Daytime United States Capitol Building in Washington, D.C.

Shape the Future of the Defense Bar in America's Capital

Name: 2026 Annual Meeting | DRI
Start: 2026-10-21T10:00
End: 2026-10-23T15:00
Location: Grand Hyatt Washington

As our nation marks its 250th anniversary, gather with DRI, the Association of Lawyers Defending Business, in Washington, D.C., for a dynamic 2026 Annual Meeting focused on connections, timely insights, and the advancement of the profession.

Register Early and Save Up to $700!

Leading Through Division: A Fireside Chat with Senator Joe Manchin

Join Joe Manchin and DRI President-Elect Jill Rice for a timely fireside chat on leadership, civility, and the rule of law in today’s divided climate. Drawing from his bestselling book, Dead Center: In Defense of Common Sense, Senator Manchin will share insights on principled leadership, respectful dialogue, and professionalism in public life and the legal profession. His perspective is shaped by decades of public service, including his time as a United States Senator, Governor of West Virginia, and Secretary of State.

Known for his bipartisan approach and focus on practical solutions, Senator Manchin has built a career centered on collaboration, economic development, and civic engagement. His conversation with Jill Rice will explore the importance of common sense leadership and constructive dialogue in both public life and the legal profession. A book signing will follow after his presentation.

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Monumental Experience. Meaningful Connections.

The DRI Annual Meeting unites leading civil defense attorneys, in-house counsel, claims professionals, and industry leaders to address the issues shaping our profession. This October, join us in our nation's capital for a monumental experience designed to foster meaningful connections, provide practical insights on emerging trends and challenges, and strengthen relationships across the defense bar. Explore, engage, and elevate your practice at DRI's Annual Meeting.

Attendees at Annual Meeting engaging in group activity

Group photo of professional ladies at DRI Annual Meeting

Attendee engaging with DRI staff at the DRI Hub

Group photo of attendees at DRI Annual Meeting

An attendee engaging with a representative at exhibit hall

Why is DRI's Annual Meeting so Important?

Watch the video below to see why this year’s Annual Meeting is a must-attend event. Discover the value, insights, and connections waiting for you.

Your Headquarters for a Monumental Time

The 2026 DRI Annual Meeting will take place at the stunning Grand Hyatt Washington, D.C., located just moments from iconic monuments, museums, dining, shopping, and the city's most celebrated attractions. DRI attendees will enjoy exclusive hotel rates and easy access to everything happening across the capital during this historic anniversary year.

Explore the Headquarters Hotel

Entrance to the Grand Hyatt Washington in Washington, D.C.

Celebrate America's 250th Anniversary in the Nation’s Capital

Don’t just come for the meeting. Immerse yourself in the full Washington, D.C. experience by touring iconic monuments, discovering world-renowned museums, exploring vibrant neighborhoods, and enjoying exceptional dining throughout the nation’s capital. As the country continues to celebrate its semiquincentennial, our nation's capital will pulse with unmatched energy, landmark events, and milestones that place you at the center of one of the most monumental chapters in history.

Discover the Best of D.C.

Washington Monument during the autumn season

What is Everyone Saying About DRI's Annual Meeting?

Group photo at DRI 2025 Annual Meeting Blues Brothers theme

"To me, the way that [Annual Meeting] is structured, every day there’s something I’m really excited about and interested in."

Ashley Brathwaite
Ellis & Winters LLP

"If you're interested, there are a lot of opportunities in DRI for professional development that you might not have thought of that you get exposed to when you go to the annual meeting."

Elizabeth Doolin
Chittenden Murday & Novotny

"[Annual Meeting] is an opportunity to engage, meet, and reconnect with people who formed for me, not just professional connections, but really true meaningful friendships."

Jill Rice
Dinsmore & Shohl LLP

"I think the biggest thing it's helped me do is it's provided me a touch point for relationships as a whole, which have led to referrals for incredible cases across the country. And I think it's because of those moments that annual meeting has given me a true networking world of people in every city, in every state. It's given me a new pipeline, not just for friendship, but also business as well."

Stephanie Holcombe
Porter Hedges LLP