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MISSOURI
ORGANIZATION
OF
DEFENSE
LAWYERS
\
30 ANNUAL MEETING
TH
FEATURING:
JOHN W. DEAN
FORMER WHITE HOUSE COUNSEL TO PRESIDENT NIXON
“THE LEGACY OF WATERGATE”
ETHICS OF REPRESENTING AN ENTITY UNDER THE CURRENT MODEL RULES
JUNE 4-6, 2015
HILTON BRANSON CONVENTION CENTER
BRANSON, MISSOURI
John Dean featured
in cover story in the
June 2012 issue of
the ABA Journal
Launched in Chicago in
June 2011, the seminar
has received glowing
reviews both for its
engaging presentation
and its relevance to the
most current rules of
legal ethics. “Best CLE
I have ever attended,” is
the most common
reaction.
Visit the Web Site at
www.watergatecle.com
TESTIMONIALS
"As one of the members of the audience said yesterday, that was just about the best CLE program I have ever attended.
The combination of the serious explanation of the new ethical standards with the exciting recollection of a dark but
momentous period in our history was wonderful... All in all, it was a tour de force."
— Richard W. Pogue, former Managing Partner,
Jones Day
"Gripping."
— Chicago Sun-Times, on event held at the
Chicago office of Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher
and Flom LLP
Comments
from the
Virginia CLE:
"Best CLE
course I have
attended. Entertaining, Informative, and legally, historically and ethically relevant and
poignant"
"As general counsel of a corporation this has been invaluable"
"Excellent link of history to ethics for attorneys"
"Outstanding presentation and unique opportunity to experience history first hand"
Missouri Organization of Defense Lawyers
101 East High Street
P.O. Box 1072
Jefferson City, Missouri 65102
(573) 636-6100
FAX: (573) 636-9749
www.modllaw.com
Dear MODL Member:
John Dean and the Watergate Break-In at Branson Landing: MODL's 30th Annual Meeting
Save June 4-6, 2015, on your calendar and join us for MODL’s signature event – the Annual Meeting!
MODL’s 30th Annual Meeting headlines former Nixon White House Counsel John W. Dean and his
Watergate CLE. The meeting will be held at the Hilton Branson Convention Center Hotel, a 12-story AAA
Four Diamond hotel in Branson, Missouri. The event continues to feature MODL favorites like Thursday
night's President’s Welcome Reception, Friday afternoon's golf tournament and sporting clays shoot (don't
worry, these are separate events!) and Friday night's Awards Dinner and Banquet.
Members who want to learn something, rack up ethics CLE hours and meet a lawyer who played a central role
in one of the last century's watershed moments in American history will enjoy this year’s stellar CLE program.
As mentioned above, we are proud to offer, "The Watergate CLE Program", a nationally renowned program
featuring John Dean, who co-presents live with attorney Jim Robenalt. This popular and acclaimed CLE
program includes select clips from White House tapes and historic video from the Senate hearings and the
Frost/Nixon interviews. The Watergate CLE will take place on Friday morning and will qualify for 3.6 hours of
ethics.
We are also excited to again host two panels of distinguished judges. The Honorable Zel Fischer will moderate
a panel of appellate judges which include the Honorable Patricia Breckenridge, the Honorable Duane Benton,
the Honorable Roy Richter, the Honorable Mary Kay Hoff and the Honorable Sherri Sullivan. The Honorable
Doug Harpool will moderate the trial judge panel featuring the Honorable Wes Dalton, the Honorable Michael
Cordonnier, the Honorable James Kanatzar, the Honorable Ellen Levy Siwak, and the Honorable Gloria Reno.
The meeting continues to have a family focus and will again include fun activities for kids and contacts for
babysitting services.
Join your MODL colleagues June 4-6, 2015 for another first class Annual Meeting!
Best regards,
Brian
Brian Waller
2015 MODL Annual Meeting Chair
AGENDA
THURSDAY, JUNE 4, 2015
1:30 p.m.
MODL BOARD MEETING………………………………...…ROARK CREEK
6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
PRESIDENT’S WELCOME RECEPTION
……………………………….…CANTINA LAREDO ON THE BRANSON LANDING
Enjoy the award-winning signature margarita and top shelf guacamole
along with other great Mexican appetizers. There will also be special
kids’ appetizers for the younger crowd. And don’t forget the scenic water
show on the Landing that you can view from the Cantina!
Kids will be greeted by a Balloon Animal Artist.
8:00 p.m.
DINNER ON YOUR OWN
Plan dinner with your friends at the Landing or other great Branson
restaurants
for
options
visit:
www.explorebranson.com
or
www.meetinbranson.net/docs/private-dining.html
FRIDAY, JUNE 5, 2015
7:00 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.
FAMILY BUFFET BREAKFAST…………….…..TANEYCOMO BALLROOM
SPONSORED BY TURNER, REID, DUNCAN, LOOMER & PATTON
10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. KIDS’ FUN EVENT ………………………………..…...…HILTON POOLSIDE
Kids will enjoy morning poolside activities including sand art and
water balloon toss.
SPONSORED BY SHELTER MUTUAL INSURANCE COMPANY
CLE AGENDA
7:30 a.m. – 8:00 a.m.
REGISTRATION/EXHIBITS OPEN………………..……..SHORT CREEK
8:00 a.m. – 8:10 a.m.
WELCOME/OPENING REMARKS…..………………..…..SHORT CREEK
JOHN S. FARMER, THOMPSON COBURN LLP, ST. LOUIS, MO
8:10 a.m. – 9:10 a.m.
THE LEGACY OF WATERGATE………………………….. SHORT CREEK
JOHN W. DEAN
JAMES DAVID ROBENALT
The Nixon Tapes - Background
Review background of the discovery of, and court battles over, the Nixon
Tapes. Review Model Rule of Professional Conduct 3.4, a lawyer’s duties
when handling physical evidence. Focus in particular on the conflict
between Model Rule of Professional Conduct 1.6 (confidentiality) and
Model Rule of Professional Conduct 3.4 (fairness to opposing party and
counsel), which provides that a lawyer shall not “unlawfully obstruct
another party’s access to evidence or unlawfully alter, destroy or conceal
a document or other material having potential evidentiary value.”
SPONSORED BY MIDWEST LITIGATION SERVICES,
MIDWEST TRIAL SERVICES &
AEQUITAS ALTERNATIVE DISPUTE RESOLUTION
9:10 a.m. – 9:55 a.m.
THE LEGACY OF WATERGATE……………………………. SHORT CREEK
JOHN W. DEAN
JAMES DAVID ROBENALT
Review of the Major Cover-Up Milestones,
July 1972 to March 1973
This segment provides an insider look into the payment of money to the
burglars to maintain their silence, the election landslide of 1972, the
fateful plane crash in Chicago in December killing Howard Hunt’s wife,
Dorothy, as she traveled to make hush money payments to the CubanAmericans, the infamous dictabelt recording of a conversation between
Hunt and Chuck Colson immediately after the election, the trial of the
burglars in January 1973, clemency discussions in the Oval Office, and
events leading to the “cancer” conversation in March 1973. In this
segment we explore the psychology of cover-ups and briefly discuss the
Penn State scandal as one of the most recent examples of a cover-up.
Upjohn Warnings, ABA document, discussed.
SPONSORED BY MIDWEST LITIGATION SERVICES,
MIDWEST TRIAL SERVICES &
AEQUITAS ALTERNATIVE DISPUTE RESOLUTION
9:55 a.m. – 10:15 a.m. BREAK/EXHIBITS…………………………………………….… SHORT CREEK
10:15 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. THE LEGACY OF WATERGATE…………………………..SHORT CREEK
JOHN W. DEAN
JAMES DAVID ROBENALT
The “Cancer on the Presidency” Warning:
March 21, 1973, Oval Office
Breakdown of the taped conversation between the President and his
John Dean as White House Counsel in which Dean warns Nixon about
the “cancer growing on the presidency” and attempts to end the cover-up
activities. Review Model Rules of Professional Conduct 1.13 (organization
as client) and 1.6 (confidentiality). Focus in particular on a lawyer’s
obligations to “report up” within an organization when crime of fraud is
uncovered, including if necessary, to the “highest authority that can act
on behalf of the organization.” Explore a lawyer’s duty/right to “report
out” if crime of fraud is ongoing and the highest authority refuses to act.
SPONSORED BY MIDWEST LITIGATION SERVICES,
MIDWEST TRIAL SERVICES &
AEQUITAS ALTERNATIVE DISPUTE RESOLUTION
12:00 noon
FAMILY BUFFET LUNCH……………………..…TANEYCOMO BALLROOM
12:00 noon
BOX LUNCHES FOR GOLFERS….….…...PAYNE STEWART GOLF CLUB
(golfers pick up box lunch at Payne Stewart Golf Club)
1:00 p.m.
GOLF TOURNAMENT…………..………..….PAYNE STEWART GOLF CLUB
Shot-Gun Start
100 North Payne Stewart Drive, Branson, MO
www.paynestewartgolfclub.com
1:30 p.m.
50 SPORTING CLAYS……………..OZARK SHOOTERS SPORTS COMPLEX
By day, Mark Roberts and Peter McKeighan are Exponent consultants
but, at all other times, both are Master Class shooters. All levels of
experience welcome, from beginners to seasoned shooters. Mark and Pete
will provide instruction, harassment and good-old-fashioned teasing.
Dress casually and comfortably. Enrollment is limited to 15. Children at
least 16 years old may shoot with an accompanying parent. Otherwise
all shooters must be at least 21 years old.
SPONSORED BY EXPONENT
1:30 p.m.
BRANSON AREA ACTIVITIES…………...……………….ON YOUR OWN
For options visit www.explorebranson.com
MODL’S CELEBRATION
6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
COCKTAIL PARTY……………………………………….….CC LOBBY A/B
7:00 p.m.
AWARDS DINNER………………………………….TANEYCOMO BALLROOM
 Service Awards
 Retiring Board Member Recognition
 Ben Ely, Jr. Award
 President’s Award
6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
KIDS PROGRAM……….………………………..…TANEYCOMO BALLROOM
Fun for kids of all ages! Kids will enjoy inflatables, a pedestal
jousting game, obstacle course, music videos, video games and
more.
SPONSORED BY SHELTER MUTUAL INSURANCE COMPANY
SATURDAY, JUNE 6, 2015
7:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.
FAMILY BUFFET BREAKFAST……………………….……..FALL CREEK
CLE AGENDA
8:00 a.m. – 8:30 a.m.
“LEGISLATIVE UPDATE”…………………………………..SHORT CREEK
RANDY J. SCHERR, MODL EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR,
JEFFERSON CITY, MO
A review of legislation considered during the 2015 Legislative Session.
8:30 a.m. – 9:00 a.m.
“PROFESSIONALISM IN THE PRACTICE BY BEN ELY, JR.
AWARD RECIPIENTS”…….….…………………………..…SHORT CREEK
GERARD (JERRY) T. NOCE, HEPLERBROOM, LLC, ST. LOUIS, MO
LISA A. WEIXELMAN, POLSINELLI PC, KANSAS CITY, MO
Past Ben Ely Jr., Award Winners Jerry Noce and Lisa Weixelman will give
a presentation on voir dire.
9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. “APPELLATE JUDGES PANEL DISCUSSION”.………..SHORT CREEK
MODERATOR:
THE HONORABLE ZEL M. FISCHER, MISSOURI SUPREME COURT
PANEL:
THE HONORABLE PATRICIA BRECKENRIDGE, MISSOURI SUPREME COURT
THE HONORABLE DUANE BENTON, U.S. APPELLATE COURT
THE HONORABLE ROY L. RICHTER, EASTERN DISTRICT COURT OF APPEALS
THE HONORABLE MARY KAY HOFF, EASTERN DISTRICT COURT OF APPEALS
THE HONORABLE SHERRI B. SULLIVAN, EASTERN DISTRICT COURT OF
APPEALS
10:00 a.m. – 10:15 a.m. BREAK/EXHIBITS……………………………………………SHORT CREEK
10:15 a.m. – 11:45 am. “TRIAL JUDGES PANEL DISCUSSION”…………….…..SHORT CREEK
MODERATOR:
THE HONORABLE DOUG HARPOOL, US DISTRICT JUDGE, WESTERN
DISTRICT OF MISSOURI
PANEL:
THE HONORABLE WES DALTON, 12TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, WARREN COUNTY
THE HONORABLE MICHAEL CORDONNIER, 31ST CIRCUIT, GREENE COUNTY
THE HONORABLE JAMES KANATZAR, 16TH CIRCUIT, JACKSON COUNTY
THE HONORABLE ELLEN LEVY SIWAK, 21ST CIRCUIT, ST. LOUIS COUNTY
THE HONORABLE GLORIA RENO, 21ST CIRCUIT, ST. LOUIS COUNTY
11:45 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. MEMBERSHIP MEETING…………………………….……..SHORT CREEK
8.1 hours Missouri CLE which includes 3.6 hours Ethics
7.5 hours Kansas CLE which includes 3.5 hours Ethics
_
As the legal industry continues to innovate, those organizations that are
unwilling to adapt will become obsolete. With that in mind, for the past
year MODL has worked hard to update its online image in order to bring
the value of membership to the fingertips of each of its members.
To accomplish this goal, an entirely new website has been created and is
now live at www.modlaw.com. Not only does this site streamline the
registration process for all meetings and events, but it will also serve as a
hub for interaction between members, where expert information, ideas, and
research can be shared. Please logon to the new site to take advantage of
these resources and please consider sharing your own expert database
information with MODL, so it too can be uploaded and made available to
all members.
The update of this website also required an update to the MODL logo. Seen here, the new logo demonstrates the strength
of a unified defense bar, and the scales, not only reference our 30 year history, but also that one of MODL’s goals is to
balance the scales of justice. The former logo included an outline of the State of Missouri, which was an important
reminder that we are working on behalf of all citizens of this state. Although the outline has been removed, the new
logo’s 24 stars are a direct reference to the State of Missouri. These stars represent Missouri’s admission as the 24th U.S.
state and they are also a direct reflection of the ring of stars seen on the Flag of Missouri.
_
HOTEL INFORMATION
HILTON BRANSON CONVENTION CENTER
200 E. MAIN STREET  BRANSON, MO 65616
Room Rate: $169
Room reservation must be made by May 14, 2015 to be guaranteed
the group rate of $169
1-866-442-0959 or 1-800-HILTONS
http://conventioncenter.hiltonsofbranson.com/
ACTIVITIES
Branson Landing: The Premier Shopping &
Entertainment Destination in Branson
The Hiltons of Branson offer guests immediate access all of the activities at Branson Landing, a premier shopping destination. Delve into shopping, shows, and more in the area when you aren't resting in
your charmingly decorated room or suite. Our conveniently located hotels can provide you with all of the home amenities you need during your trip.
Shopping at Branson Landing
There are a variety of bustling shops located in Branson Landing that are sure to keep you busy when you stay with The Hiltons of Branson.
The many specialty stores meet a broad range of interests to keep everyone satisfied, from the fine jewelry that can be found at Majestic
Gems to the delicate needlework of Branson Quilts. Many popular stores are located here as well, such as Aeropostale and even Auntie
Anne's. This shopping center appeals to a broad range of ages, which is great for keeping your family entertained. Enjoy your time browsing
over 100 shops for the perfect find.
Superb Dining at Branson Landing
Branson Landing offers a variety of casual restaurants like Old Chicago, where you'll find delicious pizza and pasta dishes, and fine dining
experiences, such as delicious steak dinners and extravagant desserts like the ones that you'll find at Level 2 Steakhouse. If you would like a
restaurant suggestion in the Branson Landing area, speak to our concierge for recommendations. Our team will be happy to point you in the
right direction based on your schedule and personal taste.
Spectacular Fountain Shows
The state-of-the-art water fountains perform multiple stunning shows guaranteed to capture your attention and leave you feeling amazed. By
combining water, fire, music, and light, these displays are proof that opposites can be united for a brilliant display. This Vegas-style
performance works to enhance the area for a family-friendly entertainment experience that can be witnessed from Hilton Promenade at
Branson Landing.
The fountains at Branson Landing are also a live music and event venue. Don't miss this one-of-a-kind opportunity to experience the "Live
Music Capital of the World."
Entertainment and Family Fun
Branson Landing offers ample entertainment for the whole family to enjoy. Fly over Lake Taneycomo on the sensational Parakeet Pete's
Waterfront Zipline, then take aim at Fast Shot Shooting Gallery. When you're ready for a break, take a rest while the little ones enjoy the
large play area, or sign up the whole family on a relaxing cruise of Lake Taneycomo featuring brilliant views of the Branson Landing fountain
shows.
2016 MODL ANNUAL MEETING
June 9-11, 2016
Big Cedar Lodge  Ridgedale, MO
ABOUT YOUR SPEAKERS
JOHN W. DEAN
Before becoming Counsel to the President of the United States in July 1970
at age thirty-one, John Dean was Chief Minority Counsel to the Judiciary
Committee of the United States House of Representatives, the Associate
Director of a law reform commission, and Associate Deputy Attorney
General of the United States. He served as Richard Nixon’s White House
lawyer for a thousand days. He did his undergraduate studies at Colgate
University and the College of Wooster, with majors in English Literature and
Political Science. He received a graduate fellowship from American
University to study government and the presidency, before entering
Georgetown University Law Center, where he received his JD in 1965. John
recounted his days in the Nixon White House and Watergate in two books,
Blind Ambition (1976) and Lost Honor (1982). He lives in Beverly Hills, California with his wife
Maureen, and now devotes full time to writing and lecturing, having retired from his career as a
private investment banker. He recently published his 12th book (10th since retiring), another New
York Times bestseller, which returns to Watergate and is based on the new material now available.
It was this material that prompted John and Jim to develop this CLE.
JAMES DAVID ROBENALT is a partner and former Chair of the Business
Litigation group at Thompson Hine LLP’s Cleveland office. Jim has won big
verdicts for clients, including Avery Dennison ($81 million jury verdict on
international espionage case) and Solvay Pharmaceuticals ($68 million
arbitration award on drug co-promotion agreement). Jim is also the author
of two non-fiction books dealing with the American presidency: Linking
Rings, William W. Durbin and the Magic and Mystery of America (Kent
State University Press 2004) and The Harding Affair, Love and Espionage
During the Great War (Palgrave 2009). Jim recently completed his next
book, drawing on research for the Watergate CLE courses, which he will
publish in the Spring of 2015. He is also a recognized leader in judicial
reform in Ohio. Jim teaches and instructs on the legal ethics and the
representation of an organization under new Model Rules 1.13 and 1.6. Using John Dean as fact
witness and Watergate as a case study, Jim and Mr. Dean have developed an interactive, fast-paced
program that explores the duties of an attorney representing an organization when wrongdoing is
uncovered. Rule 1.13 defines “organization” broadly, including corporations, partnerships, unions,
governmental entities and the like.
RANDY J. SCHERR is President and founder of R. J. Scherr and Associates
and a principal in the lobbying firm of Scherr, Winter LLC. He holds both a
Bachelor and a Master of Arts Degree in Political Science. Mr. Scherr has
been actively involved in the political and legislative process in Missouri on a
full time basis for 38 years and represents over 30 clients before the Missouri
Legislature.
Mr. Scherr is the Executive Director for the Missouri
Organization of Defense Lawyers.
GERARD (JERRY) T. NOCE has
tried over 135 jury cases to verdict in
22 different counties throughout Missouri and in the Eastern and Western
Federal District Courts. He has been listed every year since 1999 to
present in The Best Lawyers in America under Defense of Personal Injury
cases. He has been listed as a Missouri Kansas Super Lawyer in defense of
civil litigation since 2005. Mr. Noce is AV Rated by Martindale-Hubble. He
is a member of the American College of Trial Lawyers, Missouri
Organization of Defense Lawyers (Board Member 1990-2001, President
1999-2000); Defense Research Institute (Missouri State Representative
2000-2003); American Board of Trial Advocates, International Association
of Defense Lawyers and Lawyers Association of St Louis. He was elected
by Missouri Bar members residing in St Louis County and served on the
Missouri Judicial Commission, 21st Circuit (St. Louis County).
LISA A. WEIXELMAN
is a Senior Shareholder with Polsinelli PC in its
Kansas City office, where she practices in the firm’s trial department. She
has a broad background in civil litigation with a primary focus in insurance.
Lisa currently serves as President of the Board of Directors for Legal Aid of
Western Missouri. She is also a member of the Board of Directors for the
Missouri Institute for Justice and the University of Missouri-Kansas City
Law Foundation. She is a past president of the Kansas City Metropolitan
Bar Association – Young Lawyers Section and the Missouri Organization of
Defense Lawyers. She has been recognized by Missouri Lawyers Weekly as
one of ten outstanding lawyers in the State of Missouri, and is the recipient
of an Exceptional Performance Citation by the Defense Research Institute
and the 2012 Ben Ely, Jr. Outstanding Defense Lawyer. She has also been
selected to The Best Lawyers in America in the area of insurance law since 2007, was named Best
Lawyers’ Kansas City, Missouri Insurance Lawyer of the Year in 2013 and included in the Top 50
Women Missouri and Kansas Super Lawyers since 2009.
THE HONORABLE ZEL M. FISCHER of the Supreme Court of Missouri,
graduated from the University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Law with
distinction in 1988. He served as a law clerk for the Honorable Andrew
Jackson Higgins at the Supreme Court before practicing law in northwest
Missouri for more than 17 years. Judge Fischer was elected Associate
Circuit Judge of Atchison County in November 2006, where he served until
being appointed to the Supreme Court of Missouri in October 2008. Judge
Fischer is an ASTAR Fellow in recognition of his knowledge and ability to
preside over cases involving complex science and technology issues. Judge
Fischer is the Vice President and Chairman of the Executive Council of the
National Courts Science Institute, which is a not-for-profit corporation
dedicated to training judges in science. Judge Fischer currently serves as
the liaison to both the civil and criminal jury instruction committees of the
Supreme Court of Missouri.
THE HONORABLE PATRICIA BRECKENRIDGE
was appointed to the
Missouri Supreme Court in September of 2007. Prior to being appointed to
the Missouri Supreme Court, she was appointed to the Missouri Court of
Appeals for the Western District in 1990 and served until 2007. Prior to
that, she served as an associate circuit judge in Vernon County from 19821990. Judge Breckenridge received a Bachelor of Science degree, with
honors, and juris doctorate degree, from the University of MissouriColumbia.
Judge Breckenridge has received numerous awards and
honors, including: Women Lawyers’ of Greater St. Louis Honoree, 2008;
Association of Women Lawyers of Greater Kansas City, Judicial Recognition
Award 2007; Judge of the Year, 1999; Special Achievement Award, 19931994; Daily Record’s Legal Leader Award, 2005; University of MissouriColumbia School of Law Citation of Merit, 1996; The Missouri Bar
President’s Award, 1994.
THE HONORABLE DUANE BENTON
was appointed to the U.S. Court
of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit in 2004. Before his federal appointment,
he was a judge on the Supreme Court of Missouri, where he served as
Chief Justice from 1997-99. He was appointed to the Supreme Court of
Missouri in 1991, and retained in office by the people of Missouri at the
November 1992 election. He is the only Certified Public Accountant
serving on any supreme court in America. In addition to earning his law
degree from Yale and an LL.M. at the University of Virginia, Judge
Benton completed the Senior Executives Program at Harvard University's
John F. Kennedy School of Government as a Danforth Fellow. He has
also accomplished the post-graduate Appellate Judges Course at the
Institute of Judicial Administration, New York University. He was also
awarded an honorary Doctor of Laws by Central Missouri State University. At the beginning of his
legal career, Judge Benton served with the U.S. Navy as a judge advocate. Judge Benton is a
member of the American Bar Association, The Missouri Bar and the Cole County Bar Association;
the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants; Missouri Society of Certified Public
Accountants; Association of Government Accountants; National Society of Public Accountants; and
Independent Accountants Society of Missouri.
THE HONORABLE ROY L. RICHTER
was appointed to the Missouri
Court of Appeals, Eastern District, in 2006 by Governor Matt Blunt. After
serving as Prosecuting Attorney in Montgomery County from 1977-78, he
served as Associate Circuit Judge in Montgomery County from 1979 to
2006 and Juvenile Division Judge from 1990 to 2006. Judge Richter is a
graduate of Drury College, Springfield, Missouri and has a Juris Doctor
from the University of Missouri–Columbia. He is Past President of the
Missouri Association of Probate and Associate Circuit Judges as well as
Past President of the Missouri Council of Juvenile and Family Court
Judges. He is a Member of the Missouri Bar Judicial Article Review
Commission, and a Member of the Missouri Supreme Court Committees
on Circuit Court Budget, Judge Transfer, Fine Collection Center, and
Municipal Judge Education.
THE HONORABLE MARY KAY HOFF
was appointed to the Missouri
Court of Appeals for the Eastern District in 1996. She earned her
Bachelor of Science degree in education from the University of Missouri
and received her law degree from St. Louis University. Before her
appointment to the Court of Appeals, Judge Hoff served as a circuit judge
in the 22nd Judicial Circuit from 1989-1996. She was an assistant
public defender in the City of St. Louis (1978-1982) and then was in the
private practice of law (1982-1989). Judge Hoff’s activities in the legal
community include membership in the Women Lawyers Association of St.
Louis since 1979 (president, 1986-87), the National Association of
Women Judges since 1989, and the Bar Association of Metropolitan St.
Louis since 1980. As a judge, she has served on judicial committees,
including the Appellate Education Committee since 1996 and the Family
Court Committee since 2000. Judge Hoff has been a member of the
Dean’s Council at St. Louis University Law School since 2000.
THE SHERRI B. SULLIVAN
was appointed to the Missouri Court of
Appeals in 1999. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree in
administration of justice from the University of Missouri-St. Louis and
received her law degree from St. Louis University. Before her appointment
to the Court of Appeals for the Eastern District of Missouri, Judge Sullivan
served as a circuit judge in the 22nd Judicial Circuit (St. Louis City) from
1994-1999, and as an associate circuit judge from 1989-1994. Prior to her
appointment to the bench, she was an assistant prosecuting attorney for
the St. Louis Circuit Attorney’s Office. Judge Sullivan’s community
involvement includes volunteering in various capacities for St. Gabriel the
Archangel Church and being a member of the St. Louis Forum for female
executives and professionals. Her activities in the legal community
include membership in the Women Lawyers Association of St. Louis, the
National Association of Women Judges, the Bar Association of
Metropolitan St. Louis, and the American Bar Association. As a judge, she serves as the chair of the
Public Information Committee, and has reinstituted a speaker’s bureau for judges to speak to
community groups about the judicial system.
THE HONORABLE M. DOUGLAS HARPOOL
received a Bachelor of
Science degree, cum laude, in 1977 from Missouri State University. He
received a Juris Doctorate in 1980 from the University of Missouri
Columbia School of Law. From 1983 to 1992, he served as a member of
the Missouri House of Representatives. From 1980 to 2001, he served at
Daniel, Clampett, Lilly, Dalton, Powell & Cunningham. From 2002 to
2003, he served at Cunningham, Harpool & Cardonnier LLC. From 2004
to 2006, he served at Lathrop & Gage LLP. Since 2006, he is a
shareholder at Baird, Lightner, Millsap & Harpool, PC, in Springfield,
Missouri, where he handles a broad array of civil litigation. Harpool was
the plaintiff's lawyer of a high profile court case involving the Republic
School District. On August 1, 2013, President Obama nominated Harpool
to serve as a United States District Judge of the United States District
Court for the Western District of Missouri, to the seat vacated by Judge Richard Everett Dorr, who
died on April 24, 2013. His nomination passed through the Senate Judiciary Committee. He
received his judicial commission on March 28, 2014.
THE HONORABLE MICHAEL CORDONNIER
was appointed as a circuit
judge by the governor on January 14, 2008 and was elected in the general
election in November 2008. He graduated from the University of Missouri
with a Bachelor of Science degree in business administration in 1979. He
attended law school at the University of Tulsa and obtained his law degree
in 1982. Judge Cordonnier is involved in multiple professional activities,
including: The Missouri Bar, the Springfield Metropolitan Bar Association
(SMBA), member of Bench and Bar Committee of SMBA, and a participant
in ASTAR (Advanced Science and Technology Adjudication Resource
Center). Judge Cordonnier is an active member of Christ Episcopal Church
Foundation, where he is a board member and past chairman. He has been
active in the Boy Scouts of America, where he has held various positions,
including vice president of the Ozark Trails Council. He has also been a
member of the board of directors of “Friends of the Zoo.”
THE HONORABLE WESLEY DALTON is
the presiding judge for the 12th
Circuit Court in Missouri. He was elected as the presiding judge in August
2012.
He is also a Municipal Court judge for the municipalities of
Marthasville, Truesdale, and Warrenton in Warren County. Dalton ran
unopposed for the position of presiding judge on the 12th Circuit Court. He
was elected, earning 100% of the vote. Judge Dalton earned his B.A. from the
University of Missouri-Columbia in 1982 and his J.D. from the University of
Missouri in 1988. Prior to becoming the presiding judge, Dalton served as an
associate circuit judge for the 12th Circuit Court, serving Warren County. He
was appointed by Governor Roger Wilson in 2000 and served in this position
until 2011. Before that, he practiced law for twelve years at his own practice
Warrenton.
THE HONORABLE JAMES F. KANATZAR
earned his Bachelor of Arts
degree in political science from Creighton University in Omaha, Nebraska
in 1989, followed by his Juris Doctor degree from the University of Missouri
– Kansas City in 1992. He served as an assistant Prosecuting Attorney for
Jackson County, Missouri from 1993 to 2000. Judge Kanatzar also worked
as an associate for the firm of Armstrong Teasdale in Kansas City from
2000 to 2002. Judge Kanatzar returned to the Jackson County
Prosecutor’s Office in 2002 when he was chosen for the position of Deputy
Prosecuting Attorney. He became the Jackson County Prosecutor in 2007
and was then elected as Prosecutor in 2008. He was also selected to serve
on the Board of Governors for the Missouri Bar and serves on the Criminal
Law Committee for the Missouri Bar. Most recently, Judge Kanatzar was
honored with the Distinguished Lifetime Achievement Award from Jackson County, Missouri,
bestowed on May 4, 2011. Judge Kanatzar was appointed to the Court by Governor Jay Nixon in
2011.
THE HONORABLE GLORIA CLARK RENO was appointed circuit judge in
April, 2009. Judge Reno received a Bachelor of Arts Degree in English from
the University of Missouri at St. Louis. She received her Juris Doctorate
degree from St. Louis University School of Law. Prior to her appointment as
a circuit judge, Judge Reno served as an Associate Circuit Judge, having
been appointed to that position in March of 2002. She was retained in 2004
and 2008. She also served as Municipal Judge for the City of Northwoods
from 1994 to March, 2002. She has extensive civil and criminal litigation
experience and actively practiced law until her appointment to the bench.
Judge Reno is a member of the Missouri Bar, the Mound City Bar
Association, the Women's Lawyers Association, and National Association of
Women Judges. She is a past member of the Missouri Supreme Court
Commission on Alternative Dispute Resolution in Domestic Relations Cases
and was a presenter at the Annual Missouri Judicial College in 2004 and
2005. She participated in the St. Louis County Truancy Court Program from 2002-2006 and
currently serves as a mentor to both high school and college students. Judge Reno is an active
member of several public service organizations.
THE HONORABLE ELLEN LEVY SIWAK was appointed as a circuit judge
on February 4, 2008. Judge Siwak previously served as an associate circuit
judge from 2002-2008 and as a Family Court commissioner from 19992002. Her judicial assignments since the last retention election have
included civil and equity jury trials, criminal matters and Family Court. She
is on the Statewide Court Committees, and is a faculty member of the
Missouri State Judicial College and Judicial Orientation. Judge Siwak
received her undergraduate degree and law degree from Washington
University in St. Louis. he is a member of The Missouri Bar, the Bar
Association of Metropolitan St. Louis, St. Louis County Bar Association,
Missouri Association of Probate & Associate Circuit Judges, National
Association of Women Judges and the Women Lawyers Association.
MISSOURI ORGANIZATION OF DEFENSE LAWYERS
Past Presidents
2013-2014 – Steven F. Coronado
2012-2013 – Robert J. Buckley
2011-2012 – Jeffrey J. Brinker
2010-2011 – Louis (Lou) J. Leonatti
2009-2010 – Dale L. Beckerman
2008-2009 – Martin J. Buckley
2007-2008 – Karl W. Blanchard, Jr.
2006-2007 – Jack T. Bangert
2005-2006 – Dean L. Franklin
2004-2005 – Susan Ford Robertson
2003-2004 – Lisa Weixelman
2002-2003 – Clark H. Cole
2001-2002 – Duane E. Schreimann
2000-2001 – Randa Rawlins
1999-2000 – Gerard T. Noce
1998-1999 – Jeffrey O. Parshall
1997-1998 – Joseph J. Roper
1996-1997 – John H. Quinn III
1995-1996 – Wendell E. Koerner, Jr.
1994-1995 – Stephen E. Scheve
1993-1994 – Robert A. Wulff
1992-1993 – Michael A. Dallmeyer
1991-1992 – W. James Foland
1990-1991 – John L. Oliver, Jr.
1989-1990 – Lawrence B. Grebel
1988-1989 – Robert A. Babcock
1987-1988 – Raymond E. Whiteaker
1986-1987 – Ben Ely, Jr.
1984-1986 – Paul L. Wickens
MISSOURI ORGANIZATION OF DEFENSE LAWYERS
30TH ANNUAL MEETING
June 4-6, 2015
Hilton Branson Convention Center  Branson, Missouri
Registration Form
MODL Member/Client*
MODL Young Lawyer/Corporate Discount*
MODL Corporate Lawyer Discount*
MODL 1st Time Attendees Discount*
Additional Guest Package** (Meals/Social Functions)
$575.00
$480.00
$480.00
$480.00
$200.00
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
I ___ and my spouse/guest ___ will play golf Friday/$120.00 per person
_________
I ___ will participate in the 50 Sporting Clays on Friday.
___ Bringing Own Gun
___ Gun Rental (no one under the age of 21)
SPONSORED BY EXPONENT
If you wish to pay by credit card you may fax your info to (573) 636-9749 or email to [email protected].
Please check one:  VISA or  MASTERCARD
Charge Card No.:
_______________________________________
Name of Card Holder:
Expiration Date:
_______________________________________
_______________________________________
AMOUNT ENCLOSED:
_________
*Includes:
Member, Spouse/Guest and Member’s Children under the age of 18 – Family
Registration, Thursday President’s Reception, Friday Breakfast, Friday Lunch, Friday Evening
Entertainment and Saturday Breakfast. **Married children and children over the age of 18 must sign
up as an additional guest package.
______________________________________
________________________________
YOUR NAME
SPOUSE/GUEST NAME
____________________________________________________________
Sorry, No
CHILD NAME(S) & AGE(S) (Members Children under the age of 18)
Refunds
____________________________________________________________
After Noon,
FIRM/COMPANY NAME
May 22,
____________________________________________________________
2015.
ADDRESS
Refunds will
____________________________________________________________
be made if
CITY
STATE
ZIP CODE
MODL office
is notified
____________________________________________________________
prior to that
PHONE
E-MAIL
RETURN THIS REGISTRATION FORM AND YOUR CHECK TO:
MODL ▪ P.O. BOX 1072 ▪ JEFFERSON CITY, MO 65102
time.
573-6366100
Please make your hotel reservations directly with Hilton Branson Convention Center.
The cut-off date for room reservations is May 14, 2015.
KID’S BIG FUN
Thursday, June 4, 2015
For Kids of All Ages
6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. ….……….Cantina Laredo
Kids will be greeted by a Balloon Animal Artist.
Friday, June 5, 2015
10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
• Poolside Activities at the Hilton
Which includes sand art (take home arts
‘n craft project with multi-colored sand)
and water balloon toss.
6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
• Laugh ‘N Learn Inflatable
• 4 Way Joust
• Black Ops
• Pop Noggins
• Wii Station