2026 Bench & Bar CLE & Reception: Celebrating the Constitution and Honoring Judicial Excellence                                         

Sponsored by the Idaho State Bar and the Idaho State Courts

Tuesday, October 6, 2026

3:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. (MT)

Jack’s Urban Meeting Place (JUMP)

1000 W. Myrtle St. - Boise

*Live Webcast Available

1.5 CLE Credits

Registration:         

Standard               $75

Law Clerks            $30

Copies of the Book: The Collective-Action Constitution may be pre-purchased by September 30^th for $50 each by clicking HERE.
 

Join members of the Idaho State Bar and the Idaho judiciary from across the state for an inspiring afternoon of education, networking, and celebration of the United States Constitution.

As part of the America 250 commemoration, nationally recognized constitutional scholar Professor Neil S. Siegel will present a thought-provoking program exploring the origins of the U.S. Constitution and why it remains one of the most influential governing documents in history.

Professor Siegel will examine how the Constitution emerged in response to the shortcomings of the Articles of Confederation, which left the young nation struggling to address critical challenges such as funding the federal government, regulating commerce, and providing national defense. Through engaging historical insights, he will reveal how the Constitution established a stronger, more effective federal government by empowering Congress and creating a national executive and judiciary to uphold the rule of law.

The event will also feature the presentation of the 2026 Idaho State Bar Jurist of the Year Award to the Honorable Jessica M. Lorello of the Idaho Court of Appeals, recognizing her outstanding service, leadership, and contributions to Idaho's judiciary and legal profession.

Don't miss this opportunity to:

• Gain valuable insights from a leading constitutional scholar
• Connect with judges, attorneys, and legal professionals from across Idaho
• Celebrate the enduring legacy of the Constitution during the America 250 observance
• Enjoy an afternoon of learning, fellowship, and professional engagement

Be part of this meaningful event as we reflect on the Constitution's origins, its lasting impact, and its relevance for future generations.

                     Program Agenda

3:30 p.m.      Networking Social – Sponsored by the Idaho Women Lawyers

4:30 p.m.      Presentation of the Idaho State Bar 2026 Jurist of the Year Award

                   Presented to the Hon. Jessica M. Lorello, Idaho Court of Appeals

4:45 p.m.      Introductory Remarks

                   Chief Justice G. Richard Bevan, Idaho Supreme Court

5:00 p.m.      The Collective-Action Constitution

                   Professor Neil S. Siegel, Texas A&M University School of Law

6:30 p.m.       Book Signing: The Collective-Action Constitution by Prof. Siegel

     *Books may be pre-purchased by September 30^th for $50 each by clicking HERE.

7:00 p.m.      Program Adjourns

*No refunds will be given after September 28^th or provided for "no-show" attendees. 

2026 Fall New Attorney Program

Sponsored by the Idaho Law Foundation, Inc.

Friday, October 23, 2026
8:00 am to 12:30 pm (MDT)

Boise Centre East

195 S. Capitol Blvd., Boise

*In-Person Attendance Only* 

4.0 CLE credits of which 1.0 is Ethics – NAC Approved

Registration Fee: 

Standard Registration   $120.00

Day of Registration        $135.00

The New Attorney Program consists of an introduction on Idaho practice, procedure, and ethics. This course meets the CLE requirements of Idaho State Bar Commission Rule 402(f)(3).  Participants must be admitted and sworn into the Idaho State Bar for this course to count toward the New Admittee CLE requirement. If the participant will not be sworn in on or by October 23, 2026, they will have to wait until the spring of 2027, to take this course. * 

Agenda

8:00 am      Lawyering Skills

9:30 am      Break

9:45 am      Federal & State Judiciary Panel

11:15 am    Break

11:30 am    Idaho Lawyer Assistance Program

12:00 pm    Idaho State Bar & Idaho Law Foundation Potpourri

12:30 pm     Program Concludes

*The next course will be held in the spring of 2027, in person, in Boise.

Handling Your First or Next Immigration Law Case

Sponsored by the Idaho Law Foundation

Tuesday, September 29, 2026

9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. (MT)

The Law Center
525 W. Jefferson St. – Boise

*Live Webcast Available

 2.0 CLE credits including 0.5 Ethics

Registration Cost: 

Standard Registration:                                 $75.00

Day of Registration:                                     $85.00

Law Student/General Public:                      $20.00

Whether you are new to immigration law or looking to expand your practice, this program will provide practical guidance for representing clients before the Immigration Court, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP).

Experienced practitioners will share strategies, best practices, and essential tools for preparing applications, navigating agency procedures, and effectively advocating for clients throughout the immigration process.

Topics will include:

• Family-based immigration and permanent residence
• Victim-based and domestic violence immigration relief
• Deportation and removal defense
• Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA)
• Ethical considerations and professional responsibilities in immigration practice

Presenters Nicole R. Derden of the Law Offices of Nicole R. Derden and Christian C. Christensen of Christensen Legal, PLLC bring extensive experience in immigration law and will offer practical insights to help attorneys confidently handle their first or next immigration case.

This program is designed to equip practitioners with the knowledge and resources needed to effectively serve clients in a rapidly evolving area of law.

Lawyer Ethics and Disputes with Clients

Sponsored by the Idaho Law Foundation, Inc. in partnership with Freestone and WebCredenza, Inc.

August 6, 2026

11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. (MT)

*Live Audio Streaming Only

1.0 Ethics credit

Registration Fee:  $55.00

Master the professional responsibility obligations that govern attorney conduct when client relationships deteriorate into disputes over fees, representation quality, or professional judgments. This program addresses the complex ethical landscape surrounding client conflicts while providing practical guidance for resolution strategies. Learn to protect professional interests while maintaining ethical compliance in challenging client relationship scenarios.

• Understand professional conduct rules affecting fee disputes and collection procedures with clients
• Navigate conflict of interest issues when attorney-client disputes arise during or after representation
• Address confidentiality and privilege protection obligations in disputes with former clients
• Implement dispute resolution and client relationship management strategies that prevent ethical violations

The Appellate Journey: Practice, Perspective, and Legacy

Sponsored by the Idaho State Bar Appellate Practice Section

Thursday, September 10, 2026

1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.

University of Idaho College of Law – Boise Campus

504 W Front St. – Room 221

4:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.

Reception at the Cottonwood Grille

913 W River St, Boise - Patio

*Live Webcast Available

2.5 CLE credits including .75 Ethics – NAC approved

Registration: 

General Registration                                                              $40

Members of the Appellate Practice Section                    $25

Take advantage of Section benefits and join the Appellate Practice Section here for $30!

Join the Appellate Practice Section for a special two-part CLE featuring Idaho Supreme Court Justice Robyn Brody and Chief Justice G. Richard Bevan. Justice Brody will share practical insights into appellate advocacy and the evolving issues shaping appellate practice today, while Chief Justice Bevan reflects on his distinguished career and shares insights on judicial service, leadership, and life on the bench.

Program Agenda

1:00 p.m.    Registration

1:15 p.m.    Justice Brody’s Presentation

2:45 p.m.    Break 

3:00 p.m.    Chief Justice Bevan’s Presentation 

4:00 p.m.    Program Concludes

4:30 p.m.     Reception in honor of Chief Justice Bevan at the Cottonwood Grille  

Following the CLE, we invite you to attend a reception in honor of Chief Justice Bevan’s retirement. Co-sponsored by the Idaho Women Lawyers, please join us at the Cottonwood Grille from 4:30-6:30 p.m.

2026 Ethics Update Part 1

Sponsored by the Idaho Law Foundation, Inc. in partnership with Freestone and WebCredenza, Inc.

September 8, 2026

11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. (MT)

*Live Audio Streaming Only

1.0 Ethics credit

Registration Fee:  $60

*Please Note: If you received credit for this course for February 9, 2026 you will not be able to receive credit for attending this replay.  This replay will count as live CLE credit.

Stay current with the rapidly evolving landscape of professional responsibility as ethics rules adapt to modern practice realities and technological advancement. This comprehensive program examines the most significant recent developments in legal ethics, from regulatory changes to landmark disciplinary decisions that reshape professional conduct standards. Ensure your practice remains compliant while understanding the practical implications of emerging ethical requirements.

• Examine significant disciplinary cases establishing new precedents for professional conduct
• Understand updated guidance on technology use and data security obligations
• Address evolving standards for client communication and fee arrangement

2026 Ethics Update Part 2

Sponsored by the Idaho Law Foundation, Inc. in partnership with Freestone and WebCredenza, Inc.

September 9, 2026

11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. (MT)

*Live Audio Streaming Only

1.0 Ethics credit

Registration Fee:  $60

*Please Note: If you received credit for this course for February 10, 2026 you will not be able to receive credit for attending this replay.  This replay will count as live CLE credit.

Building on foundational updates, this advanced program explores complex ethical scenarios and emerging challenges that define the future of professional responsibility. Delve deeper into sophisticated ethical dilemmas involving conflicts of interest, client confidentiality, and professional competence in our rapidly changing legal environment. Master the nuanced analysis required to navigate tomorrow's ethical challenges with confidence and integrity.

• Navigate complex conflict scenarios involving multiple clients and business relationships
• Address advanced confidentiality challenges in team-based and technology-assisted practice
• Discussion of general trends in rules of professional responsibility

Communicating in Opposing Counsel & the Courts: Professionalism and Ethics

Sponsored by the Idaho Law Foundation, Inc. in partnership with Freestone and WebCredenza, Inc. 

October 26, 2026

11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. (MT)

*Live Audio Stream Only

1.0 Ethics credit

Registration Fee:  $60

*Please Note: If you received credit for this course for April 29, 2025 or March 11, 2026 you will not be able to receive credit for attending this replay.  This replay will count as live CLE credit.

Effective communication is key to a successful legal practice, especially when dealing with opposing counsel and the courts. This session explores the ethical and professional responsibilities lawyers have in their communications, offering strategies to maintain professionalism even in contentious situations. Learn how to navigate challenging interactions while upholding your ethical obligations.

Highlights:

• The ethical guidelines governing communications with opposing counsel.
• Best practices for clear and professional court filings and oral advocacy.
• Strategies for managing contentious or unprofessional opposing counsel.
• Avoiding ethical pitfalls in email and written correspondence.
• Real-life examples of communication missteps and how to avoid them.

Joint Representations, Part 1: Civil Litigation Focus

Sponsored by the Idaho Law Foundation, Inc. in partnership with Freestone and WebCredenza, Inc. 

October 29, 2026

11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. (MT)

*Live Audio Stream Only

1.0 Ethics credit

Registration Fee:  $60.00

*Please Note: If you received credit for this course for November 25, 2025 you will not be able to receive credit for attending this replay.  This replay will count as live CLE credit.

Joint representations in civil litigation present unique opportunities and significant ethical minefields that can derail cases and careers. This two-part program provides essential guidance on when joint representation serves clients' interests and when it creates insurmountable conflicts. Practitioners will learn to navigate these complex arrangements while maintaining ethical compliance and effective advocacy.

Part 1:

• Evaluate when joint representation benefits multiple parties in litigation
• Identify potential conflicts before they become ethical violations
• Master consent procedures and documentation for joint representations
• Understand the scope of shared confidentiality in joint arrangements
• Learn to structure retainer agreements for multiple-client representations

Part 2:

• Navigate withdrawal obligations when conflicts develop mid-litigation
• Handle strategic considerations for managing divergent client interests
• Address privilege issues unique to joint representation scenarios
• Develop communication protocols that protect all parties' interests
• Master fee allocation and billing practices in joint representations

Professionalism for the Ethical Lawyer

Sponsored by the Idaho Law Foundation, Inc. in partnership with Freestone and WebCredenza, Inc.

August 13, 2026

11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. (MT)

*Live Audio Streaming Only

1.0 Ethics credit

Registration Fee:  $60

*Please Note: If you received credit for this course for February 13, 2026 you will not be able to receive credit for attending this replay.  This replay will count as live CLE credit.

Elevate your practice beyond mere rule compliance to embody the highest ideals of legal professionalism that distinguish exceptional lawyers from the merely competent. This program explores the intersection of ethics, civility, and professional excellence that defines truly successful legal careers. Discover how professional conduct enhances client relationships, improves case outcomes, and contributes to a more effective justice system.

• Understand the distinction between ethical minimums and professional excellence standards
• Develop strategies for maintaining civility and respect in adversarial proceedings
• Address challenging situations involving difficult opposing counsel and uncooperative parties
• Build a reputation for professionalism that enhances client development and career advancement

Professionalism for the Ethical Lawyer

Sponsored by the Idaho Law Foundation, Inc. in partnership with Freestone and WebCredenza, Inc.

September 16, 2026

11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. (MT)

*Live Audio Streaming Only

1.0 Ethics credit

Registration Fee:  $60

*Please Note: If you received credit for this course for February 13, 2026 or August 13, 2026 you will not be able to receive credit for attending this replay.  This replay will count as live CLE credit.

Elevate your practice beyond mere rule compliance to embody the highest ideals of legal professionalism that distinguish exceptional lawyers from the merely competent. This program explores the intersection of ethics, civility, and professional excellence that defines truly successful legal careers. Discover how professional conduct enhances client relationships, improves case outcomes, and contributes to a more effective justice system.

• Understand the distinction between ethical minimums and professional excellence standards
• Develop strategies for maintaining civility and respect in adversarial proceedings
• Address challenging situations involving difficult opposing counsel and uncooperative parties
• Build a reputation for professionalism that enhances client development and career advancement