please join us american judges … annual meeting/2018-aja-conference... · american judges...

AMERICAN JUDGES ASSOCIAT ION

c/o National Center for State Courts

300 Newport Avenue

Williamsburg, VA 23185-4147

AMERICAN JUDGES ASSOCIATION/AMERICAN JUDGES FOUNDATION

58TH ANNUAL EDUCATIONAL CONFERENCE

SEPTEMBER 23–28, 2018

MARRIOTT RESORT KAUA’I

LIHUE, HAWAI’ I

PLEASE JOIN US for the American Judges

Association’s 2018 Annual Conference,

September 23–28 at the Marriott Resort

Kaua’i, Lihue, Hawai’i. This year we’ll be taking

a look at Ke Ala Pono: The Path to Justice.

I always look forward to AJA conferences

and the opportunity to attend fascinating

educational sessions on a variety of topics

of significant interest to trial and appellate

judges of every experience. This conference

should be especially interesting as judges

explore the many aspects of ensuring access

to justice. Just as important, this conference

provides an exciting atmosphere to gather

with old friends and meet new ones. AJA

has a well-earned reputation for creating

invaluable networking opportunities to spend

quality time with colleagues from across the

United States and Canada. Do not miss this

chance to reinvigorate our shared passion to

be better judges. Please take a few minutes

to read this brochure, and then register as

soon as possible for this great conference.

CATHERINE SHAFFER, PRESIDENT

PRESIDENT CATHERINE SHAFFER, WASHINGTON

PRESIDENT-ELECT ROBERT J. TORRES, JR. , GUAM

VICE PRESIDENT PETER SFERRAZZA, NEVADA

SECRETARY YVETTE ALEXANDER, LOUISIANA

TREASURER KEVIN BURKE, MINNESOTA

IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT RUSSELL OTTER, ONTARIO

LIHUE, HAWAI’I

300 Newport Avenue

LIHUE, HAWAI’ I

LIHUE, HAWAI’I

300 Newport Avenue

LIHUE, HAWAI’ I

LIHUE, HAWAI’I

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 2310:00 a.m. – NoonBUDGET COMMITTEE MEETING

10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.NOMINATIONS COMMITTEE MEETING

1:00 – 5:00 p.m.REGISTRATION

2:00 – 5:00 p.m.EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING

6:00 – 7:00 p.m.WELCOME RECEPTION

Beyond the beauty of Kaua’i is the vast history and culture of its people. The welcome reception will include a Hawaiian welcoming ceremony with oli and hula. The event will be orchestrated with a multimedia showcase of wahi pana, or storied and celebrated places that the people hold dear not only on Kaua'i, but throughout Hawai’i. Weaving these elements into the conference is an excellent way to set a positive foundation for our week of meetings, discussions, and gatherings. Participants will be transported on a meaningful journey of mana and aloha, one you surely do not want to miss.

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 247:00 – 8:00 a.m.AJF OFFICERS & TRUSTEES MEETING

7:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.VENDOR AREA OPEN

7:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.REGISTRATION

8:00 – 8:20 a.m.WELCOME/OPENING CEREMONIES

Hon. Catherine Shaffer, President, American Judges AssociationHon. Mark E. Recktenwald, Chief Justice, Supreme Court of Hawai’iHon. Randal G. B. Valenciano, Chief Judge, Fifth Circuit Court, Kaua’i

8:20 – 8:45 a.m.Hon. Mark E. Recktenwald, Chief Justice, Supreme Court of Hawai’i

Hawai’i consistently ranks as one of the leading jurisdictions for performance in increasing access to justice for their citizens, especially for self-represented litigants, individuals with limited English proficiency, and persons with disabilities. Hawai’i is only the second state in America to have a statewide environmental court with broad jurisdiction over civil and criminal cases affecting the environment, and the state’s therapeutic courts and HOPE probation program, built upon the value of aloha, serve as models for many jurisdictions. Chief Justice Recktenwald will speak about the judiciary’s efforts and experiences preparing for challenges of the future.

8:45 – 10:15 a.m.PLENARY EDUCATION SESSION

TOPIC: U.S. Supreme Court Update

SPEAKER: Erwin Chemerinsky, Dean, University of California Berkeley Law, Jesse H. Choper Distinguished Professor of Law

October Term 2017 of the Supreme Court was filled with blockbuster decisions in so many areas of the law. U.S. Supreme Court scholar Erwin Chemerinsky returns for his review of the previous term’s work and its impact on state court judicial practice.

10:15 – 10:30 a.m.BREAK

10:30 a.m. – NoonCONCURRENT EDUCATION SESSIONS

SESSION #1

TOPIC: The Problem with Juror Unconscious Bias and Possible Solutions

SPEAKERS: Veronica Alicea-Galvan, Judge, King County Superior Court

Theresa Doyle, Judge, King County Superior Court

Implicit bias within a jury is a subject of increasing research, with numerous ideas springing forth on how to address the topic. Judge Doyle and Judge Alicea-Galván explore the methods for reducing juror bias, including orientations and instructions recommended by the federal courts. This interactive session will allow participants to leave with practical tips that can be used to work toward a more impartial jury.

HOTEL ACCOMMODATIONSMarriott Resort Kaua’i is located on Kalapaki Beach in Lihue. Complete information is available on the hotel website — just search for Marriott Resort Kaua’i. The hotel features luxurious rooms, a fabulous outdoor swimming pool, fitness center and spa, several restaurants and bars, and a beautiful beach and lovely gardens.

Special room rates have been arranged for AJA. Rates are $219 single/double plus tax. The $30/day resort fee has been waived for AJA. Reservations must be received by August 30, 2018. Please contact the hotel at 808-245-5050 to make reservations. You must request the group rate and identify that you are with AJA. You also may make reservations online by going to the AJA website under “Conferences.” Please make your reservations as soon as possible — it is easier to cancel a reservation than it is to get a room when nothing is available.

TRANSPORTATIONKaua’i is accessible from most major North American cities by most airlines. The Lihue Airport (LIH) is only two miles from the Marriott. You can jump in a taxi for about $10–12 US, although you may want to rent a car to explore the island.

AT TIRECasual attire is acceptable at AJA educational programs. With Hawai’i as the location this year, the Welcome Reception, President’s Reception, and Banquet will be less formal — Hawaiian shirts and dresses welcome.

WEATHERAJA will be on Kaua’i at a great time of year. The average high temperature is 85 and the average low 75 — wonderful tropical weather!

ACTIVITIES/AT TRACTIONSKaua’i, “the Garden Island,” is Hawai’i’s oldest and fourth largest island. It is noted for its emerald valleys, steep mountain spires, jagged cliffs, and cascading waterfalls, as well as beautiful beaches and quaint towns. The hotel is located on the east side of the island, but all the island’s natural and cultural sights are easily accessible. AJA has planned an optional tour of beautiful Waimea Canyon on Thursday. Don’t miss this opportunity to see one of the natural wonders of this lovely island.

You may also want to take a helicopter tour, go zip-lining, shop and dine, or just relax on the beach or by the pool. The website www.goHawai’i.com/islands/kauai provides complete information. You will see there is a lot to do on Kaua’i, in addition to a fantastic education program, when you come to AJA’s 58th Annual Conference.

SESSION #2

TOPIC: Right to Counsel

PRESENTERS: Brian MacKenzie, Judge (ret.), 52nd District Court, Novi, Michigan

Pegy Hora, Judge (ret.), Superior Court of California

David Wallace, Esq., Senior Director, National Association of Drug Court Professionals

Kim A. Ball, Esq., Research Professor and Director, Justice Programs Office, School of Public Affairs, American University

The Sixth Amendment guarantees the right to legal counsel at all significant stages of a criminal proceeding starting with a defendant’s first appearance in court. This right is so important that there is an associated right given to people who are unable to pay for legal assistance to have counsel appointed and paid for by the government. This session discusses the best ways for courts to implement a paid system that protects those rights.

Noon – 1:30 p.m.AJA AWARDS/AJF LUNCHEON

SPEAKER: Lawrence Okinaga, President, American Judicature Society

1:30 – 3:00 p.m.CONCURRENT EDUCATION SESSIONS

SESSION #1

TOPIC: The Long and Winding Road, Chutes and Ladders: Which Doors to Safety?

FACILITATORS: Elizabeth P. Hines, Judge, 15th District Court, Ann Arbor, Michigan

Elizabeth J. Berns, Judge, King County Superior Court

Catherine Carlson, Judge, Provincial Court of Manitoba

Why does she stay? Why doesn’t she just leave? For judges to better understand why some victims of domestic violence make choices that may seem illogical, unsafe, or even inconsistent with being abused, this highly interactive session allows participants to walk in the shoes of victims. Using scenarios based on actual DV cases, attendees must make choices, given realistic options and barriers, to try to keep themselves and their children safe.

SESSION #2

TOPIC: Youth and Marijuana

SPEAKER: Mary Celeste, Judge (ret.), Denver City Court

Do medical-marijuana and recreational-marijuana laws increase marijuana use by youth? What are the perceptions of harm with marijuana use? This presentation will discuss the current data regarding marijuana use by youth, how that use may impact the adolescent brain and body, and how marijuana use impacts future use of drugs, education and learning, mental health, suicide, and driving and possession convictions. This presentation will offer some juvenile risk-assessment screens and tools and approaches to setting bond and sentencing juveniles in marijuana cases, including Juvenile Detention Alternatives Initiative (JDAI) and juvenile drug courts. It will conclude with marijuana-driving campaigns targeting youth.

JUDICIAL FAMILY NETWORK PRESENTATIONTOPIC: Who Knew? How Families Are Impacted When One of Them Becomes a Judge

MODERATORS: Gayle Williams-Byers, Michele Zide, Mary C. Torres

Whether elected or appointed, becoming a judge means redefining and rearranging many aspects of your life. The impact on families, however, is often under-anticipated and unpredictable. Wrestling with some of those consequences can be a lonely and emotionally challenging experience for the entire family. AJA invites spouses and partners of judges to join a discussion of the ways judicial families are challenged and strategies to meet those challenges. Judges are also welcome.

3:00 – 3:15 p.m.BREAK

SESSION #1

TOPIC: Bail Reform, Judicial Implicit Bias, and Risk Assessments

SPEAKERS: Twyla Carter, Senior Staff Attorney, Criminal Law Reform Project, American Civil Liberties Union, New York

This presentation will address the basics of why bail reform is needed, research about judicial bias in bail decisions, and the risks of risk assessments.

SESSION #2

TOPIC: Developments in Native Hawaiian Law: Ea — Cultural and Political Self-Determination

SPEAKERS: Prof. Melody Kapilialoha MacKenzie, William S. Richardson School of Law

Prof. D. Kapua’ala Sproat, Director of Ka Huli Ao Center for Excellence in Native Hawaiian Law, William S. Richardson School of Law

Prof. David M. Forman, Director of the Environmental Law Program, William S. Richardson School of Law.

Ea is the Hawaiian word for sovereignty, with multilayered meanings ranging from independence to life and breath. This panel examines historical and recent developments in Native Hawaiian cultural and political self-determination, including water rights, traditional and customary rights, and the relationship between Native Hawaiians and the state and federal governments. Hawai’i can remain a model of cultural and natural harmony in many respects if people better understand and appreciate Hawai’i's laws and indigenous culture. This session covers legal issues important not only for Native Hawaiians but for others living in multicultural societies.

5:15 – 9:00 p.m.AJF Fundraiser Luau at Smith’s Family Garden Luau

(Optional event; additional fee required by advance registration. The last tram tour of the gardens leaves at 5:30 p.m., and the location is 25 minutes from the hotel, so please plan accordingly.)

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 257:30 – 9:00 a.m.COMMITTEE MEETINGS

TOPIC: The State of State Courts: An Update on Public Opinion

SPEAKER: Jesse Rutledge, Vice President, External Affairs, National Center for State Courts

NCSC’s State of State Courts public opinion survey reveals fascinating insights into attitudes about the courts. Access to justice in rural and underpopulated areas is a large concern, but consensus on solutions is elusive. A majority believes that judges are not in touch with community concerns, highlighting the need for ongoing community outreach by courts and judges. While most Americans still view the court system as too complicated for self-representation, the survey reveals specific customer-service challenges and relatively simple solutions for improving access to justice. This session will provide ideas to improve customer service and promote public trust and confidence in courts.

TOPIC: When Perpetrators Are Parents: How to Understand Child Safety and Well-Being in the Context of Domestic Violence

SPEAKER: David Mandel, MA, LPC, Founder and Managing Member, Safe and Together Institute

With more than 25 years’ experience in the domestic violence field, David Mandel, MA, PLC, will explain how cultural double standards for men and women (as parents) harm men, women, and children. When domestic violence is involved, perpetrators can gain significant benefits in courts and other systems that ignore the relationship between his choices and negative outcomes for child and family functioning. This session will examine how judges can help keep families safer by setting higher expectations for men as fathers.

10:30 – 10:45 a.m.BREAK

10:45 a.m. – 12:15 p.m.PLENARY EDUCATION SESSION

TOPIC: Ola Lokahi: Finding Judicial Balance and Renewal

PRESENTERS: Elizabeth J. Berns, Judge, King County Superior Court

Kenneth Skilnick, Judge, Provincial Court of British Columbia

Michael A. Town, Judge (ret.), Circuit Court, Honolulu

This solution-oriented presentation will discuss how judges can maintain perspective and achieve a healthy work-life balance while experiencing daily stressors and confronting vicarious trauma. Participants will be asked to share strategies for staying healthy and happy while consuming a daily diet of conflict and dysfunction. The presentation will conclude with Michael Town, author of “Vicarious Trauma in Judges: The Personal Challenge of Dispensing Justice,” reminding us that being an effective, diligent, and competent judge is not incompatible with a philosophy of “don’t worry, be happy!”

Spouses, partners, and family members are welcome to attend this session.

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 267:30 – 9:00 a.m.COMMITTEE MEETINGS

TOPIC: Police-Worn Body Cameras

SPEAKER: Seth Stoughton, Assistant Professor of Law, University of South Carolina School of Law

Following intense public scrutiny of law enforcement that began in summer 2014, community members, politicians, and police executives have called for greater police accountability, changes to officer behavior, and improvements in police/community relations. Body-worn cameras are seen as serving all three ends, and thousands of police agencies have adopted or started exploring body cams. Videos from police body-worn cameras will play an increasingly important part in defining the police role in society and in resolving not just criminal cases, but also civil suits involving officers. It is essential to understand the technology’s potential benefits, limitations, and policy and legal implications.

11:00 – 11:15 a.m.BREAK

11:15 a.m. – NoonPLENARY EDUCATION SESSION

TOPIC: Law and Literature: Between Sky and Sea: A Family’s Struggle

SPEAKER: Prof. Donald Carreira Ching, Leeward Community College, Pearl City, Hawai’i

Set in contemporary Hawai'i, Between Sky and Sea: A Family's Struggle is an episodic novel that tells the story of three brothers struggling to negotiate their identities in the wake of cultural loss, drug addiction, and family tragedy. An account of a family’s fight to persevere, the novel captures the difficulty of recovering what matters most from the depths of what remains when all that’s left to find is ashes.

All judicial family members are invited to attend.

6:00 – 7:00 p.m.PRESIDENT’S RECEPTION

7:00 – 10:00 p.m.INSTALLATION BANQUET

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 278:00 – 10:00 a.m.GENERAL ASSEMBLY MEETING

All members encouraged to attend.

10:00 a.m. – NoonBOARD OF GOVERNORS MEETING

Noon – 7:00 PMOPTIONAL TOUR TO WAIMEA CANYON

(Additional fee required; lunch included.)

Experience the best of Kaua'i on a half-day tour through the island’s scenic landscape, highlights, and historic landmarks. This tour takes you right up to the rim of one of the most awe-inspiring sites in Hawai’i — Waimea Canyon, the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific.” Thousands of years of erosion have turned the canyon walls into a multihued canvas, where shadows and light produce a never-ending show. This tour also offers a spectacular view of Kaua'i’s western coast.

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 288:00 – 10:00 a.m.EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING

THE BEAUTIFUL ISL AND OF KAUA’I welcomes the American Judges Association. Come and experience this tropical paradise, as well as the education and collegiality of an AJA conference.

You will have the opportunity to meet colleagues from across the United States and Canada, share ideas with them, and attend interesting and informative educational sessions. The Education Committee has planned a fantastic program, including

sessions on implicit jury bias, bail reform, body-worn cameras, and judicial wellness. Attendees also will have the opportunity to enjoy the ever-popular review of the U.S. Supreme Court’s 2016–2017 term by Professor Erwin Chemerinsky. The schedule found later in this brochure provides more details on the education program. You’ll see that AJA is offering 12 hours of education, all designed to further our goal of “Making Better Judges®.”

The scheduled social events will be outstanding also, including a welcome reception on Sunday evening and a fabulous beachfront reception and banquet on Wednesday.

REGISTRATIONThe conference registration fee is $525; however, those judges who postmark their registrations (accompanied by payment) no later than July 2, 2018 will pay only $495. The fee for guests and spouses is $200, with an “early bird special” of $175 for registrations postmarked by July 1. The judge registration fee includes the welcome reception, Monday lunch, coffee breaks, the reception and banquet, and all conference materials. The spouse registration fee includes the welcome reception, Monday lunch, and the final reception and banquet. Cancellations must be submitted in writing; all cancellations will incur a $50 processing fee ($25 for guest/spouse fees). Children may attend by paying for the individual functions in which they participate — a breakdown of costs will be available later.

VENDORSA variety of companies will display their products and services in a general vendor area that will be open during the major days of the conference. This is a wonderful opportunity to see the latest technology and ideas available to assist judges and their courts.

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please join us american judges … annual meeting/2018-aja-conference... · american judges...

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