LegalFuel is the official Florida Bar Podcast. This monthly series is brought to you by The Practice Resource Center of The Florida Bar and will feature esteemed leaders in law discussing new and innovative topics. Its purpose is to help members of The Florida Bar as well as attorneys from other states run better practices and provide better legal services to their clients.
Disclaimer: The views expressed by the participants of this program are their own and do not represent the views of, nor are they endorsed by The Florida Bar, their respective officers, directors, employees, agents, or representatives. None of the content should be considered legal advice. As always, consult a lawyer.
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Check latest episodes from The Florida Bar's LegalFuel Podcast podcast
Florida Bar Departments and Services: The Many Ways We Can Assist Members
2026/02/03
In 2025 The Florida Bar turned 75 and we now serve over 115,000 lawyers around the state. Comprised of six divisions, and twenty departments, the Bar has numerous services to assist members, but it can be overwhelming if you don’t know where to look or who to reach out to.
Often confused with the Florida Board of Bar Examiners, The Florida Bar does not administer the bar exam or review applications to become an attorney. A member’s relationship with The Florida Bar begins after they have passed the bar exam and have been sworn in.
In today’s episode hosts Christine Bilbrey, Jamie Moore, and Autumn Chadwell will be discussing the departments and services available to Florida Bar members and how each can help you maintain your practice, help you understand the rules and requirements to keep you out of the discipline process, and even save you some money.
This podcast has been approved by The Florida Bar Continuing Legal Education Department for 1.0 hour of General CLE credit. Course # 9634.
REFERENCED RESOURCES
Inventory Lawyers 850-561-5839Membership Records 850-561-5832The Florida Bar Member Portal (For assistance logging in 850-561-5820)Legal Specialization and Education Department (CLE) 850-561-5842vLex Fastcase (access through your Member Portal)Nota trust accountingSectionsEthics & Advertising 800-235-8619Unlicensed Practice of Law (UPL) 850-561-5840The Practice Resource Center (LegalFuel.com) 850-561-5616Lawyers Advising LawyersThe Florida Bar Lawyer Referral Service 800-342-8011The Florida Bar Career Center and Career Benchmark DashboardFlorida Bar Member BenefitsThe Florida Lawyers Helpline 833-FL1-WELL (833-351-9355)
The Florida Bar’s Lawyer Regulation Department: Common Issues, Misconceptions, and Best Practices
2025/12/29
The Florida Bar’s Lawyer Regulation Department plays a critical role in maintaining the integrity of the legal profession in Florida. Yet many attorneys have little interaction with the department until they’re faced with a question, a complaint, or a compliance issue of their own. Today, we’re taking a practical, behind-the-scenes look at how the Lawyer Regulation Department works and what every Florida lawyer should understand to stay compliant and avoid preventable problems.
In today’s episode hosts Autumn Chadwell and Jamie Moore welcome Karla Eckardt, Legal Administrator in The Florida Bar’s Lawyer Regulation Department, to discuss processes within Lawyer Regulation.
Karla Eckardt, a Miami native, moved to Tallahassee in 2007 to pursue a bachelor’s degree in international affairs and criminology at Florida State University. She began her career as a paralegal and later became a legal administrator at a local law firm. Although she initially expected the experience to lead her to law school, she soon realized that her strengths and professional interests aligned more closely with legal administration than with the practice of law.
Instead of pursuing a J.D., Karla earned a Juris Master’s degree from Florida State University, concentrating in legal risk management and HR compliance. In 2017, she joined The Florida Bar as a practice management advisor in what was then the Practice Resource Institute (now the Practice Resource Center).
In June 2023, Karla became the legal administrator for the Bar’s Division of Lawyer Regulation. In this role, she assists the Division Director with administrative and strategic oversight, manages operations and non-attorney personnel within the Division’s Headquarters Department, oversees many of the Division’s financial functions, evaluates and maintains operating and information systems, and serves as the primary liaison to key vendors and contract partners.
This podcast has been approved by The Florida Bar Continuing Legal Education Department for 1.0 hour of General CLE credit including 1.0 hour of Ethics CLE credit. Course # 9586.
REFERENCED RESOURCES:
The Lawyer Discipline ProcessThe 10 Most Important Things to Know About Lawyer Regulation by The Florida BarLawyer Discipline – A Roadmap to Florida’s Lawyer Regulation System (Florida Bar Journal)The Florida Bar – Lawyer Complaints and DisciplineFlorida Bar Rules & StandardsFlorida Bar Branch OfficesFlorida Bar Grievance CommitteesAttorney/Consumer Assistance Program (ACAP)Ethics HotlineTrust Account Compliance Certificate InstructionsLegalFuel: The Florida Bar’s Practice Resource Center
Board Certification: Elevating Your Firm (And You!)
2025/11/24
Board certification recognizes an attorney’s special knowledge, skill, and experience in a specific area of law. Established in 1982 by the Florida Supreme Court, board certification helps consumers identify specialists in 27 different areas of practice. Although the certification program has been an option for over four decades, only around four percent of Florida Bar members are Board Certified.
In today’s episode hosts Autumn Chadwell and Jamie Moore welcome Lisa McNelis, Chair of the Civil Trial Board Certification Committee, to discuss the requirements and benefits of board certification.
Lisa McNelis is a partner at the South Florida law firm of Roselli & McNelis. She graduated from the University of Notre Dame and attended law school at Nova Southeastern College of Law. She has been Board Certified in Civil Trial since 1996. For more than 40 years, Lisa has represented the injured and their families, initially becoming the first female partner at a well-respected law firm in Ft. Lauderdale and thereafter opening her own law firm with her husband. Lisa has served on various Boards and committees over the years, including Family Central, Broward Legal Aid, and Florida Legal Aid. She is currently serving as Chairperson of the Palm Beach Grievance Committee and The Florida Bar Civil Trial Certification Committee.
This podcast has been approved by The Florida Bar Continuing Legal Education Department for 1.0 hour of General CLE credit. Course #9542.
REFERENCED RESOURCES:
Florida Bar Board CertificationFlorida Bar News – Board Certification Isn’t Just a Title – It’s a Commitment to ExcellenceRules Regulating The Florida BarFlorida Bar Find a Lawyer
The Ethics of File Retention: Rules, Risks, and Practical Guidance for Lawyers
2025/10/29
When you're a lawyer, keeping accurate records is crucial. It's not just about good business; it's about protecting yourself from potential disciplinary action and ensuring you can deliver the best service to your clients. A bad record-keeping system can lead to lost files, missed deadlines, and a host of other issues that can land you in trouble.
In today’s episode hosts Christine Bilbrey and Jamie Moore welcome Jeff Hazen, Assistant Ethics Counsel at The Florida Bar, to discuss records retention Rules and best practices.
Jeff Hazen serves as the Assistant Ethics Counsel for the Florida Bar, with over 16 years of dedicated service. Throughout his tenure at The Florida Bar, Jeff has handled thousands of inquiries on the Ethics Hotline, assessed numerous lawyer advertisements, and issued dozens of staff Ethics Opinions. Jeff is a distinguished alumnus of the University of Florida Levin College of Law.
This podcast has been approved by The Florida Bar Continuing Legal Education Department for 1.0 hour of General CLE credit including 1.0 hour of Ethics CLE credit. Course # 9506.
REFERENCED RESOURCES:
LegalFuel Article: How long should I keep closed file?
LegalFuel: Records Management, Retention, and Destruction Guide
LegalFuel Document Library
Client Communications Forms and LettersClient Fee Agreements and Letters of RepresentationLawyer Changing FirmsRules Regulating The Florida Bar – View the Full Set
Rule 4-1.6 Confidentiality of InformationRule 4-5.8 Procedures for Lawyers Leaving Law Firms and Dissolution of Law FirmsEthics Hotline – 800-235-8619
Ethics Informational Packets
Ethics Opinions by Subject
Opinion 06-1Opinion 10-2Opinion 12-3Opinion 88-11 Unclaimed Trust Account Funds
LegalFuel: The Florida Bar’s Practice Resource Center
When Lawyers Become Targets: Protecting Law Firms from Scams and Fraud
2025/09/29
Attorneys and law firms are increasingly being targeted by sophisticated scams, including phishing schemes, fraudulent check scams, wire fraud, and even identity theft. These scams can cause devastating financial losses, erode client trust, and damage professional reputations.
In today’s episode host Jamie Moore welcomes Steve Weisman, lawyer and nationally recognized expert on scams, to discuss why lawyers are such attractive targets and what can be done to protect the legal profession from these threats.
Steve Weisman is a lawyer and nationally recognized expert on scams, identity theft, and cybersecurity. Steve holds a JD from Boston College Law School and a BA from the University of Massachusetts Boston. He is also a professor at Bentley University and is the author of more than ten books, including The Truth About Avoiding Scams, which Smart Money Magazine recognized as one of the year’s ten best money book. Steve earned a Certificate of Merit for excellence in legal journalism from the American Bar Association and he has written columns for USA Today, Bankrate.com, the American Institute of Economic Research, and the Saturday Evening Post.
This podcast has been approved by The Florida Bar Continuing Legal Education Department for 1.0 hour of General CLE credit including 1.0 hour of Technology CLE credit. Course # 9386.
REFERENCED RESOURCES:
ScamicideAbout SteveAll Books – Steve Weisman - AmazonBeware of Scam Emails Targeting Lawyers [Florida Bar News]FBI Issues Alert on Fake Lawyers Scamming Crypto Victims [Florida Bar News]Scams and Phishing Attacks Powered by AI [American Bar Association]What we know about the cybercrime group Scattered Spider [Cybersecurity Dive]State-of-the-art phishing: MFA bypass [Talos Intelligence]SIM Card Swap Scams [National Cybersecurity Alliance]LegalFuel: The Florida Bar’s Practice Resource Center
Running a Virtual Law Firm: How to Build Efficiency and Deliver Outstanding Client Service
2025/08/25
Many attorneys have now been working fully virtual for years. During the pandemic most firms experimented with different levels of remote or hybrid work models. For some it worked well, and they continued, but other firms chose to return to the office. While supporters of remote work point to increased flexibility, autonomy, and efficiency, critics worry about the loss of mentorship opportunities and the potential impact on productivity and quality.
In today’s episode hosts Christine Bilbrey and Jamie Moore welcome Marelize Dingman, of Florida Appeals, to discuss the key to running a successful law firm without a physical office.
Marelize Dingman earned her BA in Social Work from the North-West University in South Africa. After moving to the United States, she was hired at the firm Palmer and Palmer P.A. Following Bill Palmer’s appointment to the Fifth District Court of Appeal, Marelize joined another well-respected Orlando law firm and began managing large corporate events and promoting South African musical artists. When Bill Palmer returned to private practice, Marelize was thrilled to join him and the whole Florida Appeals team as their Firm Administrator.
This podcast has been approved by The Florida Bar Continuing Legal Education Department for 1.0 hour of General CLE credit. Course #9354.
REFERENCED RESOURCES:
Florida AppealsMarelize DingmanBeyond Brick and Mortar: The Evolution and Impact of Virtual Law Firms (NYSBA)How to Work Remotely as a Legal Professional: A Guide (Clio)LegalFuel: The Florida Bar’s Practice Resource Center
Early Succession Planning Protects Your Clients and Secures Your Future
2025/08/04
Succession planning is vital for any law firm, but it's about more than just retirement. It ensures business continuity through the expected transitions and the unexpected ones like incapacity, death, or disaster. For solo and small firms, it is critical to uninterrupted client service, while also maximizing firm value.
In today’s episode hosts Christine Bilbrey and Jamie Moore welcome Tom Lenfestey, of The Law Practice Exchange, to discuss succession planning.
In his role as the Founder & CEO of The Law Practice Exchange, Tom’s goal is to guide lawyers through the next chapter of their legal career, whether that’s succession planning, exit planning, or strategic growth through law firm acquisition. As a respected leader in law firm sales, Tom has guided The Law Practice Exchange to be the leading marketplace and expert team specializing in aiding attorneys and law firms in buying and selling law firms through continuation, exit and succession strategies. Its mission is to provide education and essential services to facilitate seamless law firm sales and acquisitions and lawyer transition planning.
This podcast has been approved by The Florida Bar Continuing Legal Education Department for 1.0 hour of General CLE. Course # 9312.
REFERENCED RESOURCES:
The Law Practice ExchangeSelling Your Practice with Tom Lenfestey (Podcast)Selling Your Law Practice: Insights from Tom Lenfestey on Building a Saleable Business (Podcast)How to Value Your Law Firm with Tom Lenfestey (Podcast)Rule 4-1.17 Sale of Law Practice Florida Bar Ethics Informational Packet: Notifying Clients of Change in Firm CompositionFlorida Bar’s Ethics Informational Packet: Of CounselABA LPM: Succession Planning for Your Next Firm AdministratorA Guide to Law Firm Succession Planning: From Emergency Plans to Exit StrategiesChecklist for Lawyers Retirement, Law Office Closure, Or Law Firm DissolutionThe 16-Pager: How to Avoid Boredom in Retirement with the Greatest of Ease (ABA Journal)Book: Designing a Succession Plan for Your Law Practice: A Step-by-Step Guide for Preparing Your Firm for Maximum Value (Amazon)Book: Younger Next Year – A Guide to Living Like 50 Until You’re 80 and Beyond (Amazon)Book: Traction – Get a Grip on Your Business (Amazon)Succession Planning GuideLegalFuel: The Florida Bar’s Practice Resource Center
Agentic AI: Impacting The Business of Law and the Future of Law Practice
2025/07/28
The use of generative artificial intelligence by lawyers has shown enormous potential for efficiency, quality, and improved client service, but it also requires the careful consideration of ethics, data security, and an understanding of the degree of human supervision needed. Agentic AI is now emerging and could further transform the business of law.
In today’s episode host Christine Bilbrey and Jamie Moore welcomes Tom Martin, of LawDroid, to discuss the impact of Agentic AI on the business of law and the future of law practice.
Tom Martin is a Generative AI expert who serves as CEO of LawDroid, Principal of Deep Legal, and Adjunct Professor at Suffolk Law School, where he literally wrote the textbook on AI and legal services. As an ABA Legal Rebel and Fastcase 50 Honoree appointed to the ABA Center for Innovation, he's transforming the legal industry through his companies, teaching, and speaking at major conferences like ABA TechShow and LegalWeek.
A Yale and UCLA Law graduate, Tom hosts the LawDroid Manifesto podcast and conference while making a dent in the universe from his home in Vancouver, Canada.
You can follow Tom's writings and podcast at: lawdroidmanifesto.com.
This podcast has been approved by The Florida Bar Continuing Legal Education Department for 1.0 hour of General CLE credit including 1.0 hour of Technology CLE credit. Course # 9290.
REFERENCED RESOURCES:
Tom Martin, Founder and CEO of LawDroidLawDroid ManifestoThinking Like a Lawyer: Agentic AI and the New Legal PlaybookAI Agents: What Are They, How Do They Work, Why Should I Care?What is Agentic AI, and How Will It Change Work?Agentic AI and Legal: How It’s Redefining the ProfessionEnhancing Efficiency and Client Service with Legal Tech ToolsWhy Agentic AI is the Architect of AutonomyHarvey Launches Deep Research for LegalLawDroid Launches CiteCheck AI, a Fail-Safe Against AI Citation Hallucinations10 Agentic AI Use Cases for Contact CentersCoCounsel: The Industry-Leading GenAI Assistant for ProfessionalsZapier AIAnthropic: AI Research and Products That Put Safety at the FrontierThe Florida Bar Guide to Getting Started With AILegalFuel: The Florida Bar’s Practice Resource Center
Cyber Insurance for Law Firms: What Attorneys Need to Know
2025/06/30
Handling sensitive client data and funds has always come with some risk, but now with cyber threats on the rise, attorneys need to be even more proactive in protecting their practice and clients. Maybe you have already considered getting cyber insurance but don’t know what you need to look for in a policy? In addition to covering the costs associated with data breaches and ransomware, having cyber insurance protects your firm and clients and can even improve the delivery of legal services by offering attorneys some peace of mind.
In today’s episode host Christine Bilbrey welcomes Cathy Agacinski, attorney and insurance expert, and Troy Riley, a cybersecurity consultant, to discuss all things cyber insurance.
Cathy Agacinski graduated from Fairfield University with a Bachelor of Science in Finance and earned her Juris Doctor from Stetson University College of Law. She has been licensed as an attorney in Florida since 1992, and she is Board Certified in Workers’ Compensation and a Florida Bar Certified Circuit Court Mediator. She is also licensed in New Jersey and has experience as both a practicing attorney and insurance agent.
Cathy is a shareholder at Silver & Agacinski, P.A., where she focuses on insurance disputes, representing injured workers and handling personal injury cases. She is also an agent and owner of 3 Generations Insurance Agency, specializing in professional liability and cyber insurance. Cathy also serves on the Florida Bar Standing Committee on Technology and the Workers’ Compensation Rules Advisory Committee.
Troy Riley is a cybersecurity consultant with over 22 years of experience. He holds a Master of Science in Cybersecurity and a Bachelor of Science in Management Information Systems from the University of South Florida. Troy holds many professional certifications including the Certified Information Security Manager (CISM), Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA), and Project Management Professional (PMP). He has expertise in legal liability, manufacturing, healthcare, automotive & transportation, incident response readiness, security program assessments, and vulnerability management.
Troy is a member of the Information Systems Audit and Control Association (ISACA), the SANS Institute for Cybersecurity training, and the National Cybersecurity Alliance.
This podcast has been approved by The Florida Bar Continuing Legal Education Department for 1.0 hour of General CLE credit including 1.0 hour of Technology CLE credit. Course # 9232.
REFERENCED RESOURCES:
3G InsuranceCybersecurity Committee Co-Chair Recommends Insurance to Protect Against Ransomware Attacks [Florida Bar News]New Florida Bar Guidelines Offer Framework for Law Firm Cyber Resilience [Florida Bar News]The Importance of Cyber Security Insurance for Law Firms [Clio]Cyber insurance for the legal industry [Coalition]What You Need to Protect Your Firm From Cyber Threats [LegalFuel Guest Post]LegalFuel: The Florida Bar’s Practice Resource Center
Avoiding Trust Accounting Pitfalls with Nota: A Smart Solution for Attorneys
2025/05/27
Trust accounting is one of the biggest compliance challenges for attorneys, and mistakes can lead to serious consequences—including disciplinary action. But what if there was a way to simplify the process, ensure compliance with Florida Bar Rules, and give attorneys peace of mind? Today, we’re exploring Nota trust accounting solution, a free Florida Bar member benefit designed specifically to help lawyers stay compliant with Florida Bar Trust Accounting Rules.
In today’s episode host Jamie Moore welcomes Tim Jakubowski, Attorney Banking Consultant and Assistant Vice President at Nota, and Christina Potter Bayern and Mike Bayern, attorneys and Nota power users, who will share how Nota has helped them maintain compliance and avoid common pitfalls.
Tim Jakubowski has worked with M&T Bank and small business clients for nearly 10 years. He prides himself on passion and partnership – understanding how his clients operate their businesses and providing the best-suited banking solutions to help achieve their goals. In 2022, Tim joined the Nota Division of M&T to help solo and small law firms become more efficient with Nota’s platform and the benefits it offers.
Christina Potter Bayern is the founder of Potter Bayern Law, a firm focused on business litigation and personal injury. She currently serves as President of the Tampa Hispanic Bar Association and was recognized as a Super Lawyers Rising Star in 2024.
Fully bilingual in English and Spanish, Christina advocates for individuals and families impacted by negligence, wrongful death, and catastrophic injuries. She also represents businesses in breach of contract and commercial litigation matters. Before launching Potter Bayern Law, she handled high-stakes litigation at a multi-state law firm in Tampa.
Christina earned her Juris Doctor from American University - Washington College of Law, where she served as President of the Latin Law Students’ Association and Co-Editor-in-Chief of a legal publication. She is also a graduate of the University of South Florida in Tampa where she double majored in Economics and International Studies.
Aside from her legal work and community service, Christina enjoys spending time with her husband and family and finding new places to eat.
Michael Bayern is a co-managing member at Potter Bayern Law, where he represents business owners, entrepreneurs, and investors in complex business, commercial, and real estate litigation. He was recognized as a Super Lawyers Rising Star in 2023 and 2024.
Michael earned his Bachelor of Arts in Crime, Law, and Justice, with a minor in Sociology, from Pennsylvania State University. He then obtained his law degree cum laude from American University Washington College of Law, where he served as Vice President of the Alternative Dispute Resolution Honor Society and was a national semi-finalist in the American Bar Association Arbitration Competition—showing his skill in negotiation and dispute resolution.
Michael has extensive litigation and courtroom experience, including starting as an assistant public defender in Orlando, then transitioning to insurance defense work, insurance coverage work, and his current litigation practice in commercial and real estate litigation and disputes. Michael counsels clients on a wide range of commercial, business, and real estate disputes, including contractual disputes, partnership and shareholder disputes, business torts, and real estate disputes. He prides himself on being able to help clients mitigate risk and achieve favorable outcomes.
Beyond his legal practice, Michael is committed to supporting business owners and entrepreneurs in protecting their investments and ensuring their businesses thrive. In his spare time, Michael enjoys spending time with his wife (and law partner), family, and dog. They enjoy time outdoors, taking their dog to the park or hiking on the weekends.
This podcast has been approved by The Florida Bar Continuing Legal Education Department for 0.5 hour of General CLE credit including 0.5 hour of Technology CLE credit. Course # 9194.
REFERENCED RESOURCES:
Nota by M&T BankFree Trust Accounting Software Now Available [The Florida Bar News]Getting Down to the Basics – Free Nota Trust Accounting Resource [The Florida Bar Journal]IOTA Management for Lawyers [LegalFuel Free CLE]Rules Regulating Trust Accounts: Chapter 5Trust Accounting ResourcesTrust Accounting – Basic Records and ProceduresLegalFuel: The Practice Resource Center of The Florida Bar
How Vicarious Trauma Can Impact an Attorney’s Ability to Practice Law
2025/05/05
Practicing law is stressful, but lawyers and judges who are involved in cases where the parties have experienced trauma may find themselves deeply affected by the individual’s trauma and can even experience post-traumatic effects themselves. Just as a victim experiences trauma in a way that can leave long-term post-traumatic effects, their lawyer’s ability to provide competent legal assistance can also be affected. The cumulative effect of this secondary trauma experience on lawyers or judges over time is known as vicarious trauma.
In today’s episode hosts Christine Bilbrey and Jamie Moore welcome Libby Clark and Dr. Kerry Murray O’Hara, the co-founders of The Humanized Lawyer Project, to discuss Vicarious Trauma and the impact on attorneys.
Elizabeth Clark is a passionate advocate for systemic transformation in the legal profession and is a co-founder of The Humanized Lawyer Project, a groundbreaking initiative created with Dr. Kerry Murray O’Hara aimed at helping lawyers reclaim autonomy and resilience in a profession prone to burnout and systemic dysfunction. Ms. Clark served as the Co-Chair of the landmark New York Attorney Well-Being Task Force from 2021 to 2022 and as the inaugural chair of the New York State Bar Association Standing Committee on Attorney Wellbeing. She received her JD from Albany Law School and is a member of the New York State Bar. She specializes in real estate development, finance, and operational strategy.
Dr. Kerry Murray O’Hara is the Clinical Director & Founder of DBT Wellness & Psychological Services in Saratoga Springs, NY. She has over 25 years of Clinical Psychology experience in various settings including inpatient, residential, forensic, outpatient, and academic. Dr. O’Hara’s area of expertise is Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, a highly researched and evidence based psychological treatment. Dr. Kerry received her doctorate from the California School of Professional Psychology and has held clinical positions at Boston University School of Medicine and McLean Psychiatric Hospital, Harvard Medical School. During the past 8 years, Dr. O’Hara has focused on the mental health crisis and wellness related to the field of law and has been named as a clinical consultant to the New York State Bar Association Lawyer Taskforce for Lawyer Wellbeing. She currently sits on two working subcommittees for the Wellbeing Taskforce addressing Occupational Policy and Wellness Programing.
This podcast has been approved by The Florida Bar Continuing Legal Education Department for 1.0 hour of General CLE credit including 0.5 hour of Ethics CLE credit and 0.5 hour of Mental Health and Wellness CLE credit. Course # 9087.
REFERENCED RESOURCES:
Attorney Wellness & ConsultingThe Humanized Lawyer ProjectTrauma, Mental Health and the Lawyer - New York State Bar Association Finding the Compassion Balance: Mindful Lawyering & Vicarious Trauma (Webinar) - New York State Bar AssociationReport and Recommendations of the NYSBA Task Force on Attorney Well-Being (New York State Bar Association)Task Force on Mental Health and Trauma Impacted Representation (New York State Bar Association)Trauma-Informed (As a Matter of) Course by Natalie Netzel (American University Washington College of Law)The Impact of Secondary Trauma in the Legal Profession (LegalFuel Podcast)LegalFuel: The Florida Bar’s Practice Resource Center
Enhancing Efficiency and Client Service with Legal Tech Tools
2025/02/25
As we step into 2025, technology continues to reshape how law firms operate and serve their clients. From advanced case management systems to cutting-edge artificial intelligence, which innovations will be essential for boosting efficiency and enhancing client interactions?
In today’s episode host Jamie Moore welcomes Paul Unger, of Affinity Consulting, to explore the top tech tools transforming legal practices. He’ll share actionable insights on integrating these advancements into your firm, helping you improve operations and deliver exceptional client service.
Paul Unger is the founding partner of Affinity Consulting and holds a degree in Political Science from Capital University and a law degree from Capital University Law School. A national speaker and author, Paul specializes in coaching lawyers how to be more efficient with time management by offering customized workshops. When he isn’t speaking or writing, he is usually performing technology assessments throughout the United States and Canada. Paul began his career working for the Governor of Ohio, and then went on to law school. He practiced law for six years, specializing in litigation and bankruptcy, before starting a legal technology consulting company with partner Barron Henley in 2000. Paul’s superpowers are cleaning up messes and turning digital chaos into well-organized machines. His favorite part of his job is helping people get organized and focused so they can find more enjoyment in their lives and jobs.
This podcast has been approved by The Florida Bar Continuing Legal Education Department for 1.0 hour of General CLE credit including 1.0 hour of Technology CLE credit. Course # 8933.
REFERENCED RESOURCES:
Paul Unger, Esq.Affinity ConsultingStaying Ahead Of The Curve: Preparing Your Law Firm For 2025 [Forbes]Top Tech Tools for Lawyers [Clio]How to Secure Your 2025 Legal Tech [American Bar Association]What is Agentic AI, and How Will It Change Work?How Reasoning Models are Transforming Logical AI Thinking [Microsoft Developer Community Blog]2025 Law Firm Data Security Guide: How to Keep Your Law Firm Secure [Clio]What is mobile device management (MDM)? [IBM]Cybersecurity Assessments for Law Firms: How Not To Screw Them Up [Above the Law]LegalFuel: The Florida Bar’s Practice Resource Center
Solutions for Solo and Small Firms: Inside the Florida Bar’s Practice Resource Center
2025/01/27
Running a law practice involves more than just handling cases—it comes with a unique set of challenges, from growing your client base to finding reliable advice on complex issues and streamlining daily operations. Every solo and small firm attorney has faced these hurdles. Today, we’re diving into resources designed to assist members with these challenges. From the Florida Bar’s Practice Resource Center, the Lawyer Referral Service, Lawyers Advising Lawyers, to the Career Center and more, we’ll explore tools that can help you deliver exceptional legal services while making practice management easier and more efficient.
In today’s episode hosts Christine Bilbrey and Jamie Moore will discuss programs and tools designed to assist members in managing their law practices, available through The Florida Bar’s Practice Resource Center.
This podcast has been approved by The Florida Bar Continuing Legal Education Department for 1.0 hour of General CLE credit. Course # 8877.
REFERENCED RESOURCES:
The Florida Bar’s Practice Resource CenterThe Florida Bar Lawyer Referral ServiceThe Florida Bar Career CenterLawyers Advising LawyersMental Health and Wellness CenterFlorida Lawyers HelplineLegal Fuel Document Library
Navigating the Future of Legal Writing: Generative AI’s Impact and Ethical Considerations for Attorneys
2025/01/10
In the rapidly evolving world of technology, few innovations have sparked as much curiosity—and controversy—as generative AI. Imagine a tool that can pass the bar exam, draft legal briefs, and redefine the very process of legal writing. But as we look to the future of AI in law, we're faced with profound questions: Can a machine truly understand the law? What happens to concepts like authorship, ethics, and attorney-client privilege in a world where AI is a co-author?
In today’s episode hosts Christine Bilbrey and Jamie Moore welcome Dr. Kirsten Davis, Professor of Law at Stetson University College of Law, and an expert in generative artificial intelligence in legal writing to explore these questions.
Kirsten Davis is a Professor and Provost's Faculty Fellow for Generative Artificial Intelligence and Higher Education at Stetson University College of Law. She earned her JD from Ohio State and a Ph.D. in Human Communication from Arizona State University. Prior to joining the faculty at Stetson Law, she was a federal judicial clerk, an attorney at Jones Day, and a faculty member at the Arizona State University College of Law.
Dr. Davis has served on the board of the Association of Legal Writing Directors and the Legal Writing Institute. She is a past Chair of the Florida Bar's Standing Committee on Professionalism, serves as the Program Co-Chair for the Association of American Law Schools Section on Technology, Law, and Legal Education; as a member of the Legal Writing Institute’s AI Committee; and as a member of the Florida Bar Standing Committee on Technology.
Dr. Davis’s work focuses on the intersection of legal communication and legal ethics. Most recently, she has been studying the impact of generative artificial intelligence on legal communication, legal ethics, and higher education. She is currently leading a group of over 400 law professors who are exploring the impacts of Generative AI on legal writing education and practice. Her course, Legal Writing with Generative AI, was one of the first of its kind to be offered to law students.
This podcast has been approved by The Florida Bar Continuing Legal Education Department for 1.0 hour of General CLE credit including 0.5 hour of Technology CLE credit and 0.5 hour of Ethics CLE credit. Course # 8875.
REFERENCED RESOURCES:
Kirsten K. DavisA New Parlor Is Open: Legal Writing Faculty Must Develop Scholarship On Generative AI and Legal Writing [Stetson Law Review]Florida Bar Ethics Opinion 24-1Florida Bar Special Committee on AI Tools & ResourcesCo-Intelligence: Living and Working with AI [Amazon]The Florida Bar Guide to Getting Started with AILegalFuel: The Florida Bar’s Practice Resource Center
Raising the Bar: Professionalism and Conduct in the Courtroom
2024/12/23
Professionalism, ethics, and courtroom presence are vital tools for every attorney striving to deliver exceptional service and build a strong reputation. Today, we’ll explore how these qualities can elevate an attorney's practice, enhancing credibility with judges, clients, and colleagues. Organizations like the American Inns of Court play a key role in promoting these standards, helping attorneys navigate the challenges of a demanding profession while upholding the values of integrity and civility.
In today’s episode host Jamie Moore welcomes Judge Ross Bilbrey, to share insights on courtroom decorum, oral argument tips, and the value of the Florida Inns of Court.
Judge Bilbrey has been on the First District Court of Appeal since 2015. Prior to this, he was a Circuit Court judge in Pensacola beginning in 2012 and was appointed to the Santa Rosa County Court in 2006.
He received his B.A. and his J.D. from the University of Florida. Before taking the bench, Judge Bilbrey was in private practice where he focused on civil and commercial litigation. He also served as a legal assistance attorney for the JAG Corps at the Naval Legal Service Office at NAS Pensacola.
Judge Bilbrey is active in the American Inns of Court and previously served as president of the Pensacola Chapter as well as president of the First DCA Appellate Inn, here in Tallahassee.
This podcast has been approved by The Florida Bar Continuing Legal Education Department for 1.0 hour of General CLE credit including 1.0 hour of Ethics CLE credit. Course # 8824.
REFERENCED RESOURCES:
American Inns of CourtEnglish Inns of CourtCounsel to Counsel Mentoring Program [The Florida Bar]Lawyer Advising Lawyers [The Florida Bar]Oral Arguments Set for Proposed Amendments to Civil Procedure Rules Ahead of January Implementation [The Florida Bar]Supreme Court Declines to Erase ‘Zealous Advocacy’ From Bar Rules [The Florida Bar]Guidelines for Professional Conduct [The Florida Bar]Professionalism Expectations [The Florida Bar]Northern District of Florida [Courtroom Etiquette]Middle District of Florida [Courtroom Decorum]Guidelines for Professional Conduct [The Florida Bar]Effective Brief Writing and Oral Argument: Gaining the Inside Track [The Florida Bar]Florida Voluntary BarsLegalFuel: The Florida Bar’s Practice Resource Center
Podcast reviews
Read The Florida Bar's LegalFuel Podcast podcast reviews
4.8 out of 5
67 reviews
★★★★★
Murray Utah 2025/07/11
Navigating the Future of Legal Writing: AI
Dr. Kirstin David had really great insights and raised good questions about the ethics of using AI in legal writing. The interview was well conducted ...
★★★★★
Jmmxxy 2024/12/09
Excellent resource
I tell my colleagues to listen to this podcast. You can listen during your commute or while exercising. The content is current and you learn about re...
★★★★★
Pcola Native 2024/10/30
Always Relevant and Thorough
These free podcasts are always relevant and thorough. The moderators are very professional.
★★★★★
SenapeBC 2024/04/11
Great CLE Resource
The information and speakers on these CLE podcast are excellent and provide insightful and very practical guidance, advice and information
★★★★★
Natakristine144 2024/03/04
Great podcast
This podcast is a great resource for Florida lawyers. Interesting guests and useful information.
★★★★★
Kjkjkjkjkj555 2022/10/05
A great resource for Florida lawyers
This is a great resource for Florida lawyers. I especially enjoyed Understanding Neurodiversity. Great job to all at the Florida bar providing this ex...
★★★★★
Jello4269 2021/11/09
Helpful & Professional
I truly enjoyed and learned a lot from the different topics. I also greatly appreciate the links provided, they are extremely helpful. Great job!
★★★★★
Charles Buist 2021/10/06
Fantastic Show
This show is perfect for attorneys in Florida. The hosts are entertaining, and they really know the material they teach. Now, I can learn the rules wh...
★★★★★
Cooffeclutch 2020/06/26
Excellent Podcast
This is a must listen for every attorney. Aside from being extremely informative, it is well-produced and impeccably organized. Keep up the good wor...
★★★★★
No_Nickname 2019/02/06
Attorney
Mrs. Bilbrey is very knowledgeable and informative.