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Equal Justice University 2026
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Wednesday, August 26
 

8:30am PDT

Opening Plenary
Wednesday August 26, 2026 8:30am - 9:45am PDT
Oakleigh ABC

Wednesday August 26, 2026 8:30am - 9:45am PDT
Oakleigh ABC

9:45am PDT

Break
Wednesday August 26, 2026 9:45am - 10:00am PDT

Wednesday August 26, 2026 9:45am - 10:00am PDT

10:00am PDT

Chapter 13 Bankruptcy Overview
Wednesday August 26, 2026 10:00am - 11:30am PDT
Embassy Suites- Mirabella C
An introduction to Chapter 13 bankruptcy: how it compares to Chapter 7; the key requirements for obtaining confirmation of a plan; and the options for modifying a plan after confirmation.
Speakers
JM

James M Davis

James M. Davis is a staff attorney in the office of Henry E. Hildebrand, III, the Chapter 13 Standing Trustee for the Middle District of Tennessee. Mr. Davis is a graduate of Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, Maryland, and the William and Mary School of Law in Williamsburg... Read More →
10 1130 Davis Chapter 13 Basics (EJU) Final pptx
10 1130 Davis Chapter 13 Basics (EJU) Final pptx
Wednesday August 26, 2026 10:00am - 11:30am PDT
Embassy Suites- Mirabella C

10:00am PDT

Closer to the Truth: Indicators of Deceptive Behavior & Credibility Signals for Lawyers
Wednesday August 26, 2026 10:00am - 11:30am PDT
Embassy Suites- Mirabella D
Elicitation vs. interrogation: how to ask questions that surface detail without escalating defensiveness 
Verbal indicators to flag: evasion, manipulation, aggression, and persuasion tactics—and how to respond Reaction cues: what to spot in real time when the stakes rise (including stress responses, avoidance, and incongruence) Logical reasoning in credibility assessment: separating facts from assumptions and testing a story for internal consistency Examples and Q&A. 


Speakers
JI

Juan Ibarra

Juan Ibarra has over 20 years of military, law enforcement, investigations, and most recently, Mediator. Juan has an undergraduate degree from the University Of La Verne in Organizational Management, has completed over 150 hours of training on interviewing, negotiations, mediations... Read More →
Closer to the Truth Indicators of Deceptive Behavior for Lawyers pptx
Wednesday August 26, 2026 10:00am - 11:30am PDT
Embassy Suites- Mirabella D

10:00am PDT

Counterclaim as a Tool for Eviction Defense
Wednesday August 26, 2026 10:00am - 11:30am PDT
Embassy Suites- Broadlands A
Counterclaims strengthen defenses, create settlement leverage, and improve outcomes for tenants facing eviction, all while giving our clients an opportunity to be heard on the issues that matter to them. This session will cover when counterclaims are worth pursuing, the key procedural and substantive rules that govern them, and practical ways to use them in day-to-day eviction practice. Attendees will also review sample pleadings and real-world examples to help implement these strategies immediately.
Speakers
LL

Liz Leiserson

Elizabeth Leiserson serves as the Project Director for the Eviction Right to Counsel program and the Housing Practice Group lead at Legal Aid Society of Middle Tennessee and the Cumberlands. She is a Nashville native and a graduate of Yale Law School. She came to LAS after working... Read More →
Leirson Handouts Damages Spreadsheet xlsx
Leiserson Handouts Attorney's Fees Affidavit docx
Leiserson Handouts Answer & Counterclaim docx
Leiserson Handouts Counterclaim Packet Pro Se Tenant Final pdf
10 1130 Leiserson Counterclaims for Eviction Defense pptx
Wednesday August 26, 2026 10:00am - 11:30am PDT
Embassy Suites- Broadlands A

10:00am PDT

SSA Work Incentives: Using Work Rules to Advocate for Your Client
Wednesday August 26, 2026 10:00am - 11:30am PDT
Embassy Suites- Cambridge A
Explainer about SSA's work incentive rules, including: 1) Substantial Gainful Activity Rules, 2) SSI income counting rules, 3) the Trial Work Period, 4) Income-related Work Expenses, 5) ethics related Rules 6) other work-related topics, and 6) Ethics. Issue spotting on work-related SSI/SSDI topics and advocacy strategies for common pitfalls. This session will encourage developing work-related advocacy efforts in your organization.
Speakers
AJ

Allison Jones

Legal Aid Society of Middle Tennessee and the Cumberlands
Allison Jones is the lead attorney for the Health, Benefits, and Education Practice Group at Legal Aid Society of Middle Tennessee and the Cumberlands. She also co-directs Legal Aid Society’s medical-legal partnership with Shade Tree Clinic, a comprehensive, free medical clinic... Read More →
CA

Cole Adams

Staff Attorney, West Tennessee Legal Services
Cole Adams (he/him) is a Staff Attorney in the Public Benefits Unit in the Memphis Office of West Tennessee Legal Services. In his practice, he represents and advises clients on Social Security, Medicaid, SNAP, Families First, and Unemployment Compensation issues. Previously, Cole... Read More →
10 1130 Jones SSA Work Incentives Presentation pptx
Wednesday August 26, 2026 10:00am - 11:30am PDT
Embassy Suites- Cambridge A

10:00am PDT

Unruly and Truancy Implications and Processes in Court
Wednesday August 26, 2026 10:00am - 11:30am PDT
Embassy Suites- Cambridge B
This presentation examines the legal implications and court processes related to unruly and truancy petitions, equipping attorneys to advocate more effectively for youth clients. Participants will develop a foundational understanding of how chronic absenteeism is defined, tracked, and referred to court, as well as the underlying factors that contribute to it, including mental health challenges, disability, bullying, and family socioeconomic status. Participants will also gain practical strategies to identify and address the root causes of truancy, navigate court processes, and support youth through effective collaboration with schools, families, and service providers. 
 
Speakers
BC

Beth Cruz

Beth Cruz serves as Assistant Dean and Judge Martha Craig Daughtrey Director of Public Interest at Vanderbilt Law School. She provides leadership, institutional support, and specialized advising for students as they develop high-impact careers in public interest law. Her office... Read More →
BC

Bri Crawford

Bri Crawford is the 2025 Equal Justice Works Text-to-Give Fellow at the Youth Law Center in Nashville, Tennessee. Her fellowship project addresses the unmet legal needs of racially marginalized children and youth with disabilities in Tennessee who are involved in the child welfare... Read More →
10 1130 Crawford Unruly and Truancy Implications and Processes in Court BC 1 pdf
Wednesday August 26, 2026 10:00am - 11:30am PDT
Embassy Suites- Cambridge B

10:00am PDT

Consumer Law 101
Wednesday August 26, 2026 10:00am - 11:45am PDT
Embassy Suites- Broadlands B
This presentation will provide an overview of the role of a consumer attorney in nonprofit, low-income law practice, including the basics of cases involving contracts, collections, and debt relief. It will provide a broad review and starting point for the new consumer attorney, and a refresher for the experienced consumer attorney.
Speakers
JO

Jake Old

Jake Old is the Consumer Unit Manager at West Tennessee Legal Services in Jackson, Tennessee. He also helps oversee the day-of-court clinics at WTLS in which attorneys are available in some general sessions courts to provide advice or representation to clients. Jake received his... Read More →
10 1130 Old Handout Contracts 101 case example pdf
10 1130 Old Consumer Law 101 pptx
Wednesday August 26, 2026 10:00am - 11:45am PDT
Embassy Suites- Broadlands B

11:30am PDT

Break
Wednesday August 26, 2026 11:30am - 11:45am PDT

Wednesday August 26, 2026 11:30am - 11:45am PDT

11:45am PDT

Welcome Luncheon
Wednesday August 26, 2026 11:45am - 1:00pm PDT
Oakleigh ABC
WEDNESDAY AUGUST 26TH – LUNCH: PLATED LUNCH 
  • Roasted Chicken with Lemon Butter Sauce served with Parmesan (GF) 
  • Mashed Potatoes (GF, VE) 
  • Chef’s Seasonal Vegetables (GF, VE, VG, DF) 
Legend  
  • GF: Gluten-Free  
  • VE: Vegetarian 
  • VG: Vegan 
  • DF: Dairy-Free  

Wednesday August 26, 2026 11:45am - 1:00pm PDT
Oakleigh ABC

1:00pm PDT

Break
Wednesday August 26, 2026 1:00pm - 1:15pm PDT

Wednesday August 26, 2026 1:00pm - 1:15pm PDT

1:15pm PDT

Access to Justice Commission, Administrative Office of the Courts- Listening Session
Wednesday August 26, 2026 1:15pm - 2:15pm PDT
Private Dining Room B

Wednesday August 26, 2026 1:15pm - 2:15pm PDT
Private Dining Room B

1:15pm PDT

De-Escalation Skills for Legal Professionals: Managing Triggers and Setting the Tone for Productive Conversations
Wednesday August 26, 2026 1:15pm - 2:15pm PDT
Embassy Suites- Cambridge A
Legal professionals regularly work with individuals who are stressed, overwhelmed, or in conflict. In these moments, conversations can escalate quickly, making it harder to gather information, build trust, and move toward resolution. This one-hour, skills-based workshop will introduce practical de-escalation tools that attorneys can use in client interactions, negotiations, and courtroom-adjacent settings. The session will focus on recognizing common triggers for escalation, understanding how emotional and physiological responses impact communication, and using simple, effective strategies to set a grounded tone in difficult conversations. Participants will leave with concrete tools to navigate high-emotion situations more effectively, reduce conflict escalation, and support more productive and respectful communication with clients, opposing parties, and colleagues. By strengthening attorneys’ ability to manage escalation, this training supports more effective client engagement, reduces conflict-related barriers, and contributes to more accessible and responsive legal services.
Speakers
JC

Jen Comiskey

Jen Comiskey, J.D., is a native of Powell, Tennessee. She attended Hendrix College in Conway, Arkansas on a Hays Memorial Scholarship, and graduated in 2003 with a bachelor's degree in Politics. After college, Jen attended the University of Tennessee College of Law in Knoxville... Read More →
115 215 Comiskey DeEscalation for Legal Professionals pptx
Wednesday August 26, 2026 1:15pm - 2:15pm PDT
Embassy Suites- Cambridge A

1:15pm PDT

Degrees of Debt: Navigating Student Debt After the OBBB
Wednesday August 26, 2026 1:15pm - 2:15pm PDT
Embassy Suites- Cambridge B
Student loan debt continues to shape the financial stability of low-income clients, affecting everything from housing to employment and long-term economic mobility. This session will equip legal services advocates with practical tools to help borrowers access relief through discharges, defend against collections, and navigate income-driven repayment options. We will also break down the major student loan changes taking effect July 1, 2026, including impacts on Public Service Loan Forgiveness, graduate lending, and repayment structures, so advocates can confidently advise clients in a rapidly shifting landscape. 
Speakers
PH

Patrick Hodges

Patrick Hodges - Consumer Attorney at Legal Aid Society of Middle Tennessee and the Cumberlands
115 215 Hodges Handouts TPD Discharge Handout pdf
115 215 Hodges Handout PSLF Borrower Handout pdf
115 215 Hodges Degrees of Debt Navigating Student Loans After the OBBB pptx
Wednesday August 26, 2026 1:15pm - 2:15pm PDT
Embassy Suites- Cambridge B

1:15pm PDT

Let's Talk About It: Building Better Workplaces Through Generational Dialogue
Wednesday August 26, 2026 1:15pm - 2:15pm PDT
Embassy Suites- Mirabella C
Avoiding hard conversations creates disconnect, and in today’s multigenerational workplace, silence can be costly. This interactive session invites participants to lean into the conversations many teams avoid, creating space for honest, respectful dialogue across generations. Together, we’ll explore how generational experiences shape communication styles, expectations, and approaches to work. Participants will learn practical strategies to move beyond assumptions, navigate tension with empathy, and foster a culture rooted in trust and mutual understanding. Grounded in strengths-based leadership and real-world application, this session equips leaders and team members alike with tools to turn generational differences into opportunities for collaboration, innovation, and stronger workplace culture.
Speakers
DF

Derria Ford

Derria L. Ford is an accomplished nonprofit leader, strategist, and speaker with nearly two decades of experience advancing equity, opportunity, and community through philanthropy and leadership. As Chief Development Officer at the Martha O’Bryan Center, she leads a diverse team... Read More →
SH

Suzanne Hartness

M. Suzanne Hartness is a seasoned management consultant and former Chief Operating Officer of a mid-size Nashville law firm, where she led operations in human resources, finance, IT, facilities, and strategic planning for over six years. With more than 20 years of leadership experience... Read More →
115 215 Ford Let's Talk About It Intergenerational Communications Final.pptx pdf
Wednesday August 26, 2026 1:15pm - 2:15pm PDT
Embassy Suites- Mirabella C

1:15pm PDT

Obtaining Attorney's fees as a Legal Aid Attorney
Wednesday August 26, 2026 1:15pm - 2:15pm PDT
Embassy Suites- Broadlands A
Brief overview of the processes, rules, and regulations, including ethical rules, regarding obtaining attorney fees as a Legal Aid Attorney.  
Speakers
JE

Jennifer Egelston

Jennifer has been with Legal Aid of East Tennessee since October 2023. Jennifer Egelston is a mother, a US Army military police veteran, and a graduate of the University of Tennessee College of Law. Jennifer is passionate about helping families resolve their conflicts. Jennifer has... Read More →
RD

Robert Downs

Robert Downs is the Managing Attorney of the Knoxville Office of Legal Aid of East Tennessee (LAET). He has been an attorney with Legal Aid of East Tennessee since 2012. He had previously been the Deputy Director of Ligation of Advocacy for the Knoxville Legal Aid of East Tennessee... Read More →
115 215 Handout Egleston Template Attorney Fee Disclosure Affidavit (1) pdf
115 215 Egelston Attorneys Fees as a Legal Aid Attorney with Jennys Notes (1) pptx
Wednesday August 26, 2026 1:15pm - 2:15pm PDT
Embassy Suites- Broadlands A

1:15pm PDT

Pandemic Unemployment Overpayments: The Sequel - This time it is Enforcement
Wednesday August 26, 2026 1:15pm - 2:15pm PDT
Embassy Suites- Broadlands B
This CLE session examines another wave of pandemic unemployment litigation: aggressive enforcement actions by Departments of Labor seeking recovery of alleged overpayments. What began as administrative notices has evolved into full-scale collection efforts, often catching claimants—and their counsel—off guard years after benefits were paid. This program is designed for attorneys representing workers, claimants, and employers who now face garnishments, liens, levies, and court proceedings stemming from pandemic-era unemployment benefits. Attendees will learn how distress warrants function as powerful enforcement tools—often issued administratively rather than judicially—and how they authorize wage garnishments, bank levies, and property liens without traditional civil litigation safeguards. 
Speakers
TH

Trina Hughes

Trina Hughes is an attorney in the Oak Ridge office of Legal Aid Society of Middle TN and the Cumberlands primarily practicing in the areas of consumer, fair housing, and family law. She joined LAS in February 2020. Before joining Legal Aid Society, Trina worked as an elder law attorney... Read More →
PS

Patty Sellars

 Patty Sellars is an attorney with the Legal Aid Society of Middle Tennessee & the Cumberlands, where she has served since August 2020 following her graduation from Nashville School of Law. She leads the Employment Practice Group at Legal Aid and chairs the Employment Law Task... Read More →
115 215 Sellars Hughes Handouts Sworn Statement Redacted pdf
115 215 Sellar Hughes Handout Order Granting Motion to Quash Redacted pdf
115 215 Hughes Sellars Handout OAR Appeal Redacted pdf
115 215 Sellars Hughes Handout Slow Pay Motion Form pdf
115 215 Sellars Hughes PUA Overpayments pptx
115 215 Sellars Hughes Handout Distress Warrant Redacted pdf
115 215 Sellars Hughes Handout Motion to Quash Form pdf
115 215 Sellars Hughes Handout Motion to Quash Redacted pdf
115 215 OAR Appeal Redacted pdf
Wednesday August 26, 2026 1:15pm - 2:15pm PDT
Embassy Suites- Broadlands B

1:15pm PDT

Will the Nursing Home Take my House? Understanding Estate Recovery
Wednesday August 26, 2026 1:15pm - 2:15pm PDT
Embassy Suites- Mirabella D
This educational session provides a comprehensive overview of TennCare Estate Recovery and its impact on individuals and families receiving long-term care benefits. Participants will gain a clear understanding of how estate recovery works, who it applies to, and what assets may be subject to recovery after death. The session will also explore key exceptions, hardship provisions, and strategic considerations related to asset transfers and estate planning. Through practical examples and policy explanations, attendees will learn how TennCare recovers costs for long-term services such as nursing home care and home- and community-based services, as required under federal law. The presentation also addresses common misconceptions and provides guidance on planning opportunities to help protect assets and minimize recovery exposure.
Speakers
JB

Joshua Bey

As Public Benefits Specialist, Joshua guides clients through every step of the Medicaid application and appeal process. Much of his work is on the financial portion of Medicaid cases where he helps families understand the process and meet spend-down deadlines. Before joining Johnson... Read More →
RH

Ryan Hicks

Ryan Hicks is an Associate Attorney at Johnson McGinnis Elder Care Law & Estate Planning, where he advises clients on Medicaid eligibility, asset protection, probate, and other estate planning matters. Prior to joining Johnson McGinnis, Ryan spent over a decade serving as an attorney... Read More →
115 215 Hicks Will the Nursing Home Take my House Estate Recovery EJU Presentation pptx
Wednesday August 26, 2026 1:15pm - 2:15pm PDT
Embassy Suites- Mirabella D

2:15pm PDT

Break
Wednesday August 26, 2026 2:15pm - 2:30pm PDT

Wednesday August 26, 2026 2:15pm - 2:30pm PDT

2:30pm PDT

Family Law & Bankruptcy: Divorce and Debt and No Dollars
Wednesday August 26, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm PDT
Embassy Suites- Mirabella C
A basic overview of issues at the intersection of family law and bankruptcy that introduces key concepts such as marital debts in bankruptcy, dischargeable versus nondischargeable obligations, and how bankruptcy can affect ongoing family law cases and vice versa. 
Speakers
AH

Alise Housden

Alise Housden is an attorney at the Legal Aid Society of Middle Tennessee and the Cumberlands. Before coming to LAS, she previously represented over 2,000 debtors in Chapter 7 bankruptcies, Chapter 13 bankruptcies, and several adversary proceedings. She currently practices housing... Read More →
DH

Dean Hinton

Since October 6, 2016, Dean has been a Legal Aid domestic relations attorney representing survivors of domestic violence in Sumner County and the 15th Judicial District. Dean graduated from the University of the District of Columbia David A. Clarke School of Law in May 2010. He... Read More →
230 330 Housden Handouts 1 FL and BK Divorce, Debt, and No Dollars ABA PP Coerced Debt Handout 1 of 2 pdf
230 330 Housden Fam Law and Bankruptcy Divorce, Debt, and No Dollars PPT Alise Housden and Dean Hinton 8 5 2026 pptx
230 330 Housden Handouts 2 FL and BK Divorce, Debt, and No Dollrs Bartenwerfer Coerced Debt Handout 2 of 2 pdf
Wednesday August 26, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm PDT
Embassy Suites- Mirabella C

2:30pm PDT

General Insights and Guidelines for Working with Domestic Violence Victims
Wednesday August 26, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm PDT
Embassy Suites- Cambridge A
To train paralegals in offering compassionate and informed support to domestic violence victims, enhancing their role as victim advocates. Topics Covered: Understanding the dynamics of domestic violence and its impact on victims' legal protections and resources available for domestic violence victims Techniques for providing emotional support and maintaining professionalism Collaboration with attorneys and other professionals to ensure comprehensive victim advocacy  
Speakers
TS

Tammie Sisco

Tammie Sisco is a seasoned paralegal with 26 years of experience, specializing in legal drafting, trial support, and advocacy. She holds an associate's degree in paralegal studies from Kaplan University and has dedicated six years to West Tennessee Legal Services (WTLS), where... Read More →
230 330 Sisco Providing Victim Advocacy EJU Conference Keynote v1 pptx
Wednesday August 26, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm PDT
Embassy Suites- Cambridge A

2:30pm PDT

More than a Keycard: Preventing Eviction for Hotel/Motel Residents
Wednesday August 26, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm PDT
Embassy Suites- Broadlands B
Hotels want the benefits of long-term occupancy and the flexibility of immediate removal. Today’s question is: can they have both—or does Tennessee law force them to pick one? This session examines how Tennessee housing advocates can use state excise tax law to establish tenancy for individuals residing in hotels and motels beyond 30 days. While occupants are often treated as “transient guests,” tax treatment tells a different story—one that can support recognition of tenancy and trigger legal protections against unlawful, self-help removal by the hotel/motel. 
Speakers
ZO

Zac Oswald

Zac Oswald is Senior Deputy Director of Client Services at the Legal Aid Society of Middle Tennessee & the Cumberlands, where he combines front-line advocacy with emerging technology. His team’s AI-driven ExpungeMate tool has helped clear thousands of non-convictions, expanding... Read More →
MH

Melanie Hagerman

Melanie Hagerman is a family law and housing attorney in the Legal Aid Society of Middle Tennessee and the Cumberlands' Tullahoma office. She is a graduate of Vanderbilt University and Harvard Law School. Prior to working for the Legal Aid Society, Melanie was a legal fellow at A... Read More →
230 330 Oswald Hotel Motel Eviction Defense pptx
Wednesday August 26, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm PDT
Embassy Suites- Broadlands B

2:30pm PDT

Public Record as a Tool for Justice
Wednesday August 26, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm PDT
Embassy Suites- Cambridge B
Public records laws are powerful tools available to advocates serving vulnerable Tennesseans. From uncovering systemic failures to exposing barriers to housing, education, healthcare, and other services, access to government records can directly support impactful legal advocacy. This session provides a practical, Tennessee-focused guide to using the Tennessee Public Records Act (TPRA) as a broader strategy for advancing civil legal services. Participants will learn how to draft effective records requests, respond to common agency resistance tactics, and strategically integrate public records into advocacy efforts. The session will also explore recent and active litigation shaping access to public records—including disputes involving delays, redactions, and asserted exemptions. The presentation will also explore emerging legislative developments that may affect transparency and access rights across the state, including examples of potential reforms from other states. Designed for both new and experienced advocates, this session will equip attendees with concrete tools to strengthen their advocacy, enhance fact development, and promote government accountability on behalf of their clients. The session will create interactive opportunities to engage in questions and discuss the application of these strategies. The session will also address ethical considerations that arise in public records advocacy, including client counseling, privacy and confidentiality concerns, responsible use of obtained records, and strategic decision making under the rules of professional responsibility. 
Speakers
JS

Jennifer Safstrom

Jennifer Safstrom teaches the Stanton Foundation First Amendment Clinic at Vanderbilt Law School. Before joining Vanderbilt's law faculty, Professor Safstrom worked as counsel at the Institute for Constitutional Advocacy and Protection and as supervising attorney and clinical teaching... Read More →
RR

Ryan Riedmuller

Ryan Riedmueller is a Clinical Legal Fellow with the Stanton Foundation First Amendment Clinic at Vanderbilt Law School. Before his current role, he clerked for District Judge Anne R. Traum in the United States District Court, District of Nevada. Prior to his clerkship, he graduated... Read More →
Wednesday August 26, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm PDT
Embassy Suites- Cambridge B

2:30pm PDT

Understanding Workplace Discrimination: A Guide for Employees and Employers
Wednesday August 26, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm PDT
Embassy Suites- Mirabella D
This informative presentation provides a clear overview of the federal laws enforced by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) and what they mean for today’s workplaces. Participants will learn about employee protections against discrimination, harassment, and retaliation, as well as the responsibilities employers have to create and maintain fair work environments. The session explains key rights, compliance expectations, and practical steps organizations can take to prevent violations and promote equal opportunity.
Speakers
MB

Melissa Brown

Melissa Brown began her career with the Commission as a Bi-lingual Investigator. Five years later was promoted to the State and Local Government Coordinator for the district at the Nashville Area Office. In December 2022, Melissa was promoted to the Outreach and Education Coordinator... Read More →
230 330 Brown Employee Rights & Employer Responsibilities Share pptx
Wednesday August 26, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm PDT
Embassy Suites- Mirabella D

2:30pm PDT

Using Affirmative Litigation and the Appellate Process to Further Justice for Clients
Wednesday August 26, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm PDT
Embassy Suites- Broadlands A
As Legal Aid attorneys, we often focus our resources for housing litigation on eviction defense. However, we still get clients who would greatly benefit from affirmative litigation, and when resources allow, we should encourage representing clients in these cases. Since most evictions proceed in General Sessions courts, our clients usually do not have access to discovery or Rules of Civil Procedures protections. To ensure our clients are receiving justice, it's important to know when and where to file affirmative cases. This can be accomplished either by filing affirmative cases in the General Sessions or higher courts or appealing a General Sessions decision to the higher courts. We will discuss how to decide what court to file in and when to appeal. We will also discuss issues with appealing, such as the appeal bond. We will go over how to determine damages and file indigency waivers. 
Speakers
RD

Rebecca Delius

Rebecca Delius  (she/her) is a paralegal with the Eviction Right to Counsel program at the Legal Aid Society of Middle Tennessee and the Cumberlands. A Nashville native, she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Theatre and English from the University of Mississippi. Rebecca spent more... Read More →
SB

Sydney Butler

Sydney Butler (she/her) is an attorney with the Eviction Right to Counsel program of the Legal Aid Society of Middle Tennessee and the Cumberlands. A 2023 graduate of Belmont University College of Law, Sydney is passionate about helping tenants assert their rights through eviction... Read More →
230 330 Delius Handouts Statement of Facts 1636 Example pdf
230 330 Delius Affirmative Litigation EJU PPT pptx
Wednesday August 26, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm PDT
Embassy Suites- Broadlands A

3:30pm PDT

Break
Wednesday August 26, 2026 3:30pm - 3:45pm PDT

Wednesday August 26, 2026 3:30pm - 3:45pm PDT

3:45pm PDT

A Campaign to Increase Access to Stable, Affordable Housing
Wednesday August 26, 2026 3:45pm - 4:45pm PDT
Embassy Suites- Mirabella C
Tennessee’s tenant screening protections project grew out of a statewide collaboration led by Statewide Organizing for Community eMpowerment (SOCM) and the Greater Memphis Housing Justice Project to address unfair tenant screening practices and expand housing access across Tennessee. After participating in Unlocked: Opening the Door to Housing Access Through Tenant Screening Protections—an eight-week national Solutions Sprint hosted by Results for America and partner organizations—the team built a 20-person campaign focused on public education, community-informed research, advocacy with state and local leaders, and the development of a policy agenda for tenant screening protections.
Speakers
SB

Shirley Bondon

Shirley Bondon is the Executive Director of the Black Clergy Collaborative of Memphis (BCCM). She is a licensed attorney and an accomplished and passionate Change Agent with a wealth of experience and proven talent, leveraging creative aptitude and business acumen to drive industry-leading... Read More →
AH

Adam Hughes

 Adam Hughes is the East TN Organizer for Statewide Organizing for Community eMpowerment (SOCM), a 54-year-old member driven organization based in Tennessee. With over a decade as an organizer with SOCM, Adam has worked on issue-based campaigns in counties across East TN ranging... Read More →
345 445 Bondon A Campaign to Increase Access to Stable, Affordable Housing pptx
Wednesday August 26, 2026 3:45pm - 4:45pm PDT
Embassy Suites- Mirabella C

3:45pm PDT

Can you Hear Me Now - The Art of Active Listening
Wednesday August 26, 2026 3:45pm - 4:45pm PDT
Embassy Suites- Cambridge A
This presentation will include a discussion of Active listening, non-verbal cues, body language, and Empathy in working with your clients. 
Speakers
SP

Shemeka Petties

Shemeka Petties Ramsey is a native of Oxford, Mississippi, with a strong commitment to service and community impact. She earned her undergraduate degree from the University of Mississippi and went on to receive her Master of Social Work from the University of Memphis. Shemeka brings... Read More →
345 445 Petties Can You Hear Me Now pptx
Wednesday August 26, 2026 3:45pm - 4:45pm PDT
Embassy Suites- Cambridge A

3:45pm PDT

Common Pitfalls for Elderly or Disabled Clients in SNAP
Wednesday August 26, 2026 3:45pm - 4:45pm PDT
Embassy Suites- Cambridge B
Older adults and people with disabilities face heightened risk of SNAP benefit loss due to complex rules, reporting requirements, and recent statutory changes. This session will examine common SNAP pitfalls affecting these populations and review the practical effects of recent statutory changes under H.R. 1—including the expansion of the ABAWD three-month time limit to individuals ages 18–64—and their implications for elderly and disabled households. This session will also provide practical guidance on identifying and accurately calculating the SNAP medical expense deduction, addressing frequent agency errors, and effectively advocating to maximize benefits for eligible clients.
Speakers
JM

Josiah Mezera

Josiah joined the Tennessee Justice Center as a Health Law Fellow sponsored by the Speer Foundation. He hopes to put his Health Law background to use by providing individual legal services and policy solutions, as well as representing clients during administrative appeals. Josiah’s... Read More →
345 445 Mezera Common Pitfalls for Elderly and Disabled SNAP Clients. EJU 2026 pptx
Wednesday August 26, 2026 3:45pm - 4:45pm PDT
Embassy Suites- Cambridge B

3:45pm PDT

Depositions 101
Wednesday August 26, 2026 3:45pm - 4:45pm PDT
Embassy Suites- Broadlands B
Planning and conducting effective and efficient depositions 
Speakers
ML

Martie Lafferty

Martie Lafferty is Executive Director of the Tennessee Fair Housing Council (TFHC). Martie has been practicing law for over 25 years with a focus on civil rights issues including fair housing, disability rights, and accessibility. Martie is a skilled litigator with substantial experience... Read More →
345 445 Lafferty Depositions 101 Tip Sheet pdf
345 445 Lafferty Depositions 101 pptx
Wednesday August 26, 2026 3:45pm - 4:45pm PDT
Embassy Suites- Broadlands B

3:45pm PDT

Red State Discovery - Guns, Ammo, Tools and Gear
Wednesday August 26, 2026 3:45pm - 4:45pm PDT
Embassy Suites- Broadlands A
A talk on how to do effective discovery and correctly value property that frequently comes up in rural divorces - firearms, ammunition and tactical accessories, tools, and outdoors equipment. Many of these items are deceptively valuable, on par with motor vehicles or even houses in some cases, and attorneys need to be aware of potential pitfalls and know the right questions to ask during discovery to ensure clients receive a fair share of the marital estate. 
Speakers
TW

Tyler Weaver

Tyler Weaver is an attorney with Legal Aid of East Tennessee specializing in family and housing law who served as a Field Artillery officer in the US Army for ten years before starting his legal career.
345 445 Weaver Discovery on Firearms and Tactical Equipment TALS pptx
Wednesday August 26, 2026 3:45pm - 4:45pm PDT
Embassy Suites- Broadlands A

3:45pm PDT

Tennessee Simple Will Preparation & Execution
Wednesday August 26, 2026 3:45pm - 4:45pm PDT
Embassy Suites- Mirabella D
This training provides a practical, best practices overview of preparing and executing simple wills under Tennessee law, with a focus on protecting client intent, reducing ethical risk, and creating defensible probate records. Designed for legal services attorneys and staff, the program addresses statutory execution requirements, assessment of testamentary capacity, identification of undue influence, and the mechanics of a compliant execution ceremony. Participants will also learn concrete risk management techniques—such as effective documentation, witness responsibilities, and “habit of practice” protocols—to minimize future will contests and evidentiary challenges. 
Speakers
JS

Jonathan Steen

Jonathan Steen is the Medical-Legal Partnership / Litigation Supervising Attorney at West Tennessee Legal Services, where he leads efforts to integrate legal aid into healthcare settings to address social and legal barriers to health. With over 30 years of experience in civil litigation... Read More →
SB

Sara Barnett

Sara E. Barnett is a partner with Spragins, Barnett & Cobb, and has been practicing law for over 20 years. Sara started her practice as a trial lawyer but now focuses her practice on elder law, estate planning, and family law and is the managing partner of the firm’s Estate Planning... Read More →
345 445 Steen Handout Tenn. Code Ann. 45 2 905 Death of persons having access to safe deposit box pdf
345 445 Steen Handout Tenn. Code Ann. 32 1 112 Deposit of will with probate court pdf
345 445 Steen Handout Tenn. Code Ann. 32 2 110 Affidavit of witnesses to prove will pdf
345 445 Steen Handout Why am I left in the waiting room pdf
345 445 Steen Handout Assessment of diminished capacity pdf
345 445 Steen Will Execution Best Practices Presentation (jos EJU) pptx
Wednesday August 26, 2026 3:45pm - 4:45pm PDT
Embassy Suites- Mirabella D

6:30pm PDT

Access to Justice Reception
Wednesday August 26, 2026 6:30pm - 8:30pm PDT
Oakleigh ABC

MENU
WEDNESDAY AUGUST 26TH – RECEPTION: SONOMA 
  • Del Sur Salad-Radishes, Grilled Corn, Peppers and Queso Fresco-Served with Cilantro Lime Vinaigrette (VE) 
  • Crispy Tortillas Chips  
  • Ancho Chile Chicken Fajitas (GF, DF) 
  • Birria Braised Beef with Consommé (GF, DF) 
  • Black beans (GF, VE, VG, DF) 
  • Mexican Rice (GF, VE, VG, DF) 
  • Warm Flour Tortillas, Corn Tortillas, Salsa, Sour Cream Guacamole, Shredded Lettuce, Pico De Gallo, Sliced Jalapenos, Cilantro Dressed Onions, Cheddar Cheese 
  • Dulce De Leche Cheesecake 
  • Cinnamon Churros 


Legend  
  • GF: Gluten-Free  
  • VE: Vegetarian 
Wednesday August 26, 2026 6:30pm - 8:30pm PDT
Oakleigh ABC
 

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Wednesday, August 26
Thursday, August 27
Friday, August 28
Embassy Suites- Broadlands A
Embassy Suites- Broadlands B
Embassy Suites- Cambridge A
Embassy Suites- Cambridge B
Embassy Suites- Mirabella C
Embassy Suites- Mirabella D
Oakleigh ABC
Private Dining Room A
Private Dining Room B