California Lawyers Association

Labor and Employment Law Section of CLA Celebrates Milestones with 14th Annual Advanced Wage and Hour Conference and 40th Annual Meeting

In the realm of labor and employment law, few events stand as testament to longevity and relevance quite like the Advanced Wage and Hour Conference and the Annual Meeting of the Labor and Employment Law Section. As these conferences mark their 14th and 40th anniversaries, respectively, they continue to serve as pivotal platforms for legal professionals across California. Recently, CLA had the opportunity to sit down with key organizers, Daphne Pierre Bishop and Timothy Williams, to discuss the significance and evolution of these influential gatherings. 

Origins and Evolution 

From the get-go, these conferences weren’t just born—they were cultivated from a deep-seated need for advanced knowledge and a longing for that good ol’ face-to-face camaraderie. When asked about the inception of the Wage and Hour Conference and its alignment with the Annual Meeting, Daphne shared insights into their historical integration. “These conferences have been informally paired for some time,” she noted. “This year marks our first in-person gathering since the pandemic, adding an extra layer of significance.” Tim added, “The Wage and Hour Conference started in 2011 in response to the surge in wage and hour litigation. It provided a crucial forum for advanced CLE content, diving deep into the intricacies of emerging cases beyond the basics covered in general employment law seminars.”

Mission and Impact

Both Daphne and Tim emphasized the conferences’ alignment with the mission of the Labor and Employment Law Section: education and community. “Our objective is to keep practitioners well-informed about evolving laws and practices,” Daphne explained. “The conferences foster a collegial environment where professionals can network, share insights, and strengthen their knowledge base.” 

Tim echoed this sentiment, highlighting the broader impact on legal practitioners statewide. “These events play a crucial role in advancing our understanding of complex issues,” he remarked. “They promote inclusivity and address diversity-related challenges, ensuring our members are equipped to navigate the evolving legal landscape.”

Feedback and Testimonials 

Reflecting on past attendee feedback, Daphne shared an example from a panel on gender identity at last year’s Annual Meeting. “It was one of our highest-rated sessions,” she recalled proudly. “Attendees praised its thoughtful and informative approach, illustrating our commitment to addressing nuanced issues.” 

Tim added, “The annual Wage and Hour update panel consistently receives positive feedback for its comprehensive review of legislative and case updates. It’s a vital resource for practitioners needing a year-end summary of critical developments.” 

Looking Forward 

As we discussed future goals, Tim expressed enthusiasm for expanding accessibility. “We plan to rotate the Wage and Hour Conference across California, making it easier for practitioners statewide to attend,” he said. “Hybrid options may also be explored to accommodate remote participation.” 

Daphne emphasized the broader vision for the Annual Meeting. “We aim to grow our Section’s membership by showcasing the value of our conferences,” she explained. “These events are just one facet of our offerings, which include publications, webinars, and more.” 

In conclusion, the Wage and Hour Conference and Annual Meeting continue to evolve as cornerstones of legal education and professional development in California. Their enduring relevance and impact showcase their critical role in shaping the future of labor and employment law. As we anticipate future gatherings, these conferences are created to enrich and empower legal professionals across the state, ensuring they remain at the forefront of an ever-changing legal landscape.

For more information on the 14th Annual Advanced Wage and Hour Conference and the 40th Annual Meeting Of The Labor And Employment Law Section, please visit calawyers.org.


Forgot Password

Enter the email associated with you account. You will then receive a link in your inbox to reset your password.

Personal Information

Select Section(s)

CLA Membership is $99 and includes one section. Additional sections are $99 each.

Payment