Past DRI Seminars

As any experienced construction lawyer will attest, there is no such thing as a flawless construction project. Every phase—whether it’s drafting and negotiating the contract, mobilizing crews, and breaking ground, addressing unforeseen site conditions, identifying, and remediating defects, or navigating costly project delays—presents its own set of risks, complexities, and opportunities for dispute. These challenges are further compounded by the increasing threat of natural disasters and extreme weather events, which have become more frequent and disruptive in recent years. Such events can halt work, damage partially completed structures, and trigger cascading claims involving multiple parties. In this environment, construction professionals face not only traditional contractual and operational issues but also new and unprecedented hurdles that test the limits of risk allocation and project planning. When conflicts do occur, effective litigation and dispute resolution become essential tools. How do attorneys, clients, and insurers work together proactively to identify vulnerabilities before ground is broken, manage claims as they arise, and effectively manage relationships throughout litigation? In today’s construction landscape, risk management is no longer a single step in the process—it is a continuous, strategic effort from start to finish. Join the DRI Construction Law Committee as we share practical strategies for practicing in this challenging and ever-evolving landscape.

The premier DRI Medical Liability and Health Care Law Seminar is returning to Nashville, TN! Join us at the Renaissance Nashville Hotel, just a short walk from the heart of the city, for an event tailored by defense counsel, in-house counsel, and claims professionals. At this year’s event, you’ll gain access to unparalleled insights, unique networking opportunities, CLE credit, and so much more! The 2026 seminar is complete with exceptional faculty, including a urologist, ophthalmologist, jury consultant, and the attorney who defended the high-profile Kowalski v. Johns Hopkins case ("Take Care of Maya"). Plus, hear from experts on HIPAA, life care planning, damages, "wearable" tracking devices, and finally, an obstetrician/attorney birth trauma specialist. Join us to reconnect with clients and colleagues at on- and off-site networking events and explore all that Nashville has to offer. We look forward to seeing you in March!

In a groundbreaking experiment, the DRI Litigation Skills and Retail & Hospitality committees are thrilled to present the “Man vs. Machine Mock Trial,” a look into the future of defense litigation and jury evaluations. First, we will be presenting a mock trial before a live jury, where their deliberations can be analyzed by seasoned litigators throughout the country. What makes jurors in 2026 tick? What information can be learned from the feedback of actual human jurors? Next, we will then present the same mock trial in a cutting-edge AI Jury Simulation program, which will create artificial “juror personas” to provide us with their own verdict. What information can be learned from the feedback of AI jurors? How do the results of the live and AI juries compare and contrast? How can these tools better prepare defense litigators, our clients, and adjusters to evaluate the value of our cases? We will explore these questions—and more—at our 2026 seminar in Nashville.

Join us in Chicago this March for a program that will bring you up to date on cutting-edge topics facing the insurance industry at DRI’s 2026 Insurance Coverage and Claims Institute. Hear from experts on subjects such as business interruption coverage, the impact of towers of coverage, navigating the bad faith minefield, and more. Expand your network while enjoying the Windy City with your DRI community.

Roundtables bring thought leaders together for frank discussion on key issues. Every voice matters. Every perspective adds value. Roundtables are for visionaries, problem-solvers, and people like you. DRI's Insurance Roundtable (IRT) is an event like no other. It brings together leaders in the insurance industry and defense bar in an exclusive setting to not only discuss the significant challenges facing the industry today, but to explore strategies for tackling them head-on. Register now to secure your spot and share your voice.

From The Center for Law and Public Policy's AI Task Force

This one-day CLE seminar focuses on the practical nuts and bolts of AI use in defense practice. Featuring interactive demonstrations from AI product vendors and real-use cases from DRI members, this seminar provides defense attorneys and insurance claims professionals with actionable strategies for selecting, using, and managing AI tools in daily litigation practice. Participants will learn specific techniques, AI prompts, workflows, platforms, and internal policy and guidance that they can apply immediately upon return to their practices. This program was designed and written with assistance from Claude by Anthropic Opus 4.5 Max and Google Gemini 3.0 Pro.

The 2026 DRI Product Liability Conference offers fresh insights into the rapidly evolving field of product liability law. Through interactive sessions, case studies, and technology-focused programming, participants will explore strategies for defending claims, addressing regulatory expectations, and responding to the use of AI in litigation. Attendees will also gain practical tools for improving communication across generations and strengthening trial strategies through innovation. Alongside the education, the conference provides rich opportunities to connect with manufacturers, experts, and peers to build lasting professional relationships.

DRI is proud to announce the 39^th annual Civil Rights and Governmental Tort Liability Seminar in Orlando, Florida. This seminar will provide you with invaluable information and tools to represent government entities from intake through appeal. This year’s faculty includes a renowned Supreme Court advocate, legal scholars, seasoned litigators, in-house government lawyers, and a qualified immunity expert, alongside law enforcement, employment, land use, and education experts from across the United States. Session topics will cover national trends and developments in the realm of civil rights and governmental tort liability litigation. Attendees will learn practical tips and strategies for addressing issues in the areas of qualified immunity, Monell claims, Amicus briefing, law enforcement defense, education, employment, land use, and more. The 2026 program also offers the opportunity to network, exchange ideas, and develop winning strategies with experienced litigators, insurance professionals, government lawyers, and other experts in the field.

Join us in Orlando–the city where dreams come true–for a transformative seminar designed to help women in the legal field build the skills needed to achieve both professional and personal success! When women in law unite, there’s nothing we can’t accomplish! This event brings together an inspiring lineup of psychologists, top trial litigators, businesswomen, and in-house counsel, all sharing their expertise and insights. From leadership strategies to self-care techniques, you’ll walk away with practical tools to reignite your passion and grow stronger, healthier, and more empowered in your career. Together, we will experience the magic of Women in the Law. Let’s build, grow, and lead in a profession that is stronger when we rise together!

DRI's Insurance Coverage and Practice Symposium is the flagship educational and networking program for insurance executives, claims professionals, and outside counsel who specialize in insurance coverage. This year's symposium will offer an unparalleled opportunity to engage with a distinguished faculty of insurance industry leaders and coverage lawyers on emerging and relevant issues facing the industry. We’ll cover topics from mass tort litigation to practical tips and strategies for handling excess exposure and reinsurance issues impacting claims. This symposium will also provide numerous exceptional networking opportunities for attendees to interact with industry and outside counsel colleagues and to build relationships with other professionals.

In an era defined by rapid technological advancement and evolving workplace dynamics, the professional liability landscape is transforming dramatically. This seminar explores how legal professionals, insurers, and brokers must adapt to emerging risks—from artificial intelligence-driven decision-making and remote work challenges to generational workforce changes and expanding Errors and Omissions (E&O) exposures. Through expert-led sessions and interactive discussions, attendees will gain the tools to stay agile, informed, and ethically grounded in a profession that’s constantly in motion.

Join us in sunny Tampa for DRI’s premier Asbestos Medicine Seminar, where top-tier defense litigators, leading medical and scientific experts, and timely topics come together in one unforgettable event. Set along Florida’s stunning Gulf Coast, Tampa offers the ideal backdrop for learning, networking, and recharging. This must-attend seminar features cutting edge content that allows attendees to dive into key issues, explore evolving strategies, discover new defense tactics, gain insights from nationally recognized faculty, and engage in meaningful discussions with peers and experts. The best news? You’ll be within walking distance of the Tampa Riverwalk, fresh seafood spots, and the famous Florida sunshine! Don’t miss your chance to be part of the conversation in one of the most vibrant and welcoming cities in the Southeast!

The legal landscape for defense attorneys is transforming, and your participation can make a meaningful impact. That’s why Built for Business: The Future of the Defense Bar isn’t just a theme—it’s a rallying cry. As a lawyer representing business, you must anticipate emerging challenges, adapt to evolving demands, and champion innovation. Be part of this transformation at the 2025 DRI Annual Meeting in Chicago.

This seminar offers a unique, immersive learning experience for professionals in fire investigation, litigation, and product liability. Over three action-packed days, attendees will engage with industry experts through live burn demonstrations, interactive panels, and hands-on case studies. Topics range from the latest technologies in fire investigation, such as drones and smart devices, to defending complex claims involving propane fires, lithium-ion batteries, and wildfire litigation. Participants will also hone their trial skills through mock expert examinations and interactive legal ethics scenarios. With ample networking opportunities and practical insights, this seminar is designed to equip you with the tools and connections needed to succeed in navigating the complexities of fire-related legal matters.

Join us in Austin, Texas, for the 2025 Senior Living and Long-Term Care Litigation Seminar, taking place September 10–12 at the Austin Marriott Downtown! This annual seminar promises an engaging experience with panel counsel meetings, varied networking opportunities, and educational sessions from top industry experts covering the latest legal and operational trends affecting the senior living and long-term care sectors. This year's conference will include multiple opportunities to network as well as the ability to earn up to 10 hours of CLE credit, including 2 hours of Ethics credit! Register today to reserve your spot and make the most of these exclusive opportunities!

Elevate your skills, unlock your potential, and gain valuable insights from top industry leaders and experienced trucking attorneys from across the country at this dynamic event. Become an indispensable asset to the trucking industry as you master how to ethically navigate toxic personalities, plan your trial presentation from day one, and hone your skills to create and utilize leverage in settlement negotiations.

Join the Law Practice Management Committee in Chicago for lessons on technological, personnel, and business issues facing law firm leaders in defense firms around the country. Law practice management has entered a new frontier with fast-changing technology, evolving client claims management philosophies, a competitive job market, post-pandemic inflation, and ongoing generational differences in the practice of law. Equip yourself with modern solutions at this seminar, featuring dynamic presentations tailored to help law firm leaders tackle daily industry challenges.