2026 ND Pro Bono Summit

Join LSND and SBAND in celebrating Pro Bono, generating new ideas for North Dakota, and learning more about ways to contribute in North Dakota. Special thanks to SBAND as the co-sponsor. If your firm is interested in sponsoring. Firm sponsorships are $600 for this event.

This program is anticipated to include 6 hours of CLE for ND and programs will be posted as soon as finalized.

Schedule

9AM-9:30AM Networking and Coffee

9:30AM-10:00AM Opening Remarks and Welcome - Update on Pro Bono in North Dakota

10:00AM-11:30AM Protecting Older Adults from Scams and Fraud in the Age of AI

Description:

Former career elder justice prosecutor Paul Greenwood will share current information about how scammers and fraudsters are using AI and other resources to steal in excess of $150 billion every year from adults throughout the United States. Greenwood will provide practical tips for identifying warning signs that a client or family member may be the victim of fraud or a scam. He will explain how these scams work, what can be done to report suspected fraud, and how attorneys and others can become more proactive in pushing back against these crimes.

11:45AM-1:15PM Networking Luncheon and Keynote CLE from North Dakota Supreme Court Justice Jerod Tufte

Description:

1:30PM-2:45PM Human Trafficking in North Dakota: Recognizing and Responding to Exploitation

Description:

Jess Roscoe and Rwatie Matsika will provide an overview of human trafficking, with a particular focus on how trafficking presents in North Dakota. The session will address common forms of exploitation, warning signs attorneys and other professionals may encounter, and challenges involved in identifying and assisting victims and survivors. The presenters will also discuss legal and practical considerations, available resources, and ways attorneys can better recognize trafficking-related issues and respond appropriately when they arise.

3:00PM-4:00PM Fair Housing for Attorneys: Recognizing and Responding to Housing Discrimination

Description:

Michelle Rydz will provide attorneys and legal professionals with an overview of federal and state fair housing law and its application in housing-related matters. The session will cover protected classes, prohibited discriminatory practices, reasonable accommodations and modifications for people with disabilities, assistance animals, retaliation, and common fair housing issues encountered by renters and housing providers. Attendees will also learn how to recognize potential fair housing violations, understand available enforcement and complaint processes, and consider practical approaches when advising clients on housing-related matters.

4:30PM Happy Hour at Broadway Grill & Travern