Passage to Professionalism:
Navigating the New Rules, Conflicts
& Settlements in Workers' Comp 
A professionalism seminar sponsored by the North Carolina Association of Defense Attorneys and the North Carolina Advocates for Justice.

"A smooth sea never made a skilled mariner."  English Proverb

The route to becoming a skilled practitioner can sometimes lead through rough and murky waters.  This seminar will help chart a course through recent rule changes adopted by the North Carolina Industrial Commission in the wake of House Bill 709, maneuver through conflicts in representation, and negotiate through settlement issues.  Viewpoints from both sides of the 'v' will help you navigate professionally and civilly as you advocate for clients in workers' compensation cases.

Session Highlights:

Know the Ropes:  Communications with the New Amendments
How do the new Rules amendments impact communications under G.S. §97-25.6?  Panelists will discuss ex parte communications with doctors, and will discuss ethical and unethical surveillance scenarios.
Richard B. Harper, Harper Law Office, Sylva
John F. Morris, McAngus Goudelock & Courie, LLC, Charlotte

Conflicts in Representations:  Keeping an Even Keel
Tensions can rise when juggling dual clients ina claim or managing expectations with empathy in a death claim.  This session will address ways to represent your client or clients professionally in an emotionally charged situation.
Bobby L. Bollinger, Jr., The Bollinger Law Firm, PC, Charlotte
Hatcher B. Kincheloe, Hedrick Gardner Kincheloe & Garofalo, LLP, Charlotte

Come Hell or High Water:  Settlement Issues
Negotiating settlement issues can be fraught with anxiety as both parties work to obtain the best results for their clients.  This panel will share risks and solutions when considering setttlement options including resignation, side agreements, unpaid medicals, and MSA's.
George W. Dennis, III, Mediator, Raleigh
Heidi Maske Brown, Mediator, Pleasant Valley

Checking the Barometer at the NC Industrial Commission
The aftermath of HB 709 has left many changes at the NCIC that will impact your practice, your clients, and how the Commissioners and Deputy Commissioners also handle cases on a daily basis.  What are the best ways to manage the transition ethically and professionally?  Leaders from the NCIC will discuss more of the changes and processes, and will answer your questions.
Commissioner Tammy Nance
Chief Deputy Commissioner Wanda Blanche Taylor
Deputy Commissioner James C. Gillen

A networking lunch will immediately follow the seminar.  Keynote Professionalism Speakers are:
Harry Clendendin, Attorney & Mediator, Greensboro
Henry Byrum, Jr., Stiles Byrum & Horne, LLP, Charlotte