(JENSEN BEACH, Fla.) — Florida Rural Legal Services (FRLS) presented the 19th Judicial Circuit Bench Bar Conference on Friday, Oct. 18., bringing together legal professionals to discuss pressing matters within the judicial circuit.
Held at the Hutchinson Shores Resort & Spa, the event featured a lineup of panel discussions, Q&A sessions, and networking opportunities designed to foster collaboration among attorneys, judges, and community members.
This year's keynote speaker was Rosalyn “Sia” Baker-Barnes, a shareholder at Searcy Denney Scarola Barnhart & Shipley, P.A. Recognized by U.S. News & World Report as one of the “Best Lawyers in America,” Baker-Barnes has spent over two decades advocating for victims in personal injury, medical negligence, and product liability cases. Her notable achievements include securing a landmark $20 million verdict against RJ Reynolds Tobacco Company, a decision upheld by both the Florida Supreme Court and the United States Supreme Court.
The conference agenda featured a diverse array of topics pertinent to the legal community. The welcome address was given by FRLS' Fort Pierce Managing Attorney Iola Mosley.
Chief Judge Charles Schwab moderated the “Judicial Roundup” panel, which explored ethics and professionalism within the legal field. Other topics discussed included attorney mentorship, cybersecurity, and the ethical implications of generative AI in the legal profession. Zach Warren from Thomson Reuters led a session on this emerging technology, emphasizing its potential to transform legal practices.
Britt Berg, FRLS’s Pro Bono Manager and a presenter at the conference. During the conference, there was a presentation of the Pro Bono Beacon of Hope Awards, honoring those who have made significant contributions to pro bono legal work.
Berg emphasized the significance of pro bono partnerships, stating, “Collaborating with dedicated attorneys and organizations is essential to expanding access to justice. Pro bono work not only fills critical gaps in legal services but also strengthens our communities. Together, we can ensure that everyone, regardless of their circumstances, has the opportunity to receive the legal support they need.”
The conference also included addresses from Carolyn Timman, the Martin County Clerk, and FRLS Executive Director/CEO Leticia Medina-Richman.
Afternoon breakout sessions covered various legal issues, such as guardianship for minors in settlements, changes in Florida's alimony statute, and disaster relief in landlord-tenant disputes. Each session provided participants with valuable knowledge and practical skills to apply in their practice.
The 19th Judicial Circuit Bench Bar Conference exemplified FRLS's commitment to enhancing the legal profession and improving access to justice in rural Florida. As the industry continues to evolve with technologies like AI, events like these play a critical role in equipping legal professionals with the knowledge and tools they need to adapt and thrive.