2026 Civil/Appellate Bench Bar Conference
The 2026 Civil/Appellate Bench Bar Conference is an annual event organized by the Houston Bar Association (HBA) and the Houston Bar Foundation (HBF). Scheduled for April 10, 2026, at Hotel ZaZa in Houston, Texas, this conference aims to enhance communication and collaboration between judges and attorneys handling civil and appellate cases in Texas.
The conference will cover key litigation topics such as jurisdiction strategy, jury charges, and summary judgment practice. Attendees can choose from specialized tracks focusing on appellate, probate, and civil law, with additional discussions on emerging issues like artificial intelligence. The program also includes networking opportunities during lunch and a closing happy hour.
The event offers six hours of Minimum Continuing Legal Education (MCLE) credit, including 1.75 hours of ethics credit. Registration fees are set at $400 for attorneys, paralegals, and media professionals, with discounted rates of $200 for new attorneys (admitted after January 1, 2021) and law students. U.S. Attorneys, Assistant U.S. Attorneys, Federal Public Defenders, Assistant Federal Public Defenders, and U.S. Court Staff can attend at no cost.
This conference is ideal for legal professionals seeking to stay updated on procedural rules, case law, and best practices in civil and appellate law. It provides a platform for networking and professional development, fostering stronger relationships between the bench and the bar.
Speakers(11)
Alan York
Reed Smith
Alan York is a legal professional at Reed Smith, contributing to the firm's litigation and appellate practices.
Chris Watt
Reed Smith
Chris Watt is a legal professional at Reed Smith, specializing in civil and appellate law.
Dandee Cabanay
Reed Smith
Dandee Cabanay is a legal professional at Reed Smith, specializing in complex litigation and appellate law.
Grayson Thompson
Reed Smith
Grayson Thompson is a legal professional at Reed Smith, with experience in litigation and appellate cases.
Heather McFarlane Esq.
Esquire at JAMS
Heather McFarlane Esq. is a neutral at JAMS, focusing on mediation and arbitration in civil and appellate cases.
Hon. Kristen Hawkins
Judge at 11th District Court
Judge Kristen Hawkins serves on the 11th District Court, overseeing civil and appellate cases.
Hon. Russell Lloyd (Ret.)
Retired Judge at JAMS
Hon. Russell Lloyd (Ret.) is a retired judge serving as a neutral at JAMS, specializing in civil and appellate disputes.
Jared B. Caplan
Partner at Bradley
Jared B. Caplan is a Partner at Bradley, specializing in complex litigation and appellate matters.
Jose Lopez
Jose Lopez is a legal professional with expertise in civil and appellate law.
Megan Brown
Reed Smith
Megan Brown is a legal professional at Reed Smith, focusing on appellate and civil litigation.
Nicole Soussan Caplan
Reed Smith
Nicole Soussan Caplan is a legal professional at Reed Smith, focusing on complex litigation and appellate matters.
Event Details
- Date
- April 10, 2026
- Location
- 🇺🇸 Houston, United States
- Hotel ZaZa – Museum District
- Pricing
- $400 - $200
- Audience
- Legal professionals handling civil and appellate cases in Texas
- CLE Credits
- 6 hours MCLE credit, including 1.75 hours ethics
- Attendees
- Not specified