Drafting a legal opinion requires specialized due diligence and legal research, often while under a tight time constraint as the clock ticks and the pressure builds to get the deal finalized. Careful consideration must be given to ensure that the information detailed in the legal opinion letter is not only in accordance with the sometimes vague rules of customary practice, but also does not render an opinion that could mislead the recipient.

Not every client—or witness—is a natural communicator, and even the most well-intentioned testimony can go sideways without thoughtful preparation. Whether it’s a deposition, hearing, or trial, helping witnesses convey their story with clarity and confidence is critical to a strong case. This program offers practical guidance for attorneys preparing witnesses of all types—from nervous novices to strong personalities—to deliver credible, effective testimony.

This course explores the complex dynamics of self-sabotage, equipping participants with the knowledge and tools to identify, understand, and overcome self-defeating behaviors. Through an in-depth examination of the behavioral, emotional, and physical signs of self-sabotage, learners will uncover the psychological and unconscious foundations. The course highlights how self-sabotage manifests in both personal and professional settings, with a special focus on highstakes or legal environments. Participants will learn to recognize recurring self-sabotage cycles, analyze their impact on growth, and implement effective strategies such as SMART goals, mindset reframing, and mindfulness techniques. By the end of the course, learners will be empowered to cultivate a growth oriented mindset, develop healthy habits, and support others on the path to long-term resilience and success.

Session 2: The Transition to Civilian Status & and a General Overview of Veterans Benefits Session 3: Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA) This training is for legal services advocates, lawyers in private practice, social and health services workers, veterans, lay advocates, legislative aides, and anyone else who wants to learn about the basics of state and federal veterans’ benefits. The training covers state veterans’ benefits under G.L. c. 115 (administered by the Massachusetts Department of Veterans’ Services), and federal benefits for healthcare, service-connected disability compensation, and non-service-connected pensions (administered by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs). The basic application process, eligibility rules for veterans (military discharge status, financial eligibility, disqualifying conditions, refund status), and the disability requirements for benefits are addressed, along with the basics of filing an appeal and upgrading a less than honorable discharge.

Este curso CLE, "Los fundamentos de la debida diligencia," ofrece una exploración completa de los procesos de debida diligencia, centrándose en estrategias de investigación, requisitos legales y técnicas de mitigación de riesgos. Los participantes obtendrán conocimientos sobre la importancia de realizar investigaciones exhaustivas en transacciones comerciales, incluidas fusiones, adquisiciones y asociaciones, para garantizar el cumplimiento y protegerse contra posibles riesgos legales y de reputación.

Session 4: Veterans Health Administration (VHA) Benefits Session 5: Character of Discharge & Access to Veterans Benefits Session 6: The Massachusetts Veterans Equality Review Board This training is for legal services advocates, lawyers in private practice, social and health services workers, veterans, lay advocates, legislative aides, and anyone else who wants to learn about the basics of state and federal veterans’ benefits. The training covers state veterans’ benefits under G.L. c. 115 (administered by the Massachusetts Department of Veterans’ Services), and federal benefits for healthcare, service-connected disability compensation, and non-service-connected pensions (administered by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs). The basic application process, eligibility rules for veterans (military discharge status, financial eligibility, disqualifying conditions, refund status), and the disability requirements for benefits are addressed, along with the basics of filing an appeal and upgrading a less than honorable discharge.

Session 3: Veterans Health Administration (VHA) Benefits Session 4: Character of Discharge & Access to Veterans Benefits This training is for legal services advocates, lawyers in private practice, social and health services workers, veterans, lay advocates, legislative aides, and anyone else who wants to learn about the basics of state and federal veterans’ benefits. The training covers state veterans’ benefits under G.L. c. 115 (administered by the Massachusetts Department of Veterans’ Services), and federal benefits for healthcare, service-connected disability compensation, and non-service-connected pensions (administered by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs). The basic application process, eligibility rules for veterans (military discharge status, financial eligibility, disqualifying conditions, refund status), and the disability requirements for benefits are addressed, along with the basics of filing an appeal and upgrading a less than honorable discharge.

People with disabilities rely on service and assistance animals to perform a variety of tasks: assist with everyday functions like walking and retrieving objects; alert an individual to sights, sounds, and dangers; alert people with diabetes of an oncoming hypoglycemic or hyperglycemic event and the need to take medication; and provide emotional support, comfort, and companionship. Current federal and state laws create an assortment of rules and regulations which can be difficult to untangle depending on many different factors, such as the species of animal, the tasks it performs, the training it has received—if any at all—and the location in which an individual seeks to rely on the animal. The result can be confusing for attorneys and their clients, and it can lead to otherwise avoidable lawsuits and expenses. This seminar helps attorneys understand the differing requirements, whether in an employment or housing setting, a place of public accommodation (such as a store, restaurant, or other business), a public building (such as city hall or a town library), or various modes of transportation. The faculty provides vital instruction and guidance on what you need to know to advise clients, whether they are individuals who rely on service or assistance animals, or public and private entities that are required to comply with civil rights laws.

Hostile witness testimony is one of the most unpredictable and high-stakes aspects of any trial. It can force you to change your trial approach or present an opportunity. Adversarial or hostile witnesses pose unique challenges, requiring skillful preparation and execution to control their testimony and steer it in your favor. Join us for a CLE presentation that will equip you with the tools and strategies you need to confidently contain and reframe hostile witness testimony.

This CLE course, "The Fundamentals of Due Diligence," offers a comprehensive exploration of due diligence processes, focusing on research strategies, legal requirements, and risk mitigation techniques. Participants will gain insights into the importance of thorough investigations in business transactions, including mergers, acquisitions, and partnerships, to ensure compliance and protect against potential legal and reputational risks.