilbrey and Jamie Moore welcome Bree Buchanan, Senior Advisor at Krill Strategies, to discuss well-being strategies for lawyers.Bree Buchanan, JD, MSF, was a founding co-chair of the National Task Force on Lawyer Well-Being and is a co-author of its groundbreaking 2017 report, The Path to Well-Being: Practical Recommendations for Positive Change. From 2020 to 2023, she served as board president and inaugural executive director of the Institute for Well-Being in Law. Prior to this, Ms. Buchanan served as chair of the ABA Commission on Lawyers Assistance Programs (2017-2020). She is currently a member of the newly formed Lawyer Well-Being Committee of the International Bar Association. As Director of the Texas Lawyers Assistance Program from 2013 to 2018, she worked with individual lawyers experiencing these issues, and with legal employers who were seeking resources and support for their staff. Her tenure with that program followed a two-decade legal career which included positions as a litigator, lobbyist, and law professor. She is now Senior Advisor with Krill Strategies, Inc., providing consultation and training on issues related to lawyer well-being and impairment for major legal employers.Praised for her warm presentation style and engaging presence, Ms. Buchanan is a frequent speaker for international and national law-related organizations, as well as global law firms on strategies for lawyer well-being and impairment. In 2018, she was awarded the “Excellence in Legal Community Leadership Award” by Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation. Ms. Buchanan is co-host of the podcast, The Path to Well-Being Law, and has shared her own story of recovery as a featured guest on podcasts in the United States, Canada and the U.K. Ms. Buchanan’s writing has appeared in Law Practice Today, Judicature, The American Lawyer, and Family Lawyer Magazine, as well as Lawyer Health and Wellbeing: How the Legal Profession is Tackling Stress and Creating Resiliency (Ark Group, 2020). In 2018, she graduated from the Seminary of the Southwest with a Masters in Spiritual Formation, where she honed a deep interest in the intrinsic link between meaningful work and personal well-being, as well as in assisting individuals with vocational discernment. Based in Austin, Texas, and Eugene, Oregon, Ms. Buchanan tends to her own well-being by engaging regularly in hiking, cycling, weightlifting, and being willing to ask for help when she needs it.Bree Buchanan can be reached at [email protected]; 512-797-6118.This podcast has been approved by The Florida Bar Continuing Legal Education Department for 1.0 hour of General CLE credit including 1.0 hour of Mental Health and Wellness CLE credit. Course # 7534. REFERENCED RESOURCES: Bree BuchananKrill StrategiesUseful Content & ResourcesInstitute for Well-Being in LawThe Path to Lawyer Well-Being: Practical Recommendations for Positive ChangeThe Path to Well-Being in Law PodcastThe Florida Bar Mental Health and Wellness CenterFlorida Lawyers Helpline LegalFuel: The Practice Resource Center of The Florida BarAttorney Mental Health First Aid

The client intake process goes far beyond simply having a potential client complete a few forms. It encompasses everything from attracting new clients during the first interaction with your firm to ultimately signing engagement letters. For small firms and solo attorneys, this process can be incredibly time-consuming and typically does not generate any billable hours. However, by implementing efficient processes and utilizing the right tools, the client intake process can be streamlined, enabling your practice to run more smoothly while also leaving a positive first impression on clients.In today’s episode, hosts Karla Eckardt and Jamie Moore welcome Jordan Turk, a practicing attorney in Texas and legal technology advisor at Smokeball, to discuss the client intake process. Smokeball is a cloud-based legal practice management software and one of The Florida Bar’s newest member benefits. Jordan Turk’s family law expertise includes appeals, pre and postnuptial agreements, as well as complex property division and highly contentious custody cases. In addition, Jordan has given CLEs across the country on topics ranging from client relationships to proper trust account management. Jordan graduated from the University of Texas at Austin with a B.A. in Classics, History, and Religious Studies. She then went on to attend the University of Arkansas School of Law to earn her J.D. After almost four years of practice with a high-asset family law firm in Houston, Jordan discovered the world of legal technology which ultimately brought her to Smokeball.Jordan has authored and co-authored many articles that you can find in various state bar publications and around the internet. Passionate about giving back to her community, Jordan makes a point of taking pro bono cases whenever possible. This podcast has been approved by The Florida Bar Continuing Legal Education Department for 1.0 hour of General CLE credit including 0.5 hour of Technology CLE credit and 0.5 hour of Ethics CLE credit. Course # 7414. REFERENCED RESOURCES: Jordan Turk: [email protected] The Florida Bar Member Benefit Discount for SmokeballThe Florida Bar Member Benefits: Practice Resources & SoftwareRules Regulating The Florida BarThe Florida Bar – Ethics Hotline: 800-235-8619LegalFuel: The Practice Resource Center of The Florida Bar

A landmark ABA study revealed that 12.5% of lawyers have Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder or ADHD, compared to only 4.5% of the general population. Individuals diagnosed with ADHD often struggle with sustained focus, organization, procrastination, and completing tasks on time. Most lawyers are under a fair amount of stress, which can exacerbate their ADHD symptoms. This can have a profound effect on professional performance, personal relationships, and overall emotional well-being. For attorneys struggling to manage their ADHD symptoms, there are effective strategies that can be used to regain focus. In today’s episode, hosts Christine Bilbrey and Jamie Moore welcome Casey Dixon, founder of Dixon Life Coaching. Casey is an ICF Professional Certified Coach and CCE-Global Board-Certified Coach that helps high achievers with ADHD learn how to thrive.Casey Dixon graduated from The University of Pennsylvania, Graduate School of Education with a master’s in educational policy and leadership and is a respected life coach with a unique focus on science-based, innovative, collaborative coaching, advising, and thought-partnering for attorneys with ADHD or executive function challenges.She has been coaching clients with executive function challenges for over 17 years. Casey works with her clients to develop the tools they need to transform the impact ADHD and executive function challenges have on their productivity and well-being.This podcast has been approved by The Florida Bar Continuing Legal Education Department for 1.0 hour of General CLE credit including 1.0 hour of Mental Health and Wellness CLE credit. Course # 7227. REFERENCED RESOURCES: Casey Dixon, M.S.Ed., PCC, BCC, SCAC·        Dixon Life Coaching·        The Focused Lawyer - eBook·        The Focused Lawyer Coaching Group·        Contact: [email protected]: The Prevalence of Substance Use and Other Mental Health Concerns Among American AttorneysLegalFuel: The Practice Resource Center of The Florida Bar

Regardless of practice area, attorneys handle and store a volume of confidential information that can make them attractive targets for hackers. Small firms can be particularly at risk because they are less likely to employ fulltime IT staff. Cybersecurity can feel like an overwhelming topic, but there are actionable steps that a small firm can implement to build data protection and prevent security breaches.In today’s episode, hosts Christine Bilbrey and Jamie Moore welcome technology experts, Sharon Nelson and John Simek, of Sensei Enterprises, Inc., to discuss cybersecurity dangers and legal technology software. Sensei Enterprises, Inc. is a nationally known digital forensics managed information technology provider, and managed cybersecurity firm in Fairfax, Virginia.Sharon D. Nelson, Esq., is the President of Sensei Enterprises, Inc. and is the author of the noted electronic evidence blog, Ride the Lightning and is a co-host of the Legal Talk Network podcast series called “The Digital Edge: Lawyers and Technology” as well as “Digital Detectives.” She is a frequent author and speaker on legal technology, cybersecurity, and electronic evidence topics. She was the President of the Virginia State Bar from June 2013 – June 2014 and a past President of the Fairfax Law Foundation, and the Fairfax Bar Association.John Simek is the Vice President of Sensei Enterprises, Inc. and has a national reputation as a digital forensics technologist and has testified as an expert witness throughout the United States. He holds a degree in engineering from the United States Merchant Marine Academy and an MBA in finance from Saint Joseph’s University. John holds the prestigious Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) certification, and the Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) certification in addition to multiple other technical certifications. He is a past chair of the ABA TECHSHOW and a co-host of the Legal Talk Network Podcast Digital Detectives. He is a frequent author and speaker on legal technology, cybersecurity, and electronic evidence topics.This podcast has been approved by The Florida Bar Continuing Legal Education Department for 1.0 hour of General CLE credit including 1.0 hour of Technology CLE credit and 0.5 hour of Ethics CLE credit. Course # 7140.  REFERENCED RESOURCES: Sensei Enterprises, Inc.  About Us Articles Podcast – Digital DetectivesPodcast – The Digital EdgeServices Contact Sensei Enterprises, Inc.: 703-359-0700The 2020 Solo and Small Firm Legal Technology Guide (eBook) CISA – Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security AgencyLegalFuel: The Practice Resource Center of The Florida Bar 

Making the most of your time is probably at the top of your list if you’re running a solo or small law firm. When you’re managing both the business side of your firm while also practicing law, your to-do list may quickly become overwhelming. Reducing repetitive tasks and streamlining your processes can be made easier with legal technology. That’s why choosing the right technology for your needs can be one of the most important decisions you will make. In today’s episode, hosts Christine Bilbrey and Jamie Moore welcome legal technology expert, Bob Ambrogi, to discuss practice management software and legal technology trends. Bob Ambrogi is a lawyer and journalist who has been writing and speaking about legal technology and innovation for more than two decades. He writes the award-winning blog LawSites, is a columnist for Above the Law, hosts the podcast about legal innovation, LawNext, and hosts the weekly legal tech journalists’ roundtable, Legaltech Week. He is also cofounder of the LawNext Legal Technology Directory.In 2011, Bob was named to the inaugural Fastcase 50, honoring “the law’s smartest, most courageous innovators, techies, visionaries and leaders.” In 2017, he received the Yankee Quill award for journalism from the Academy of New England Journalists and was honored by the ABA Journal as a Legal Rebels Trailblazer. A graduate of Boston College Law School, Bob is a fellow of the College of Law Practice Management and past-president of the Massachusetts Bar Foundation. In his law practice, he represents newspapers and the news media.This podcast has been approved by The Florida Bar Continuing Legal Education Department for 1.0 hour of General CLE credit including 1.0 hour of Technology CLE credit. Course # 6942. REFERENCED RESOURCES: Bob AmbrogiLawSitesAbove the LawLawNext PodcastLegaltech Week PodcastLawNext Legal Technology DirectoryThe Florida Bar Member Benefits – Practice Management SoftwareLegalFuel: The Practice Resource Center of The Florida BarOther Legal Tech Blogs:PinHawkTechnoLawyerLegaltech news 

Many attorneys rely heavily on their nonlawyer staff to assist with the extensive workload that comes along with running a practice.  It is very easy to begin to lean on competent and experienced staff members to handle significant components of cases, but it is critical that attorneys have a clear understanding of the Bar Rules that address the appropriate roles of nonlawyers. In today’s episode host Jamie Moore welcomes back Florida Bar Ethics Counsel, Jonathan Grabb, to discuss guidelines for the roles of nonlawyers and the attorneys that supervise them. The Florida Bar Professional Ethics Committee has created the Legal Assistants and Nonlawyer Employees Ethics Informational Packet that addresses proper and improper activities of nonlawyer staff. If your questions or issues are not addressed in this episode, you can contact The Bar’s Ethics Hotline. Jonathan Grabb graduated cum laude from Florida State University’s College of Law in 2008 and became the Ethics Counsel for The Florida Bar in November 2021, after serving in the Ethics & Advertising Department for 8 years as an Assistant Ethics Counsel. Jonathan has fielded more than 20,000 calls on the ethics hotline, reviewed thousands of lawyer advertisements, and issued dozens of staff opinions. Prior to working at The Florida Bar, Jonathan was a Senior Attorney at the Agency for Persons with Disabilities.This podcast has been approved by The Florida Bar Continuing Legal Education Department for 1.0 hour of General CLE credit including 1.0 hour of Ethics CLE credit. Course # 6870.REFERENCED RESOURCES: Rules, Ethics & ProfessionalismLegal Assistants and Nonlawyer Employees – Ethics Informational PacketSubject Index of Ethics OpinionLawyer RegulationABA Model Guidelines for the Utilization of Paralegal Services 

Have you ever considered starting your own law practice? It’s an appealing question – imagine being your own boss, setting your own schedule, and only accepting cases that you are excited about. There are certainly a lot of pros to starting your own practice, but for every pro, there are also several cons to consider.In today’s episode, host Jamie Moore welcomes Cristina Alonso of Alonso Appeals to discuss what it’s like to start and manage your own law practice.Cristina Alonso of Alonso Appeals is Board Certified in Appellate Practice by The Florida Bar. She handles appellate litigation in state and federal courts. She has handled over 100 appellate matters, including matters before the Supreme Court of the United States, the United States Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit, the Florida Supreme Court, and all Florida district courts of appeal. She also works as an integral part of trial teams, having served as counsel at over 25 trials. Her work includes providing litigation support, including ensuring that issues are preserved for appellate review, and drafting and arguing complex pre-trial motions, case dispositive motions, jury instructions, and post-trial motions. Her work also includes developing innovative strategies for new and evolving theories of liability, representing individuals and corporations in high-stakes litigation, managing national and statewide litigation, and providing appellate consulting services to trial counsel. Her experience spans various practice areas such as complex business litigation, constitutional and civil rights, mass tort litigation, and products liability. She was honored by the Daily Business Review as the “The Most Effective Lawyer” in Appellate Practice of 2014 and as one of “The Most Effective Lawyers” of 2009 in Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach counties. She was recognized by The National Law Journal as one of the 40 Minorities under 40 of 2011. She also received the Florida Diversity Council’s 2012 Breaking the Glass Ceiling Award, was named a Top Lawyer in the South Florida Legal Guide 2013-2022, and was selected for inclusion in Florida Super Lawyers 2013-2022. Cristina currently serves as the Chair-Elect of the Solo and Small Firm Section of the Florida Bar, and as an appointed member of the Board of Governors.This podcast has been approved by The Florida Bar Continuing Legal Education Department for 1.0 hour of General CLE credit. Course #6784.REFERENCED RESOURCES:Alonso AppealsLeadershipBlogPublicationsSolo & Small Firm Section of The Florida BarSection WebsiteNew Law Practice/New Office ChecklistChoose a Corporate StructureMember BenefitsStart a Law Firm TopicsABA Article: I’m Ready to Start My Own Law Practice – What Are the Pitfalls?Join the Florida Bar Lawyer Referral ServiceWixLegalFuel

We all know that the practice of law can be extremely stressful, and unfortunately, lawyers have consistently experienced higher rates of depression and substance abuse. Because of this, The Florida Bar’s Mental Health & Wellness of Florida Lawyers Committee continues to strive to bring awareness to the resources available to Bar members. One of the resources, Florida Lawyers Assistance, Inc., or FLA, provides confidential assistance through assessments, referrals, education, and support groups. In today’s episode, hosts Christine Bilbrey and Jamie Moore, welcome Dan McDermott and Carol Parks, of Florida Lawyers Assistance. We discuss programs and services available to assist attorneys, judges, law students, and other legal professionals who may be impaired in their ability to function in a legal setting. Dan McDermott was appointed Executive Director by the Florida Lawyers Assistance, Inc Board of Directors, effective June 15, 2020. Dan graduated from Yale University and The University of Iowa College of Law. Following a two-year clerkship with the Chief Judge of the US District Court for the Northern District of Iowa, Dan practiced law in Cedar Rapids for 5 years before moving to Washington, DC. He then began what is now a more than three decades-long stint as a lawyer in recovery. Dan worked in government relations in the financial services and technology sectors, before becoming Head of US Government Relations of Visa, the world’s largest electronic payment network. At FLA, Dan is responsible for overseeing day-to-day operations. The foundation of his work is assuring that members of Florida’s legal community receive compassionate interaction and appropriate counseling. Carol Parks received her B.A. in Psychology from the Pennsylvania State University. She then became a Florida Certified Health Professional, received a Master of Science in Counseling from Nova University, and a Master of Business Administration from St. Leo University. She has worked tirelessly to educate and treat those suffering from addiction and mental health issues. From behavioral health technician to Chief Executive Officer of a 100-bed dual-diagnosis facility, Carol has the advantage of understanding all aspects of treatment from evaluation to aftercare, and from discovery to recovery. This podcast has been approved by The Florida Bar Continuing Legal Education Department for 1.0 hour of General CLE credit including 1.0 hour of Mental Illness Awareness CLE credit. Course #6704. REFERENCED RESOURCES: Florida Lawyers AssistanceMeetings & EventsCLEFlorida Bar Mental Health and Wellness CenterMember Benefits Program: Mental Health and WellnessFlorida Bar News: Group Provides Support for Working MothersLegalFuel: The Practice Resource Center of The Florida BarLegalFuel: Free CLE

Most of us at one time or another might have heard the saying, “great minds think alike.” Perhaps our colleagues have said it when collectively the same decision is made, or an exceptional idea is brainstormed in a group. But do great minds think alike, or do great minds think differently?In today’s episode, hosts Christine Bilbrey and Jamie Moore welcome Haley Moss, author of Great Minds Think Differently: Neurodiversity for Lawyers and Other Professionals. We discuss how having a better understanding of neurodivergence can help lawyers foster positive relationships with their colleagues and help them work more effectively with the clients they serve.  About Haley Moss:Diagnosed with autism at the age of three, Haley Moss’s parents were told that she might not ever finish high school or earn a driver’s license. Today she is a lawyer, neurodiversity expert, keynote speaker, educator, and the author of four books that guide neurodivergent individuals through professional and personal challenges. Haley is a consultant to top corporations and nonprofits that seek her guidance in creating a diverse workplace, and a sought-after commentator on disability rights and the Americans With Disabilities Act.The first openly autistic lawyer in Florida, Haley’s books include “Great Minds Think Differently: Neurodiversity for Lawyers and Other Professionals” (ABA Book Publishing; June 2021), “The Young Autistic Adult’s Independence Handbook” (Jessica Kingsley Publishers; November 2021), “A Freshman Survival Guide for College Students With Autism Spectrum Disorders” (Jessica Kingsley Publishers; October 2014), and “Middle School — The Stuff Nobody Tells You About: A Teenage Girl With High-Functioning Autism Shares Her Experiences” (AAPC Publishing; March 2010) Her articles have appeared in outlets including the Washington Post, Teen Vogue, GQ, Bustle, Fast Company, Law 360 Pulse, and the ABA Journal.Haley earned her law degree from the University of Miami School of Law with numerous honors. Admitted to the Florida Bar in 2019, she is the recipient of awards including the American Bar Association Solo, Small Firm, and General Practice Division’s Breaking Barriers Award (2021), D-30 Disability Impact List (2021), Road Less Traveled Award from Ms. JD (2020), Outstanding Self-Advocate Award from University of Miami — Nova Southeastern University Center for Autism & Related Disabilities (2018), and Publix Self-Advocate of the Year from the Palm Beach County Special Needs Advisory Coalition (2018).This podcast has been approved by The Florida Bar Continuing Legal Education Department for 1.0 hour of General CLE credit including 1.0 hour of Mental Illness Awareness CLE credit. Course #6579. 

The Florida Bar’s Lawyer Referral Service was created in 1972 to bridge the gap for individuals in need of legal services by referral method with licensed attorneys. The Lawyer Referral Service serves an important purpose in providing clients with an unprejudiced referral to a licensed attorney who has the experience and knowledge in the area of law suitable to the client’s legal needs. In today’s episode host Jamie Moore welcomes Christine Bilbrey, to discuss how attorneys can become a member of the Bar’s Lawyer Referral Service to serve Floridians and grow their client base. Christine Bilbrey is the Director of The Florida Bar’s Practice Resource Center, and one of the hosts of The Florida Bar's LegalFuel podcast series. In addition to the Practice Resource Center, Christine oversees all things related to the Lawyer Referral Service and is also the staff liaison for The Florida Bar’s Standing Committee on Mental Health and Wellness of Florida Lawyers. Christine holds a master’s degree in Business Administration and a bachelor’s degree in Legal Administration. She previously served as the principal firm administrator at area law firms in her hometown of Pensacola, Florida. Prior to joining The Florida Bar, Christine was a certified HR classroom and virtual trainer for the world’s largest credit union.This podcast has been approved by The Florida Bar Continuing Legal Education Department for 1.0 hour of General CLE credit. Course # 6473. REFERENCED RESOURCES: The Florida Bar Lawyer Referral ServiceLawyer Referral Service Office: [email protected] the Lawyer Referral ServiceLawyer Referral Service Membership ApplicationCoverage AreasLawyer Referral Service RulesThe Rules Regulating The Florida BarChapter 8LegalFuel: The Practice Resource Center of The Florida Bar

Remote and hybrid work arrangements are not new concepts for law firm managers, however the pandemic resulted in more firms acknowledging that remote and hybrid models do work and are worth investing in long-term.  According to a recent American Lawyer survey, “80% of firms have completed, or are currently developing, formal assessments of roles and individual workers to see if they were eligible for full remote work in perpetuity—beyond the pandemic.”In today’s episode host Karla Eckardt welcomes Garima Goswami and Andreas Becker, of Lawyaw, a Clio company, to discuss their eBook on managing remote and hybrid law firms.Garima Goswami is the Content Manager at Lawyaw. She is in charge of studying the current state and upcoming trends within the legal industry and creating content based on the findings. Previously, she worked as a content marketer in the finance automation industry focusing prominently on the digital payments sector; led crisis management and communication projects; and, worked as a journalist for print media before transitioning into SaaS marketing.  Andreas Becker is the Director of Business Development of Lawyaw at Clio. He has spent the last three and a half years working closely with thousands of legal professionals across the country to help streamline their practices. Prior to Lawyaw, Andreas practiced for several years as a personal injury and real estate attorney. He received his J.D. from the University of San Francisco School of Law, and a B.A. in Legal Studies from the University of California, Santa Barbara.This podcast has been approved by The Florida Bar Continuing Legal Education Department for 1 hour of General CLE credit including 1 hour of Technology CLE credit. Course #6243.REFERENCED RESOURCES:Lawyaw, part of ClioeBook: Tips for Managing Remote and Hybrid Law FirmseBook: How to Implement Process Optimization at Law FirmsArticle: How Law Firms Can Reinvent Talent Acquisition and Retention StrategiesThomson Reuters: 2021 Report on the State of the Legal MarketThe American LawyerArticle: Most Lawyers and Staff Are Now Eligible for Hybrid WorkArticle: For Hybrid to Work Longterm, Law Firm Processes Need Refresh ALA Legal Management Magazine: Let’s Make a DealABA Formal Opinion 483Rules Regulating The Florida Bar 4-7.12(a)

Back in the 1960s, doctors were not yet aware that physical exercise could improve cardiovascular health. Flash forward to today and scientists are proving that with the right mental training, we can change the structure of our brains resulting in improved memory, strengthened focus, better decision making, and even reduced stress and anxiety.Many of these studies have been conducted on groups of people who work in what are identified as “High-Demand” professions including soldiers and athletes. We know that the practice of law easily falls into this high-demand designation, so today we have brought in an expert to educate us on how we can integrate brain training into our lives in the same way we use a regular exercise program to strengthen our bodies. Dr. Amishi Jha is a professor of psychology at the University of Miami. She serves as the Director of Contemplative Neuroscience for the Mindfulness Research and Practice Initiative, which she co-founded in 2010. She received her Ph.D. from the University of California–Davis and postdoctoral training at the Brain Imaging and Analysis Center at Duke University. Dr. Jha’s work has been featured at TED, NATO, the World Economic Forum, and The Pentagon. She has received coverage in the New York Times, NPR, TIME, and Forbes. She is also the author of the national bestseller, Peak Mind, Find Your Focus, Own Your Attention.This podcast has been approved by The Florida Bar Continuing Legal Education Department for 1 hour of General CLE credit including 1 hour of Mental Illness CLE credit. Course #­­5975.REFERENCED RESOURCES:Amishi.comamishi.com/books/peak-mind

The Florida Bar’s Practice Resource Center gets a lot of questions about trust accounting and technology, but one of the most popular topics members contact us about is Continuing Legal Education (CLE). They want to know how to find our free CLEs, or they are having trouble posting credits, or they are confused about the CLE requirements. New attorneys have questions about the Basic Skills Course Requirements (BSCR) and more experienced attorneys are looking for courses to maintain their Board Certification status. So, to help us bring clarity to all things CLE, we have brought in the expert.In today’s episode hosts Christine Bilbrey and Karla Eckardt welcome Director of The Bar’s Legal Specialization and Education (LSE) Department, Maritza McGill, to discuss all things CLE.Maritza McGill is the Director of the Legal Specialization and Education (LSE) Department of The Florida Bar. Maritza graduated from The Florida State University and was a Program Administrator at The Florida Bar from 1982-1997. She returned to the Bar in 2012 as Assistant to the Director of LSE and in 2015 she was promoted to Certification Specialist. In 2018 Maritza became the Assistant Director of LSE and then in 2022, was named Director.  As the LSE Director, Maritza has oversight of the certification program, course accreditation and CLE/BSCR compliance of members.This podcast has been approved by The Florida Bar Continuing Legal Education Department for 1.0 hour of General CLE credit. Course #­­5877.REFERENCED RESOURCES:Florida Bar Member PortalYour CLE RecordsFlorida Bar Continuing Legal EducationOn-Demand CLE CatalogGeneral CLE Info & RequirementsCLER Forms and ApplicationsPetition for Removal of CLER DelinquencyCLER FAQsOrder CLE CD/DVD ProductsBasic Skills Course Requirement (BSCR) FAQsBSCR Forms and PetitionsBSCR Phase 1: Practicing with Professionalism (PWP)BSCR Phase 2: Basic CoursesArticle: ABA CLEs Ineligible for FL CLE CreditLegalFuel Free CLEs

Disciplinary Actions are likely the most closely read section of each edition of The Florida Bar News. However, total discipline cases are actually on the decline. According to the Bar’s website, in a typical year, the Attorney Consumer Assistance Program (ACAP) receives over 16,000 requests for assistance; and only about 25% of those inquiries result in the opening of a disciplinary file. Last year 3,364 files were opened which resulted in only 318 Supreme Court Discipline cases.In today’s episode hosts Christine Bilbrey and Karla Eckardt welcome back Deputy Director of Lawyer Regulation, Patricia Savitz, to discuss The Florida Bar’s lawyer discipline process. If your questions or issues are not addressed, you can contact LegalFuel: The Practice Resource Center of The Florida Bar for guidance.Patricia Savitz has been with the Bar since 1997 and was previously Bar Counsel with the Orlando Branch of The Florida Bar where she handled all aspects of Bar disciplinary proceedings. She was recently promoted to Deputy Director for the Lawyer Regulation Department of The Florida Bar. Patti received both her undergraduate and her law degree from the University of Miami. Prior to working at the Bar, Patti was an Assistant Public Defender in the 20th Judicial Circuit in Fort Myers and was a Senior Attorney with the Department of Children and Families. She has done extensive appellate work including oral argument before the Fifth District Court of Appeal and the Florida Supreme Court.This podcast has been approved by The Florida Bar Continuing Legal Education Department for 1 hour of General CLE credit including 1 hour of Ethics CLE credit. Course #5838­­. REFERENCED RESOURCES:The Florida Bar – Attorney DisciplineFlorida Bar Attorney Consumer Assistance (ACAP) Hotline 866.352.0707 The Rules Regulating The Florida BarChapter 3Chapter 4Chapter 5LegalFuel: The Practice Resource Center of The Florida Bar

Every year, there are updates and changes to the Rules Regulating The Florida Bar and new Ethics Opinions. We are fortunate to have knowledgeable attorneys standing by on the Ethics Hotline responding to calls from our members. Because it’s a new year, we are going to discuss some of the changes that have recently gone into effect as well as review other important ethics and advertising rules.In today’s episode hosts Christine Bilbrey and Karla Eckardt welcome back Florida Bar Ethics Counsel, Jonathan Grabb, to review rules and opinions that members frequently have questions about. If your questions or issues are not addressed, you can contact The Bar’s Ethics Hotline or LegalFuel: The Practice Resource Center of The Florida Bar for guidance.Jonathan Grabb became the Ethics Counsel for The Florida Bar in November 2021 after serving the Ethics & Advertising Department for 8 years as an Assistant Ethics Counsel. Jonathan has fielded more than 20,000 calls on the ethics hotline, reviewed thousands of lawyer advertisements, and issued dozens of staff opinions. Prior to working at The Florida Bar, Jonathan was a Senior Attorney in the Agency for Persons with Disabilities. Jonathan graduated cum laude from Florida State University’s College of Law in 2008. In his free time, Jonathan enjoys going to the local rock-climbing gym with his wife and two daughters.This podcast has been approved by The Florida Bar Continuing Legal Education Department for 1 hour of General CLE credit including 1 hour of Ethics CLE credit. Course #­­5771.REFERENCED RESOURCES: Florida Bar Ethics Hotline 800.235.8619LegalFuel: The Practice Resource Center of The Florida BarThe Rules Regulating The Florida BarChapter 1Chapter 4Florida Bar Ethics OpinionsProposed Advisory OpinionsSubject Index of Ethics OpinionsList of Florida Ethics Opinions by NumberOpinion 20-1Opinion 21-1Ethics Informational PacketsInterstate Law FirmsFlorida Bar Unlicensed Practice of Law ProgramUPL Formal Advisory Opinions