Missouri Bar heads to Branson for annual gathering

Lawyers and judges from across Missouri will convene Sept. 18-20 at the Hilton Branson Convention Center for the 2019 Missouri Bar Annual Meeting and Judicial Conference. The three-day event is one of the bar’s largest gatherings, and it’s filled with professional development opportunities aimed at helping lawyers even better serve their clients. This is the first time in the state bar’s 75-years that the event will take place in Branson. 

During Annual Meeting, lawyers can attend CLE track sessions focused on everything from custody matters in family law to trial ethics First Amendment rights. Three scheduled plenaries will also serve as a chance to learn, with speakers presenting on medical marijuana, lawyer well-being and humanitarian law when it comes to immigration and human trafficking. In addition, The Missouri Bar Young Lawyers’ Section will host a special series designed to provide new lawyers with information to help bridge the gap between law school and practice. All in all, lawyers may earn a full year’s worth of continuing legal education at the conference, including ethics and the new elimination of bias requirement. 

There are a host of added opportunities for lawyers to connect and network during the conference. Several law schools will be holding alumni luncheons, and attendees are welcome to take part in the President/Chief Justice’s Opening Night Reception at the convention center, the Best of Missouri Reception at the Branson Landing, and the YLS Reception at Landshark Bar & Grill. In celebration of The Missouri Bar’s 75th anniversary, lawyers will be treated to cake, commemorative gifts, and other entertaininghappenings.Guests can follow and contribute to the fun using #MOBar75 on social media. 

Annual Meeting is also a time for recognizing the leadership of bar officers and celebrating the accomplishments of Missouri lawyers from across the state. On Wednesday, Sept. 18, the Missouri Bar Foundation will honor several lawyers who have contributed extraordinary efforts in trial and appellate advocacy, legal writing, professionalism and contributions to the administration of justice. Additionally, The Missouri Bar and its Young Lawyers’ Section will honor select lawyers for their pro bono work and public service. To view a full list of awardees to be recognized, go to mobar.org/am2019. 

Thursday, Sept. 19, marks the start of a new bar year and a transition of leadership. During a special luncheon, 2018-19 Missouri Bar President Ray Williams will pass the gavel to his successor. The occasion will also include a President’s Award presentation, a senior counselor recognition for lawyers who have practiced for 50 years or are 75 years of age, and a keynote delivered by Hon. George W. Draper III, chief justice of the Supreme Court of Missouri. 

Click here to learn more and register for Annual Meeting.