The Villanova University
Charles Widger School of Law and the Pennsylvania Bar
Association’s Federal Practice Committee proudly present the premier
educational event for attorneys who litigate in federal court in
Pennsylvania.
What are the differences between trying a case in state court versus federal court?
What are the best strategies for bringing your case in federal court?
Do you know how to be the best advocate for your client in federal court?
The Institute provides all the tools you need to succeed in federal court. Using a hypothetical case, federal judges and seasoned practitioners will explore the latest developments affecting your federal practice. Advance your knowledge of federal practice and become a better advocate for your client while connecting with the federal judges and other practitioners who practice in the federal courts.
Hear from 11 Federal Judges in the Eastern and Middle Districts of Pennsylvania
Here is your chance to hear directly from the judges and take away tips and strategies for trying your case in federal court. Learn how the judges think about key issues. Understand the procedures involved in moving your case through the court.
First Things: Case Assessment, Forum Selection and Interim Relief
Judge Leeson, Professor Samahon, Mr. Elliott, Ms. Brotman, Mr. Riley (moderator)
This panel will set up the hypothetical case to be used throughout the day. Come to hear a lively discussion on forum selection, removal, remand, jurisdiction, initial case assessment and TRO and PI practice.
Pretrial Procedures
Judge Heffley, Judge Pappert, Mr. Goldner, Ms. Jones, Ms. Conrad (moderator)
Here is your opportunity to hear the judges discuss scheduling, electronic discovery, pretrial orders, Motions in Limine and jury selection.
Danger Beneath the Surface: When Civil Litigation Digs Up Criminal Conduct
Judge Marston, Judge Slomsky, Mr. Gelso, Mr. Mannion, Ms. Ghilardi (moderator)
This panel will address issues arising from parallel proceedings, such as the line between civil and criminal fraud and the ethical handling of criminal allegations.
Keynote Address
Professor Aagaard
Stay Where You Are: A Bankruptcy Has Been Filed!
Judge Ambro, Judge Mayer, Ms. Aaronson, Mr. Giacometti, Ms. John (moderator)
The filing of a bankruptcy petition under Title 11 triggers an automatic stay of the commencement or continuation of proceedings in state and federal court. This panel will discuss the impact of a bankruptcy filing on pending litigation from the perspective of the bench as well as both creditor's and debtor's counsel.
Final Pretrial Matters - It's Not Over Yet
Judge Reid, Professor Juliano, Mr. Pratt, President Wilkinson, Judge Kearney (moderator)
This panel will consider the filing of a summary judgment motion, participation in a settlement conference, preparation of a final pretrial memo, jury instrustion, trial exhibits and trial.
Knocking on the Door of the Court of Appeals
Judge Fisher, Judge Rendell, Mr. Flitter, Mr. Sweitzer
Join us for a discussion of collateral appeals from preliminary orders (PI, denial of remand, grand jury) and preservation of the record for appeal.
Closing Remarks
Ms. Conrad
All attendees will receive the course materials as a digital book. A printed copy of the course book is available, at a discount to attendees, for $40. Additional copies are available at full price. If you wish to purchase the printed version of the course book, please call PBI customer service at 800-932-4637. Please allow up to two weeks after the program for the printed version of the course book to be shipped.
Recorded in October 2021.