The Center Program


Full Schedule

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Schedule and speakers are subject to change.

Wednesday, October 21, 2026

Time (Eastern)Session
1:00 p.m.–2:00 p.m.

Discover the Center

Learn about the DRI Center for Law and Public Policy and how you can become involved in its efforts on behalf of DRI as the Voice of the Defense Bar, advancing defense interests on substantive law, judicial process, constitutional issues, and civil justice system integrity.

This session will highlight the work of the Center’s Legislation and Rules, Public Policy, and Amicus Committees and their task forces and action groups, preparing comments on proposed rules and legislation, white papers on important policy issues affecting our clients and our practices, and amicus briefs, many times in conjunction with SLDOs. Annual Meeting attendees will gain insight into current initiatives, member resources, and opportunities to discuss evolving issues and become involved in the Center’s work.

John Guttmann, Beveridge & Diamond PC, Washington, D.C.
Jim McCrystal, Sutter O’Connell, Cleveland, OH
Jeff Holmstrand, Grove, Holmstrand & Delk PLLC, in Wheeling, WV
Marta-Ann Schnabel, O’Bryon and Schnabel PLC, New Orleans, LA
Susan Snowden, Jackson Kelley PC, Martinsburg, WV

Friday, October 23, 2026

Time (Eastern)Session
8:00 a.m.–8:50 a.m.

Emerging Issues in AI, Legal System Abuse (Open to All)

This session—open to all Annual Meeting attendees—will examine emerging developments at the intersection of law and technology, including evolving best practices for the use of artificial intelligence in legal practice. It will also explore legal system abuse and its effect on civil justice, businesses, insurers, consumers, and the rule of law. Join a discussion and provide input on how DRI, the Center for Law and Public Policy, and the Center’s State Legislation and Rules Task Force can support federal and state efforts and all defense advocates in response to legislation, rule proposals, and emerging trends nationwide.

John Pierce, Dentons Sirote PC, Mobile, AL
Chris Jacobs, Houston Harbaugh PC, Pittsburgh, PA
Thomas J. Hurney, Jr., Jackson Kelly PC, Charleston, WV
Brandon Hull, Overturf McGath & Hull, P.C., Denver, CO