Current Issues in MDLs and Class Actions

The "Current Issues in MDLs and Class Actions" event, held on March 26, 2019, was organized by the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Missouri in collaboration with the Federal Bar Association. This conference brought together legal professionals to discuss and analyze the latest developments in multidistrict litigations (MDLs) and class action lawsuits.

Key topics addressed during the event included strategies for resolving MDLs, with insights from experts such as the Honorable Ann Montgomery, U.S. District Judge for the District of Minnesota, and Kim Dougherty of Andrus Wagstaff. Additionally, discussions focused on recent changes to Rule 23 and their implications for the future of class actions and MDLs, featuring perspectives from Elizabeth Cabraser of Lieff Cabraser Heimann & Bernstein and Professor Richard Marcus from UC Hastings.

The conference provided attendees with valuable networking opportunities, allowing them to engage with peers and industry leaders. Notable speakers included Madeleine McDonough, Chair of Shook, Hardy & Bacon, and Brent Dwerlkotte, Associate at the same firm, who also served as a co-chair of the event.

This event was particularly beneficial for legal practitioners specializing in complex litigation, offering them up-to-date information and practical strategies to navigate the evolving landscape of MDLs and class actions.