Over 100 lawyers, legal professionals, judges, and court staff attended last night's Bench Bar Court Practice Issues Symposium at the Radisson. Presiding Judge Peter Norell focussed on the need for Bar support of court funding by the State Legislature. Featured speakers included Judge David Williams who addressed the new "plain English jury instructions." Judge John Vander Feer's review of changes to the Rules of Court was both entertaining and informative. Judge Christopher Warner presented updates on litigation case law. Judicial Counsel Steve Pascover introduced the research attorneys' new ISYS research system which enables judicial research counsel to compare rulings from various court districts. The program wrap was session by Information Officer Kevin Arden on how to use the ELMO technology for presenting evidence in the County's courtrooms. The meeting was chaired by Bar President Donnasue Ortiz. President-Elect Wilfred J. Schneider served ably as the progrman moderator.

The series, originated in 2003 by then-President Robert Cannon and then-Presiding Judge Michael Welch, features resolution of practice issues in civil litigation, criminal court, family law, and probate court.

Next in this year's series is Criminal Court Practice Issues set for 5:30 p.m. March 18 at the Radisson in San Bernardino. This will be followed by Family Practice Issues on May 20, and Probate on Sept 9, 2004. For registration and more information see http://sbcba.org/alerts/04benchbar.htm