Grand Ballroom 7A, Convention LevelOutside and sometimes house counsel resist being told what to do, so to speak, fearing infringement on their professional “domain.” The professional claims’ client raises an eyebrow as legal matters persist after closure  of cases seemed indicated. The attorney cites imminent breakthroughs, but bills skyrocket, sometimes with regret voiced by counsel – – all the way to the bank, thinks the claims’ client.  This scenario is but one among many stress points afflicting litigation today. Judges on the appellate bench have a unique perspective on how — to put it nicely, things might better have been handled “differently.” Our “aim” in this fast-paced session is to help field the best possible team confronting the real target: open, litigated claims — and how best to close them expeditiously.  Also addressed are screening techniques for qualifying panel counsel, issues unique to house counsel, and realistic alternative billing assessments.

Here is what you have been waiting for!  Not nearly as many cases go to trial now as ten years ago.  Because of the success of mediations, some in the audience may never have seen a trial.  Here is your chance.  Judge Rosen will convene his courtroom with two of the best lawyers in the State of Florida.  Ray Malca will appear for the claimant and Robert Rodriguez for the defense.  Jana Cauley will portray at least one witness.  The trial will be over a medically based issue and will be done in both in-person and video-teleconference fashion.