Thank you to our past sponsors for supporting diversity in MDL Leadership. We are now accepting new sponsorships.
Thursday September 21, 2023
Vendor Registration and Set up
Time: 2:00pm
Location: Glimmer Foyer
Attendee Registration
Time: 2:00pm
Location: Glimmer Foyer
VIP Room Opens
Time: 2:00pm
Location: Shimmer
SOM Board Meeting
Time: 4:30pm - 5:30pm
Location: Private - Dazzle
Motley Rice Opening Reception
Time: 5:00pm - 7:00pm
Location: Fontaine
Exhibitor Setup and Show Hours
Time: 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Location: Glimmer Ballroom 1-4
Friday September 22, 2023
SOM Yoga
Time: 7:00am - 8:00am
Location: Ocean Lawn
Breakfast
Time: 8:00am - 8:55am
Location: Glimmer Ballroom 1-4
Exhibit Show Hours
Time: 9:00am - 6:00pm
Location: Glimmer Ballroom 1-4
Opening Plenary
Black Hair - The Path to Legislation and Litigation
Time: 9:00am - 9:25am
Location: Glimmer Ballroom 5-7
Speaker
Professor Wendy Greene, Director of the Center for Law, Policy and Social Action at the Thomas R. Kline School of Law
For a full bio, please click HERE
Session 1 - Environmental Mass Torts Overview of AFFF and Emerging Cases
Aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) - a type of firefighting foam commonly used at airports, military bases, and industrial facilities - often contains harmful chemicals that have been linked to various health problems, including cancer, thyroid disease, and reproductive issues. This session examines several lawsuits filed in recent years against manufacturers and users of AFFF and explores the emerging legal landscape of environmental mass torts and the legal challenges posed by environmental contamination.
Time: 9:30am - 10:15am
Location: Flicker 1
Panelist
Michael A. London, Douglas & London
For a full bio, please click HERE
Greg A. Cade, ELG Law
For a full bio, please click HERE
Dan Flynn, DiCello Levitt LLP
For a full bio, please click HERE
Shreedhar R. Patel, Simon Greenstone Panatier
For a full bio, please click HERE
Session 2 - The Business of Mass Torts Building Your Practice Infrastructure
Join us in discovering the business side of mass torts and learn how to position yourself for success in this thriving legal arena. Through practical insights, expert guidance, and interactive discussions, this session will explore the fundamental building blocks required to establish a successful mass tort practice and supply attendees with the tools and comprehensive understanding needed to excel in this dynamic field.
Time: 9:30am - 10:15am
Location: Flicker 2/3
Panelist
Darren A. Miller, D. Miller & Associates
For a full bio, please click HERE
Chris Stewart, Stewart Miller Simmons
For a full bio, please click HERE
Larry Taylor, Jr., The Cochran Firm – Dallas
For a full bio, please click HERE
Session 1 - The Science - What You Need to Know
This session will explore the realm where law and science intersect in mass tort litigation. Learn how to integrate scientific principles, expert testimony, and empirical evidence into legal strategies. Examine how scientific evidence informs case strategies, strengthens arguments, and influences judicial decisions. By gaining essential insights into the scientific aspects of cases, attendees will be equipped to craft persuasive arguments, leverage expert testimony, and navigate the complexities of mass tort litigation. Don’t miss this opportunity to bridge the gap between law and science and enhance your mass tort practice.
Time: 11:15am - 12:00pm
Location: Flicker 1
Moderator
Khaldoun Baghdadi. Walkup, Melodia, Kelly & Schoenberger
For a full bio, please click HERE
Panelist
Parvin K. Aminolroaya, Seeger Weiss
For a full bio, please click HERE
Je Yon Jung, May Jung
For a full bio, please click HERE
Roopal Luhana, Chaffin Luhana
For a full bio, please click HERE
Session 2 - Case Acquisition All You Need to Know
This session will provide information and resources for lawyers, law firm owners, and anyone interested in obtaining cases for mass torts. Speakers will present on the unique set of challenges in mass torts litigation and offer valuable guidance about finding, managing, and maintaining these types of cases.
Time: 11:15am - 12:00pm
Location: Flicker 2/3
Panelist
Ted Forman, Forman Law Offices
For a full bio, please click HERE
Andy Rogers, Vice President, Shield Legal, Presenting Sponsor
For a full bio, please click HERE
Luncheon Public Justice Fighting for Communities of Color En Mass
This session will provide information and resources for lawyers, law firm owners, and anyone interested in obtaining cases for mass torts. Speakers will present on the unique set of challenges in mass torts litigation and offer valuable guidance about finding, managing, and maintaining these types of cases.
Time: 12:05pm - 12:15pm
Speakers
F. Paul Bland, Jr. Executive Director, Public Justice
For a full bio, please click HERE
The Historic Unjust Enrichment Case of Henrietta Lacks and Her Immortal Cells
Time: 12:05pm - 12:15pm
Location: Glimmer Ballroom 1-4
Moderator and Panelist
Professor Deleso A. Alford, Rachel Emanuel Endowed Professor at Southern University Law Center
For a full bio, please click HERE
Panelist
Chris Ayers, Seeger Weiss
For a full bio, please click HERE
Ben Crump, Ben Crump Law
For a full bio, please click HERE
Caprice L. Roberts, J.Y. Sanders Professorship, Associate Dean for Faculty Development and Research; Professor of Law, LSU
For a full bio, please click HERE
Session 1 - It’s Time for Settlement - Now What? Claims Administration and Lien Resolution
Explore the unique dynamics of mass tort settlement administration, including how your clients get paid and how liens are resolved, among other crucial items.
Time: 1:45pm - 2:30pm
Location: Flicker 1
Moderator and Panelist
Kimberly Perkins, Bader Scott
For a full bio, please click HERE
Panelist
Fernandez Anderson, Flow Claims Administration
For a full bio, please click HERE
Brooke Hodge, EisnerAmper
For a full bio, please click HERE
Shery Ramezanian, LitPRO
For a full bio, please click HERE
Dion Russell, Milestone
For a full bio, please click HERE
Session 2 - Nuts and Bolts Jurisdiction, Bellwethers, and Discovery Battles - The Work
Delve into the labyrinth of jurisdictional challenges that arise in mass tort litigation. Learn about the crucial role of bellwether cases and explore how these representative cases set the tone for litigation strategies, negotiations, and potential settlements. Attendees will learn how to unpack the processes that underpin discovery battles in mass tort litigation. Speakers will present case studies, provide expert insights, and engage in interactive discussions, where attendees can examine the core elements that define the landscape of mass tort litigation.
Time: 1:45pm - 2:30pm
Location: Flicker 2/3
Panelist
Maria Fleming, Napoli Shkolnik
For a full bio, please click HERE
John Gomez, Gomez Trial Attorneys
For a full bio, please click HERE
Navan Ward, Beasley Allen
For a full bio, please click HERE
Break
Mass Tort Update II Hair Relaxer, Tylenol, Exactech, CPAP, Sex Abuse, and Opioids
This informative and dynamic session will shed light on the latest developments in a diverse range of mass tort cases. Through case updates, expert analyses, and interactive discussions, attendees will gain insights into the current status of several pending mass tort cases and understand how these developments impact legal strategies and future trends.
Time: 2:50pm - 3:50pm
Location: Flicker 2/3
Panelist
Ron A. Austin, Ron Austin Law
For a full bio, please click HERE
Mary Liu, Aylstock, Witkin, Kreis & Overholtz, PLLC
For a full bio, please click HERE
Juan Martinez, Morgan & Morgan
For a full bio, please click HERE
Diandra “Fu” Debrosse, Managing Partner, DiCello Levitt LLP
For a full bio, please click HERE
Class Action and Securities MDL’s - A Primer
This informative and dynamic session will shed light on the latest developments in a diverse range of mass tort cases. Through case updates, expert analyses, and interactive discussions, attendees will gain insights into the current status of several pending mass tort cases and understand how these developments impact legal strategies and future trends.
Time: 3:45pm - 4:30pm
Location: Flicker 1
Panelist
Michael Gervais, Susman Godfrey
For a full bio, please click HERE
Marlon Kimpson, Motley Rice
For a full bio, please click HERE
Phong-Chau G. Nguyen, Lieff Cabraser Heimann & Bernstein
For a full bio, please click HERE
Sabita Soneji, Tycko & Zavareei
For a full bio, please click HERE
Session 1 - Diversity in the Defense Bar Knowing the Other Side
This thought-provoking session explores the invaluable role of diversity within the defense bar, highlighting the power of understanding and collaboration. Discover the thought processes, challenges, and strategies that defense attorneys employ. Embrace the power of empathy and mutual understanding. Attendees will learn to embrace diversity as a powerful tool for growth and transformation within their practice. By acknowledging and learning from the “other side,” a stronger and more empathetic legal community can emerge and unite in the pursuit of justice.
Time: 4:35pm - 5:10pm
Location: Flicker 2/3
Moderator
William H. “Billy” Murphy, Jr, Murphy, Falcon & Murphy
For a full bio, please click HERE
Panelist
Tory L. Finley, Faegre Drinker Diddle & Reath LLP
For a full bio, please click HERE
Ricardo Woods, Burr & Forman
For a full bio, please click HERE
Session 2 - Ethical Challenges in Mass Torts
Ethical considerations play a pivotal role in shaping the pursuit of justice. Dive into the multifaceted ethical challenges that arise in the context of mass tort cases. By considering real-world scenarios and engaging in thought-provoking discussions, attendees will examine how to negotiate these challenges while upholding the highest standards of professionalism and integrity. Panelists will discuss the role of legal organizations in promoting ethical behavior within the legal community, and attendees will gain the knowledge and insights needed to navigate the complex moral landscape of mass torts.
Time: 4:25pm - 5:20pm
Location: Flicker 1
Panelist
Kathryn Avila, Levin Papantonio Rafferty
For a full bio, please click HERE
Ava Cavaco, Nigh Goldenberg Raso & Vaughn
For a full bio, please click HERE
EricaRae Garcia, Weitz & Luxenberg
For a full bio, please click HERE
Aigner Kolom, Beasley Allen
For a full bio, please click HERE
The NY State Attorney General Speaks
Time: 5:10pm - 5:50pm
Location: Flicker 2/3
Panelist
Letitia James, Attorney General of New York State | Trailblazer and Lifelong Public Servant
For a full bio, please click HERE
SOM Shield Legal Cocktail Hour
Time: 6:00pm - 7:15pm
Location: Glimmer Terrace
Dinner Presidential Address - Shades of Mass and the Future of Mass Torts
Time: 7:15pm - 8:30pm
Location: Glimmer 5-7
Shades of Mass Part-Ay featuring Flo Rida
Time: 9:00pm
Location: Glimmer 5-7
Saturday September 23, 2023
SOM Yoga
Time: 7:00am - 8:00am
Location: Ocean Lawn
Breakfast
Time: 8:00am-8:55am
Location: Glimmer Ballroom 1-4
Exhibit Show Hours
Time: 9:00am - 9:00pm
Location: Glimmer Ballroom 1-4
Opening Panel Reparations – A Legal History and Current Development
Time: 9:00am - 10:00am
Location: Glimmer Ballrom 5-7
Panelist
Lisa Holder, Equal Justice Society
For a full bio, please click HERE
Tips from the MDL Bench Judges Weighing In
Gain unparalleled insights into MDLs from judges who preside over these complex cases. This unique opportunity will offer practical tips and best practices for lawyers navigating the MDL landscape. Understand how to effectively present cases before MDL judges, maximize collaboration, and leverage the court’s guidance. Explore the intricate dynamics, challenges, and strategies involved in managing and adjudicating MDL cases directly from the individuals who shape this complex form of litigation.
Time: 10:15am - 11:10am
Location: Glimmer Ballroom 5-7
Facilitator
The Honorable Randa Trapp, JAMS
For a full bio, please click HERE
Panelist
The Honorable Darrin P. Gayles, Southern District of Florida
For a full bio, please click HERE
The Honorable Denise Langford Morris (Ret.), Oakland County Circuit- Mediator, Arbitrator, JAMS-Detroit
For a full bio, please click HERE
The Honorable Winifred Smith (Ret.), Oakland – Alameda County
For a full bio, please click HERE
Session 1 - ESI and AI What You Need to Know
The future is here! Discover how and electronically stored information (ESI) and artificial intelligence (AI) impact every aspect of your mass tort cases, from initial intake to final disposition. Examine the ethical dimensions of incorporating ESI and AI technologies in mass tort litigation and delve into the dynamic synergy between ESI and AI, showcasing how these technologies revolutionize the discovery process, case analysis, and decision-making in mass torts. Attendees will gain a comprehensive understanding of the potential these tools offer to enhance efficiency and accuracy in complex litigation and potential developments in the use of this innovative technology.
Time: 11:10am - 12:10pm
Location: Flicker 2/3
Panelist
Mark M. Abramowitz, DiCello Levitt LLP
For a full bio, please click HERE
Sri Gupta, International Litigation Services
For a full bio, please click HERE
Session 2 - Litigating Mass Tort Cases in State Court
Unlock the keys to mass tort litigation at the state level. Discover the distinct attributes of litigating mass tort cases in state courts, including procedural variations, jurisdictional challenges, and the impact of state-specific laws on case strategies, as well as the interplay between state cases and MDL proceedings. Gain essential insights, tactics, and best practices from lawyers who have successfully maneuvered through the obstacles unique to state court settings. This is your opportunity to engage with seasoned professionals, broaden your skill set, and position yourself to excel in state court.
Time: 11:10am - 12:10pm
Location: Flicker 1
Panelist
Chelsie Green, Levin Papantonio, Rafferty, Proctor, Buchanan, O’Brien, Barr & Mougey, P.A.
For a full bio, please click HERE
CK Hoffler, CK Hoffler Firm
For a full bio, please click HERE
Priscilla Jimenez, Kline & Specter, P.C.
For a full bio, please click HERE
The Honorable Winifred Smith (Ret.), Oakland – Alameda County
For a full bio, please click HERE
Break
Luncheon - The Fight for Justice
Time: 12:25pm - 2:00pm
Location: Glimmer Ballroom 1-4
Panelist
Raúl Torrez, Attorney General of New Mexico
For a full bio, please click HERE
The Path to MDL Leadership: A Primer
This session offers a gateway to MDL leadership, empowering legal professionals with the knowledge, strategies, and mindset required to expertly guide complex cases to successful outcomes. Speakers will provide an essential introduction to the path to MDL leadership. The session is designed for legal practitioners aspiring to play a pivotal role in shaping the trajectory of complex cases. Through insights from experienced leaders, attendees will better understand the responsibilities, strategies, and qualities that define effective MDL leadership.
Time: 2:15pm
Location: Glimmer Ballroom 5-7
Panelist
Parvin K. Aminolroaya, Seeger Weiss
For a full bio, please click HERE
Marlon Kimpson, Motley Rice
For a full bio, please click HERE
Jose Rojas, Levin, Rojas, Camassar & Reck LLC
For a full bio, please click HERE
Navan Ward, Beasley Allen
For a full bio, please click HERE
Diandra “Fu” Debrosse, Managing Partner, DiCello Levitt LLP
For a full bio, please click HERE
Diversity Roundtable
Time: 3:15pm
Location: Flicker 2/3
Panelist
Courtney French, Petway, French & Ford
For a full bio, please click HERE
Closing Reception Come and Enjoy Free Salsa Lessons!
Time: 5:30pm-8:30pm
Location: Glimmer 5-7
Sunday September 24, 2023
Mass Tort Paralegal Group Meeting
Time: 9:00am
Location: Glitter
Hair Relaxer Litigation Group Meeting
Time: 9:00am
Location: Shimmer
New Member Meeting
Time: 10:00am
Location: Shimmer
Young Lawyers Group Meeting
Time: 11:00am
Location: Shimmer
SOM Litigation Group Lunch
Time: Noon
Location: Glitter Shimmer Foyer
Have a Question?
Contact conference@shadesofmass.org if you have any questions.