From the Desk of Maggie Sweeney, WDTL Executive Director
Of all the valuable offerings Washington Defense Trial Lawyers provides, Roundtables are my favorite and one of the most important benefits of membership.
In a profession where we are constantly navigating complex legal issues, evolving case law, and the pressures of advocacy, Roundtables offer something rare and essential: a space for candid, collegial conversation. These monthly Zoom gatherings are designed to feel like the best kind of water-cooler talk where you can ask hard questions, share your experiences, and learn from others who understand the nuances of civil defense practice.
Because Roundtables are open only to WDTL members, the environment is refreshingly open and supportive. Whether you're a seasoned litigator or newer to the field, you can bring your questions, insights, and even your uncertainties without hesitation. The format encourages real dialogue, and the result is a dynamic exchange that leaves you feeling more connected, informed, and energized.
Each session is led by a guest facilitator with deep knowledge of the topic at hand. These facilitators don't just present, they spark discussion, offer practical takeaways, and help us think more critically about how we approach our work. Topics range from emerging legal trends to trial strategy, ethics, and practice management, ensuring there's always something relevant and timely on the agenda.
The Roundtable program owes its origins to the thoughtful leadership of Shahin Karim and Courtney Hansen, who developed the idea in 2019 as a way to foster in-person, informal conversations among defense attorneys. Their vision was simple yet powerful: monthly gatherings where members could share first-hand knowledge, practice tips, and strategies for navigating the ever-changing landscape of civil defense, including new case law, procedural rules, and litigation challenges. Each session would focus on a fresh topic suggested by WDTL, and the invitation was open: just show up, share information, and get to know your fellow defense counsel over festive snacks and drinks. When the pandemic made in-person meetings impossible, the format transitioned to Zoom but the spirit of connection and collaboration envisioned by Shahin and Courtney remains at the heart of every Roundtable.
We are fortunate to have WDTL Board Member Jade Park of Simmons Sweeney Freimund Smith Tardif serving as our new Roundtable facilitator. Jade works closely with co-facilitators to develop timely, engaging topics that resonate with our members. Jade is always looking for new ideas. If there's a topic you'd like to explore, Jade would be delighted to hear from you.
And yes, there's CLE credit. While Roundtables are approved for 1 CLE credit, the real value extends far beyond the hour logged. It's about building community, sharpening our skills, and remembering that we're not in this alone.
In a world where connection can feel increasingly transactional, WDTL Roundtables remind us of the power of conversation. They're a place to be curious, to be candid, and to be in community with others who share your commitment to excellence in defense practice.
Roundtables are on the first Thursday of each month from 5:15 to 6:15 p.m. Register at wdtl.org. If you haven't joined us for a Roundtable, I hope you will. I think you'll find, as I have, that they're not just informative, they're indispensable.
Because Roundtables are open only to WDTL members, the environment is refreshingly open and supportive. Whether you're a seasoned litigator or newer to the field, you can bring your questions, insights, and even your uncertainties without hesitation. The format encourages real dialogue, and the result is a dynamic exchange that leaves you feeling more connected, informed, and energized.
Each session is led by a guest facilitator with deep knowledge of the topic at hand. These facilitators don't just present, they spark discussion, offer practical takeaways, and help us think more critically about how we approach our work. Topics range from emerging legal trends to trial strategy, ethics, and practice management, ensuring there's always something relevant and timely on the agenda.
The Roundtable program owes its origins to the thoughtful leadership of Shahin Karim and Courtney Hansen, who developed the idea in 2019 as a way to foster in-person, informal conversations among defense attorneys. Their vision was simple yet powerful: monthly gatherings where members could share first-hand knowledge, practice tips, and strategies for navigating the ever-changing landscape of civil defense, including new case law, procedural rules, and litigation challenges. Each session would focus on a fresh topic suggested by WDTL, and the invitation was open: just show up, share information, and get to know your fellow defense counsel over festive snacks and drinks. When the pandemic made in-person meetings impossible, the format transitioned to Zoom but the spirit of connection and collaboration envisioned by Shahin and Courtney remains at the heart of every Roundtable.
We are fortunate to have WDTL Board Member Jade Park of Simmons Sweeney Freimund Smith Tardif serving as our new Roundtable facilitator. Jade works closely with co-facilitators to develop timely, engaging topics that resonate with our members. Jade is always looking for new ideas. If there's a topic you'd like to explore, Jade would be delighted to hear from you.
And yes, there's CLE credit. While Roundtables are approved for 1 CLE credit, the real value extends far beyond the hour logged. It's about building community, sharpening our skills, and remembering that we're not in this alone.
In a world where connection can feel increasingly transactional, WDTL Roundtables remind us of the power of conversation. They're a place to be curious, to be candid, and to be in community with others who share your commitment to excellence in defense practice.
Roundtables are on the first Thursday of each month from 5:15 to 6:15 p.m. Register at wdtl.org. If you haven't joined us for a Roundtable, I hope you will. I think you'll find, as I have, that they're not just informative, they're indispensable.