Join the Younger Lawyers Division as they host Morning at the Federal Courthouse. Court observation & CLEs are offered.
Morning at the Federal Courthouse
Join the Younger Lawyers Division as they host Morning at the Federal Courthouse on Wednesday, June 10, 2026. Morning at the Federal Courthouse gives young lawyers, law students, and summer associates an opportunity to observe and learn about federal practice. Registration starts at 8:30 a.m. and the program will begin at 9:00 a.m. in U.S. District Court. During this program participants will choose their schedule from court proceedings and panel discussions presented by federal practitioners and judges. A full agenda will be given at check-in.
CLE Schedule: (3 hours of CLE)
8:30 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. Registration
9:00 a.m. - 9:10 a.m. Welcome Remarks
9 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Observe civil motion and/or criminal docket of participating Judges. This schedule will be distributed at registration.
9:10 - 10:10 a.m. The Life of a Federal Civil Case—From Filing to Appeal
Presenters
Haley Jupiter - Sternberg, Naccari and White
Marcus Hunter - Kuchler Polk
This presentation will provide a practical, end-to-end walkthrough of a civil case in federal court—from pre-suit investigation and initial pleadings through dispositive motion practice, trial, and appeal. Attendees will learn how to evaluate claims and defenses before filing, develop an early case strategy, and navigate key procedural milestones under the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure. The session will focus on how to determine what discovery is actually needed (and in what sequence), with an emphasis on Rule 26 disclosures, proportionality, and efficient case development. It will also address strategic considerations for filing dispositive motions, including timing, evidentiary support, and issue framing. Finally, the program will cover when and how to pursue alternative dispute resolution, and how ADR fits into the broader lifecycle of a federal case.
10:20 -11:20 a.m. Federal Practice Tips and Professionalism—What New Lawyers Need to Know
Presenters
Judge Jay Zainey - U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Louisiana
Kristen Amond - Kristen Amond Law
Presented by the Honorable Jay C. Zainey and Kristen Amond, this program offers practical guidance on practicing effectively—and professionally—in federal court. It covers key differences from state practice, the roles of judges and magistrates, and the importance of mastering the Federal Rules, local rules, and scheduling orders in a deadline-driven system. Attendees will learn best practices for written and oral advocacy, e-filing, and working with court staff, with a focus on preparation, credibility, and courtroom decorum. The session emphasizes the professional judgment and habits new lawyers need to build trust with the court and succeed in federal practice.
11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Federal Motion Practice and Persuasive Writing—Lessons from the Bench and Bar [11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.]
Presenters
Judge Darrel J. Papillion - U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Louisiana
Mercedes Townsend - Casey Denson
This session focuses on the practical mechanics and strategic craft of written advocacy in federal court. The program will cover the nuts and bolts of filing motions, including the proper use of a motion, supporting memorandum, and exhibits, as well as common pitfalls that lead to deficiency notices. Attendees will learn how to structure an effective brief—from statement of issues through argument and conclusion—and why reply briefs are often critical to framing the court’s decision. The session will also address writing style, emphasizing clarity, precision, and credibility with the court. Finally, presenters will discuss the appropriate use of AI tools in legal research and drafting, including ethical considerations and best practices for maintaining accuracy and professional responsibility.
Breakfast pastries, fruit and water are available for all attendees throughout the morning.
Link to register.