Thu, Aug 13 – Sat, Aug 15

Trial Techniques Seminar

CLE In Person
Dates
Thu, Aug 13 – Sat, Aug 15 · 5:30 PM – 12:00 PM
Location
DECC, Duluth, Minnesota
Price
$450 – $525
Format
Multi-day

About this event

I Survived: Being a Civil Defense Lawyer In Minnesota

 

What does it take to survive as a civil defense lawyer in Minnesota? Join us in Duluth August 13-15 for the 2026 MDLA Trial Techniques Seminar, I Survived: Being a Civil Defense Lawyer in Minnesota, and hear from an outstanding lineup of seasoned litigators and industry leaders who have done just that. Featuring presentations from Mike LaFountaine, Melaina Mrozek, Henry Sneath, Jana Sullivan, Tony Novak, Michelle Draewell, Chad Staul, Christine Chambers, Nate Dahl, and Ashwin Madia, this year’s seminar will offer practical insights, hard-earned lessons, and real-world strategies for navigating the challenges of modern civil defense practice. In addition to exceptional CLE programming, attendees will enjoy networking events, the President’s Reception, Dine Arounds, the MDLA Annual Meeting and Awards, and an evening of fun at Spirit Mountain Adventure Park. Whether you’re a new attorney or a seasoned trial lawyer, this seminar is an opportunity to sharpen your skills, connect with colleagues, and celebrate being a part of Minnesota’s civil defense bar. We hope you’ll join us August 13–15 in Duluth for one of MDLA’s signature events.

DECC – Duluth

Hotel: The Inn on Lake Superior – Call directly (218) 726-1111

MDLA 2026 Trial Techniques Group or ID 11714   – Cut-off date: July 13, 2026

Schedule

THURSDAY

08/13/2026

17:30

Welcome Reception

Welcome Reception - drinks and apps

FRIDAY

08/14/2026

08:00

Registration & Breakfast

08:30

Welcome & Announcements - Cally Kjellberg-Nelson

08:45

Presentation 1 - Mike Lafountaine

09:45

Presentation 2 - Melaina Mrozek

11:00

Presentation 3 - Henry Sneath

12:00

Lunch & Awards

13:15

Presentation 4 - Henry Sneath

14:15

Presentation 5 - Jana Sullivan

16:00

Spirit Mountain

Registration includes one ticket to Spirit Mountain for the attendee. Guest tickets must be purchased.

SATURDAY

08/15/2026

08:00

Registration & Breakfast

08:40

Presentation 6 - Tony Novak

09:40

Presentation 7 - Michelle Draewell, Chad Staul, and Christine Chambers

10:50

Presentation 8 - Nate Dahl & Ashwin Madia

11:50

Closing Remarks - Cally Kjellberg-Nelson

Speakers

Cally Kjellberg-Nelson

Mike Lafountaine

Melaina Mrozek

Henry Sneath

Jana Sullivan

Tony Novak

Michelle Draewell, Chad Staul, and Christine Chambers

Nate Dahl & Ashwin Madia

With support from

Sponsors

Arthur, Chapman, Kettering, Smetak & Pikala, P.A.
ESI
Quinlivan & Hughes PA
Minnesota Lawyers Mutual Insurance Company
Cousineau, Van Bergen, McNee & Malone, P.A.
Bassford Remele, P.A.
Bowman & Brooke

Location

DECC
350 Harbor Dr.
Duluth, Minnesota 55802
United States Open in Maps

Continuing Legal Education

This event is eligible for CLE credit. Credit is earned by attending the event and checking in on site — your hours are recorded once your attendance is confirmed.

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