ABA Forum on Construction Law Midwinter Conference 2026
The ABA Forum on Construction Law's 2026 Midwinter Conference, themed "Changing Landscapes: New and Effective ADR Strategies," is a premier gathering of construction law practitioners, in-house counsel, ADR specialists, and industry advisors. Taking place from February 4 to 7, 2026, at the Ritz-Carlton in Dana Point, California, this annual conference marks the launch of the Forum’s 50th Anniversary Celebration and offers a robust program of substantive legal education, insight into emerging trends, and networking opportunities for professionals across the construction and disputes community.
The conference will explore cutting-edge topics and evolving practices in construction alternative dispute resolution (ADR). Sessions will address issues such as the future of construction arbitration, innovative ADR tools like mediated case management and early neutral evaluation, and effective discovery and motion practice in arbitration. Attendees will benefit from expert perspectives on the intersection of law, practice, and project risk in construction, infrastructure, and built environment sectors.
In addition to its programming, attendees will have networking opportunities such as the "Meet the Neutrals" Speed Networking Event in support of the Ray Corollary Initiative. The event will also feature an exhibit hall where sponsors and exhibitors will showcase their services and products relevant to construction law and ADR.
This conference is ideal for construction law practitioners, in-house counsel, ADR specialists, and industry advisors seeking to stay abreast of evolving ADR strategies and network with peers. The event offers a dynamic setting to connect, learn, and help shape the future of dispute resolution in the construction industry.
Speakers(10)
Andrew Sargent
Managing Director at VERTEX
Andrew Sargent is a Managing Director at VERTEX, with expertise in project advisory and dispute resolution.
Benjamin Strong
Chief Revenue Officer at VERTEX
Benjamin Strong is the Chief Revenue Officer at VERTEX, responsible for revenue growth and sales strategies.
Chris Ling
Senior Managing Director at VERTEX
Chris Ling is a Senior Managing Director at VERTEX, leading teams in construction consulting and forensic services.
Dan Copeland
Principal Account Executive at VERTEX
Dan Copeland is a Principal Account Executive at VERTEX, managing client relationships and business development.
Jennifer Grippa
Neutral at Miles Mediation & Arbitration
Jennifer Grippa is a neutral at Miles Mediation & Arbitration, focusing on alternative dispute resolution in construction law.
John Cullian
Managing Director at VERTEX
John Cullian is a Managing Director at VERTEX, focusing on forensic engineering and construction claims consulting.
Leah Wilson
Business Development Manager at Miles Mediation & Arbitration
Leah Wilson is the Business Development Manager at Miles Mediation & Arbitration, overseeing client relations and business growth.
Mark Degenaars
Chief Operating Officer at VERTEX
Mark Degenaars is the Chief Operating Officer at VERTEX, overseeing company operations and strategic initiatives.
Michelle Jernigan
Mediator at Upchurch Watson White & Max
Michelle Jernigan is a mediator at Upchurch Watson White & Max, specializing in construction law disputes.
Robert Adams
Managing Director at VERTEX
Robert Adams is a Managing Director at VERTEX, specializing in commercial damages and investigations.
Event Details
- Date
- February 4-7, 2026
- 4 days
- Location
- 🇺🇸 Dana Point, United States
- The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel
- Audience
- Construction law practitioners, in-house counsel, ADR specialists, industry advisors
- CLE Credits
- 13.3 CLE hours including 1.2 ethics