How to run (and participate in) an effective round table meeting

Round table meetings (RTMs) can be such an effective event to progress Care of Children Act proceedings. Whether the aim is to narrow the issues before the Family Court, achieve quick resolution on interim issues, or try and resolve substantive proceedings short of a defended fixture, the RTM is an invaluable tool in the family lawyer’s toolbox. The FLS has asked one of Christchurch’s most respected barristers Jason Wren to present a webinar on how to effectively run and participate in an RTM. Jason will address:

• The role of a lawyer for a party and how to best promote your client’s interests and contribute to a successful RTM
• How should you plan and run an RTM (tips for improving the chances of a successful outcome)
• The use of break-out rooms, breaks and “shuttle” RTMs
• When should (and shouldn’t) you hold an RTM?
• What to do with safety issues and/or associated Family Violence Act proceedings
• How to handle self-represented parties, is an RTM still appropriate?
• How to manage “robust” lawyers
• Keeping safe
• The aftermath: when and how to record agreements, what can you tell the Court if no agreement reached?
• Child’s participation (section 5(g)) in RTMs?

Jason has practised exclusively in family law in both the North and South Islands for over 25 years and has significant experience in Family Court proceedings including running RTMs, having run a huge number of counsel-led mediations (under the previous EIP scheme) and RTMs in his capacity as an experienced lawyer for child. Jason is also one of the presenters of the two-day NZLS CLE Lawyer for Child workshop, a foundational course for those applying to be a lawyer for child.

Date: Thursday, 25 September, 1.00pm to 2.00pm
Cost: Members: $55.00 | Non-members: $100.00 | Watch with mates: $150.00
CPD: 1 CPD hour
Presenter: Jason Wren, Barrister

We encourage you to register even if you are unavailable to attend on that date as a recording and a CPD form will be provided to all registrants following the webinar.