Aloft Wilmington at Coastline Center
Hotel Information
- 501 Nutt Street, Wilmington, NC 28401
- 910-377-7600
Parking Information
- Self parking: $20/day
- Valet parking: $25/day
Convention 2024
ONLINE REGISTRATION IS CLOSED
Click Here to Access the Web Version of the Whova App for Printed Materials
Get ready for an event like no other as the North Carolina Advocates for Justice Convention makes its triumphant return to the enchanting city of Wilmington, June 12-15.
After a five-year hiatus, we are thrilled to announce that we’re back and we’re here to make waves!
Don’t miss your chance to be part of this momentous return. Convention 2024 in Wilmington promises three days of unparalleled learning, networking and unforgettable experiences. It’s time to reignite your passion for justice, expand your horizons and embrace the boundless possibilities that await.
We can’t wait to see you for THE LARGEST gathering of trial lawyers and legal professionals in North Carolina!
Schedule of Events
5:30 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Early Arrival Reception
Let’s kick off the weekend with festive flair! Join us for a drink and a few small bites as you arrive in town and mix and mingle with our sponsors and exhibitors. Dinner that evening will be on your own.
7 p.m. – 9 p.m.
*Optional* Exhibitor Setup
7 a.m. – 10 a.m.
Exhibitor Setup
7:30 a.m. – 8:30 a.m.
Yoga on the Green
An invigorating way to start your day. Join NCAJ members for an easy Vinyasa flow to relax body and mind before the day begins. All experience levels welcome. Please bring your own mat.
8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Registration & Exhibit Hall Open
8:30 a.m. – 10 a.m.
Morning Bites
Enjoy light grab & go breakfast options!
9 a.m. – Noon
Bloody Mary & Mimosa Bar
Sponsored by
Deuterman Law Group
9 a.m.
Past Presidents Breakfast
10 a.m.
Hispanic/Latino Legal Issues Division Meeting
Business meeting of the Hispanic/Latino Legal Issues Division. All division members are welcome. Division chair, Anabel Rosa, presiding.
New Lawyers Division Meeting
Business meeting of the New Lawyers division. All lawyers licensed fewer than 10 years are welcome. Division chair, Zachary Harris, presiding.
10:30 a.m. – Noon
11 a.m.
Women’s Caucus Meeting
Business meeting of the Women’s Caucus. All female attorneys are welcome. Caucus chair, Lauren McAndrew, presiding.
Noon – 1:45 p.m.
NCAJ Annual Meeting & Lunch Plenary Session: Saving Democracy In 2024
Sponsored by
Ward and Smith, P.A., Sumwalt Anderson
Join us for lunch and our annual business meeting, where we will formally elect our new leaders and pass the gavel from President Andy Banzhoff to President-elect Kevin Bunn. The program will also include the presentation of Ebbie Awards and an In Memoriam recognition.
Following Annual Meeting, our Plenary Session will feature a panel of election experts speaking on Battling Apathy and Disinformation: Razor-thin margins will decide many elections this November, but confusion about recent changes to voter ID rules and a sense of malaise about the democratic process could depress voter turnout. We’ll talk about how NCAJ members can fight these foes and why it’s crucial that you get involved this campaign season.
Our panel will include Patrick Gannon, Public Information Director, N.C. State Board of Elections; Leonard Jernigan, NCAJ Member and Board President, North Carolina Voter Project; and Kori Stocks, Executive Director, North Carolina Voter Project.
1:30 p.m. – 3 p.m.
1:30 p.m. – 4 p.m.
2 p.m.
Auto Torts & Premises Liability Section Meeting
Business meeting of the Auto Torts and Premises Liability section. All section members are welcome. Section chair, Jeremy Wilson, presiding.
Criminal Defense Section Meeting
Business meeting of the Criminal Defense section. All section members are welcome. Section chair, Cynthia Everson, presiding.
Employment Law Section Meeting
Business meeting of the Employment Law section. All section members are welcome. Section chair, Joseph Hjelt, presiding.
3 p.m.
Eminent Domain Section Meeting
Business meeting of the Eminent Domain section. All section members are welcome. Section chair, Shiloh Daum, presiding.
Professional Negligence Section Meeting
Business meeting of the Professional Negligence section. All section members are welcome. Section chair, Spencer Fritts, presiding.
Workers’ Compensation Section Meeting
Business meeting of the Workers’ Compensation section. All section members are welcome. Section chair, Cameron Simmons, presiding.
4 p.m.
Civil Rights Section Meeting
Business meeting of the Civil Rights section. All section members are welcome. Incoming section chair, Cate Edwards, presiding.
Nursing Home Litigation Section Meeting
Business meeting of the Nursing Home Litigation section. All section members are welcome. Section chair, Elizabeth Todd, presiding.
Products Liability, Class Actions & Mass Torts Section Meeting
Business meeting of the Products Liability, Class Actions & Mass Torts section. All section members are welcome. Section chair, Karl Gwaltney, presiding.
4 p.m. – 5 p.m.
NEXT STEPS Orientation
The NEXT Class of 2024 is invited to learn about NEXT STEPS, a multiyear plan for NEXT Fellows to encourage their success as leaders within NCAJ and their community.
6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Convention Coastal Kickoff Celebration
Sponsored by
Edwards Kirby, Brown | Moore & Associates, PLLC
The celebrations continue riverside! Join us at the Aloft Wilmington Coastline Center for cocktails, heavy hors d’oeurves and some truly enchanting entertainment, all with a location that can’t be beat. Dress for the evening is casual.
7 a.m.
Annual NCAJ 5K Fun Run
Sponsored by
Milberg
Join us for an all abilities 5K. Run, walk, or stroll along the Wilmington Riverwalk. Meet at the Registration Desk inside the Convention Center at 6:45 a.m. Shirts and pint glasses will be available for pick up after the race!
7 a.m. – 8:15 a.m.
Workers’ Comp Discussions @ Dawn
Join Vernon Sumwalt and other die-hard Workers’ Comp practitioners for an early morning conversation about cases, recent decisions, best practices.
7:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Registration & Exhibit Hall Open
8 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.
Continental Breakfast Buffet
8 a.m. – Noon
8:30 a.m. – 11 a.m.
8:55 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Summer Conference for Paralegals
9 a.m. – 9:45 a.m.
Insurance Law Update: Show Me the Money!
Doug and Jenny will cover the key insurance law cases, both state and federal. Practice areas will include personal injury, auto torts, insurance coverage, bad faith and unfair and deceptive trade practices matters. Doug will point out the cases to look out for in the future which can affect your clients’ recoveries. Plus, he’ll discuss apparent trends.
Workers’ Comp Update
As always, this year’s Workers’ Compensation Case Law Update will present summaries of every workers’ comp-related case that has been published by our appellate courts in the past year, since the last update. The presentation is intended to be a practical tool, for use in finding cases that can be used by our members to get better results for our clients.
Batson & RJA: The Path Forward in North Carolina
Hill and Engel will speak on the unfulfilled promise of equal opportunity to serve on juries. The presentation will focus on recent N.C. Supreme Court decisions and evidence revealed at the Racial Justice Act hearing held in Johnston County in February.
How to Build a Successful Law Firm
Bryson will discuss the key concepts that have enabled him to help build one of the largest and most successful plaintiffs’ firms in the country. The Milberg firm consists of more than 100 lawyers in the United States, with international offices in London and Amsterdam. Bryson has negotiated hundreds of millions of dollars in settlements and has tried numerous highly-complex cases to verdict. The CLE will also serve as a preview of the upcoming Strategy Summit NCAJ is presenting in Durham in September.
10 a.m. – 10:45 a.m.
Civil Law Update
This year’s Civil Update will consist of cutting-edge analysis, mind-blowing comedy and life-changing legal insights. Sam and John will explain why it is now the law in North Carolina that police officers can speed while looking at their laptops (Graham v. Lambert) why the UIM coverage you purchased has nothing to do with whether you have UIM coverage (N.C. Farm Bureau Mut. Ins. Co. v. Hebert)
and why young children should know better than to let their statute of limitations lapse (Morris v. Rodeberg, et al). So, come get your CLE: Criticism, Laughter, Elixirs.
Criminal Law Update
Dixon will bring us up to date on the latest cases that you need to know about as you continue the daily fight for your client’s rights. He will cover recent legislation impacting criminal law and criminal case law last year, with a focus on plain feel and other search and seizure issues, prayers for judgment continued and sentencing.
11 a.m. – 11:45 a.m.
Auto Torts Update
The Employer Strikes Back: Dealing with Annoying Counterclaims and Defense Update
Kathryn will discuss the increasingly frequent tactic being used by employers of asserting counterclaims in response to a plaintiff’s complaint. Topics will include dealing with frivolous claims as well as specific claims, such as claiming the plaintiff stole property or time, violation of the Trade Secrets Act, violation of the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act, and many more.
DWI Update
How does State v. Forney impact the observation period requirement for evidentiary breath testing? Does State v. Knoll have new life? Can I ethically refer a DWI client to an interlock company using an in-office kiosk? Get answers to these questions and an update on major recent legal and practice developments in the DWI arena.
Eminent Domain Update
Noon – 1:45 p.m.
Lunch Plenary Session – Morgan Jackson & Paul Shumaker
Seasoned political consultants Morgan Jackson and Paul Shumaker will provide an overview of emerging political trends impacting North Carolina’s political landscape and an insider preview of the 2024 election cycle. NCAJ Executive Director Shannon Leskin will moderate, and a Q&A will follow.
1:30 p.m. – 4 p.m.
2 p.m. – 2:45 p.m.
Combatting Discovery Obstruction
The Curious Case of Griffin v. Absolute Fire Control: A Path Forward on Pre-MMI RTW
3 p.m. – 3:45 p.m.
Medicare: Chapter & Verse
Bell will review the process of how to obtain a timely demand letter, including the use of the Medicare portal and review changes that have occurred in the last year. She will also provide a tip on addressing procurement cost reductions with Medicare Advantage Plans, in particular the Rawlings Company.
Snatching Victory from the Jaws of Defeat: Preparing to Succeed in the Appellate Courts
Products Liability Update
This session will covers cases from the N.C. appellate courts, U.S. Supreme Court and federal district court and appellate courts that may affect product liability litigation in North Carolina.
4 p.m. – 4:45 p.m.
Professional Negligence Update
Fritts, Todd and McGee will discuss recent decisions by the North Carolina appellate courts of particular interest to the professional negligence practitioners. Todd will focus on the ongoing fight against COVID immunity, which was decided in the plaintiff’s favor at the Court of Appeals, but which is at the Supreme Court on a petition for discretionary review. Fritts will discuss Morris v. Rodeberg, which dealt with the tolling provision for minor medical-malpractice plaintiffs found in N.C. Gen. Stat. § 1-17(c). This decision held that a 13-year-old’s medical negligence claim was barred after threee years, even though he was still a minor, and that N.C. Gen. Stat. § 1-17(c) did not toll his statute of limitations until he reached the age of majority.
When Pregnant People Encounter the Justice System
When pregnant people encounter the criminal legal system, there are many complex issues to consider. How can you get your client home pre-trial? If that isn’t possible, what legal protections are there in jail/prison? Are there alternatives for active time? What does the science tell us about pregnancy and incarceration, and how can we put it into practice?
4 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Ethical Practice Management
The Forge Companies prides itself on serving the needs of personal injury victims and the attorneys who represent them. In focusing on these services, Forge often helps attorneys establish systems and procedures ensuring the ethical management of their law practices and this presentation will review some of those systems and procedures. For example, Forge will address outsourced bookkeeping that can help avoid the comingling of client and law firm accounts, best practices in payroll and human resources, and leveraging lien resolution services to make the law firm’s law practice more efficient. Forge looks forward to helping you run a better law practice, which in turn will help your clients too.
6 p.m.
PAC Reception
Sponsored by
Abrams & Abrams, Orndoff Law Firm, The Law Offices of John McCabe, P.A., Poisson Poisson & Bower
Mix and mingle with fellow PAC members. Please note that you must be a donor of the NCAJ Political Action Committee to attend this event. Dress for the evening is summer cocktail.
7 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Friday Soiree
The pinnacle event! We’ll toast another fabulous year for NCAJ and celebrate Kevin Bunn’s installation as President with a live band party, North Carolina’s own Coconut Groove Band. The event will also feature heavy hors d’oeuvres, signature cocktails and more. Dress for the evening is summer cocktail.
Come ready to dance the night away in celebration of another incredible year for NCAJ!
7 a.m. – 8:15 a.m.
Workers’ Comp Discussions @ Dawn
Join Vernon Sumwalt and other die-hard Workers’ Comp practitioners for an early morning conversation about cases, recent decisions, best practices.
7:30 a.m. – Noon
Exhibit Hall Open
8 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.
Signature Breakfast Buffet
8 a.m. – Noon
Bloody Mary & Mimosa Bar
9 a.m. – Noon
NCAJ Awards Breakfast & NEXT Graduation
Sponsored by
The Forge Companies, Patterson Harkavy, LLP
Join us as we celebrate and honor the successes and commitment of our members at our annual awards recognition event! We will also graduate the third cohort of the NCAJ NEXT Leadership Program, as we look to the very bright future of our organization and the practice of law in North Carolina.
Noon – 1 p.m.
Exhibitor Load Out
Please note that this year’s schedule is modified to begin on Wednesday evening and end on Saturday by noon.
NCAJ Honorees
Founders Award to Henry Patterson
The highest award given by the Advocates for Justice. For extraordinary service to justice and to the Advocates for Justice in the tradition of our founding members, Allen Bailey, Charles Blanchard, James Clontz, Eugene Phillips and William Thorp.
Thurgood Marshall Award to Rebecca Britton
Established to recognize extraordinary and selfless service to the people of North Carolina in keeping with the legacy of Justice Thurgood Marshall.
Annie Brown Kennedy Award to Sen. Dan Blue
Given for commitment to acquiring full freedom for all citizens of North Carolina and exceptional advocacy that protects individual liberties. Recognizes active service in their local community with a focus on the status and welfare of families and minority citizens.
More Details…
Unveiling the Venue: Wilmington Convention Center
Prepare to be captivated by the stunning Wilmington Convention Center, our chosen gathering place for this unforgettable occasion. Nestled along the picturesque Cape Fear River, this state-of-the-art facility is where legal minds converge, ideas flourish and connections are forged.
Engaging CLE Sessions: Elevate Your Expertise
Eager to sharpen your legal acumen? Our Convention features an array of Continuing Legal Education sessions led by member and national luminaries. Dive deep into the latest legal developments, gain fresh insights and empower your practice with cutting-edge knowledge.
Incredible Networking Opportunities: Forge Lasting Connections
One of the hallmarks of NCAJ Convention is the unparalleled networking opportunities. Meet and mingle with legal professionals from across North Carolina and beyond. At Convention 2024, you’ll build lasting relationships, exchange ideas and make connections that will reshape your personal and professional journey.
Fantastic Social Events: Wilmington Comes to Life
Beyond the Convention venue walls, the heart of Wilmington beckons! Prepare for unforgettable social events spread throughout this historic city. Savor delicious cuisine, explore scenic riverfront views and immerse yourself in the rich culture and charm that Wilmington offers.
Accommodation Information
We are thrilled to partner with multiple hotels near the Wilmington Convention Center. We encourage you to use the NCAJ Member Discount program Hotel Engine to book your room. Members save an average of 26 percent.
Embassy Suites by Hilton Wilmington Riverfront
Hotel Information
- 9 Estell Lee Place, Wilmington, NC 28401
- 910-765-1131
Parking Information
- Self parking: $22/day
- Valet parking: $30/day
Courtyard by Marriott Wilmington Downtown
Hotel Information
- 229 North 2nd Street, Wilmington, NC 28401
- 910-632-2900
Parking Information
- Valet parking: $24/day
Best Western Plus Coastline Inn
Hotel Information
- 503 Nutt Street, Wilmington, NC 28401
- 910-763-2800
Parking Information
- Self parking: $13/day
Want to try something different? Reserve a home at The Cove!
Welcome to The Cove, a one-of-a-kind dockside community located in Wilmington. Imagine a 1,200 foot detached home — all for you and your guests — sitting on the legendary waters of the Cape Fear River, just steps from everything Wilmington has to offer.
