Judicial Innovations & Trends

Course description

Join us for the Judicial Innovations & Trends Conference, led by Judges Jack Nevin (WA) and Michelle Thomason (AL), two seasoned jurists with deep experience across both trial and appellate courts. This dynamic program blends practical insights with forward-looking ideas to help judicial officers navigate and shape the evolving landscape of the judiciary.

Over the course of the week, participants will explore the judiciary’s most pressing challenges and emerging innovations. Topics include the authentication and admission of electronically stored information, judicial ethics in a digital world, and how courts can better serve self-represented litigants through technology.

The conference also examines the intersection of immigration and state courts, addresses the emotional toll of judging through sessions on compassion fatigue and wellness, and considers the impact of trauma and domestic violence in the courtroom.

Judge Nevin will offer his unique insights on topics such as military-civilian court dynamics, technology and the Sixth Amendment, and innovative practices for case and jury management. Judge Thomason will lead sessions focused on family law, treatment courts, and practical strategies for judicial resilience and courtroom safety.

Additional highlights include discussions on restorative justice, implicit bias, and how public policy and legislative changes are shaping the modern bench.

Whether you’re looking to implement courtroom innovations, strengthen judicial well-being, or prepare for the future of court administration, this conference offers a week of thoughtful dialogue and practical tools.

Meet the speakers

Judges Jack Nevin and Michelle Thomason are exceptionally qualified to teach Judicial Innovations & Trends due to their extensive judicial experience and leadership in advancing legal practices.

Judge Jack Nevin, a retired Superior Court Judge and Brigadier General in the U.S. Army, brings a rare dual perspective on legal and military leadership. His background includes service as Chief Judge of the U.S. Army Court of Criminal Appeals and Commander of the U.S. Army Reserve Legal Command. He offers deep insights into courtroom procedures, judicial administration, and strategic decision-making.

Judge Michelle Thomason, who retired in January 2025 as the Presiding District Judge for Baldwin County, Alabama, brings decades of experience overseeing one of Alabama’s busiest judicial districts. Known for her commitment to judicial efficiency, court innovation, and family law reform, Judge Thomason has led efforts to modernize case management and improve access to justice at the local and state levels.

Together, Judges Nevin and Thomason offer a powerful combination of knowledge and perspective to explore cutting-edge judicial strategies and practical innovations shaping today’s courts.

Judge Michelle ThomasonPresiding District Judge (Ret.), Baldwin County, Alabama

Judge Jack NevinSuperior Court Judge (Ret.); Brigadier General, U.S. Army Reserve (Ret.), Washington

Agenda

The printable agenda below gives an overview of the daily topics and schedule. While topics may evolve, the time schedule stays constant, so you can confidently plan your day, excursions and dinner arrangements after class.

Printable agenda