Criminal Law Section of The Florida Bar

CONNECT: A Criminal Law Conversation Series
2020-08-14 12:00 - 13:00 (America/New_York) | Zoom
Please join us for CONNECT: A Criminal Law Conversation Series. As we all manage to work in a new environment following COVID, the Criminal Law Section is hosting a new conversation series designed to bring section members together and stay connected—virtually. From now through the rest of the year, join us for a monthly Friday virtual lunch and hear from some of the leading criminal law luminaries. These sessions are intended to be an informal gathering—a chance for the section to hear the life stories and career paths of some of the state’s most influential criminal lawyers.
REGISTRATION is FREE for Criminal Law Section members.
Friday, August 14, 2020
12:00pm – 1:00pm
Our Incredible speaker, Hank Coxe, surprised us by adding a cast of all stars to the agenda! He has invited:
The Honorable Charles T. Canady Chief Justice of The Florida Supreme Court to discuss the future of jury trials
Neal R. Sonnett to share the loss to the criminal justice world of Albert Krieger
A panel discussion with guests from across the State:
4th Circuit State Attorney Melissa Nelson
15th Judicial Circuit Public Defender Carey Haughwout
Nationally Renowned Attorney Jose M. Quiñon of Miami
Warren Lindsay of Orlando – Chair, TFB Criminal Law Section
Honorable Marcia G. Cooke, United States District Judge Southern District of Florida

C4109 Practicing in a Pandemic
2020-08-20 16:00 - 17:00 | Zoom
The Florida Bar Criminal Law Section is proud to present Safer at Home with the Judges, a CLE series featuring the spectacular Judges Harris — the Honorable Jenifer Harris, currently a circuit judge in Orange County, and her husband, the Honorable Patrick Harris, now retired from the Ohio state court bench. Sharing their wit and wisdom with us on a range of important and interesting topics each month, the Harris’ depth of legal insight, superior teaching skills, and practical approach to complex problem solving are just some of what makes them such popular and effective CLE presenters nationwide.
This, FREE, one-hour CLE will provide practitioners with an overview on how to effectively handle virtual hearings and trials. The presentation will also cover legal issues arising because of the pandemic,including speedy trial, the right to confrontation, identity issues, the right to a fair trial, the right to an open and public trial.
REGISTRATION
Thursday, August 20, 2020
4:00pm – 5:00pm
Presented By:
Honorable Jenifer Harris, Orlando
Honorable Patrick Harris (Retired), Orlando

Judge Jenifer Harris is a Circuit Judge in the Ninth Judicial Circuit of Florida. She is currently assigned to the Juvenile Division, having previously served in the Criminal, Domestic, Probate, and Unified Family Divisions. She is a current adjunct law professor at Barry and previously at UF and UNF. She is faculty at Courtroom College, offering CLEs for Florida Criminal Lawyers. Judge Harris is also a faculty member at the National Judicial College, where she has taught advanced evidence, conducting a trial, case management, handling capital cases, and trying a sex case. She is a Coauthor, of Florida Criminal Practice and Procedure, Lexis (2019).
Judge Patrick Harris retired from the Ohio state court bench in 2015 after 13 years of service presiding over criminal and civil cases and creating the first adult Mental Health Court in his county. He is faculty and president of Courtroom College, providing CLEs for Florida criminal Lawyers. As a faculty member of the National Judicial College and an adjunct professor of law at Barry, Judge Harris teaches case management, handling constitutional issues, advanced evidence, electronic evidence, and trial advocacy. He coauthors Florida Criminal Practice and Procedure, Lexis (2019). He is currently in private practice in Central Florida.

COVID-19 Attorney Wellness, Part Two: How to Manage Stress, Anxiety, and Isolation in Times of Uncertainty
2020-08-21 14:00 - 15:00 | Zoom
The Criminal Law Section is privileged to offer this important CLE FREE of charge to all Florida Bar Members.
As promised when he “checked in” with us last May, Florida Lawyers Assistance (FLA) Clinical Director Dr. Scott Weinstein RETURNS to “check up” on how we (lawyers) are coping, now five months into the pandemic and radical restructuring of our lives.
Joined once again by FLA Assistant Director Molly Paris, these two mental health experts will address the many emotional, psychological, and professional issues associated with our well-being during this challenge — both anticipated and unexpected — and help us develop coping skills unique to ourselves and our profession.
As before, our panelists will take questions from attendees.
And note: Like all FLA public presentations, this CLE is not, nor is it intended to be, a confidential, therapeutic gathering. All Zoom participants will be able to see who is in attendance.
REGISTRATION
Friday, August 21, 2020
2:00pm – 3:00pm
How to Managing Stress, Anxiety, and Isolation in Times of Uncertainty
Scott M. Weinstein, Ph.D.
Clinical Director, Florida Lawyers Assistance
Molly J. Paris, Esquire
Assistant Director, Florida Lawyers Assistance

CONNECT: A Criminal Law Conversation Series
2020-09-11 12:00 - 13:00 | Zoom
As we all manage to work in a new environment following COVID, the Criminal Law Section is hosting a new conversation series designed to bring section members together and stay connected—virtually. From now through the rest of the year, join us for a monthly virtual lunch and hear from some of the leading criminal law luminaries. These sessions are intended to be an informal gathering—a chance for the section to hear the life stories and career paths of some of the state’s most influential criminal lawyers.
Join us on Friday, September 11, 2020 for a FREE round table discussion with Pam Marsh (Northern District), Lee Bentley (Middle District), and Jeff Sloman (Southern District).
REGISTRATION

C3524 HOT TOPICS IN EVIDENCE 2020
2020-09-25 08:50 - 17:00 | GoToWebinar, FL, United States
This one-day seminar has been designed to appeal to civil, criminal, and appellate practitioners. Those in attendance will benefit from a thorough discussion of the latest developments in Florida evidence law, and an exploration of difficult, recurring evidentiary issues.
REGISTRATION
September 25, 2020
8:50 a.m. – 9:00 a.m.
Welcoming Remarks
Co-Chair of Standing Subcommittee on Education of Code & Rules of Evidence Committee of The Florida Bar
9:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.
A View from the Bench – How to Avoid Daubert Pitfalls
Honorable Paul G. Byron, USDC Judge, Middle District of Florida, Orlando Division, will provide insight and guidance from his experience as a USDC Judge. How Daubert is handled by motion and brief, and when evidentiary hearings are required.
10:30 a.m. – 10:45 a.m.
Break
10:45 a.m. – 11:45 p.m.
How Ethics Saved Me
Jay Andrew Hebert, Esq. – Herbert Law Group, Tampa Bay Area – Board Criminal Defense attorney – Mr. Hebert will relate his experience in a high-profile murder case and his role as counsel to the defendant’s paramour; and how he was able to protect his client and himself.
11:45 p.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Mindfulness Meditation
Tampa Attorney, Kimberly Nuñez will dedicate the first 30 minutes to explain mindfulness meditation, the health benefits of mindfulness meditation, and identify the elements of practicing a basic mindfulness meditation. For the last 15 minutes, Attorney Nuñez will walk the participants through a basic mindfulness meditation exercise they can incorporate into their daily lives to begin the journey to becoming a more mindful lawyer.
12:30 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Managing Electronic Data in Discovery and Discovery Analytics
Chad S. Roberts, Esq. – eDiscovery CoCounsel & The Roberts Firm, pll
Need help organizing and analyzing electronic evidence? Mr. Roberts will discuss how to manage large amounts of digital data and what the data can sometimes reveal by using analytical tools.
1:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Expert’s Point of View – Challenging the Expert under Daubert
Ming Xiao, Ph.D., P.E., RIMKUS Consulting Group, Inc.
Dr. Xiao will discuss how he personally prepares and works with the attorney who engaged him to defend a Daubert challenge and how your designated expert can help you challenge opposing counsel’s expert under Daubert.
2:30 p.m. – 2:45 p.m.
Break
2:45 p.m. – 3:45 p.m.
Remote Testimony – Admissibility Concerns (including Rules’ updates and uniform statute)
Stefano D. Portigliatti, Esq., Coker Law
Exploring how the uniform remote testimony laws interact with existing rules and law, considering the ever growing digital and electronic world.
3:45 p.m. – 4:45 p.m.
Authenticity and Admissibility of Social Media and Digital Evidence
Moderated by H. Scott Fingerhut, Esq., Assistant Director of Trial Advocacy at FIU Law
What are the best ways of managing this data and how best to present to the judge and jury, and as physical exhibits?
4:45 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Closing Remarks

CONNECT: A Criminal Law Section Series
2020-10-09 12:00 - 13:00 | Zoom
Please join us for our October CONNECT: A Criminal Law Conversation Series as we are joined by an esteemed panel of state court judges who share their insights and perspectives in criminal trials in the era of COVID. We will be joined by Judge Michael Andrews (6th Judicial Circuit), Judge Miguel de la O (11th Judicial Circuit), and Judge Samantha Ward (13th Judicial Circuit). These judges will share their stories and background on criminal law practice, generally, and practicing in these unprecedented time, specifically. You’ll be sure to not want to miss this free program!
Registration is FREE for Criminal Law Section members.
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2020
12:00PM – 1:00PM
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER
_________________________
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.
*This program is not for CLE credit.

ABC's of Juvenile Delinquency: An Introduction to Delinquency for Criminal Practitioners
2020-10-16 12:00 - 13:30 | Zoom
Welcome to the world of juvenile delinquency! This FREE ZOOM CLE will help Florida practitioners better represent the best interests of children in juvenile delinquency court. Through video demonstration and expert panel discussion, this CLE will take you from the earliest phases of a delinquency case, highlight the differences (and similarities) between delinquency and adult criminal court, and prepare you for your first forays into handling these types of juvenile cases.
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2020
12:00pm – 1:30pm
REGISTER
Registration is FREE for all Criminal Law Section members.
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.

An Introduction to Deposition Notebook Fundamentals
2020-10-23 12:00 - 13:15 | GoToWebinar, FL, United States
This first CLE in the series presents an introduction to the deposition notebook and its core components, including an overview of the items in the index to the notebook. This CLE will also cover why we take depositions, how to start a deposition the right way, the funnel approach to taking depositions, the art of listening, deposition self-critique, and an overview of the four levels of advocacy and their relationship to the good facts and bad facts in your case.
OCTOBER 23, 2020
12:00pm – 1:15pm
Edward J. Page, Carlton Fields +BIO
REGISTER
CLE CREDITS
General: 1.5
CERTIFICATION CREDITS
Appellate Pracitce: 1.5 Hours
Criminal Appellate Practice: 1.5 Hours
Criminal Trial Law: 1.5 Hours
Juvenile Law: 1.5 Hours

3464 Criminal Law Update 2020
2020-11-13 08:55 - 15:55 | GoToWebinar, FL, United States
The 2020 Florida Bar Criminal Law Update presents a vast array of topics from a diverse slate of speakers that promises to be informative and of interest to criminal and civil practitioners alike, public and private, and to the bench as well.

This year’s Update features a State of the Criminal Justice Address, updates in jury selection, immigration, and DUI law, a case law update, and an update in technology, with speakers including the Chief Judge of the Eleventh Judicial Circuit, the Public Defender of Palm Beach County, and a host of educators and experts in their respective fields. And if that were not enough, our midday speaker is the truly special portion of this CLE — retired Florida Supreme Court Justice Harry Lee Anstead will deliver our keynote and reflect for the lunch hour on a legal life well-lived and what tomorrow holds for the liberty and justice for us all.
November 13, 2020
8:55am – 3:55pm
GoToWebinar
REGISTER

Selected Topics in Taking and Defending Depositions
2020-11-20 12:00 - 13:15 | GoToWebinar, FL, United States
This second installment in the series will address how to use depositions to collect the good and bad facts in your case, and then what to do with them. This CLE will also address how to prepare your witness for deposition, as well as how to stop, take a break during, and restart your deposition. The CLE will also provide resources and reference materials for taking better and more meaningful depositions.
November 20, 2020
12:00pm – 1:15pm
Edward J. Page, Carlton Fields +BIO
REGISTER
CLE CREDITS
General: 1.5
CERTIFICATION CREDITS
Appellate Practice: 1.5 Hours
Criminal Appellate Practice: 1.5 Hours
Criminal Trial Law: 1.5 Hours
Juvenile Law: 1.5 Hours

Building & Using a Deposition Notebook Series
2020-12-11 12:00 - 13:15 | GoToWebinar, FL, United States
In this third part of the series, the CLE will address how to use the index in your deposition notebook to warm-up and prepare for a deposition. The program will also cover a court reporter’s wish list, how to be on the lookout for a deponent’s weasel words, deposition objections, and deposition ethics, including how to handle the lawyer on the other side.
December 11, 2020
12:00pm – 1:15pm
Edward J. Page, Carlton Fields +BIO
REGISTER
CLE CREDITS
General: 1.5
CERTIFICATION CREDITS
Appellate Practice: 1.5 Hours
Criminal Appellate Practice: 1.5 Hours
Criminal Trial Law: 1.5 Hours
Juvenile Law: 1.5 Hours

2020-12-17 12:00 - 13:30
Safer at Home with the Judges CLE: How to Deal With Difficult People
In this season-ending Safer at Home presentation by the Judges Harris, this special FREE CLE will focus on dealing with difficult actors in all aspects of a criminal case.
Providing their unique insights and perspectives, the judges will discuss the law as it pertains to judicial conduct, attorney conduct, and defendant conduct alike.
Related issues to be covered by the judges will include the professional competence and professionalism of the bench and bar, as well as the cognitive competency and impact on the case of the mental health of the accused.
Join the judges for this engaging talk on how we may all better handle ourselves, our business, and the people whom we serve in our criminal justice system.

2020-12-18 12:00 - 13:30 | Zoom
COVID-19 Attorney Wellness: Part Four
Originally aired on December 18, 2020
The Criminal Law Section of The Florida Bar is privileged to offer this continuing CLE series FREE OF CHARGE to all Criminal Law Section members.
This is our continuing gift to ourselves.
And just in time for the holidays.
We began in May. Then August. Then October. Florida Lawyers Assistance (FLA) Clinical Director Dr. Scott Weinstein invited us to “fireside chats” on how we (lawyers) are coping, months (and months and months) into the pandemic, and the radical restructuring of our lives.
Now in our fourth installment and joined once again by FLA Assistant Director Molly Paris, Dr. Weinstein will address the many emotional, psychological, and professional issues associated with our well-being during this unprecedented and ongoing challenge. Tackling stressors both anticipated and unexpected, Dr. Scott and Molly continue to help all of us better develop coping skills unique to ourselves and our profession.
As always, our experts will take questions from attendees.
And note: Like all FLA public presentations, this CLE is not, nor is it intended to be, a confidential, therapeutic gathering. All Zoom participants will be able to see who is in attendance. That said, in order to keep our meeting “to ourselves,” the Criminal Law Section does NOT post the recording of the presentation in any public fashion.
REGISTER

2021-01-15 09:00 - 12:00 | Zoom
CLS Executive Council Meeting
January 15, 2021 on Zoom

2021-04-30 09:00 - 14:00 | Zoom
Once again, your Criminal Law Section Masters of DUI is the one-stop CLE series to receive cutting-edge education on all aspects of DUI practice. Designed for both basic and experienced practitioners, Masters of DUI faculty are knowledgeable lawyers, judges, and experts who present entertaining and informative lectures on a variety of topics important to every DUI practitioner.
Masters of DUI 2021 was presented virtually, in three parts. Covering a thoughtful blend of law, science, and ethics, each segment promises the high standards of content and presentation that Masters of DUI is known for. Each year, our goal is to provide a balanced program useful to defense and state alike, and this year’s segments are no exception. Purchase individually or buy the bundle.

Part One: The Basics of Becoming a Master (Originally aired on April 30, 2021. Approved for CLE credit until October 30, 2022)
Part Two: Administrative Suspensions/DMV Hearings and The Science of Testing (Originally aired on May 21, 2021. Approved for CLE credit until November 21, 2022)
Part Three: DUI Serious Bodily Injury and Manslaughter (Originally aired on June 4, 2021. Approved for CLE credit until F

December 4, 2022)

Interested in all three CLEs? Purchase the bundle!

2021-04-30 09:00 - 14:00 | GoToWebinar, FL, United States
(4418) Masters of DUI: The Basics of Becoming a Master
Originally aired on April 30, 2021
Though we look a little different this year, once again your Criminal Law Section Masters of DUI is the one-stop CLE event to receive cutting-edge education on all aspects of DUI practice.
Designed for both basic and experienced practitioners, Masters of DUI faculty are knowledgeable lawyers, judges, and experts who will present entertaining and informative lectures on a variety of topics important to every DUI practitioner.
Each year, our goal is to provide a balanced program useful to defense and state alike, and this year is no exception.
Our seminar this year is presented virtually, in three parts over three sessions. Covering a thoughtful blend of law, science, and ethics, each segment promises the high standards of content and presentation that Masters of DUI is known for.
In particular this year, our popular annual segment on ethics will tackle the controversial cross section of social media — and its significant presence in the DUI world — and the ethical obligations we all face in our ever-increasing internet-driven legal practices.
8:50 AM – 9:00 AM
Welcome and Introduction
Co-Chair Susan Cohen, Jacksonville
Co-Chair David Robbins, Jacksonville
9:00 AM – 9:30 AM
Case law Update
Samantha Vacciana, Ft. Lauderdale
9:30 AM – 10:00 AM
Your Starting Point – The Client Interview
Susan Cohen, Jacksonville
10:00 AM – 10:10 AM
Break
10:10 AM – 10:50 AM
The Judicial Perspective
Honorable Deborah Carpenter, 17th Circuit
10:50 AM – 11:25 AM
Good Things Happen When You File Motions
Eilam Isaak, Tampa
11:25 AM – 11:35 AM
Break
11:35 AM – 12:15 PM
Technology and Practice
Elliott Wilcox, Tampa
12:15 PM – 12:50 PM
Cross Examination of LEO
Keeley Karatinos, Dade City
12:50 PM – 1:00 PM
Break
1:00 PM – 2:00 PM
Ethical Considerations in the World of Social Media
Gwen Daniel, Tampa

2021-05-07 09:00 - 16:30 | GoToWebinar, FL, United States
(4558) Advanced Federal Practice 2021
Originally aired on May 7, 2021
This course covers topics of Federal Criminal Practice such as the latest cases on substantive federal criminal law and procedure from the Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals, and Constitutional issues from the United States Supreme Court. The course will also cover practice tips from both district judges, magistrate judges, and a court of appeals judge. The program is specially designed for the attorney practicing in federal criminal court and is taught by some of the leading defense lawyers in the field as well as federal judges.
Friday, May 7, 2021
9:00 AM – 9:15 AM
Introduction
9:15 AM – 10:30 AM
Panel Discussion: Meet the New Southern District of Florida Judges
Moderator: Margot Moss
Panelists:
Honorable Rodney Smith
Honorable Roy K. Altman
Honorable Raas Singhal
10:30 AM – 10:45 AM
Break
10:45 AM – 12:15 PM
A Crime A Day
Mike Chase
12:15 PM – 1:00 PM
Lunch
1:00 PM – 2:15 PM
Eleventh Circuit Update
Don Samuel
2:15 PM – 3:15 PM
A Conversation with Eleventh Circuit Judge Robin Rosenbaum
Honorable Robin Rosenbaum
David Oscar Markus
3:15 PM – 3:30 PM
Break
3:30 PM – 4:30 PM
Panel Discussion: Practice Tips from the Magistrate Judges
Moderator: Michael Caruso
Panelists:
Honorable Lisette M. Reid
Honorable Jacqueline Becerra

2021-05-21 09:00 - 14:00 | GoToWebinar, FL, United States
(4419) MASTERS OF DUI: Administrative Suspensions/DMV Hearings and the Science of Testings
Though we look a little different this year, once again your Criminal Law Section Masters of DUI is the one-stop CLE event to receive cutting-edge education on all aspects of DUI practice.
Designed for both basic and experienced practitioners, Masters of DUI faculty are knowledgeable lawyers, judges, and experts who will present entertaining and informative lectures on a variety of topics important to every DUI practitioner.
Each year, our goal is to provide a balanced program useful to defense and state alike, and this year is no exception.
Our seminar this year is presented virtually, in three parts over three sessions. Covering a thoughtful blend of law, science, and ethics, each segment promises the high standards of content and presentation that Masters of DUI is known for.
In particular this year, our popular annual segment on ethics will tackle the controversial cross section of social media — and its significant presence in the DUI world — and the ethical obligations we all face in our ever-increasing internet-driven legal practices.
REGISTER NOW
8:50 AM – 9:00 AM
Welcome and Introduction
Scott Fingerhut, Miami
9:00 AM – 9:45 AM
The Nuts and Bolts of the Administrative Suspension
David Robbins and Susan Cohen Jacksonville
9:45 AM – 10:15 AM
When the Nuts and Bolts Don’t Prevail – Petitions for Certiorari Review
Susan Cohen, Jacksonville
10:15 AM – 10:25 AM
Break
10:25 AM – 11:15 AM
The Administrative Process From the Other Side
Tom Moffett, Deputy Chief Counsel, Bureau of Administrative Reviews, Tallahassee
11:15 AM – 11:25 AM
Break
11:25 AM – 12:15 PM
Lab Protocols & Quality Control – How to Recognize a Problem
Janine Arvizu, Lab Auditor
12:15 PM – 12:50 PM
Mechanics of High Level Testing for Alcohol
Suzanne Perry, Analytical Chemist and Phlebotomist
12:50 PM – 1:00 PM
Break
1:00 PM – 2:00 PM
Breath Testing Issues
Dr. Stefan Rose, Forensic Toxicologist, Stuart
Robert Harrison, Venice

2021-06-04 09:00 - 14:00 | GoToWebinar, FL, United States
MASTERS OF DUI: Serious Bodily Injury and Manslaughter
Originally aired on June 4, 2021
Though we look a little different this year, once again your Criminal Law Section Masters of DUI is the one-stop CLE event to receive cutting-edge education on all aspects of DUI practice.
Designed for both basic and experienced practitioners, Masters of DUI faculty are knowledgeable lawyers, judges, and experts who will present entertaining and informative lectures on a variety of topics important to every DUI practitioner.
Each year, our goal is to provide a balanced program useful to defense and state alike, and this year is no exception.
Our seminar this year is presented virtually, in three parts over three sessions. Covering a thoughtful blend of law, science, and ethics, each segment promises the high standards of content and presentation that Masters of DUI is known for.
In particular this year, our popular annual segment on ethics will tackle the controversial cross section of social media — and its significant presence in the DUI world — and the ethical obligations we all face in our ever-increasing internet-driven legal practices.
REGISTER NOW
8:50 AM – 9:00 AM
Welcome and Introduction
Co-Chair Susan Cohen, Jacksonville
Co-Chair David Robbins, Jacksonville
9:00 AM – 9:45 AM
Case Evaluation
Annemarie Rizzo, Sarasota
9:45 AM – 10:35 AM
The Real Work – Discovery, Gathering Evidence, and Deposition Prep
Michael Snure, Winter Park
10:35 AM – 10:45 AM
Break
10:45 AM – 11:30 AM
Motion Practice: The Best Trial Lawyer is the Best Pretrial Lawyer
Robert Reiff, Miami
11:30 AM – 12:10 PM
The Nitty-Gritty of Accident Reconstruction
Sarah-Anne Blades, Accident Reconstructionist
12:10 PM – 12:20 PM
Break
12:20 PM – 1:30 PM
A Look at Trials and Strategies From Both Sides
John Kalinowski, Jacksonville
Aaron Wayt, Tallahassee

2021-06-11 14:00 - 17:00 | Hilton Orlando-Bonnet Creek Resort, 14100 Bonnet Creek Resort Ln, Orlando, FL, 23821, United States
LOOK OUT BELOW: Blunders, Landmines and the Consequences of Poor Attorney Performance in the Preservation of Record Error
Originally presented on June 11, 2021
The Florida Bar President’s Showcase CLE presented by The CLE Committee of The Florida Bar, The Florida Bar Appellate Practice Section, The Florida Bar Criminal Law Section, and The Florida Bar Trial Lawyers Section

Friday, June 11, 2021
2:00p-5:00pm
Hilton Bonnett Creek
The Florida Bar Annual Convention
AND Live Webcast
Course Number: 4379
Course Level: Advanced
CLE Credit: 3.0
WHY WE ARE HERE
This CLE is a call to all Florida lawyers, working cases state and federal, civil and criminal, to pay greater attention to the legal, ethical, and moral consequences of the failure to properly preserve error in records below.
From the perspective of Justice Labarga, along with our host of expert presenters — Bar leaders all — our intention is as much to educate on best practices in error preservation (how to avoid the many mistakes and missteps, common and uncommon, pretrial, trial, and beyond) as it is to infuse in Florida lawyers this universality of spirit:

to rededicate ourselves to this often neglected principle of our practice law;
an obligation owed to client and cause;
a reflection of public trust;
a fidelity to our profession and ourselves.

PROGRAM
2:00pm-2:05pm
Welcome
Scott Fingerhut, Program Chair and CLE Chair, Criminal Law Section
FIU College of Law and H. Scott Fingerhut, P.A., Miami
2:05pm-2:10pm
Introduction of Justice Jorge Labarga
Warren Lindsey, Chair, Criminal Law Section
Board Certified in Criminal Trial Law
Lindsey & Ferry, P.A., Orlando
2:10pm-2:40pm
To Protect and Preserve: Lawyers Must Do Better
Justice Jorge Labarga, Florida Supreme Court, Tallahassee
Justice Labarga will speak on the critical — too-often neglected — importance of error preservation across legal contexts. Emphasizing the centrality of the lawyer’s role, Justice Labarga will discuss how better representation of clients and causes by acquiring and honing error preservation skills brings on better justice and fosters a legal profession worthy of public confidence and trust.
2:40p-2:45p
Introduction of Criminal Law Presentation
Yohance Asim Pettis, CLE Chair, Trial Lawyers Section
United States Attorney’s Office, Tampa
2:45pm-3:25pm
Better Error Preservation in Criminal Law
Michael T. Davis, Board Certified in Appellate Practice, Kuehne Davis Law, P.A., Miami
Carey S. Haughwout, Board Certified in Criminal Trial Law, Public Defender, 15th Judicial Circuit, Palm Beach
Michael Robert Ufferman, Board Certified in Criminal Appellate Law, Michael Ufferman Law Firm, Tallahassee
In this dynamic presentation, our presenters will address the many ways in which errors in criminal cases are better preserved — in court and out, at all stages of representation — and the consequences of counsel’s failure to uphold this core professional responsibility.
3:25pm-3:30pm
Introduction of Civil Law Presentation
Christopher D. Donovan, Board Certified in Appellate Practice, Chair, Appellate Practice Section, Roetzel & Andress, Naples
3:30pm-4:10pm
Better Error Preservation in Civil Law
Steven L. Brannock, Board Certified in Appellate Practice, Brannock Humphries & Berman, Tampa
Dennis R. O’Connor, Board Certified in Civil Trial, O’Connor & O’Connor, Orlando
Hala A. Sandridge, Board Certified in Appellate Practice, Buchanan Ingersoll-Rooney, Tampa
In this equally dynamic presentation, our presenters will address the many ways in which errors in civil cases must be better preserved, and the equally dire consequences to client, cause, and our profession when counsel fails in this all-important responsibility.
4:10pm-4:55pm
No Rest for the Weary: A Discussion with Lawyers’ Lawyers on Better Justice through Better Error Preservation
Moderator:
Ceci Culpepper Berman, Board Certified in Appellate Practice, Brannock Humphries & Berman, Tampa
Panelists:
Gerald B. Cope Jr., Chair, Appellate Practice Group, Akerman LLP, Miami
Henry M. Coxe III, Board Certified in Criminal Trial Law, Bedell, Dittmar, DeVault, Pillans & Coxe, Jacksonville
Rodolfo Sorondo Jr., Chair, Appellate Practice Group, Holland & Knight LLP, Miami
In this great discussion, this trio of legal legends will reflect on pitfalls — obvious and not – in error preservation, and the importance of how best practice achieves better justice and enables our profession to more profoundly gain the public trust.
4:55pm – 5:00pm
Program Close
Scott Fingerhut, Program Chair and CLE Chair, Criminal Law Section
FIU College of Law and H. Scott Fingerhut, P.A., Miami

2021-06-25 13:00 - 16:00 | Zoom
Restorative Justice in Criminal Practice
Originally aired on June 25, 2021
The Alternative Dispute Resolution, Criminal Law, and Government Lawyer Sections of The Florida Bar, along with the Florida Restorative Justice Association, proudly present Restorative Justice in Criminal Practice — a program intended to open hearts and minds and inspire transformational change in how we resolve criminal cases.
In this afternoon of frank discussions, some of the country’s foremost restorative justice scholars, judges, and practitioners, alongside a stunningly personal case study, will define the concept of restorative justice, exploring its theory, origin, and various models, and consider the application of restorative justice practices in our criminal justice system.
Friday, June 25, 2021
1:00pm – 4:00pm
A virtual CLE presentation via Zoom

TOPICS & SPEAKERS
1:00pm -1:05pm

Welcome

H. Scott Fingerhut

FlU College of Law and H. Scott Fingerhut, P.A., Miami, Program Co-Chair

1:05pm -1:55pm

An Introduction to Restorative Justice

This panel will define the concept of restorative justice and explore its theory and origins. The panel will then discuss how restorative justice works — its efficacy — describing various models of applying restorative justice in the criminal justice system.

Moderator

Edith Georgi,

St. Thomas University School of Law, Miami Gardens

Panelists

Donna Coker,

University of Miami School of Law, Miami

Justice Janine Geske (ret.),

Marquette University Law School, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Aparna Polavarapu,

University of South Carolina School of Law, Columbia, South Carolina

1:55pm -2:05pm

Break and Breakout Room for Q&A with the Panelists

2:05pm – 2:55pm

A Case Study

Moderator

Kelly McGrath

Kelly McGrath Law, Tallahassee

Panelists

Kate and Andy Grosmaire

Julie and Michael McBride

2:55pm – 3:05pm

Break and Breakout Room for Q&A with the Panelists

3:05pm – 3:55pm

Restorative Justice in Criminal Practice

This panel will discuss practical considerations in applying restorative justice practices to criminal cases.

Moderator

H. Scott Fingerhut

Panelists

Michael Becker

Assistant State Attorney, 8th Judicial Circuit, Gainesville

Robert Burrs

Executive Director, Conflict Solutions Center of Santa Barbara County, California

Dean Galigani

Gailgani Law Firm, Gainesville

Hon. Steve Leifman

County Judge, Eleventh Judicial Circuit

3:55pm – 4:00pm

Program Close

H. Scott Fingerhut

2021-07-23 12:00 - 16:00 | GoToWebinar, FL, United States
MISDEMEANOR MADNESS: How to Better Navigate Florida County Court (Part I)
The Criminal Law Section of the Florida Bar is excited to announce MISDEMEANOR MADNESS: a first-of-its-kind seminar dedicated to the “trials and tribulations” of county court. Don’t miss this TWO-DAY VIRTUAL CLE and learn from some of Florida’s most accomplished lawyers and judges, as they offer expert insight on how to successfully prosecute and defend your misdemeanor cases. Topics to be covered include misdemeanor impact on driver licenses and other professional licensure, the immigration consequences resulting from misdemeanor convictions, unique sentencing schemes of certain “lesser” crimes, along with perspectives, procedural tips, and other practical strategies from county court pros. Misdemeanor Madness offers something for lawyers of all experience levels.
REGISTER
Friday, July 23, 2021
12:00pm – 4:00pm
TOPICS & SPEAKERS
12:00pm – 12:05pm
Welcome
L. Lee Lockett
Lockett Law, Jacksonville Beach
Program Chair
12:05pm – 12:55pm
Misdemeanor Charges Won’t Affect My Livelihood, Right?
Thomas Albert (“Tad”) Delegal III
Delegal and Poindexter, P.A., Jacksonville
12:55pm – 1:45pm
Immigration and Deportation Consequences: Misdemeanors Count, Too!
Maggie Arias
Arias & Pereira, Coral Gables
1:45pm – 1:55pm
Break
1:55pm – 2:45pm
The Daily Grind: Pitfalls to Avoid in County Court
Richard T. Clausi Jr.
Office of the State Attorney, 15th Judicial Circuit, West Palm Beach
2:45pm – 4:00pm
Ethics, Civility, Professionalism, and Beyond: A Conversation with County Court Judges About What They’d Like You to Know
Moderator:
L. Lee Lockett
Lockett Law, Jacksonville Beach
Panelists:
Hon. Tina L. Caraballo
County Court Judge, 9th Judicial Circuit, Orlando
Hon. Robin W. Faber
County Court Judge, 11th Judicial Circuit, Miami
Hon. Rhonda D. Peoples-Waters
County Court Judge, 4th Judicial Circuit, Duval
4:00pm
Program Close
L. Lee Lockett
Lockett Law, Jacksonville Beach

2021-08-13 12:00 - 16:00 | GoToWebinar, FL, United States
MISDEMEANOR MADNESS: How to Better Navigate Florida County Court (Part II)
The Criminal Law Section of the Florida Bar is excited to announce MISDEMEANOR MADNESS: a first-of-its-kind seminar dedicated to the “trials and tribulations” of county court. Don’t miss this TWO-DAY VIRTUAL CLE and learn from some of Florida’s most accomplished lawyers and judges, as they offer expert insight on how to successfully prosecute and defend your misdemeanor cases. Topics to be covered include misdemeanor impact on driver licenses and other professional licensure, the immigration consequences resulting from misdemeanor convictions, unique sentencing schemes of certain “lesser” crimes, along with perspectives, procedural tips, and other practical strategies from county court pros. Misdemeanor Madness offers something for lawyers of all experience levels.
REGISTER
Friday, August 13, 2021
12:00pm – 4:00pm
TOPICS & SPEAKERS
12:00pm – 12:05pm
Welcome
L. Lee Lockett
Lockett Law, Jacksonville Beach
Program Chair
12:05pm – 12:55pm
You Can’t Cancel My License, It’s Already Suspended!: DMV to the Rescue to Sort Out Confusion Over Misdemeanors and their Impact on Driving
Mark L. Mason
Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, Tallahassee
12:55pm – 1;45pm
A Primer on Sentencing Schemes in County Court
AnneMarie R. Rizzo
The Law Place, Sarasota
1:45pm – 1:55pm
Break
1:55pm – 2:45p
The ABCs of Managing a Misdemeanor Caseload
Tricia Rado Rover
Office of the Public Defender, 4th Judicial Circuit, Jacksonville
2:45pm – 4:00pm
County Court Appeals: New Rules, Ethics, Record Preservation, Practice Tips, and More
Michael R. Ufferman
Michael Ufferman Law Firm, P.A., Tallahassee

4:00pm
Program Close
L. Lee Lockett
Lockett Law, Jacksonville Beach
Program Chair

2021-10-13 08:00 - 17:00
Criminal Law Update 2022—April 8, 2022
Details coming soon.

2021-12-10 09:00 - 17:00 | GoToWebinar, FL, United States
Modern Trends in State and Federal Health Care Prosecutions—December 10, 2021—Live Webcast (90-day, on-demand access for registrants). Course 5641 is approved for 8.0 General CLE credits; 8.0 each certification program credits in Appellate Practice, Criminal Appellate, Criminal Trial Law, Health Law and Juvenile Law. Course Classification—Advanced. This second iteration of this informative program will continue to review the most current law enforcement trends and best practices in federal and state healthcare prosecutions. Our presenters, all expert practitioners in this field, will update attendees on today’s healthcare fraud and kickback cases, as well as focus on how to develop winning litigation strategies, from the pretrial motion stage to executing trial skills to your advantage to achieving greater success at sentencing. Prosecution and defense alike will gain important insight and benefit from this event. REGISTER
8:30 AM – 9:00 AM
Registration
9:00 AM – 9:15 AM
Welcome
Marissel Descalzo, Program Chair, Miami
9:15 AM – 10:30 AM
Hot Topics in Healthcare Prosecutions: Current Enforcement Initiatives and Best Practices
Elizabeth D. Shaw, Ponte Vedra Beach
Ryan K. Stumphauzer, Miami
10:30 AM – 10:45 AM
Break
10:45 AM – 12:00 PM
Why Pretrial Motions are Important to Winning a Healthcare Fraud Case
Marissel Descalzo, Miami
Tama B. Kudman, West Palm Beach
12:00 PM – 12:45 PM
Lunch Provided
12:45 PM – 2:15 PM
Maximizing Effectiveness in State and Federal Healthcare Sentencing Proceedings
Simon A. Gaugash, Tampa
Kevin J. Napper, Tampa
2:15 PM – 2:30 PM
Break
2:30 PM – 3:30 PM
Lessons from the Trenches: Better Trial Practice in Healthcare Cases, Pandemic Included
Michael E. Dutko, Sr., Fort Lauderdale
3:30 PM – 5:00 PM
Litigation Strategies in Healthcare Fraud and Kickback Prosecutions
Panel: John C. Beroset, Pensacola; Andrew S. Feldman, Miami; Vanessa S. Johannes Miami

2022-02-25 12:15 - 13:45
(5731) The ABCs of Expert Witness Depositions—Feb. 25, 2022, 12:15 PM – 1:45 PM, Live GoToWebinar. Part 4 of the Experts on Advocacy: Building and Using a Deposition Notebook CLE Series. Approved for 2 General CLE credits and 2 certification credits each in Juvenile Law, Appellate Practice, Criminal Appellate and Criminal Trial. Criminal Law Section members register for only $50.
Experts on Advocacy is a CLE series presented by the Criminal Law Section bringing together today’s best strategic thinkers and compelling courtroom advocates to offer you effective ideas and creative insights for improving litigation results at all stages of criminal court proceedings.
We are privileged to have veteran trial lawyer Ed Page return with this fourth installment of his Deposition Notebook series—the ABCs of expert witness depositions and how to take them to the next level. Once and for all, Ed will take the mystery out of this all-important part of the discovery process by employing his tried and true principles and techniques, including:

The T-Funnel approach to learn, confirm, tie down, and test facts and expert opinions
How to craft and manage your lists of bad case facts and good case facts
How to learn and apply the four levels of advocacy in criminal cases
How to build and use a deposition notebook

Participants in this program will receive the complete, 36-topic index from the Ed Page Deposition Notebook, including all the materials you will need to take your best expert witness depositions. REGISTER

2022-03-09 12:15 - 13:50
(5727) The Constitution Meets Electronic Information in Criminal Matters originally was presented on March 9, 2022. The program is available as Downloadable Audio and Online Seminar (On-Demand).
Part 1 of a two-part series on electronic information in criminal proceedings. CLE Credits: 2 General; 1 Technology. Certification credits: 2 Juvenile Law, 2 Appellate Practice, 2 Criminal Appellate, 2 Criminal Trial. Presented by Ronald J. Hedges, Senior Counsel, Dentons US, LLP, New York, New York; and Hon. Milton Hirsch, Miami-Dade Circuit Judge, Miami. Moderated by H. Scott Fingerhut.
In Part 1 of this series, our presenters concentrate on Fourth and Fifth Amendment issues arising from the seizure and search of electronic information. The Sixth Amendment Right of Confrontation is addressed as well.

Background on the series: Electronic information of ever-expanding varieties and volumes is, without question, a common feature of criminal investigations and proceedings today. More and more, electronic information is used in the commission of crimes and thus has become the focus of law enforcement investigations, prosecutions, and defense.
As a result, the collection and search of electronic information may implicate the Warrant Requirement of the Fourth Amendment, the Fifth Amendment privilege against self-incrimination, the Sixth Amendment right of confrontation, and their Florida counterparts. In addition, electronic information may raise evidentiary issues of preservation and spoliation, as well as discovery obligations, “cooperation” between prosecution and defense, and, ultimately, admissibility.
In this two-part program, expert lawyers and veteran presenters, Ronald Hedges, former United States Magistrate Judge and now Senior Counsel with Dentons US LLP, and Miami-Dade Circuit Judge Milton Hirsch, will explore timely topics about electronic information and suggest strategies that might be useful to both prosecutors and defense counsel.
Each presentation complements the other. For the busy practitioner who may wish to focus on particular topics, each session can stand alone.

2022-04-08 09:00 - 16:30 | FIU College of Law, 11200 SW 8th St., Miami, FL, 33199
Please join us—on the beautiful FIU Law campus in Miami, or by video webcast—for the 2022 Criminal Law Update, featuring our very special guest, Justice Peggy A. Quince, who will speak on threats to the independence, fairness, and impartiality of Florida’s judiciary.
Course 5623 credits: 1 Bias Elimination, 7 Juvenile Law, 1 Technology, 7 General, 7 Appellate Practice, 7 Criminal Appellate, 7 Criminal Trial. Section members register for only $250 (live webcast) or $200 (in person).
This year’s program also presents the latest case law, juvenile sentencing, and immigration updates, a rundown of significant laws recently enacted by the Florida Legislature, and criminal justice perspectives from leaders across the state, including the Florida Conferences of Circuit and County Judges, Florida Prosecuting Attorneys Association, Florida Public Defender Association, Office of Criminal Conflict and Civil Regional Counsel, Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, and our Criminal Law Section. In addition, we are privileged to include in our program a demonstration of the Equity in Sentencing Analysis System (ESAS®)—”the criminal justice equalizer”—a groundbreaking software tool designed to eliminate unjust disparities in sentencing.
9:00 AM – 9:05 AM
Introduction
Professor H. Scott Fingerhut, FIU College of Law and H. Scott Fingerhut, P.A., Miami
9:05 AM – 9:10 AM
Welcome
Antony Page, Dean and FIU Foundation Professor of Law, FIU College of Law, Miami
9:10 AM – 9:20 AM
Message From the Chair
Jason B. Blank, Chair, Criminal Law Section, Haber Blank, LLP, Fort Lauderdale
9:20 AM – 10:10 AM
Florida Case Law Update
Megan Long, Chief, Appellate Division, Law Office of Jessica J. Yeary, Public Defender, 2nd Judicial Circuit, Tallahassee
10:10 AM – 11:00 AM
Juvenile Spotlight: Ten Years After Miller v. Alabama: Case Law Overview and Update
Roseanne Eckert, Board Certified in Criminal Trial, The Eckert Law Firm, Orlando
11:00 AM – 11:15 AM
Break
11:15 AM – 12:30 PM
Spotlight Presentation: Fostering True Justice: The Equity in Sentencing Analysis System (ESAS®): What It Is and How It Works
A. Wellington “Al” Barlow, Technologies for Justice, Jacksonville
12:30 PM – 1:00 PM
Lunch (provided)
1:00 PM – 1:30 PM
Feature Presentation: “Do We Have An Independent, Fair, and Impartial Judiciary?”
Justice Peggy A. Quince, Tampa, Florida Supreme Court (ret.)
1:30 PM – 1:45 PM
Break
1:45 PM – 1:55 PM
Message from the Circuit Bench
Hon. Nicholas Thompson, Chair-Elect, Florida Conference of Circuit Judges, Lee County Circuit Judge, 20th Judicial Circuit, Fort Myers
1:55 PM – 2:05 PM
Message from the County Bench
Hon. Thomas P. Thompson III, President, Conference of County Court Judges of Florida, Marion County Court Judge, 5th Judicial Circuit, Ocala

2:05 PM – 2:15 PM
Message from the State
Garett Berman, Executive Director, Florida Prosecuting Attorneys Association, Tallahassee
2:15 PM – 2:25 PM
Message from the Defense (Public)
Rex Dimmig, President, Florida Public Defender Association, Public Defender, 10th Judicial Circuit, Lakeland
2:25 PM – 2:35 PM
Message from the Defense (Regional Counsel)
Ita M. Neymotin, Regional Conflict Counsel, Second Region of Florida, Fort Myers
2:35 PM – 2:45 PM
Message from the Defense (Private)
Jude M. Faccidomo, President, Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, Ratzan & Faccidomo LLC, Miami
2:45 PM – 3:00 PM
Break
3:00 PM – 3:50 PM
Immigration Update
Linda Osberg-Braun, Board Certified in Immigration and Nationality Law, Osberg-Braun Immigration, Miami
3:50 PM – 4:30 PM
Legislative Update
Professor H. Scott Fingerhut, Miami
4:30 PM – 4:30 PM
Conclusion
Professor H. Scott Fingerhut, Miami

2022-04-13 12:15 - 13:50
(5759) Practical Concerns—April 13, 2022, 12:15 PM – 1:50 PM, Live GoToWebinar. Part 2 of a two-part series on electronic information in criminal proceedings. CLE Credits: 2 General; 1 Technology. Certification credits: 2 Juvenile Law, 2 Appellate Practice, 2 Criminal Appellate, 2 Criminal Trial. Live GoToWebinar presented by Ronald J. Hedges, Senior Counsel, Dentons US, LLP, New York, New York; and Hon. Milton Hirsch, Miami-Dade Circuit Judge, Miami. Moderated by H. Scott Fingerhut. Registrants have 90-day, on-demand access. REGISTER
*Register for Part 1 and Part 2 of the Electronic Information in Criminal Proceedings Series by March 9 to receive $15 off the total registration fee.*
In Part 2 of this series, our presenters will cover electronic information issues involving discovery, cooperation between prosecution and defense in production and review, evidentiary preservation and spoliation, and the pros and cons of admissibility, including the weight to be given by the trier of fact.
Background on the series: Electronic information of ever-expanding varieties and volumes is, without question, a common feature of criminal investigations and proceedings today. More and more, electronic information is used in the commission of crimes and thus has become the focus of law enforcement investigations, prosecutions, and defense.
As a result, the collection and search of electronic information may implicate the Warrant Requirement of the Fourth Amendment, the Fifth Amendment privilege against self-incrimination, the Sixth Amendment right of confrontation, and their Florida counterparts. In addition, electronic information may raise evidentiary issues of preservation and spoliation, as well as discovery obligations, “cooperation” between prosecution and defense, and, ultimately, admissibility.
In this two-part program, expert lawyers and veteran presenters, Ronald Hedges, former United States Magistrate Judge and now Senior Counsel with Dentons US LLP, and Miami-Dade Circuit Judge Milton Hirsch, will explore timely topics about electronic information and suggest strategies that might be useful to both prosecutors and defense counsel.
Each presentation complements the other. For the busy practitioner who may wish to focus on particular topics, each session can stand alone.

"Wine" Down Wednesday
2022-04-27 18:00 | Zoom
Join us for “Wine” Down Wednesday, a virtual Criminal Law Section Happy Hour.
The first 20 people to register will win a $10 Total Wine gift card!
