Pepperdine Caruso Law Taps into Expertise of Prominent Trial Lawyers for its 5th Annual Conference
The Southern California Trial Lawyers Conference seeks both to highlight the many ways that trial lawyers advocate for justice in their local communities and to present to students and attorneys alike, new and innovative ways to contribute to the field. On Saturday, January 25, Pepperdine Caruso Law hosted its 5th Annual Southern California Trial Lawyers Conference at the Malibu campus.
Dean Paul Caron and Pepperdine President Jim Gash began the conference with their respective opening remarks that highlighted not only the importance of trial attorneys but also the added social value of a Pepperdine educated trial attorney. The conference featured exceptional presentations by alumni Justice Tricia Bigelow (JD '86), Judge Julie Palafox (JD '83), and Judge Michael Lief (JD '95). Attendees were equally impressed and captivated by Spencer Lucas' (JD '04) opening statement, and Molly McKibben's (JD '10) closing argument brought some audience members to tears.
The always charismatic Bob Simon (JD '05) provided a fun and informative breakdown of the key components to starting one's own firm, and he was joined by fellow panelists Anthony Ellis (JD '15), Taly Goody, Michelle Iarusso, and Judge Palafox.
The Trial Lawyer of the Year Award was then presented to Bibianne Fell who spoke eloquently on the importance of developing resilience and overcoming struggles. "Success is not being perfect," she said. "Success is resilience."
The Annual Conference supports advocacy programs at Caruso Law, and Assistant Vice Chancellor and Director of Development Rebecca Malzahn confirmed that this year's conference raised over $130,000.
Pepperdine Caruso Law is grateful to the generosity of the sponsors that made the event possible: Hiepler & Hiepler, Lallande Law PLC, Parris Law Firm, Quest, Settlements, Shernoff, Bidart, Echeverria LLP, and The Simon Law Group. In addition, the Parris Institute for Professional Excellence provided the opportunity for current Caruso Law students to connect with renowned attorneys and speakers and experience their first Continued Legal Education event.
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