Traditionally, lawyers have presented their cases to opposing parties in the opening session of a mediation. Recently, some lawyers have chosen to waive this opportunity. As is true of an opening statement at trial, the presentations in the opening session of a mediation very much impact how the mediation will proceed. Much can be gained by an effective presentation; yet there may be some risk. Presented by the Hon. Jeri K. Somers (Ret.) and Hon. Alfred D. Swersky (Ret.)  from The McCammon Group, this 2-hr CLE provides the ethical and strategic issues that should be considered in deciding “To Present or Not to Present.”

Hon. Jeri K. Somers (Ret.)

Retired Judge

United States Civilian Board of Contract Appeals

The Honorable Jeri K. Somers recently retired after 18 years of dedicated service as a Judge of the United States Civilian Board of Contract Appeals (CBCA), where she most recently held the position of Chief Judge.  Before the creation of the CBCA, Judge Somers served as an administrative judge on the Department of Transportation Board of Contract Appeals.  A retired Lieutenant Colonel in the United States Air Force (USAF), Judge Somers served as the Staff Judge Advocate for the DC Air National Guard and as a military lawyer both on active duty and in the reserves in the USAF.  She has extensive litigation experience outside of the military, having served as an attorney in the US Department of Justice Civil Division and as an Assistant US Attorney in the Eastern District of VA.  Judge Somers now serves as a Neutral with The McCammon Group.

Hon. Alfred D. Swersky (Ret.)

Retired Judge

Alexandria Circuit Court

The Hon. Alfred D. Swersky (Ret.) served on the 18^th Judicial Circuit Court in Alexandria for over eighteen years. Before his tenure on the bench, Judge Swersky enjoyed a successful career in private practice, served as an Assistant Commonwealth's Attorney for the City of Alexandria, and served as an Assistant United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia.  Judge Swersky is a Past President of the Alexandria Bar Association, Former Chairman of the Electoral Board for the City of Alexandria, and Former Member of the State Bar Council for the Virginia State Bar.  Judge Swersky now serves as a Neutral with The McCammon Group.