2024 Bench-Bar Conference attended by 160 Iowa judges and attorneys

The 2024 Bench-Bar Conference took place between May 8 and 10 in Cedar Rapids with 160 attendees. This special bi-annual event is a unique opportunity for practicing lawyers and judges in Iowa to connect in a casual setting.

In the afternoon on Wednesday, May 8, Bench-Bar Conference Co-Chairs Matt Novak and Iowa Supreme Court Justice Matthew McDermott welcomed guests.

CLE topics included "Civility and Ethics: Perspectives from Both Sides of the Bench" and "Generational and Geographical Divide in the Law." Small group discussions were held after the CLE programming for deeper conversations surrounding the topics presented.

Social events included a Fun Run and Walk, golf and pickleball at Elmcrest Country Club, painting at the local Board & Brush location, biking, and a National Czech-Slovak Museum tour.

Below are images from the 2024 Bench-Bar Conference.

2024 Bench-Bar Conference Fun Run or Walk group in the morning

Bench-Bar Conference bike ride activity participants (left to right): Jim Kinglen, Justice Tom Waterman, Stephanie Hinz, Kevin Caster, and Matt Preston

Board & Brush painting activity attendees displaying their creations

Iowa Court of Appeals oral argument presentation during the 2024 Bench-Bar Conference

Iowa Court of Appeals oral argument presentation during the Bench-Bar Conference

Bench-Bar Conference small group discussions (Executive Director Dwight Dinkla on the left, Past President Bill Scherle on the right)

Small group discussions were happening throughout the Hilton Double Tree in Cedar Rapids

Bench-Bar Conference small group discussion on May 9

Small group discussion focused on challenges and opportunities within the legal profession

Bench-Bar Conference attendees engaging in conversation within groups of 10-12 attorneys

Bench-Bar Conference small group discussion on May 9

Conference attendees sharing their experiences and comments during small group break-outs

Bench-Bar Conference small group discussions taking place

ISBA President-elect Melvin Shaw speaking during a small group break-out

District 1 Chief Judge Kellyann Lekar addressed attendees on Thursday, May 9 with Justice Matthew McDermott as the moderator

District 7 Chief Judge Henry Latham provided an update at the Bench-Bar Conference

District 8A Chief Judge Myron Gookin spoke during the Thursday luncheon

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