ALA Webinar Center

Train your whole office with no travel expense or time away from the office. All you need is a computer with internet access and you can join in on the webinar. You can watch the presentation, submit questions, and participate in audience polls. Just add a projector for groups. Dial in to a toll free number to listen to the audio with the ability to ask questions live. The login information is sent out several days prior to the event. Participate alone or with colleagues. Testing of your computer connection prior to the event is suggested and instructions will be provided with the login information. Free technical support is available.

Yearly Pass for all ALA 2012 Webinars
Save 20 percent by ordering all 11 Webinars at once for $1,185 (ALA member price). You will receive a notification/reminder one week prior to each event.  This special pricing is only available through February 2012.

Coupon Bundle for any ALA 2012 Webinar or Download
Save on individual purchases by purchasing a bundle of five (5) coupons for $550 (ALA member price). Each coupon is valid for either a one-hour or two-hour program -- live or archived.  Depending on the programs selected, you can save more than $150 over the individual purchase price. Coupons must be used by November 2012.

Upcoming Webinars
Employee Handbooks For Law Firms - Careful, Careful! (HR)

We don’t need no stinking handbook! Yes . . . . we do. In today’s litigious environment, employee handbooks are essential for all employers. They are the most important tool for ensuring that policies are enforced properly and personnel matters are handled consistently, thus protecting your firm from future liability. Join this session to discuss the important dos and don'ts in drafting a handbook for your law firm without creating employee contracts.


Learning Objectives:

  • Explain why having an employee handout is essential for your law firm
  • List essential handbook policies for all employees
  • Identify and create specific policies that are unique to a law practice

Michael S. Cohen, J.D.
, is a Partner at Duane Morris LLP in Philadelphia in the firm’s Employment Services Practice Group. A highly-rated ALA speaker, he has trained and counseled employees throughout the country on employment subjects, including harassment prevention, diversity, discipline, hiring, firing, recruiting, performance evaluations and compliance.

CLMSM Credit for live program only: 2 hours of credit in the category of Writing Skills (CM) for those seeking to fulfill the CLM application and 2 hours in the subject area of Communication & Organization Management (CM) for CLM Recertification.

This Webinar has been approved for recertification credit toward PHR and SPHR recertification through the HR Certification Institute (HRCI).
Formats Available: CD-ROM (Win), Webinar, Webinar + CD, Download, Webinar + Download
Original Seminar Date: February 22, 2012
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The Art of Active Listening (CM)

Listening makes up more than half of the communication process, and to be successful you must know what to listen for. Learn to manage upset people, and improve cooperation and understanding in your workplace simply through improving your own active listening skills. 


Learning Objectives:

  • Discuss the importance of listening actively to understand the speaker, avoid or soothe misunderstandings, and help other people open up
  • Develop or enhance active listening skills
  • Foster active listening in your firms


Debra Bruce is President of Lawyer-Coach, LLC, which provides communication and management, talent retention, business development, and time management coaching and training for law firms. She practiced law for 18 years before becoming a trainer and credentialed coach for lawyers and law firm administrators across the United States and Canada.

CLMSMCredit for live program only: 1 hour of credit in the category of Communication Skills for those seeking to fulfill the CLM application and 1 hour in the subject area of Communication & Organization Management (CM) for CLM Recertification.
Formats Available: CD-ROM (Win), Webinar, Webinar + CD, Download, Webinar + Download
Original Seminar Date: March 21, 2012
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The Role of Legal Administrators in Legal Project Management – Unprecedented Opportunities & Current Challenges (CM)

In most law firms, lawyers - and legal administrators - know how to manage a case. Few, though, know how to manage a project. But clients are demanding that firms more efficiently allocate resources and provide a clearer time estimate for their work - in short, proactively "manage" their projects ("cases"). To respond to these demands, Legal Project Management (LPM) is becoming an essential tool in today’s economically challenging legal landscape - a tool that can, among other things, help you estimate how long different tasks should take based on historical benchmarks and then calculate a combined time estimate for the entire case. There are valuable real world lessons emerging as law firms grapple with how to implement their firms’ LPM initiatives smoothly, effectively and within budget.

Learning objectives:
  • Discuss LPM basics and how legal administrators can play a critical role in developing, implementing and sustaining LPM in law firms
  • Describe why clients need and want lawyers who can deliver excellent legal services predictably, efficiently and cost effectively
  • Discuss how LPM addresses the needs of clients and drives profitability for firms
  • Identify ways in which legal administrators can play key roles in implementing LPM in their firms
  • Determine what resources and tools are needed and which best support LPM

Pamela H. Woldow, Esq.
, General Counsel of Edge International, provides advice to law firms and Chief Legal Officers worldwide on effective management of legal matters. She has particular expertise on alternative fee arrangements (AFAs), RFPs, legal project management and other cost management techniques and initiatives.  A Certified Master Coach, Woldow is a prolific blogger, speaker and author of articles on trends in the legal marketplace.

CLMSM Credit for live program only: 1 hour of credit in the category of Self-Management Skills for those seeking to fulfill the CLM application and 1 hour in the subject area of Communication & Organization Management (CM) for CLM Recertification.
Formats Available: CD-ROM (Win), Webinar, Webinar + CD, Download, Webinar + Download
Original Seminar Date: April 18, 2012
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Safe Stress! 

You are evaluating a new billing system, working under a tight deadline for an attorney, a good employee quits, and suddenly the road you drive every day closes for construction. How does an administrator handle all of the stress? This session will explore how successful administrators manage stress in times of change. Discover tools to identify the factors that cause stress and effective coping mechanisms.

Learning objectives:
  • Recognize your individual stresses before they become wellness issues
  • Identify the role of internal and external expectations in stress
  • Evaluate when you are overloaded and how to ask for help

Judith A. Hissong, CLM
, Principal of Nesso Strategies, partners with law firm professionals for strategic planning, leadership development, and executive coaching. Hissong has presented at many ALA Conferences on various topics. She is a former ALA Director, a Past President of the ALA San Diego Chapter, and was Chair of ALA’s 2006 Annual Conference Committee.

CLMSM Credit for live program only: 1 hour of credit in the category of Self-Management Skills for those seeking to fulfill the CLM application and 1 hour in the subject area of Communication & Organizational Management (CM) for CLM Recertification.
Formats Available: CD-ROM (Win), Webinar, Webinar + CD, Download, Webinar + Download
Original Seminar Date: May 16, 2012
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Technology Management: The Good, the Bad and the Ugly (OM)

Managing technology is a challenge in every law office. In this session, we will cover a wide variety of topics related to technology, including:

  • Technology Audits: Is your firm a candidate for an Audit?
  • Technology Plans: How to create and manage them
  • Technology Investments: How to Obtain Return on Investment
  • Technology Tips and Tricks

Learning Objectives:

  • Analyze the benefits of having a technology audit performed for your firm
  • Identify tips for selecting the right vendor
  • Predict the kinds of questions to expect and the deliverables from the audit
  • Realize the benefits of a technology plan
  • Understanding how to measure returns on investment
  • Learn about some of the best tech tips and tricks

Debbie Foster is a Partner with the Affinity Consulting Group (ACG), a firm that assists lawyers and legal departments in legal technology solutions, business solutions, and law office automation. Foster specializes in practice management, time/billing/accounting and document management software, as well as providing technology audits for firms around the country. She was the Chair of ABA TECHSHOW 2010, presented by the ABA Law Practice Management Section. 

Barron K. Henley, Esq. is one of the managing partners of the Columbus, Ohio office of Affinity Consulting Group (ACG). He is an attorney with 15 years of experience in legal technology. Together with Paul Unger, Barron founded Henley March & Unger Consulting, Inc. (now Affinity-Columbus) in 1998.

CLMSM Credit for live program only: 2 hours of credit in the category of Information Technology for those seeking to fulfill the CLM application and 2 hours in the subject area of Operations Management (OM) for CLM Recertification.
Formats Available: CD-ROM (Win), Webinar, Webinar + CD, Download, Webinar + Download
Original Seminar Date: June 20, 2012
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Change Leadership: A Boot Camp to Drive Organizational Change (CM)

Leaders today recognize the imperative to change –only a small handful have the right tools and techniques to create effective change within their teams and organizations. This leads to approximately 75% of change initiatives failing. What demands will a fast moving, more turbulent business climate place on those in positions of leadership? What are the essential skills needed to cope with these demands? Join this Webinar to discover how to apply critical change leadership concepts and tools. Through assessment tools, case studies, questions and participation we will learn how to embed the learning and ensure skill development with this critical leadership skill.

Key topics we will explore:
  • Making the business case for change
  • Securing support
  • Communicating the vision and strategy for change
  • Securing support
  • Removing barriers
  • Coaching through change
  • Measurements 
Key outcomes:
  • Learn a step-by-step process for leading successful change
  • Unlock resistance and remove obstacles to change
  • Assess personal and organizational readiness to take on the challenge of change
  • Walk away with a powerful Change Action Plan you will develop throughout the program

“Your success in life isn’t based on your ability to simply change. It is based on your ability to change faster than your competition, customers and business.”  Mark Sanborn

Rachel Schaming, ALA Past President, is the Director of Human Resources for Radiology, Ltd., a 500-employee medical entity in Tucson, AZ. Schaming has more than 25 years of human resources experience in law firm administration. She teaches conflict resolution, change management design, culture analysis, and performance management, and is certified in corporate coaching.


CLMSM Credit for live program only: 2 hours of credit in the category of Organizational Development for those seeking to fulfill the CLM application and 2 hours in the subject area of Communication & Organization Management (CM) for CLM Recertification.
 
Formats Available: CD-ROM (Win), Webinar, Webinar + CD, Download, Webinar + Download
Original Seminar Date: July 18, 2012
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Records Management: The Bermuda Triangle (LI)

The right steps are essential to successfully implement a firm-wide paper and electronic records management program. Consider how to plan the program, manage the project, and more. Learn some of the key components of migrating your physical records to e-records and how to deal with the management of documents, records, e-mail and risk management policies.

Learning Objectives: 
  • Develop a solid plan for implementing an firm-wide paper and e-records program
  • Explain the complexities of document, records, and e-mail migration from a physical records system to an e-records system and develop a methodology for success 

Dana C. Moore is the Records & Information Compliance Manager for Foley & Lardner, LLP. She has worked in records management for more than 20 years and has expertise in developing and implementing both new client intake procedures and records management programs. Moore is also a frequent speaker at ALA conferences.

CLMSM Credit for live program only: 1 hour of Legal Industry/Business Management (LI) credit for CLMSM Recertification and 1 hour towards the additional hours required for the initial CLM application of Functional Specialists.



This Webinar has been approved for recertification credit toward PHR and SPHR recertification through the HR Certification Institute (HRCI).
Formats Available: CD-ROM (Win), Webinar, Webinar + CD, Download, Webinar + Download
Original Seminar Date: August 15, 2012
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Of Foxes, Hedgehogs and Law Firm Profitability (FM)

There is an old adage that says “it is a curse to live in interesting times.” The last three years in the American economy have indeed been interesting for everyone – especially America’s law firms. Have the responses been appropriate to the times we are experiencing or not? Does the current economic environment favor foxes or hedgehogs? The “hedgehog” answer to bad economic times is to slash costs. The “fox” solution to the same issues is to rethink everything.  While reducing costs can stave off disaster, it rarely leads to being a leader. Join this program to explore ways to use an economic challenge as an opportunity for future success.

Learning Objectives:
  • Rightsizing administrative staff;
  • Discuss how administrative staff can work better, not longer
  • Identify skill enhancements for partners, associates and staff that will lead to long term growth
  • Explain what functions should be performed by law firm staff and what functions should be outsourced

Vincent Bell, Director of Administration, Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld, LLP, New York, NY, has been a legal administrator for 15 years. Prior to that, he held both administrative and financial positions with partnerships and large public companies in publishing, consulting and design industries.

Mark Santiago of Kerma Partners, a management consulting firm, specializes in outsourcing, mergers & merger due diligence, strategy development, firm restructuring, financial management, partner compensation, shared service centre feasibility studies, and merger integration planning and implementation engagements. Recent experience includes leading the teams that developed the business case rationale to outsource the administrative functions for the two largest law firm outsourcing projects in the United States. 

CLMSM Credit for live program only: 1 hour of Financial Management (FM) credit for CLMSM recertification and 1 hour towards the additional hours required for the initial CLML application of functional specialists.
 

This Webinar has been approved for recertification credit toward PHR and SPHR recertification through the HR Certification Institute (HRCI).
Formats Available: CD-ROM (Win), Webinar, Webinar + CD, Download, Webinar + Download
Original Seminar Date: September 19, 2012
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Marketing on a Shoestring Budget (LI)

A challenging economy and client pressures have highlighted the importance of marketing and business development efforts for every law firm. How do you develop and implement a successful marketing program with no (or not enough) marketing personnel and a tight budget? This practical session will focus on how your firm can employ a range of cost-effective strategies to gain exposure, differentiate itself, and generate new business. You will discover no-cost or low-cost techniques that produce results.

Learning Objectives:

  • Identify ways to expand existing client relationships
  • Explain how to start effective industry/niche marketing efforts
  • Demonstrate how to establish ongoing communications about firm results
  • Produce results-oriented marketing plans


Sally Schmidt is President of Schmidt Marketing, Inc. in Edina, MN, which offers marketing services to law firms. She was a founder and the first President of the Legal Marketing Association (LMA). In 1994, she was inducted as a Fellow into the inaugural class of the College of Law Practice Management. Schmidt was also inducted into the LMA first Hall of Fame in 2007 and is the recipient of its Lifetime Achievement Award.

CLMSM Credit for live program only: 1 hour of credit in the area of Legal Industry/Business Management (LI) for CLM Recertification and 1 hour towards the additional hours of education required of Functional Specialists seeking to fulfill the CLM application.

Formats Available: CD-ROM (Win), Webinar, Webinar + CD, Download, Webinar + Download
Original Seminar Date: October 17, 2012
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Dealing with Substance Abuse in the Workplace (HR)

How do you know if a lawyer is impaired? What does an administrator do when the odor of alcohol is detected on the job? Can staff report suspected impairment without fear of retaliation? Dr. Lynn Hankes will review the conditions that cause impairment, myths surrounding them and how they manifest in the workplace with specific behavioral indicators. 

Learning Objectives: 
  • Recognize how a law firm can implement an effective method of penetrating the corporate denial that often protects individuals with substance abuse problems
  • Promote reporting within the firm
  • Discuss how intervention is an effective means of resolving the issue

Lynn Hankes, M.D., FASA M, is among the 100 pioneer physicians in the country who passed the first certification exam in Addiction Medicine and is an honored Fellow of the American Society of Addiction Medicine. Hankes is a Clinical Professor Emeritus at the University of Washington School of Medicine in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences.

CLMSM Credit for live program only: 1 hour of Substance Abuse credit for CLM Recertification and 1 hour in Human Resources Management (HR) towards the additional hours of education required of Functional Specialists seeking to fulfill the CLM application
 

This Webinar has been approved for recertification credit toward PHR and SPHR recertification through the HR Certification Institute (HRCI).
Formats Available: CD-ROM (Win), Webinar, Webinar + CD, Download, Webinar + Download
Original Seminar Date: November 14, 2012
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Select a category to see the available seminars
There has been a great deal of discussion about the wide disparity among lawyers and staff who span multiple generations. These generations have different skills, ambitions and expectations. The administrator’s task is to find ways to keep these multiple generations engaged and productive. Weaving the tapestry of a great work environment requires recognizing the generational issues, coaching different groups for their best work, and understanding today’s job marketplace. The administrator who invests the energy in this newest skill set of coaching will reap rewards in personal and professional development, a productive work force, attracting and retaining the best talent, and enhancing business processes.

Learning objectives:

  • Discuss the skill set associated with effective job coaching
  • Identify the principle of job coaching accountability
  • Develop strategies for assessing coaching outcomes

Camille Grabowski
is a Professional Career Coach with 25+ years of experience in the recruiting industry and human resources, helping employers and jobseekers maximize their relationships. As a workplace expert, Camille provides career coaching services in the areas of career transition, career relaunch, job search strategies, resume writing, interview preparation, and job offer evaluation and negotiation. She is a frequent speaker and workshop presenter on these topics to job seekers and employers.

Judith A. Hissong, CLM, Principal of Nesso Strategies, partners with law firm professionals for strategic planning, leadership development, and executive coaching. Hissong has presented at many ALA Conferences on various topics. She is a former ALA Director, a Past President of ALA’s San Diego Chapter, and was Chair of ALA’s 2006 Annual Conference Committee.

Formats Available: CD-ROM (Win), Webinar, Webinar + CD, Download, Webinar + Download
Original Seminar Date: April 21, 2010
On-Demand Release Date: Available Now
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Communicating Benefits to Reach and Engage Employees (CM)

In today’s information-overloaded workplace, you face the challenge of reaching employees with critical communication about pay, benefits, and other HR issues. This is not easy. Studies show only 35 % of employees think benefits communication is effective, and 55 % don’t fully understand their benefits. Participate in this program to learn how to engage employees more effectively and encourage them to take action.

Learning objectives:

  • Identify the best ways to communicate to each segment of your work force: Baby Boomers, GenXers, and Millennials
  • Discuss how and when to communicate the complete benefits package (also known as “total rewards”)
  • Apply best-practice strategies to create employee understanding of concepts and terms (deductibles, premiums, etc.)
  • Measure the effectiveness of your communication

Speaker:

Alison Davis, founder and CEO of Davis & Company, helps companies reach, engage and motivate employees. She is co-author of the new book, The Definitive Guide to HR Communication (FT Press, 2011), and co-author of Your Attention, Please (Adams Business, 2006). She frequently writes for leading business, communication and HR publications, and is a former online columnist for The New York Times.

This Webinar has been approved for recertification credit toward PHR and SPHR recertification through the HR Certification Institute (HRCI).
Formats Available: CD-ROM (Win), Webinar, Webinar + CD, Download, Webinar + Download
Original Seminar Date: June 15, 2011
On-Demand Release Date: Available Now
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Conflict Resolution: Why Can't Everybody Just Get Along? (CM)

The economic environment is challenging and creating stress among our employees, lawyers and staff. Add to that problem the already-stressful legal environment that’s just part of firm life, and you have fertile ground for conflict. Learn how legal administrators can find ways to manage difficult situations and difficult people to create an environment that supports and strengthens agreement among employees. Learning objectives:

  • Analyze situations that give rise to conflict among coworkers
  • Identify and apply strategies to foster communications within your law firms
  • Recognize situational challenges and opportunities in which you can use coaching and mediation models to achieve win-win results

Speaker:

Radiology, Ltd Rachel Schaming, ALA Past President, is the Director of Human Resources for Radiology, Ltd., a 500-employee medical entity in Tucson, AZ. Schaming has more than 25 years of human resources experience in law firm administration. She teaches conflict resolution, change management design, culture analysis, and performance management, and is certified in corporate coaching.



Formats Available: CD-ROM (Win), Webinar, Webinar + CD, Download, Webinar + Download
Original Seminar Date: March 16, 2011
On-Demand Release Date: Available Now
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With the explosion of electronic communications – social media sites, twitter, regular "old" e-mail – managing the law firms' electronic records is becoming a significant challenge. While it’s true that a law firm cannot fully address electronic record management unless you manage your paper records well, join this Webinar to learn the important issues in managing electronically stored information ("ESI"). The issues involve electronic discovery, firm storage archives, retention, backup tapes and more. If you can begin to address the issues surrounding ESI, you can start to build some processes to more effectively manage ESI in your firm. Learning objectives:
  • Examine the key issues and best practices of managing ESI
  • Summarize some of the legal and ethical issues surrounding ESI
  • Apply successful retention tools and implementation strategies


Dana C. Moore is the National Records & Information Compliance Manager for Foley & Lardner LLP. She has more than 20 years of records management experience, developed records management systems solutions, works on RIM legal compliance issues such as electronic evidence discovery and document holds, and oversees protocols and processes associated with electronic record keeping and the migration of electronically stored information ("ESI").  She has particular expertise in records management systems conversions.



Formats Available: CD-ROM (Win), Webinar, Webinar + CD, Download, Webinar + Download
Original Seminar Date: September 15, 2010
On-Demand Release Date: Available Now
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If you understand that the legal industry is in transformation, if you "get" that your clients are looking for innovation in the way they receive legal services, if you want to take your practice, group or firm to the next level, if you have the courage to consider new options and try new techniques, then this session is for you. Today's business environment is evolving. What worked yesterday might not work tomorrow. To continually develop and succeed, your firm - and its objectives - must also evolve. Join us for an energetic Webinar as we examine the legal horizon and identify and discuss three things you and your firm should be doing now if you want to secure a leadership role in your markets. This will require creativity and innovation to achieve uncommon success in the undeniably transforming business landscape. Learning Objectives:

  • View this transformation as an opportunity;
  • Accept the urgency to act now to make changes that capitalize on the opportunity; and
  • Understand where and how to act to create the greatest impact for your firm.

Managing partners are strongly encouraged to attend this Webinar with their firm’s administrators. Together, you will confirm your common goals and leave equipped to take action in your firm immediately.

Speakers:

As the Managing Director of GEM Communications, Gary Mitchell leads an international team of consultants, coaches and trainers who work with lawyers and law firms helping them to prepare for and profit from transformation in the legal industry. Gary regularly conducts presentations at legal association events and writes bi-monthly for LEXPERT (Canada's leading source of news and information about the business of law) and for the Canadian Bar Association’s Practice Link).

Catherine Mitchell is a Client Development Skills Coach. With an extensive background in relationship selling and breaking into new markets in the B2B space, she helps professionals tap into their natural skills and strengths to build sustainable practices. And she works with firm staff to develop learning programs that produce sustainable results for the firm. She is the principal behind One Voice Productions Inc. and is a certified facilitator of the ON TRAC Client Development Program, under license for use by GEM Communications Inc.

Formats Available: CD-ROM (Win), Webinar, Webinar + CD, Download, Webinar + Download
Original Seminar Date: March 17, 2010
On-Demand Release Date: Available Now
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What is it about a law office or law firm - of any size - that makes it an extraordinary place to work? What makes an extraordinary law firm something more than just a weekday morning destination? Discover ways to transform you office into a remarkable workplace, delivering not only superior client service but also satisfaction for each and every person who is part of that effort. Join this program to get some practice ideas on how to move your office to the level of an extraordinary workplace.

Who Should Purchase

  • Administrators from small to medium-sized firms
  • New administrators
  • Human Resources Administrators
  • Formats Available: CD-ROM (Win), Download
    Original Seminar Date: October 17, 2007
    On-Demand Release Date: Available Now
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    Leasing: The Fine Print Implications (OM)

    Equipment leasing can have a significant impact on the firm’s finances if the leases are negotiated aggressively. Leasing information technology equipment is particularly advantageous because firms can benefit from cutting-edge equipment, and at the same time hedge against obsolescence and conserve cash. Join this program to examine the fine print in lease contracts and the reasons firms deliberate over the lease vs. buy decision for office and technology equipment.

    Learning objectives:

    • Identify three contract sections that always increase lease spending unless negotiated
    • Discuss how the lease request for proposal (RFP) process will save time and money
    • Examine the traditional economic comparisons and new financial tools essential to the lease vs. buy decision

    Speaker:

    Mary A. Redmond, founder of Independent Lease Review Inc., has been negotiating leases for the past 21 years. Redmond speaks, writes, and conducts seminars on leasing and negotiations. She is the author of The LeaseSpeak™ System: Your Guide to Saving Money on Leases.


    Formats Available: CD-ROM (Win), Webinar, Webinar + CD, Download, Webinar + Download
    Original Seminar Date: May 18, 2011
    On-Demand Release Date: Available Now
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    Social networks build online communities of people interested in exploring shared interests and activities. But there is often more information available than it might be prudent to know. To stay in touch with current recruiting practices and how to handle potential problems regarding staff who are using these social networks, you need to recognize how these sites operate (i.e., LinkedIn®, MySpace, Facebook). Learning objectives:

    • Explain the legal risks of relying on social networking sites to assess potential candidates and current employees
    • Describe actions the firm can take regarding current employees
    • Determine best practices in recruiting

    Speaker:

    Shelly L. Freeman, J.D., is an attorney and president of HROI, a human resources consulting firm in Kansas City, MO. Freeman is a frequent guest speaker on HR issues to a variety of organizations, including the American Bar Association Labor & Employment Section, The Kansas City Metropolitan Bar Association, Kansas Bar Association and The Missouri Bar. She is also a guest lecturer at the University of Kansas School of Law.





     


    Formats Available: CD-ROM (Win), Webinar, Webinar + CD, Download, Webinar + Download
    Original Seminar Date: July 21, 2010
    On-Demand Release Date: Available Now
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    Selling Blue Elephants: Client Marketing, Retention and Loyalty (LI)

    In today’s challenging legal environment, every firm recognizes the value of client recruitment, retention and loyalty. The challenge facing the legal administrator is to design and implement an affordable, actionable and effective communication plan capable of engaging prospective and existing clients to the practice. Join this program to learn to scientifically evaluate all client contact opportunities and experiences. Discover how to immediately identify the "mind-set" preference of each client and know exactly what to say and how to deliver your message

    Learning objectives:


    • Identify and refine your current marketing and client experiences messages
    • Illustrate how to design a client marketing, retention and loyalty plan within your current budget
    • Explain how to communicate your message that best resonates with the “mind-set” of each individual client



    Howard R. Moskowitz, Ph.D., president of Moskowitz Jacobs Inc., is an experimental psychologist in the field of psychophysics. In 2005 he received the Parlin Award from the American Marketing Association, its highest award. In 2006 Moskowitz was awarded the first Research Innovation Award by the Advertising Research Foundation and was also inducted into the Hall of Fame of New York’s Market Research Council. He has made significant contributions to market research including the introduction of psychophysical scaling and product optimization for consumer product development. In the 1980's his contributions were extended to health and beauty aids.



    Ken Rotondo, DVM, is a business management consultant, speaker and veterinarian. He has lectured and counseled a variety of audiences (including bankers, financial services groups, businesspeople and doctors) on the hidden potential found in people, the powers of persuasive communication, and the importance of creating an exceptional customer experience not just a transaction.
    CLMSM Credit for live program only: 1 hour of credit in the area of Legal Industry (LI) for CLM Recertification and 1 hour towards the additional hours of education required of Functional Specialists seeking to fulfill the CLM application.


    CLMSM Credit for live program only: 1 hour of credit in the area of Legal Industry (LI) for CLM Recertification and 1 hour towards the additional hours of education required of Functional Specialists seeking to fulfill the CLM application.

    Formats Available: CD-ROM (Win), Webinar, Webinar + CD, Download, Webinar + Download
    Original Seminar Date: January 18, 2012
    On-Demand Release Date: Available Now
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    Do you feel like e-mail is running your life? Has it has taken control of your workflow? This session will explore good practices and technology features designed to enhance your productivity - not bog it down. You will learn to identify and prioritize your e-mail with some simple but highly effective tools, including:

  • What warrants a response
  • What to pass on to others
  • What to file for future reference
  • What you can simply delete


  • Formats Available: CD-ROM (Win), Download
    Original Seminar Date: June 17, 2009
    On-Demand Release Date: Available Now
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    The evidence is clear. Law firms that develop and implement thoughtful strategic plans outperform those that do not. Over time, they become more cohesive, more profitable and more sustainable institutions. Yet, most law firms don’t have one. It’s no easy task to achieve consensus among a group of lawyers. Better to leave things as they are. Other firms will go through a strategic planning exercise and come up with a game plan. However, despite the best  intentions, they allow implementation to fall by the wayside. No real change. Business as usual. In this program, one of the country’s leading authorities on law firm marketing and business development will underscore the importance of strategic planning for law firms and provide participants with the keys to develop and implement a successful strategic plan at their law firms. Learning Objectives

    • Describe why strategic planning is important to a successful law firm.
    • Identify ways to achieve buy-in from a critical mass of the firm’s owners.
    • Explain how to obtain unwavering commitment and support from firm leaders.
    • Demonstrate how to prioritize and focus resources on just three or four firm-wide goals and objectives.
    • Illustrate how to allocate adequate resources, including lawyer time, staff time and money.
    • Analyze why the firm needs to assign responsibilities, monitor progress and reward dedicated effort.
    • Discuss the importance of internal communication. Say it loud. Say it often. Say it lots of ways.
    • Explain why you need to showcase results and celebrate success.

    Speaker:

    John Remsen Jr., is President of TheRemsenGroup, an Atlanta-based strategic planning and marketing consulting firm that works exclusively with law firms. He is also President and CEO of The Managing Partner Forum, and is a frequent speaker and author on law firm management and marketing topics. He has worked with more than 175 law firms since 1997.



     


    Formats Available: CD-ROM (Win), Webinar, Webinar + CD, Download, Webinar + Download
    Original Seminar Date: June 16, 2010
    On-Demand Release Date: Available Now
    MORE INFO

    Should law firms really be on Facebook? How should law firms use LinkedIn? Should we have a podcast or Wikipedia listing? Isn't Twitter completely … ridiculous? Why should every ALA member have a personal Google Profile? The social networking phenomenon has revolutionized the way people connect and share information as these tools have exploded in popularity. Instead of banning employees from using these powerful tools, firms should plan how to use this media to their advantage. Join this Webinar to learn the various Web 2.0 and social networking services and explore ways to manage them in the best interests of your firm. Learning objectives:

    • Describe how to use social media to manage your online brand and reputation
    • Identify the tools that are critical, optional - or get your firm sued for discrimination
    • Discuss possible uses of social media for business development, recruitment and learning
    • Summarize ways in which this media can encourage attorneys to participate in law firm business and activities

    Speaker:

    Ross Fishman is the CEO of Fishman Marketing, helping law firms in marketing training and retreats; strategic marketing planning; branding, differentiation, and positioning; and the development of Web sites and other related materials. He was one of the inaugural inductees into the Legal Marketing Association's Hall of Fame and a five-time winner of the association's grand prize, the "Best of Show."


     



    Formats Available: CD-ROM (Win), Webinar, Webinar + CD, Download, Webinar + Download
    Original Seminar Date: May 19, 2010
    On-Demand Release Date: Available Now
    MORE INFO
    The Writing Wheel (CM)

    Among the many tasks of a legal administrator, you must be able to produce well-written communications quickly and creatively. How do you maximize your communication capacity? This extended session will explore techniques that can take you from brainstorming to drafting in record time. Here you will discover the four-stage planning and drafting process that has been successful from classrooms to law offices. Learning Objectives:

    • Use the covered techniques to organize and strategize projects
    • Create effective written communications
    • Define the process for teaching people of all abilities how to use the writing process to become more effective planners and writers

    Speaker:


    Elizabeth Strauss Carson, Ph.D. has more than 30 years of middle school, secondary, and college-level teaching experience specializing in College Composition, Communication Skills, Curriculum Development, British and American Literature, Writing Across the Curriculum, and Standardized Testing. She has worked in Immigration Law and drafted numerous Outstanding Researcher and Extraordinary Ability petitions. She is a frequent presenter at ALA conferences helping numerous legal administrators become more efficient and effective writers.



    Formats Available: CD-ROM (Win), Webinar, Webinar + CD, Download, Webinar + Download
    Original Seminar Date: February 16, 2011
    On-Demand Release Date: Available Now
    MORE INFO
    Preparing your firm's budget every year can be a daunting task. In this session, the presenter will review the reasons budgets are important and will provide participants with the knowledge and tools necessary to prepare better budgets. Those who purchase this session will receive working Excel® spreadsheets that can be used as templates to prepare their own firm budgets. This session is designed for small- to medium-sized firm administrators.

    Who Should Purchase
    • Administrators from small- to medium-sized firms
    • New administrators
    Formats Available: CD-ROM (Win), Download
    Original Seminar Date: September 17, 2008
    On-Demand Release Date: Available Now
    MORE INFO
    Finance for the Non-Financial Administrator (FM)

    This program will provide you with a basic understanding of the significant drivers of law firm finance and profitability. In addition, the speaker will review key financial statements and how these statements are linked to each other.

    Attendees will learn:

    • The five key financial indicators for their firms and how to benchmark against them
    • The various financial reports that must be produced every month
    • How to create a meaningful budget
    • The difference between profits and partner compensation
    • The importance of maintaining adequate capital

    Speaker:

    Stephen (Pete) M. Peterson is the CEO of the accounting and advisory firm Maxfield Peterson, PC and the Managing Director of the firm’s specialty practice, the Law Firm Business Institute. He counsels firms on strategy, mergers and acquisitions, compensation, and profitability improvement. Peterson formerly served as the COO of Hildebrandt International.


    Formats Available: CD-ROM (Win), Webinar, Webinar + CD, Download, Webinar + Download
    Original Seminar Date: July 20, 2011
    On-Demand Release Date: Available Now
    MORE INFO
    It's more important than ever to control costs, target your firm’s financial strengths and increase profitability. Join this program to acquire a solid understanding of how to confidently determine the most profitable pricing and staffing arrangement. The speaker, Richard Turnbow, provides in-depth information on law firm profitability and other relevant issues. Participants are guided through a step-by-step approach to determine the total cost of a completed matter. Participants will receive all the Excel® spreadsheets tailored to build financial information for their own firm efficiently, quickly and with optimal results. By the end of this session, participants should be able to:

    • Determine costs of various components of the firm’s operations
    • Build cost accounting and profitability measurement systems
    • Measure profitability over time and by area of law, practice groups and levels beneficial to one's own firm

    Speaker:

    Richard B. Turnbow is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and the author of numerous articles and written materials focused on legal industry finances. While on the staff at ALA, he wrote materials and produced a CD on the subject of Law Firm Profitability Enhancement and has taught this subject in a number of seminars. He has also authored the publication Successful Law Firm Financial Management. In addition to personal law firm consulting, Turnbow has served as an expert witness on financial management topics.

    Formats Available: CD-ROM (Win), Webinar, Webinar + CD, Download, Webinar + Download
    Original Seminar Date: August 18, 2010
    On-Demand Release Date: Available Now
    MORE INFO
    It's more important than ever to control costs, target your firm's financial strengths and increase profitability. Join this program to acquire a solid understanding of how to confidently determine the most profitable pricing and staffing arrangement. The speaker, Richard Turnbow, provides in-depth information on law firm profitability and other relevant issues. Participants are guided through a step-by-step approach to determine the total cost of a completed matter. Participants will receive all the Excel® spreadsheets tailored to build financial information for their own firm efficiently, quickly and with optimal results.


    Formats Available: CD-ROM (Win), Webinar, Webinar + CD, Download, Webinar + Download
    Original Seminar Date: August 20, 2009
    On-Demand Release Date: Available Now
    MORE INFO
    Learn how to build a budget - from the ground up - that can be used as a planning tool and a way to gently force policy decisions. This session will focus on how to use the budget to identify key information to manage cash flow and analyze how to strengthen the bottom line through increasing revenue rather than cutting costs. You will learn how to manage revenue drivers, including billing rates, productivity and realization.

    Formats Available: CD-ROM (Win), Webinar, Webinar + CD, Download, Webinar + Download
    Original Seminar Date: September 16, 2009
    On-Demand Release Date: Available Now
    MORE INFO
    There has been a great deal of discussion about the wide disparity among lawyers and staff who span multiple generations. These generations have different skills, ambitions and expectations. The administrator’s task is to find ways to keep these multiple generations engaged and productive. Weaving the tapestry of a great work environment requires recognizing the generational issues, coaching different groups for their best work, and understanding today’s job marketplace. The administrator who invests the energy in this newest skill set of coaching will reap rewards in personal and professional development, a productive work force, attracting and retaining the best talent, and enhancing business processes.

    Learning objectives:

    • Discuss the skill set associated with effective job coaching
    • Identify the principle of job coaching accountability
    • Develop strategies for assessing coaching outcomes

    Camille Grabowski
    is a Professional Career Coach with 25+ years of experience in the recruiting industry and human resources, helping employers and jobseekers maximize their relationships. As a workplace expert, Camille provides career coaching services in the areas of career transition, career relaunch, job search strategies, resume writing, interview preparation, and job offer evaluation and negotiation. She is a frequent speaker and workshop presenter on these topics to job seekers and employers.

    Judith A. Hissong, CLM, Principal of Nesso Strategies, partners with law firm professionals for strategic planning, leadership development, and executive coaching. Hissong has presented at many ALA Conferences on various topics. She is a former ALA Director, a Past President of ALA’s San Diego Chapter, and was Chair of ALA’s 2006 Annual Conference Committee.

    Formats Available: CD-ROM (Win), Webinar, Webinar + CD, Download, Webinar + Download
    Original Seminar Date: April 21, 2010
    On-Demand Release Date: Available Now
    MORE INFO
    Wouldn't it be nice to work from home, in your kitchen, with the coffee pot right at hand? The pressure to provide alternate work arrangements for staff and attorneys is strong. But there is much more involved in setting up these arrangements than allowing someone to work from home. Consider some of the legal issues, such as worker's compensation and the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) requirements, security of firm and client data, and the impact on the firm's finances. In this session, attendees will learn more.


    Formats Available: CD-ROM (Win), Webinar, Webinar + CD, Download, Webinar + Download
    Original Seminar Date: July 15, 2009
    On-Demand Release Date: Available Now
    MORE INFO
    Conflict Resolution: Why Can't Everybody Just Get Along? (CM)

    The economic environment is challenging and creating stress among our employees, lawyers and staff. Add to that problem the already-stressful legal environment that’s just part of firm life, and you have fertile ground for conflict. Learn how legal administrators can find ways to manage difficult situations and difficult people to create an environment that supports and strengthens agreement among employees. Learning objectives:

    • Analyze situations that give rise to conflict among coworkers
    • Identify and apply strategies to foster communications within your law firms
    • Recognize situational challenges and opportunities in which you can use coaching and mediation models to achieve win-win results

    Speaker:

    Radiology, Ltd Rachel Schaming, ALA Past President, is the Director of Human Resources for Radiology, Ltd., a 500-employee medical entity in Tucson, AZ. Schaming has more than 25 years of human resources experience in law firm administration. She teaches conflict resolution, change management design, culture analysis, and performance management, and is certified in corporate coaching.



    Formats Available: CD-ROM (Win), Webinar, Webinar + CD, Download, Webinar + Download
    Original Seminar Date: March 16, 2011
    On-Demand Release Date: Available Now
    MORE INFO
    It is certainly the time of year to be stressed: the firm's budgeting cycle, the economy, the holidays, and more. And each of these stress points can affect the attorneys and staff - creating even more stress. Join this program to examine the good, bad and ugly sides of stress. Explore techniques for dealing with stress, and identify ones that will work best for you. Remember, stress is a natural part of our lives and only becomes bad or ugly when it exceeds our ability to cope. As a legal administrator, you are always expected to cope.
    Formats Available: CD-ROM (Win), Webinar, Webinar + CD, Download, Webinar + Download
    Original Seminar Date: November 11, 2009
    On-Demand Release Date: Available Now
    MORE INFO
    Health Care Reform: What's Happening? (HR)

    There are far-reaching changes to our national health care system with the new health care law that impacts – in some ways significantly – employers and their employees. The law includes mandates for employers to offer health care coverage to their employees and that coverage must include specific minimum requirements. Legal administrators must understand this hot topic that directly affects the firm’s benefits structure. Join this speaker who will present an update on the current health-care reform landscape and its impact on employers.

    Learning Objectives:

    • Discuss the basic structure and requirements of the national health care reform
    • Examine the key requirements for employers to comply with the law
    • Summarize the need to assess and review current health plans to evaluate the various alternatives to comply with health care reform

    Speaker:


    Peter J. Wertsching is a Senior Vice President in the employee benefits practice at Willis HRH (Hilb Rogal & Hobbs Company) and works directly with clients of all sizes in managing their employee benefit plans. He has 24 years in the employee benefits business.


    Formats Available: CD-ROM (Win), Webinar, Webinar + CD, Download, Webinar + Download
    Original Seminar Date: January 19, 2011
    On-Demand Release Date: Available Now
    MORE INFO
    Help your new lawyers reach their full potential and the firm achieve its strategic business goals by getting associates off to the right start. Legal administrators are more involved in associate orientation than ever before. These new lawyers need to understand how their law firm is structured, how the economics of a law practice works and their firm's expectations. Of course, there's the ever-important need to balance life as well as a job. The stakes are high so keeping good lawyers makes good business sense - in firms of all sizes.

    Who Should Purchase

  • Human Resources Administrators
  • Principal Administrators
  • Formats Available: CD-ROM (Win), Download
    Original Seminar Date: August 15, 2007
    On-Demand Release Date: Available Now
    MORE INFO
    Of course, the successful integration of a lateral associate is everyone's responsibility, but you are often the person responsible for seeing that the firm's business flows smoothly, effectively and profitably. You can play a key role in the success of laterals - partners and associates. If not done thoughtfully, the potential profit or loss in the integration process is significant. Learn how to develop a roadmap with ideas, approaches and alternatives - and pitfalls to avoid - in exercising administrative leadership in the vital role of successfully integrating lateral hires.

    Who Should Purchase

  • Administrators from small- to medium-sized firms
  • New administrators
  • Human Resources Administrators
  • Formats Available: CD-ROM (Win), Download
    Original Seminar Date: June 20, 2007
    On-Demand Release Date: Available Now
    MORE INFO
    Social networks build online communities of people interested in exploring shared interests and activities. But there is often more information available than it might be prudent to know. To stay in touch with current recruiting practices and how to handle potential problems regarding staff who are using these social networks, you need to recognize how these sites operate (i.e., LinkedIn®, MySpace, Facebook). Learning objectives:

    • Explain the legal risks of relying on social networking sites to assess potential candidates and current employees
    • Describe actions the firm can take regarding current employees
    • Determine best practices in recruiting

    Speaker:

    Shelly L. Freeman, J.D., is an attorney and president of HROI, a human resources consulting firm in Kansas City, MO. Freeman is a frequent guest speaker on HR issues to a variety of organizations, including the American Bar Association Labor & Employment Section, The Kansas City Metropolitan Bar Association, Kansas Bar Association and The Missouri Bar. She is also a guest lecturer at the University of Kansas School of Law.





     


    Formats Available: CD-ROM (Win), Webinar, Webinar + CD, Download, Webinar + Download
    Original Seminar Date: July 21, 2010
    On-Demand Release Date: Available Now
    MORE INFO
    Valuing our generational differences adds enormous potential to organizations - and some headaches. Now that we are all together, what does it mean? Different values, beliefs and attitudes based on when we were born, plus the cohort events in the world at that time, shape us. What steps can you take, and processes can you create that will help employees understand each other and function as a collegial and effective team.

    Who Should Purchase

  • Human Resources Administrators
  • Principal Administrators
  • Formats Available: CD-ROM (Win), Download
    Original Seminar Date: December 12, 2007
    On-Demand Release Date: Available Now
    MORE INFO
    Presented Exclusively for Canadian Legal Administrators and their Legal Management

    Many of today's law firms are struggling with the seemingly diverse interests of their associates on one hand, and their partners on the other, while still ensuring that client needs are met. The strength and success of the firm and each of its members, and the satisfaction of the clients depend upon developing a strong relationship and understanding between partners and associates concerning each other's needs and law firm economics. In this Webinar, a partner and an associate begin the dialogue on how to work together to reshape individual interests into shared interests that will ensure continued success of the firm while recognizing the needs of all stakeholders.
    Formats Available: CD-ROM (Win), Download
    Original Seminar Date: March 11, 2009
    On-Demand Release Date: Available Now
    MORE INFO
    How do you handle inter-employee disputes - not out and out conflict? Maybe it's just personality differences but you know employees have to work together for the good of the firm. They need to act professionally without the rest of the office knowing there may troubled waters between them. Sometimes it's a disagreement with you? What processes can you create that will help employees understand that when you can't grant a request, there's probably a good reason.

    Who Should Purchase

  • Administrators from small- to medium-sized firms
  • New administrators
  • Human Resources Administrators
  • Formats Available: CD-ROM (Win), Download
    Original Seminar Date: March 14, 2007
    On-Demand Release Date: Available Now
    MORE INFO
    This Webinar focuses on issues that involve protecting and recovering a firm's records in the event of a disaster. The speakers will discuss where files are and should be stored and some best practices for storing records and files.

    Who Should Purchase

  • Principal Administrators
  • Records Managers
  • Formats Available: CD-ROM (Win), Download
    Original Seminar Date: June 23, 2008
    On-Demand Release Date: Available Now
    MORE INFO
    With the explosion of electronic communications – social media sites, twitter, regular "old" e-mail – managing the law firms' electronic records is becoming a significant challenge. While it’s true that a law firm cannot fully address electronic record management unless you manage your paper records well, join this Webinar to learn the important issues in managing electronically stored information ("ESI"). The issues involve electronic discovery, firm storage archives, retention, backup tapes and more. If you can begin to address the issues surrounding ESI, you can start to build some processes to more effectively manage ESI in your firm. Learning objectives:
    • Examine the key issues and best practices of managing ESI
    • Summarize some of the legal and ethical issues surrounding ESI
    • Apply successful retention tools and implementation strategies


    Dana C. Moore is the National Records & Information Compliance Manager for Foley & Lardner LLP. She has more than 20 years of records management experience, developed records management systems solutions, works on RIM legal compliance issues such as electronic evidence discovery and document holds, and oversees protocols and processes associated with electronic record keeping and the migration of electronically stored information ("ESI").  She has particular expertise in records management systems conversions.



    Formats Available: CD-ROM (Win), Webinar, Webinar + CD, Download, Webinar + Download
    Original Seminar Date: September 15, 2010
    On-Demand Release Date: Available Now
    MORE INFO
    Ethics in the Wireless World (LI)

    Internet communications have opened up an effective and efficient channel for communications – with clients, other attorneys, staff and friends. But with this efficiency come significant risks, including inadvertent breaches of confidentiality, lost e-mail devices, unethical website advertising, social networking and more. It’s easy to get into trouble unintentionally. Learn to identify the risks and the steps you need to take to protect your firm, and take away ideas for developing your own ethics programs.

    Learning objectives:

    • Recognize the risks inherent in widespread electronic communications
    • Examine ways to mitigate these risks with training and firm policies
    • Evaluate the firm’s procedures regarding its IT systems, including enhanced firewalls virus protection, metadata scrubbers, and possible limits on AutoComplete and/or Reply All

    Speaker:

    Michael P. Downey, J.D., Partner, Hinshaw & Culbertson, LLP, focuses his practice on advising lawyers, accountants and their firms on legal ethics, discipline, risk management and related business and professional issues. Downey teaches legal ethics and law firm practice at Washington University School of Law and has lectured widely and published many articles on professional ethics.


    CLM Credit for live program only: 1 hr of credit in the area of Industry/Business Management (LI) for CLM Recertification; 1 hour towards the additional hours of education required of Functional Specialists seeking to fulfill the CLM application.

    This Webinar has been approved for recertification credit toward PHR and SPHR recertification through the HR Certification Institute (HRCI).
    Formats Available: CD-ROM (Win), Webinar, Webinar + CD, Download, Webinar + Download
    Original Seminar Date: September 21, 2011
    On-Demand Release Date: Available Now
    MORE INFO
    Leasing: The Fine Print Implications (OM)

    Equipment leasing can have a significant impact on the firm’s finances if the leases are negotiated aggressively. Leasing information technology equipment is particularly advantageous because firms can benefit from cutting-edge equipment, and at the same time hedge against obsolescence and conserve cash. Join this program to examine the fine print in lease contracts and the reasons firms deliberate over the lease vs. buy decision for office and technology equipment.

    Learning objectives:

    • Identify three contract sections that always increase lease spending unless negotiated
    • Discuss how the lease request for proposal (RFP) process will save time and money
    • Examine the traditional economic comparisons and new financial tools essential to the lease vs. buy decision

    Speaker:

    Mary A. Redmond, founder of Independent Lease Review Inc., has been negotiating leases for the past 21 years. Redmond speaks, writes, and conducts seminars on leasing and negotiations. She is the author of The LeaseSpeak™ System: Your Guide to Saving Money on Leases.


    Formats Available: CD-ROM (Win), Webinar, Webinar + CD, Download, Webinar + Download
    Original Seminar Date: May 18, 2011
    On-Demand Release Date: Available Now
    MORE INFO
    Social networks build online communities of people interested in exploring shared interests and activities. But there is often more information available than it might be prudent to know. To stay in touch with current recruiting practices and how to handle potential problems regarding staff who are using these social networks, you need to recognize how these sites operate (i.e., LinkedIn®, MySpace, Facebook). Learning objectives:

    • Explain the legal risks of relying on social networking sites to assess potential candidates and current employees
    • Describe actions the firm can take regarding current employees
    • Determine best practices in recruiting

    Speaker:

    Shelly L. Freeman, J.D., is an attorney and president of HROI, a human resources consulting firm in Kansas City, MO. Freeman is a frequent guest speaker on HR issues to a variety of organizations, including the American Bar Association Labor & Employment Section, The Kansas City Metropolitan Bar Association, Kansas Bar Association and The Missouri Bar. She is also a guest lecturer at the University of Kansas School of Law.





     


    Formats Available: CD-ROM (Win), Webinar, Webinar + CD, Download, Webinar + Download
    Original Seminar Date: July 21, 2010
    On-Demand Release Date: Available Now
    MORE INFO
    Lockstep to Levels After the Dust Settled – Unlocked, Unloaded, Successful? (LI)

    Over the past 18 months there has been a new focus, debate, discussion and implementation of different talent management models in law firms. An integral part of this examination has been a movement away from lockstep to level based compensation for some firms. In this program, two industry leaders in this area will discuss the different types of emerging compensation models, why there is not a “one size fits all” approach, how these models are intricately connected to the broader issues of talent management, and conclude with some best practices to support and guide your decision about whether or not your firm should make the move from lockstep to levels.

    Learning Objectives:

    • Analyze how firms are adapting to market pressures and economic realities.
    • Examine how to balance economic and non-economic contributions in the compensation decisions

    Speakers:

    Terri Mottershead is the founding Principal of Mottershead Consulting. She brings more than 26 years of experience in international law practice, legal institution building, talent management, organizational development, consulting, legal education and training to her consulting work. Terri has worked in-house in attorney talent management, practiced law in Australia and Hong Kong, and was a law school academic and consultant in Hong Kong. She has extensive experience working with senior management and law firm stakeholders in strategically aligning and successfully implementing talent management goals that support business performance goals.



    Laura Saklad is the global Chief Lawyer Development Officer of Orrick Herrington & Sutcliffe LLP. At Orrick, she is responsible for working with firm management to lead the talent management initiatives for more than 1,000 attorneys in the firm's 22 global offices. During the past two years, Laura has focused on the design and implementation of Orrick's innovative new Talent Model, which replaces the traditional lockstep model with merit-based advancement for partner-track associates and introduces meaningful career options for attorneys not on the partnership track.


    Formats Available: CD-ROM (Win), Webinar, Webinar + CD, Download, Webinar + Download
    Original Seminar Date: April 20, 2011
    On-Demand Release Date: Available Now
    MORE INFO
    Now where is that file? And who's asking for it? A partner? Opposing counsel? Properly organizing and maintaining records and information, in paper and electronic formats, is key to firms of all sizes and types. The ability to identify, organize, maintain and access needed information and properly dispose of the rest pays off in cost savings, efficiency, regulatory compliance and reduced litigation risk. This session will provide some tips and strategies for storing and maintaining those all-important records.

    Formats Available: CD-ROM (Win), Webinar, Webinar + CD, Download, Webinar + Download
    Original Seminar Date: August 19, 2009
    On-Demand Release Date: Available Now
    MORE INFO
    Picking up the pieces after a major disaster can be devastating. Even for firms that consider their disaster plan to be thorough and complete, the unpredictable nature of potential disasters impacts the most prudent steps to full recovery. And, the recovery options continue to change each year. In this session, the presenter will provide an in-depth look at disaster planning, starting with proper funding, buy-in from the top, and the priorities.


    Formats Available: CD-ROM (Win), Webinar, Webinar + CD, Download, Webinar + Download
    Original Seminar Date: October 21, 2009
    On-Demand Release Date: Available Now
    MORE INFO
    Your Firm’s Risk Insurance Needs: Professional Liability Coverage (LI)

    Managing your firm’s risk management, including liability coverage and the mechanics of reporting requirements, is intertwined with creating and strengthening your firm’s ethical culture. Professional liability insurance is key to a firm’s strength – and survival. Whether you are an experienced administrator or new to the profession, it’s easy to forget the details. Furthermore, there are new issues that have surfaced in this “new” normal economy so it’s important to know the trends. Knowing the in’s and out’s of your professional liability policies will help you reduce exposure to claims.

    Learning Objectives:

    • Discuss prior acts coverage
    • Identify critical portions of the application and how it can affect coverage
    • Recognize the importance of reviewing all firm policies, including the business owner’s policy, relevant property coverage policies and more

    Speaker:

    Jennifer A. Ritman is President and Founder of Ritman & Associates, Inc. She specializes in Professional Liability and Employment Practices Liability Insurance with an emphasis on lawyers. Ritman is a member of the Professional Liability Underwriters Society and part of the ABA Standing Committee on Professional Liability.

    CLM Credit for live program only: 1 hr of credit in the area of Legal Industry/Business Management (LI) for CLM Recertification; 1 hour towards the additional hours of education required of Functional Specialists seeking to fulfill the CLM application.

    Formats Available: CD-ROM (Win), Webinar, Webinar + CD, Download, Webinar + Download
    Original Seminar Date: October 19, 2011
    On-Demand Release Date: Available Now
    MORE INFO
    It's more important than ever to be able to monitor and continuously improve the performance of any law firm process on an ongoing basis. The idea is to watch your costs, make improvements and increase efficiency. This is especially true of outsourced processes that involve managing documents, such as the print/copy and mail center operations, eDiscovery, etc. Think of a cardiologist using an EKG to track real-time objective heart performance. With a similar level of insight into your service provider's performance, you’d have much less to worry about. Join this program to review case history examples to bring these concepts to life.

    Learning Objectives:
    • Discuss why it's important to monitor law firm functions, especially those that are outsourced. Mail and copy/print management, document imaging, records management and eDiscovery are potential areas in which your firm can save money and increase efficiency.
    • Identify the ways in which you can monitor law firm processes
    • Explain the methods for real-time, and ongoing process analysis

    Speakers:


    Tina Burnham, National Manager for Océ, Best Practices has 15+ years of industry experience. An expert in both commercial and legal sectors, Tina was successful in implementing customized technology solutions for her clients across all document management services. Recognized as one of the most successful Area and Operations Managers, Tina has led quality and performance initiatives focused on the development and training of managers and front-line personnel. Achieving her Six Sigma Black Belt, Tina personally led and managed project initiatives resulting in over $3.4 million dollars of annualized, bottom-line savings.

    Tracy Nguyen is an accomplished professional with 16 years of hands-on experience in revenue generation, operational start-ups, merger integrations and implementations in legal, corporate, healthcare and financial service areas. As a former Senior Vice President for ABeam Consulting Ltd, Tracy developed and managed multiple document management/litigation support locations globally as well as various merger integration projects. Prior to ABeam, Tracy was a General Manager with Merrill Communications where she was responsible for increasing sales, reducing costs and streamlining operations for the West and Central Region's Facilities Management and Reprographics/Overflow offices.

    Formats Available: CD-ROM (Win), Webinar, Webinar + CD, Download, Webinar + Download
    Original Seminar Date: October 20, 2010
    On-Demand Release Date: Available Now
    MORE INFO
    With the explosion of electronic communications – social media sites, twitter, regular "old" e-mail – managing the law firms' electronic records is becoming a significant challenge. While it’s true that a law firm cannot fully address electronic record management unless you manage your paper records well, join this Webinar to learn the important issues in managing electronically stored information ("ESI"). The issues involve electronic discovery, firm storage archives, retention, backup tapes and more. If you can begin to address the issues surrounding ESI, you can start to build some processes to more effectively manage ESI in your firm. Learning objectives:
    • Examine the key issues and best practices of managing ESI
    • Summarize some of the legal and ethical issues surrounding ESI
    • Apply successful retention tools and implementation strategies


    Dana C. Moore is the National Records & Information Compliance Manager for Foley & Lardner LLP. She has more than 20 years of records management experience, developed records management systems solutions, works on RIM legal compliance issues such as electronic evidence discovery and document holds, and oversees protocols and processes associated with electronic record keeping and the migration of electronically stored information ("ESI").  She has particular expertise in records management systems conversions.



    Formats Available: CD-ROM (Win), Webinar, Webinar + CD, Download, Webinar + Download
    Original Seminar Date: September 15, 2010
    On-Demand Release Date: Available Now
    MORE INFO
    Corporate America is becoming heavily committed to "Going Green," one of the fastest developing trends in the U.S. The benefits of implementing a sustainability program show up in supply and energy cost savings, healthier environments for employees, recruiting and retention advantages, and buildings that are developed in an environmentally sensitive manner. Participants will learn about the ABA-EPA Law Office Climate Challenge Program and the U.S. Green Building Council's LEED Rating System, and look at strategies to enhance worker productivity, reduce absenteeism, and lower energy and supply costs.

    Who Should Purchase

  • Administrators from small- to medium-sized firms
  • New administrators
  • Human Resources Administrators
  • Formats Available: CD-ROM (Win), Download
    Original Seminar Date: April 23, 2008
    On-Demand Release Date: Available Now
    MORE INFO
    Social networks build online communities of people interested in exploring shared interests and activities. But there is often more information available than it might be prudent to know. To stay in touch with current recruiting practices and how to handle potential problems regarding staff who are using these social networks, you need to recognize how these sites operate (i.e., LinkedIn®, MySpace, Facebook). Learning objectives:

    • Explain the legal risks of relying on social networking sites to assess potential candidates and current employees
    • Describe actions the firm can take regarding current employees
    • Determine best practices in recruiting

    Speaker:

    Shelly L. Freeman, J.D., is an attorney and president of HROI, a human resources consulting firm in Kansas City, MO. Freeman is a frequent guest speaker on HR issues to a variety of organizations, including the American Bar Association Labor & Employment Section, The Kansas City Metropolitan Bar Association, Kansas Bar Association and The Missouri Bar. She is also a guest lecturer at the University of Kansas School of Law.





     


    Formats Available: CD-ROM (Win), Webinar, Webinar + CD, Download, Webinar + Download
    Original Seminar Date: July 21, 2010
    On-Demand Release Date: Available Now
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    Picking up the pieces after a major disaster can be devastating. Even for firms that consider their disaster plan to be thorough and complete, the unpredictable nature of potential disasters impacts the most prudent steps to full recovery. And, the recovery options continue to change each year. In this session, the presenter will provide an in-depth look at disaster planning, starting with proper funding, buy-in from the top, and the priorities.


    Formats Available: CD-ROM (Win), Webinar, Webinar + CD, Download, Webinar + Download
    Original Seminar Date: October 21, 2009
    On-Demand Release Date: Available Now
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    The evidence is clear. Law firms that develop and implement thoughtful strategic plans outperform those that do not. Over time, they become more cohesive, more profitable and more sustainable institutions. Yet, most law firms don’t have one. It’s no easy task to achieve consensus among a group of lawyers. Better to leave things as they are. Other firms will go through a strategic planning exercise and come up with a game plan. However, despite the best  intentions, they allow implementation to fall by the wayside. No real change. Business as usual. In this program, one of the country’s leading authorities on law firm marketing and business development will underscore the importance of strategic planning for law firms and provide participants with the keys to develop and implement a successful strategic plan at their law firms. Learning Objectives

    • Describe why strategic planning is important to a successful law firm.
    • Identify ways to achieve buy-in from a critical mass of the firm’s owners.
    • Explain how to obtain unwavering commitment and support from firm leaders.
    • Demonstrate how to prioritize and focus resources on just three or four firm-wide goals and objectives.
    • Illustrate how to allocate adequate resources, including lawyer time, staff time and money.
    • Analyze why the firm needs to assign responsibilities, monitor progress and reward dedicated effort.
    • Discuss the importance of internal communication. Say it loud. Say it often. Say it lots of ways.
    • Explain why you need to showcase results and celebrate success.

    Speaker:

    John Remsen Jr., is President of TheRemsenGroup, an Atlanta-based strategic planning and marketing consulting firm that works exclusively with law firms. He is also President and CEO of The Managing Partner Forum, and is a frequent speaker and author on law firm management and marketing topics. He has worked with more than 175 law firms since 1997.



     


    Formats Available: CD-ROM (Win), Webinar, Webinar + CD, Download, Webinar + Download
    Original Seminar Date: June 16, 2010
    On-Demand Release Date: Available Now
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