Missouri lawyers unlock valuable insights at the Bernard Edelman DWI Law & Science Seminar
Virtual option available Aug. 25-28. Register here
July 24-25, over 120 attendees gathered at the 2025 DWI Seminar in Lake Ozark to gain critical updates and strategies on DWI law.
Attendees had the opportunity to hear from 18 presenters on topics like suppressing chemical testing measurements in DUI cases, law on DWI by THC, biological impact from substance use, the role of artificial intelligence in the legal field, and more. A specialized bootcamp on the last day offered tailored sessions for those looking to expand their knowledge and skill set in DWI law.
One of the most-attended sessions featured Missouri Court of Appeals-Western District oral arguments with Hon. Gary D. Witt, chief judge, presiding; Hon. Thomas N. Chapman, judge; and Hon. Zel Fischer, special judge. The court of appeals session included three oral arguments on DWI topics, including expungement, high BAC levels, and THC use. The session allowed attendees to see firsthand the dynamics of appellate advocacy in action and how DWI cases are argued at the appellate level.
Attendees networked over lunch before hearing national speakers discuss the benefits and implications of AI and the biology of chronic stress in the legal profession.
Chris A. Stiegemeyer, with The Bar Plan Mutual Insurance Company, explained that generative AI can be of great assistance to legal work by providing support in research, drafting, summarizing evidence, helping with argument preparation, and more. Additionally, he emphasized the importance of implementing AI in the profession to shape legal efficiency and help develop future practitioners, all while being aware of the implications and risks of using AI.
Erin McClernon of Ogletree Deakins delved into the biology of chronic stress, sharing eye-opening statistics about the well-being of legal professionals. With many lawyers facing high-pressure workloads and demanding environments, some struggle to manage resulting stress. McClernon introduced a three-step process to mitigate the impacts of chronic stress and offered strategies to regulate negative emotions, encouraging attendees to thrive in their practices.
A major benefit of attending the DWI Seminar was the opportunity to connect in person with 10 sponsors and exhibitors with innovative tools to enhance law firm operations. Attendees networked directly with industry leaders in technology security, compliance solutions, legal services/consulting, accounting, case management, and insurance. These face-to-face interactions fostered meaningful discussions, enabling attendees to explore tailored technologies, build relationships, and gain insights to streamline their DWI practices.
Sponsors and exhibitors at the seminar included:
- Travis Noble PC
- LifeSafer Ignition Interlock
- Eastern Missouri Alternative Sentencing Services
- Intoxalock Ignition Interlock
- RoadGuard Interlock
- Smart Start
- Pearl Insurance
- REJIS – MoBar Net
- Legalfit
- Spectrum Accounting
The conference concluded with a specialized DWI bootcamp designed for teams of lawyers and paralegals to understand the basics of DWI law. The bootcamp covered essentials like case management, Department of Revenue hearings, and legal issue spotting. Teams had the opportunity to develop practical tools, such as client questionnaires and driving record analyses, to enhance case preparation and client advocacy.
Seminar programs qualified for up to 16.5 MCLE credits, including 2.0 Ethics.
Missed the in-person event? A virtual option is available Aug. 25-28! Earn up to 13.9 MCLE, including 2.0 Ethics) and learn from professionals in the comfort of your home or office. Learn more at MoBarCLE.org.
View photos of the 2025 DWI Seminar here.