Law Association Chief Executives | Member Login |
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PROGRAM
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Dress for all events: Business casual, unless stated otherwise
8:30 - 9:00
Arrivals at Law Society House
From 8:30 to 9:00, attendees are invited to arrive at Law Society House, 96 Victoria St, Belfast., 4th floor
Tea and coffee will be available upon arrival to welcome everyone.
9:00 - 9:15
Opening Remarks
9:15 - 10:30
Module 1: CEOs Role – Leader or Servant
At a time when independent regulation is being challenged on a variety of fronts, the role of the CEO has become increasingly nuanced, requiring a delicate balance between strategic leadership and the CEOs relationship with the Board. The panel will discuss their approach to setting organizational strategy and the issues they are navigating to align CEO and Board perspectives and will provide practical examples of how they are managing these challenges.
Moderator: Elizabeth Osler, KC, CEO and Executive Director, Law Society of Alberta (Canada)
Panelists:
Katie Rusbatch, CEO, New Zealand Law Society
Mia Edwall Insulander, Secretary General, Swedish Bar Association
Mark Garrett, Director General, Law Society of Ireland
10:30 - 10:45
Break
10:45 -11:45
Continuation - Module 1: CEOs Role – Leader or Servant
Lunch
ASI Presentation
13:00 - 14:15
Module 2: Practical uses of AI
This session will explore the transformative impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on the legal profession and the critical role bar associations must play in guiding its ethical and effective use. We will engage in a discussion on how to address the challenges and opportunities presented by AI in both judicial and legal practice.
Key topics to be addressed include:
AI in the Judiciary:
1. Should courts delegate decision-making to AI and robotic systems? What are the ethical and legal implications of such practices?
2. What guidelines should govern the use of AI by judges to ensure fairness, transparency, and accountability in judicial decisions?
3. How can bar associations collaborate with judicial bodies to monitor and regulate the use of AI in courtrooms?
AI in Legal Practice:
4. How should bar associations approach the increasing use of AI by lawyers in tasks such as legal research, drafting, and client interaction?
5. What ethical guidelines should be established to govern lawyers’ use of AI, ensuring compliance with professional standards and client confidentiality?
6. Should bar associations develop specific AI-related guidelines or best practices for legal professionals? If so, what should these include and why?
Future-Proofing Guidelines:
7. How can bar associations ensure that AI-related guidelines remain relevant and adaptable in the face of rapid technological advancements?
8. What mechanisms can be implemented to regularly review and update these guidelines to prevent them from becoming obsolete?
The session will end with moderated round table discussions for all participants to brainstorm actionable recommendations for their respective organizations.
Moderator: Merete Smith, Secretary General, Norwegian Bar Association
Panelists :
John Keers, Director of the Centre for Legal Technology, Ulster University
Ian Jeffery, CEO of the Law Society of England and Wales
Break
14:30 - 15:15
Continuation - Module 2: Practical uses of AI
Free time
17:30
Bus Pick-up to the Titanic Exhibition
Departure from the Hilton
18:00 - 20:00
Titanic Exhibition - Guided Tour |
Immerse yourself in one of the world’s most remarkable visitor attractions with a private guided experience at Titanic Belfast. Located
on the very site where the legendary liner was designed, built and launched,
this award-winning exhibition offers a powerful and immersive journey into
Belfast’s rich shipbuilding heritage. |
Spanning nine interactive galleries inside a striking, architecturally iconic building, the experience brings the Titanic story vividly to life. From the historic slipways and the Harland and Wolff Drawing Offices to the last surviving White Star Line vessel, SS Nomadic, every detail captures the scale, ambition and legacy of the ship that became a global legend. |
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Set within the city’s revitalised Titanic Quarter, this unforgettable experience offers a unique perspective on Belfast’s industrial past,
innovative spirit andenduring place on the world stage.
20:00
Bus departs for dinner
Dinner at Waterman Restaurant
From 20:00 to 22:30, attendees will enjoy dinner in the heart of Belfast’s vibrant Cathedral Quarter, a historic area that has evolved into the city’s creative and culinary hub. Dinner will be hosted at Waterman, one of Belfast’s most exciting dining destinations. Led by acclaimed local chef Niall McKenna, this contemporary venue showcases the very best of Northern Irish hospitality, with a seasonal menu that highlights local produce and bold, refined flavours. |
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22:30
Return bus to Hilton Hotel
For those wishing to continue the evening, we have reserved space at The Dark Horse, a much-loved local venue renowned for its warm and welcoming atmosphere, excellent selection of craft beers, cocktails and whiskies, and a lively music scene that perfectly captures Belfast’s vibrant nightlife.
Nestled in the heart of the Cathedral Quarter, one of Belfast’s most dynamic and culturally rich districts, The Dark Horse is surrounded by iconic landmarks such as St Anne’s Cathedral, the historic Crown Liquor Saloon, and a variety of stylish bars, artisan cafés and independent galleries. Don’t forget to take a picture beneath the famous umbrella installation, a favourite spot for both visitors and locals alike.
This lively quarter pulses with creativity and history, making it the ideal place to soak up Belfast’s unique character and enjoy a full evening of excellent food, good company and unforgettable entertainment.
