International Collaboration Shines at CLA/Milan Bar Conference

The CLA International Law and Immigration Section (ILS) recently completed their October 2025 CLA/Milan Bar International Law Conference. Planned entirely between volunteers of our respective associations, the 4-day event featured a strong lineup of CLE programs on hot topics of interest to all attorneys representing international clientele. As Milan and Como proved very appealing destinations, the event sold out even before the registration deadline.

The cutting-edge programs on headline issues included those related to major developments in tax, immigration, cybersecurity and AI, green energy, international business and arbitration, cryptocurrency, and the role of lawyers in defending democracy. 

In addition to a great academic conference, the participants also enjoyed elegant cocktail receptions and fine dinners with Italian lawyers, as well as visiting the Milan Supreme Court, and getting to spend time with fellow attendees at museums, fashion, and food and wine tours. The highlight of the conference was likely the final day, during which we traveled together to nearby Como, and after a relaxing lunch there we headed to spend the rest of the day in the breathtaking Bellagio.

As ILS has always been the Section within CLA and the legacy State Bar of California, which has entered into and maintained Friendship Agreements with International Bar Associations, the Milan Conference followed on the heels of other excellent international events which ILS has organized in recent years with our Friends in Prague, Barcelona, Mexico, and Japan. Plans are already being considered for prospective international events in 2026 and/or 2027. And more information should come into clearer focus soon.