Skip to main content
Brief Encounters

Brief Encounters

By D.C. Bar Communities Office

Listen in for exclusive interviews and conversations with D.C. Bar members and guests about hot topics!

To learn more about D.C. Bar Communities, join a community, and/or register for upcoming programs, visit www.dcbar.org/communities

Presented by the D.C. Bar Communities Podcast Network. Other network channels include "The Tea on International Arbitration" with the D.C. Bar International Law Community (anchor.fm/DCBarTea) and "Let's Brief It" with the D.C. Bar Law Student Community (anchor.fm/DCLSC).

Theme Music: "If" by Broke for Free
Available on
Amazon Music Logo
Apple Podcasts Logo
Google Podcasts Logo
iHeartRadio Logo
Overcast Logo
Pocket Casts Logo
RadioPublic Logo
Spotify Logo
Currently playing episode

What Entertainment Lawyers Need to Know About Royalty Audits

Brief EncountersNov 02, 2022

00:00
26:36
Financial Projections in the Wake of Final SPAC Rules

Financial Projections in the Wake of Final SPAC Rules

In January of this year, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) adopted final rules regulating SPAC IPOs and business combinations.  Central to this rulemaking was the SEC’s updated and expanded guidance on the use of projections in all SEC filings as well as rulemaking specific to projections in de-SPAC transactions.  The evolving regulatory environment combined with market headwinds have made strategies to manage potential liability exposure while executing de-SPAC transactions top of mind for many market participants.

In this episode, James Zukin, founder of Zukin Certification Services, and Michelle Heisner, partner at Baker McKenzie LLP, discuss the SEC’s rules on disclosure and liability related to projections used in de-SPAC transactions.  Zukin Certification Services launched a Reasonable Basis Review service that provides SPACs and their business combination partners with an independent review of such partner’s projections and readiness to operate as a public company.  This service was designed in part to address SEC rulemaking focused on projections included in SEC filings having a reasonable basis.


Please note, the positions and opinions expressed by the speakers are strictly their own, and do not necessarily represent the views of their employers, nor those of the D.C. Bar, its Board of Governors or co-sponsoring Communities and organizations.


Thank you to our sponsors!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠LawPay⁠⁠⁠ was developed specifically to help law firms streamline billings and collections, providing a simple, secure solution for legal clients to pay their bills. LawPay is the industry leader in legal payments, providing a cost-effective solution for more than 50,000 law firms around the country.

⁠MyCase⁠⁠ is an intuitive and powerful legal case management software designed to cover the entire client lifecycle, including lead and document management, billing and invoicing, and comprehensive reporting.

Mar 27, 202436:59
A Conversation with a Fine Art Financier

A Conversation with a Fine Art Financier

The Art Finance industry grows each year, driven by art’s high value and tightening credit markets. Securing an art loan to fund other investment opportunities has become an increasingly viable source of liquidity and a popular alternative to selling.

In this episode, entertainment lawyer, Kirk Schroder, talks with Rebecca Fine, a founding member and CEO of Athena Art Finance. Rebecca has more than 25 years of experience the intersections of art, law and finance. Prior to Athena, Rebecca was an art lawyer, advising world-renowned art galleries, dealers, private collectors, museums, and artists on both contentious matters and transactions.


Additional Resources:



Please note, the positions and opinions expressed by the speakers are strictly their own, and do not necessarily represent the views of their employers, nor those of the D.C. Bar, its Board of Governors or co-sponsoring Communities and organizations.

Thank you to our sponsors!⁠⁠⁠

⁠LawPay⁠⁠ was developed specifically to help law firms streamline billings and collections, providing a simple, secure solution for legal clients to pay their bills. LawPay is the industry leader in legal payments, providing a cost-effective solution for more than 50,000 law firms around the country.

MyCase⁠ is an intuitive and powerful legal case management software designed to cover the entire client lifecycle, including lead and document management, billing and invoicing, and comprehensive reporting.

Mar 13, 202433:39
Mindfully and Methodically Incorporating GenAI Into Your Workflow

Mindfully and Methodically Incorporating GenAI Into Your Workflow

Daily, entertainment lawyers are bombarded with marketing messages that, with GenAI, we can and should be doing all our lawyering tasks at the speed of light. Entertainment lawyer Kirk Schroder talks with Heidi K. Brown, Professor and Associate Dean for Upper Level Writing at New York Law School, about giving ourselves permission to first decelerate, ease up on the throttle that’s materialized in our hands, and unhurriedly practice using GenAI writing tools (and AI-driven legal research tools) to generate high-quality legal work.

Professor Brown will share techniques and strategies for “shaking hands with” and introducing ourselves to these potentially transformative tools and incorporating them into our workflow in a way that does not short-change depth with velocity.

Please note, the positions and opinions expressed by the speakers are strictly their own, and do not necessarily represent the views of their employers, nor those of the D.C. Bar, its Board of Governors or co-sponsoring Communities and organizations.



(1) Heidi’s blog on "shaking hands" with the chatbots: 
Shaking Hands with Generative AI Chatbots | by Heidi K. Brown | Jan, 2024 | Medium
(2) Heidi’s blog on applying the medical profession's teaching/learning model to legal writing: Enhancing GenAI Writing Output Through “See One, Do One, Teach One” | by Heidi K. Brown | Feb, 2024 | Medium 
(3) Professors Ethan and Lilach Mollick of Wharton, Practical AI for Instructors and Students Part 1: Introduction to AI for Teachers and Students: https://youtu.be/t9gmyvf7JYo
(4) Write.law's course: W7: GPT for Legal Writers
(5) Writing.io's AI Courses: Home | Writing.io Academy
(6) Jordan Furlong's article about the newest lawyer competence: quality control Jordan Furlong | Substack
(7) Professor Scott Graham's article on new GenAI skills we need to teach and learn: Composition Studies 51.1 (Spring 2023) (wordpress.com)

(8) Heidi’s website with links to all her books: www.theflourishinglawyer.org 
(9) Litigation, Comparison Table - Federal ...ding Orders on Artificial Intelligence (blackboardcdn.com) This is the spreadsheet summarizing all the judges' standing orders on the use of AI in court filings--across the country--as of 1/30/24
(10) This is a good reference for all the cases so far in which lawyers have been reprimanded for improperly using AI in court filings: Beware the Legal Bot: Spooky Stories of AI in the Courtroom - AI Law Librarians


Thank you to our sponsor!

LawPay⁠ was developed specifically to help law firms streamline billings and collections, providing a simple, secure solution for legal clients to pay their bills. LawPay is the industry leader in legal payments, providing a cost-effective solution for more than 50,000 law firms around the country.

Feb 28, 202430:26
Civil Remedies for International Terrorism

Civil Remedies for International Terrorism

Join the International Law Community as we navigate the complex world of legal options available to individuals affected by international incidents. D.C. Bar Communities Program Attorney Caroline Lannon and Mike Ehrenstein, trial lawyer and founder of Ehrenstein | Sager, discuss the Foreign Sovereign Immunities Act (FSIA) and the Torture Victim Protection Act (TVPA), crucial instruments in the legal landscape of international law. The podcast explores how these laws have been used in the past and examine their potential use in response to recent incidents.

Please note, the positions and opinions expressed by the speakers are strictly their own, and do not necessarily represent the views of their employers, nor those of the D.C. Bar, its Board of Governors or co-sponsoring Communities and organizations.


Thank you to our sponsor! LawPay was developed specifically to help law firms streamline billings and collections, providing a simple, secure solution for legal clients to pay their bills. LawPay is the industry leader in legal payments, providing a cost-effective solution for more than 50,000 law firms around the country.

Feb 14, 202432:28
Key Legal and Economic Takeaways of the New 2023 Merger Guidelines
Jan 31, 202428:42
A Conversation With A Game Industry Lawyer

A Conversation With A Game Industry Lawyer

The gaming industry continues to grow at leaps and bounds and is leading the future crossroads for technology and entertainment. Entertainment Lawyer Kirk Schroder hosts Seth Steinberg, principal of Digital Arts Law in San Francisco, to discuss his role as a lawyer and business advisor in the interactive entertainment and digital media spaces (and occasional expert witness).


Any opinions expressed by Seth are personal and not that of any clients, companies or individuals. He may represent or have negotiated agreements with certain of the companies that may be mentioned during the discussion.


Please note, the positions and opinions expressed by the speakers are strictly their own, and do not necessarily represent the views of their employers, nor those of the D.C. Bar, its Board of Governors or co-sponsoring Communities and organizations.

Jan 17, 202429:21
AI Innovation or Price-fixing? Jay Himes on DC's Case Against RealPage and Landlords
Dec 20, 202330:56
Is D.C. Ready for Climate Change?
Dec 06, 202328:05
A First of Its Kind: The NBA WLD’s Report on the State of Black Women in the Law

A First of Its Kind: The NBA WLD’s Report on the State of Black Women in the Law

The NBA/WLD's Report is a first of its kind national study of Black Women's views and experiences across all legal sectors. D.C. Bar Criminal Law and Individual Rights Community Chair Robin Earnest introduces Morgan Lewis partner Grace Speights to discuss the Report with diversity leaders GW Dean Alfreda Robinson, Holland & Knight partner Kwamina Williford, and WBA President Kandis Gibson. 

 

Robin M. Earnest chairs the DC Bar’s Criminal Law and Individual Rights Community’s Steering Committee, and GWAC’s EPD Committee. She serves on the DCCA’s Committee on Admissions, practices appellate law with Earnest Attorney at Law, and is on the CJA panels for the Fourth and DC Circuits, and the DCCA.


Grace E. Speights is the global leader of the Labor and Employment practice at Morgan Lewis and the co-leader of its Mobilizing for Equality task force committed to promoting racial equality and justice. She helps employers navigate demands toward more diverse workplaces advising on corporate diversity and inclusion. She also chairs GW’s board of trustees. 


GW Dean Alfreda Robinson is a lead contributor of NBA/WLD’s Report on The State of Black Women in the Law. She is also a past President of the NBA and the first woman recipient of its Trial Master Award. She is the Associate Dean for Trial Advocacy, Co-Director of the Litigation and Dispute Resolution Program at GW Law, and on the Advisory Committee of the GW Equity Institute.


Kwamina T. Williford is an Equity Partner and Practice Group Leader of the Litigation Department at Holland and Knight where she chairs the firm’s DEI Engagement Initiative Committee and co-chairs its  Consumer Protection Defense and Compliance Team. She also serves on the board of the NBI. 


Kandis C. Gibson is an attorney in the Washington, D.C. office of Morgan Lewis where she focuses her practice on Section 337 proceedings at the U.S. International Trade Commission. She is also the President of the WBA, DC. 




Please note, the positions and opinions expressed by the speakers are strictly their own, and do not necessarily represent the views of their employers, nor those of the D.C. Bar, its Board of Governors or co-sponsoring Communities and organizations.


Thank you to our sponsor!

⁠LawPay⁠ was developed specifically to help law firms streamline billings and collections, providing a simple, secure solution for legal clients to pay their bills. LawPay is the industry leader in legal payments, providing a cost-effective solution for more than 50,000 law firms around the country.

Nov 22, 202328:09
Lessons from Litigation: In Family Law, What Does It Mean for a Client to Have Their “Day in Court”?
Nov 08, 202317:40
The Writer’s Strike Is Over! Now What?

The Writer’s Strike Is Over! Now What?

The Writer’s Guild has settled its strike with the Hollywood studios. The strike was the start of what many people believed was an existential threat to the film and television industry in Hollywood. For this podcast, entertainment attorney, Kirk Schroder brings back, David Kanter, manager partner and producer at Hollywood’s Anonymous Content, who in a previous podcast with Kirk, predicted the timing of the end of the WGA strike months in advance. He also had dire warnings for the industry. Now, Kirk checks in with David, post WGA strike, to see if his concerns for the industry have changed. 


Please note, the positions and opinions expressed by the speakers are strictly their own, and do not necessarily represent the views of their employers, nor those of the D.C. Bar, its Board of Governors or co-sponsoring Communities and organizations.

Oct 25, 202325:14
Revising D.C.'s Criminal Code: Updating Recent Events and Next Steps

Revising D.C.'s Criminal Code: Updating Recent Events and Next Steps

Ann Wilcox of the D.C. Affairs Community interviews Jinwoo Park, Esq, Executive Director of the Criminal Code Reform Commission, an independent agency of DC Govt. Mr. Park describes the criminal code reform framework that was formulated over several years and forwarded to the Congress in 2023 (later disapproved by the Congress). We discuss that process, revised bills that passed the DC Council this summer, and the path forward for comprehensive criminal code reform.


Jinwoo Park is the Executive Director for the DC Criminal Code Reform Commission.  Prior to his appointment as director, he served as an attorney advisor to the CCRC, and previously served as a staff attorney for the DC Sentencing Commission.  He has also clerked for judges in DC Superior Court and the DC Court of Appeals.


Ann Wilcox is a member of the Steering Committee of the DC Affairs Community.  She is an attorney who has practiced in DC Superior Court and engages in public interest law practice.  She is also active in community and non-profit organizations.


Please note, the positions and opinions expressed by the speakers are strictly their own, and do not necessarily represent the views of their employers, nor those of the D.C. Bar, its Board of Governors or co-sponsoring Communities and organizations.

Oct 11, 202322:01
Human Rights Trends in Democracy and Gender Equality

Human Rights Trends in Democracy and Gender Equality

Jill Morrison, Chair of the International Law Community's Immigration and Human Rights Committee chats with her Vice-Chair, Tzili Mor about democracy , human rights and gender issues in the US and throughout the world.

Get a preview of what they have planned for their Committee for the coming Bar year, and give your input as well by filling out this 2-minute Survey Gauging Immigration & Human Rights Committee Members’ Interests!



Please note, the positions and opinions expressed by the speakers are strictly their own, and do not necessarily represent the views of their employers, nor those of the D.C. Bar, its Board of Governors or co-sponsoring Communities and organizations.


Thank you to our sponsor!

LawPay was developed specifically to help law firms streamline billings and collections, providing a simple, secure solution for legal clients to pay their bills. LawPay is the industry leader in legal payments, providing a cost-effective solution for more than 50,000 law firms around the country.

Sep 27, 202327:40
Law Firm Marketing Strategies

Law Firm Marketing Strategies

Adaku Nwachukwu of AN Law Firm, P.C. and Nancy Rapp of PaperStreet Web Designs discuss the strategies for marketing your law firm for all types of legal practices, whether big or small. Learn tips on how to improve your website and social media pages, improve SEO results, and how to stand out from your competitors.


Please note, the positions and opinions expressed by the speakers are strictly their own, and do not necessarily represent the views of their employers, nor those of the D.C. Bar, its Board of Governors or co-sponsoring Communities and organizations.


Thank you to our sponsor!

LawPay was developed specifically to help law firms streamline billings and collections, providing a simple, secure solution for legal clients to pay their bills. LawPay is the industry leader in legal payments, providing a cost-effective solution for more than 50,000 law firms around the country.

Sep 13, 202333:39
Hollywood on Hold: Behind the Strikes with David Kanter

Hollywood on Hold: Behind the Strikes with David Kanter

Dive deep into the heart of the ongoing WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes with David Kanter, renowned producer and manager at Anonymous Content. As the entertainment world grapples with uncertainty, Kirk Schroder, DC entertainment attorney, engages Kanter in a candid discussion about the changing tides of film and television. From the streets of picket lines to the closed doors of production houses, get a firsthand glimpse into the repercussions and future projections of Hollywood’s biggest standstill. Join us for an insightful conversation where art and commerce intersect.


Please note, the positions and opinions expressed by the speakers are strictly their own, and do not necessarily represent the views of their employers, nor those of the D.C. Bar, its Board of Governors or co-sponsoring Communities and organizations.

Aug 30, 202319:12
Intersections: Legislative & Policy developments with U.S. D.O.E.'s Ami Grace-Tardy
Aug 16, 202318:04
BEPS 101 – the District’s Building Energy Performance Standards Program
Jul 26, 202320:27
Stress Management for Lawyers
Jul 12, 202325:24
A Hollywood Reporter's Take on the Writers Guild Strike

A Hollywood Reporter's Take on the Writers Guild Strike

Jeremy Fuster is the Box Office/Labor reporter for TheWrap, Hollywood's independent news organization reporting on the entertainment industry. Through his sources and analysis, Jeremy has been covering the Writers Guild (WGA) strike from all angles.  He joins entertainment attorney, Kirk Schroder, for this extended podcast to share his views about the WGA strike, the issues from all sides, the behind the scenes politics and his thoughts on where it will end up. 



Please note, the positions and opinions expressed by the speakers are strictly their own, and do not necessarily represent the views of their employers, nor those of the D.C. Bar, its Board of Governors or co-sponsoring Communities and organizations.

Jun 21, 202339:28
The Proposed D.C. Law Challenging use of Discriminatory AI Algorithms

The Proposed D.C. Law Challenging use of Discriminatory AI Algorithms

Laura M. Moy, Associate Professor of Law at Georgetown University Law Center and Director of the Communications & Technology Law Clinic, explains the proposed D.C. law holding companies accountable for using discriminatory AI algorithms in evaluating applicants for jobs, housing, or other similar opportunities. The moderator for this podcast is Don Allen Resnikoff. The proposed legislation would prohibit companies from using artificial intelligence algorithms that produce biased or discriminatory results.  Biased or discriminatory results cause harm by blocking people from opportunities such as jobs or housing.
Ms. Moy explains that companies that use algorithms in their decision making would be required by the proposed law to, among other things, audit their algorithms for discriminatory patterns, and disclose and explain when algorithms negatively affect an applicant’s opportunities.  The proposed law would empower the AG’s office and individuals to bring suit for violations.


Ms. Moy argues that the proposed law is needed to protect applicants’ rights. She also addresses some arguments raised in opposition.  Opponents argue that there is already law in existence making discrimination illegal, so that a supplemental anti-discrimination law focused on algorithms is not needed.  Also, opponents argue that language in the proposed law is complex and unclear, causing uncertainty for companies using algorithms.



Please note, the positions and opinions expressed by the speakers are strictly their own, and do not necessarily represent the views of their employers, nor those of the D.C. Bar, its Board of Governors or co-sponsoring Communities and organizations.

Jun 07, 202330:49
Civil Rights and Nonprofits
May 24, 202328:13
Hazardous Rail Shipments in Densely Populated D.C.

Hazardous Rail Shipments in Densely Populated D.C.

This podcast describes past local government efforts to keep hazardous freight rail traffic out of D.C. and illuminates what DC government is doing now to protect D.C. citizens, using current laws and regulations. 

In 2005, the D.C. Council was blocked by the D.C. Court of Appeals from enforcing legislation that would have stopped rail transport of hazardous freight into DC.  In 2007 a  government report suggested routing rail freight traffic away from densely populated D.C., but that suggestion was not followed. 


In this podcast, Michael Somersall, Associate Director of the Rail Safety and Emergency Response Division of D.C.’s Environmental Services Administration describes how this Division enforces current state level and federal rail safety rules and regulations with the goal of protecting District residents and railroad employees from unsafe practices on both freight and passenger trains. Ann Wilcox and Don Resnikoff provided introductory information. Ann is co-chair of the D.C. Bar D.C. Affairs Community.  Don Resnikoff, who moderated the podcast, is a member of the D.C. Bar Antitrust and Consumer Law Community.


Please note, the positions and opinions expressed by the speakers are strictly their own, and do not necessarily represent the views of their employers, nor those of the D.C. Bar, its Board of Governors or co-sponsoring Communities and organizations.


Thank you to our sponsor!

LawPay was developed specifically to help law firms streamline billings and collections, providing a simple, secure solution for legal clients to pay their bills. LawPay is the industry leader in legal payments, providing a cost-effective solution for more than 50,000 law firms around the country.

May 10, 202321:32
Intersections: A conversation with U.S. Department of Energy's Alexandra Klass

Intersections: A conversation with U.S. Department of Energy's Alexandra Klass

In the first episode of the new series, "Intersections: Energy and Environmental Issues in Law and Tech", D.C. Bar EENR Community Co-Chair Kathryn Caballero and Cathy Pagano of the Board of the Women's Bar of Association of D.C. (WBA) interview Alexandra Klass, who is the U.S. DOE Deputy General Counsel for Energy Efficiency and Clean Energy Demonstrations. Alexandra discusses the work of her office to support DOE's decarbonization mission, including clean energy technology demonstration projects such as clean hydrogen. She also shares how attorneys without science backgrounds can successfully support and lead clean energy efforts to combat climate change.


Please note, the positions and opinions expressed by the speakers are strictly their own, and do not necessarily represent the views of their employers, nor those of the D.C. Bar, its Board of Governors or co-sponsoring Communities and organizations.

Apr 26, 202322:37
Important Issues in Film Distribution for the Digital World

Important Issues in Film Distribution for the Digital World

The rise of streaming platforms along with changes in the traditional film theater market is creating new opportunities and challenges for filmmakers. Entertainment lawyer, Kirk Schroder, is joined by Tom Malloy, the co-founder and president of Glass House Distribution. Glasshouse is an international distribution company specializing in feature films and television and is present in all major film and television markets. Tom will share his thoughts on the current state of film distribution and an overview of key legal and business considerations for filmmakers lawyers practicing in these areas.


Please note, the positions and opinions expressed by the speakers are strictly their own, and do not necessarily represent the views of their employers, nor those of the D.C. Bar, its Board of Governors or co-sponsoring Communities and organizations.

Apr 12, 202326:08
Antitrust Evolving – How New Guard Antitrust Leadership is Changing Enforcement
Mar 29, 202323:56
Political Law Considerations in M&A
Mar 15, 202328:18
The Return of Broadway & Other Theaters: Key Issues That Lawyers Should Know
Mar 01, 202324:37
The In's and Out's of Building and Maintaining a Powerhouse Small Law Firm

The In's and Out's of Building and Maintaining a Powerhouse Small Law Firm

This episode welcomes back as guest Mike Ehrenstein, an expert business trial lawyer and a founder of Ehrenstein | Sager, a small law firm based in Florida that often represents clients in high-stakes and high-value international disputes. In conversation with D.C. Bar Member Kiran Nasir Gore, Mike discusses the tools, relationships, and leadership principles that ensure that his small law firm is able to survive and thrive as a powerhouse player in a field of practice that is often dominated by large global law firms.


Listen to Mike and Kiran's previous Brief Encounters episode from September 21 HERE


Please note, the positions and opinions expressed by the speakers are strictly their own, and do not necessarily represent the views of their employers, nor those of the D.C. Bar, its Board of Governors or co-sponsoring Communities and organizations.

Feb 15, 202322:18
Buying a Subpoena: False Claims Act Concerns in M&A Due Diligence

Buying a Subpoena: False Claims Act Concerns in M&A Due Diligence

Hear a discussion between Sam Buffone and Maurice Bellan, two experienced False Claims Act practitioners on the primary tool the government uses to combat fraud on the U.S. the False Claims Act (FCA). Learn about what the FCA is, the types of industries it implicates (it's more than Defense), what you should look for when performing M&A due diligence, and the FCA risks that are present when acquiring a business.

Sam Buffone is the founding partner of Black & Buffone, where he focuses on False Claims Act investigations and business fraud litigations, and a former Senior Trial Counsel with DOJ’s Civil Fraud section, where he recovered over $2 billion.

Maurice Bellan is Managing Partner of Baker McKenzie’s Washington, DC, office and leads the Firm's False Claims Act and government contracts practice, with extensive experience counseling companies on FCA compliance, fraud and anti-corruption matters.


Please note, the positions and opinions expressed by the speakers are strictly their own, and do not necessarily represent the views of their employers, nor those of the D.C. Bar, its Board of Governors or co-sponsoring Communities and organizations.

Feb 01, 202326:41
A Conversation on Conflict Prevention, Peace and Security
Jan 18, 202319:10
Voice-Over Talent and Audiobooks From a SAG-AFTRA Perspective

Voice-Over Talent and Audiobooks From a SAG-AFTRA Perspective

The growth of the audiobook market continues to create opportunities for voice-over talent. In this podcast, entertainment attorney Kirk Schroder of Schroder Brooks Law Firm discusses certain legal and business issues related to voice-over talent who are members of the SAG-AFTRA guild. Kirk's guest is Jane Love, National Director, Audiobooks (SAG-AFTRA).  Jane oversees the negotiations and administration of the SAG-AFTRA agreement with producers and publishers. In this podcast, Kirk and Jane discuss SAG-AFTRA's role in this area, what to expect when hiring SAG-AFTRA members to narrate audiobooks and common issues that may arise and other important information on this topic.


Please note, the positions and opinions expressed by the speakers are strictly their own, and do not necessarily represent the views of their employers, nor those of the D.C. Bar, its Board of Governors or co-sponsoring Communities and organizations.

Jan 04, 202323:37
Key RWI Considerations for Carve-out Transactions

Key RWI Considerations for Carve-out Transactions

With carve out transactions becoming an increasingly common feature of the M&A landscape, it is critical that buyers, sellers and their advisors are aware of the implications this transaction structure has on representations and warranties insurance ("RWI") cover. Michelle Heisner, Partner at Baker McKenzie LLP and Co-Chair of the M&A Subcommittee of the D.C. Bar Taxation Community, and David Haigh, Co-Founder of Atlantic Global Risk, discuss the potential pitfalls and how you should be approaching the RWI process to extract the broadest possible cover.


Please note, the positions and opinions expressed by the speakers are strictly their own, and do not necessarily represent the views of their employers, nor those of the D.C. Bar, its Board of Governors or co-sponsoring Communities and organizations.

Dec 21, 202232:12
Perspectives on Bar Leadership
Dec 07, 202238:41
Lawyer as Counselor
Nov 16, 202223:46
What Entertainment Lawyers Need to Know About Royalty Audits
Nov 02, 202226:36
Sunshine for Consumers: How Proposed DC Law can Limit Court Secrecy Orders about Dangerous Products

Sunshine for Consumers: How Proposed DC Law can Limit Court Secrecy Orders about Dangerous Products

Public access to judicial records is important. That is especially important in cases that have effects beyond the parties to the case—in particular, cases that involve defective products or dangerous environmental conditions that pose dangers to the general public. That principle is ignored when a court agrees to the parties’ request to hide those dangers from the public, by allowing overbroad confidentiality clauses in settlement agreements, or by issuing overbroad protective orders.

In conversation with Don Resnikoff, Naomi Claxton explains the need for public access to judicial records, and the need for laws that restrict overbroad confidentiality clauses in court-approved settlement agreements, and overbroad court-ordered protective orders. She explains that the proposed DC “Sunshine in Litigation Act of 2022” is such a law.


Please note, the positions and opinions expressed by the speakers are strictly their own, and do not necessarily represent the views of their employers, nor those of the D.C. Bar, its Board of Governors or co-sponsoring Communities and organizations.

Oct 19, 202222:04
A Discussion of the Death Penalty as a Human Rights Issue

A Discussion of the Death Penalty as a Human Rights Issue

Jill Morrison, Chair of the International Law Community's Immigration and Human Rights Subcommittee chats with Diann Rust-Tierney on her work to abolish the death penalty.


Please note, the positions and opinions expressed by the speakers are strictly their own, and do not necessarily represent the views of their employers, nor those of the D.C. Bar, its Board of Governors or co-sponsoring Communities and organizations.

Oct 12, 202217:46
Develop your Practice and Spark your Interests with D.C. Bar Communities
Oct 05, 202223:29
A Cautionary Tale on the Interplay of Sovereign Immunity and International Arbitration

A Cautionary Tale on the Interplay of Sovereign Immunity and International Arbitration

Sep 21, 202226:07
The Penguin Random House and Simon & Schuster merger: There Goes the Book Industry?
Sep 07, 202225:56
Two Sides to D.C.'s New Ban on Non-Competes Part II: The Clarification Amendment

Two Sides to D.C.'s New Ban on Non-Competes Part II: The Clarification Amendment

This episode is the follow-up to the discussion from the episode released on July 27, 2022

On July 12, 2022, the D.C. Council passed the Non-Compete Clarification Amendment Act of 2022, which made significant changes to its existing ban on noncompete agreements. This podcast, moderated by Olive Lee, a third-year law student at George Washington University Law School, features Rachel E. Green, Associate at Katz Banks Kumin, and D'Ontae D. Sylvertooth, Of Counsel at Ogletree Deakins. Rachel and D'Ontae discuss the Clarification Amendment and give their thoughts as employment attorneys from the plaintiff and defendant side, respectively.

Please note, the positions and opinions expressed by the speakers are strictly their own, and do not necessarily represent the views of their employers, nor those of the D.C. Bar, its Board of Governors or co-sponsoring Communities and organizations.

Aug 24, 202227:37
Looking to the Future: Bar Leadership for the Next 50 Years and Beyond

Looking to the Future: Bar Leadership for the Next 50 Years and Beyond

In this special episode commemorating the 50th anniversary of the D.C. Bar, newly instituted President-Elect Charles Lowery, Jr. is interviewed by Leila Bham, member and former chair of the Corporations, Finance, and Securities Law Community. They discuss a wide range of topics related to leadership in the legal profession, including the importance of DEIA initiatives and Charles’ approach to leading the D.C. Bar into the next 50 years.

Please note, the positions and opinions expressed by the speakers are strictly their own, and do not necessarily represent the views of their employers, nor those of the D.C. Bar, its Board of Governors or co-sponsoring Communities and organizations.


This year, the D.C. Bar turns 50! Since 1972, the D.C. Bar has been setting the gold standard for legal excellence. Join us as we commemorate the trailblazing accomplishments and ideals that have shaped our history and define how we can continue to raise the bar for the next 50 years — together. Visit 50years.dcbar.org to learn more.


Thank You to Our Sponsors!

Chat Agents provides law firms with fully managed 3rd party live chat agent support for their websites so they can focus on what they do best.

Lawyers Have Heart brings together runners and walkers — of all ages, levels of experience — to raise funds for the American Heart Association (AHA) and increase awareness of heart attack and stroke prevention. Planning is underway for the 2023, Lawyers Have Heart 10K, 5K and Fun Walk to unite our community around better health and well-being and an opportunity to help save lives. Get your firm involved now to be  a part of this year-round movement for the health and well-being of us all.
Lawyers Have Heart began in 1991 as a running and walking event for the legal community and has evolved into a staple on DC’s running calendar attracting runners and walkers of all levels of experience and from all walks of life. This event annually attracts over 6,500 runners and walkers to participate in a 10K or 5K course through Washington, DC. Through the virtual experience, people have joined the event from wherever in the world inspires them running and walking from across the United States, England, Croatia, Spain, South Africa, Japan, Turkey, Chile, and more. To date, Lawyers Have Heart has raised over $18 million to benefit the American Heart Association to further its mission of being a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives.

Aug 17, 202231:46
Gun Control and the Supreme Court

Gun Control and the Supreme Court

Public interest advocate Bert Foer in conversation with attorney Don Resnikoff on the background and implications of the Supreme Court’s decision in New York Rifle and Pistol Association v. Bruen, argued last November and announced on June 23, 2022.


Please note, the positions and opinions expressed by the speakers are strictly their own, and do not necessarily represent the views of their employers, nor those of the D.C. Bar, its Board of Governors or co-sponsoring Communities and organizations.

Aug 03, 202222:56
Two Sides to D.C.'s New Ban on Non-Competes
Jul 27, 202230:33
How to Prevent Harassment in the Judiciary

How to Prevent Harassment in the Judiciary

In this episode, Aliza Shatzman, President and Co-Founder of The Legal Accountability Project, speaks with Corrine Propas Parver from Women Lawyers on Guard about judicial accountability. They discuss Aliza’s personal experience with harassment and retaliation by a former DC judge; the scope of the problem; solutions, including the Judiciary Accountability Act (JAA) (H.R. 4827/S. 2553) and DC Courts-specific reforms; and Aliza’s new nonprofit, The Legal Accountability Project, which aims to ensure that law clerks have positive clerkship experiences, while extending support and resources to those who do not.

Aliza Shatzman is the President and Co-Founder of The Legal Accountability Project, a nonprofit aimed at protecting law clerks from workplace mistreatment and holding judges accountable for misconduct. You can follow Aliza on Twitter
@AlizaShatzman or on LinkedIn, or you can reach out to her via email at aliza.shatzman@legalaccountabilityproject.org. You can read her Statement for the Record here. Her law journal article with Volume 29 of the UCLA Journal of Gender & Law, “Untouchable Judges? What I’ve learned about harassment in the judiciary, and what we can do to stop it,” details her personal experience with harassment and retaliation by a former DC judge, and argues that the DC Courts should be covered under the Judiciary Accountability Act (JAA) (H.R. 4827/S. 2553). To learn more about The Legal Accountability Project, visit their website.

Corrine Propas Parver is the Vice President of Women Lawyers on Guard, an organization that harnesses the power of lawyers and the law to preserve, protect and defend the democratic values of equality, justice and opportunity for all. Read Women Lawyers on Guard’s research report about sexual harassment in the legal profession, entitled “Still Broken.”


Please note, the positions and opinions expressed by the speakers are strictly their own, and do not necessarily represent the views of their employers, nor those of the D.C. Bar, its Board of Governors or co-sponsoring Communities and organizations.


Thank You to Our Sponsor!

LawPay was developed specifically to help law firms streamline billings and collections, providing a simple, secure solution for legal clients to pay their bills. LawPay is the industry leader in legal payments, providing a cost-effective solution for more than 50,000 law firms across the country.

Jul 13, 202233:24
Emerging Issues in Human Rights

Emerging Issues in Human Rights

Steering Committee member Jill Morrison chats with Elisa Massimino, former Director of Human Rights First and the current director of Georgetown's Human Rights Institute. Tune in to hear the latest on developments in business and human rights, protection of human rights defenders, and the Ukraine crisis, as well as highlights from Massimino's amazing career.


Please note, the positions and opinions expressed by the speakers are strictly their own, and do not necessarily represent the views of their employers, nor those of the D.C. Bar, its Board of Governors or co-sponsoring Communities and organizations.

Jun 22, 202221:16
“Why Should We Trust You?”: Survivor-Centered Legal Action in Africa

“Why Should We Trust You?”: Survivor-Centered Legal Action in Africa

D.C. Bar International Law Community fellow Sydney Taylor and Georgetown LAWA fellows Tosin Oke, Eunice Ndingo, and Ngenarr-Yassin Jeng discuss survivor-centered approaches to legal action against sexual violence in Africa.


This year, the D.C. Bar turns 50! Since 1972, the D.C. Bar has been setting the gold standard for legal excellence. Join us as we commemorate the trailblazing accomplishments and ideals that have shaped our history and define how we can continue to raise the bar for the next 50 years — together. Visit 50years.dcbar.org to learn more.


Please note, the positions and opinions expressed by the speakers are strictly their own, and do not necessarily represent the views of their employers, nor those of the D.C. Bar, its Board of Governors or co-sponsoring Communities and organizations.


Thank You to Our Sponsors!

Chat Agents provides law firms with fully managed 3rd party live chat agent support for their websites so they can focus on what they do best.

Lawyers Have Heart brings together runners and walkers — of all ages, levels of experience — to raise funds for the American Heart Association (AHA) and increase awareness of heart attack and stroke prevention. In 2022, the Lawyers Have Heart 10K, 5K and Fun Walk will be back in-person in Washington, DC on June 11 to unite our community around better health and well-being and an opportunity to help save lives. This year will also offer a virtual option for those who wish to run or walk wherever inspiration strikes.

Lawyers Have Heart began in 1991 as a running and walking event for the legal community and has evolved into a staple on DC’s running calendar attracting runners and walkers of all levels of experience and from all walks of life. This event annually attracts over 6,500 runners and walkers to participate in a 10K or 5K course through neighborhoods in DC. Due to the pandemic, the last two years have been fully virtual with participants running and walking in support of the AHA from around the world – United States, England, Croatia, Spain, South Africa, Japan, Turkey, Chile, and more. To date, Lawyers Have Heart has raised over $17 million to benefit the American Heart Association to further its mission of being a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives.

Jun 08, 202226:49
The Legal and Business Basics of Synchronization Licensing, Part 2: Television

The Legal and Business Basics of Synchronization Licensing, Part 2: Television

Entertainment Attorney, Kirk Schroder, discusses with Jeff Brabec, Senior Vice President of Legal and Business Affairs for BMG and Todd Brabec, former ASCAP Executive Vice President and Worldwide Director of Membership, key issues in negotiating synchronization licenses for television. For information on how to buy the book, Music Money and Success 8th Edition: The Insider's Guide to Making Money in the Music Business, click here.

If you missed Part 1 of this discussion from March 23, you can find that episode on our channel HERE


Please note, the positions and opinions expressed by the speakers are strictly their own, and do not necessarily represent the views of their employers, nor those of the D.C. Bar, its Board of Governors or co-sponsoring Communities and organizations.


Thank You to Our Sponsors!

LawPay was developed specifically to help law firms streamline billings and collections, providing a simple, secure solution for legal clients to pay their bills. LawPay is the industry leader in legal payments, providing a cost-effective solution for more than 50,000 law firms across the country.

MyCase is a top-rated, end-to-end legal case management software that helps firms run efficiently from anywhere, provide an exceptional client experience, and easily track firm performance. Streamline day-to-day firm processes in one, easy to adopt solution -- lead tracking, client intake, case management, eSignature, billing, payments and more. DC Bar members are eligible for a 10% lifetime discount. Start your free trial (no credit card required) today!

May 25, 202229:19
A Conversation About War Crimes

A Conversation About War Crimes

Federico Barillas of the Communities Office welcomes Dennis E. Boyle, a former Navy J.A.G. and experienced International Criminal Law attorney, to discuss the history of war crime prosecutions, the current situation in Ukraine, and what the future may hold.


Please note, the positions and opinions expressed by the speakers are strictly their own, and do not necessarily represent the views of their employers, nor those of the D.C. Bar, its Board of Governors or co-sponsoring Communities and organizations.


Thank You to Our Sponsors!

LawPay was developed specifically to help law firms streamline billings and collections, providing a simple, secure solution for legal clients to pay their bills. LawPay is the industry leader in legal payments, providing a cost-effective solution for more than 50,000 law firms across the country.

MyCase is a top-rated, end-to-end legal case management software that helps firms run efficiently from anywhere, provide an exceptional client experience, and easily track firm performance. Streamline day-to-day firm processes in one, easy to adopt solution -- lead tracking, client intake, case management, eSignature, billing, payments and more. DC Bar members are eligible for a 10% lifetime discount. Start your free trial (no credit card required) today!

May 11, 202225:25
Making A Difference: A Conversation with Nancy Brown-Kobil of the House Natural Resources Comm.

Making A Difference: A Conversation with Nancy Brown-Kobil of the House Natural Resources Comm.

In the third and final spring episode of the series, "Making A Difference: Inspirational Women Leaders in Environmental and Energy Law and Policy," D.C. Bar EENR Community Co-Chair Kathryn Caballero and Cathy Pagano of the Board of the Women's Bar of Association of DC (WBA) interview Nancy Brown-Kobil, who is the acting Deputy Chief Counsel at the U.S. House of Representatives Natural Resources Committee. Nancy discusses the wide range of environmental issues she encounters in her current role, and how her expertise from working with the Department of the Interior and the National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration supports the legislative process. She also shares how workplace flexibilities developed during the pandemic can help support parents in successfully balancing work and family life.


Please note, the positions and opinions expressed by the speakers are strictly their own, and do not necessarily represent the views of their employers, nor those of the D.C. Bar, its Board of Governors or co-sponsoring Communities and organizations.

Apr 22, 202227:32