Presented by ISBA’s Standing Committee on Law Office Management & Economics
Co-presented by the ISBA Business Advice & Financial Planning Section and the ISBA Young Lawyers Division
Live Webcast
Wednesday, March 11, 2026
1:00 – 2:35 p.m.
1.50 hour MCLE credit
In an era where four generations share the courtroom and the boardroom, bridging the communication gap is essential for law firm success. Don’t miss this seminar that offers strategies for both new and experienced attorneys to harmonize their diverse work styles and expectations. Learn how the institutional wisdom of Baby Boomers pairs perfecting with the digital fluency and social-driven values of Gen Z to foster a more cohesive, high-performing legal team. Attorneys with all levels of practice experience who attend this online program will gain a better understanding of:
· How to preserve the knowledge of experienced attorneys, while benefiting from the perspectives of the new associates;
· How to manage a broad range of attorneys at differing points in their careers;
· The challenges of introducing younger colleagues to long-time clients;
· The importance of using technology and social media for client engagement;
· The tools needed to refine mentorship programs;
· How to modernize recruitment and drive retention across every age group; and
· Much more.
Program Coordinator/Chat Moderator:
Julia Smolka, Robbins DiMonte, Park Ridge
1:00 – 1:30 p.m. Managing Millennial, Gen Z, and Gen X Attorneys
This segment dissects the fundamental shift from the "paying your dues" culture of experienced practitioners to the technology-driven efficiency and flexibility demanded by the newest generation of associates. Topics include: how to maneuver between one generation’s loyalty to the firm and another’s focus on personal development; the differing views on professionalism and work ethic; how modern communication norms can help your firm thrive in a multi-generational workplace; the desire for real-time feedback from the younger generation; the growing concerns regarding loss of institutional knowledge of the older generation; and much more.
Molly Anne Krebs, Assistant General Counsel, Illinois Secretary of State, Chicago
1:30 – 2:00 p.m. Transitioning Clients Across Generations
The successful transition of client relationships is essential for the continued growth of any legal practice. Join us for a look at the strategies needed to preserve client trust while integrating new talent and modern methodologies. Experienced attorneys learn proven methods for introducing younger colleagues to clients without compromising established rapport, while new lawyers get best practice tips for building credibility with long-standing clients. Additional topics include: the importance of leveraging technology and social media for client engagement; how successful client handoffs safeguard your firm’s legacy; and the importance of balancing respect for senior partners with the innovative approaches of the newest generation.
Jason R. Blumenthal, Hervas, Condon & Bersani, P.C., Itasca
David A, Johnson, Jr., Aronberg Goldgehn, Chicago
2:00 – 2:30 p.m. Mentorship, Mutual Learning, and Managing Workflow Expectations
The segment explores the collaboration between the refined judgment of seasoned practitioners and the digital agility of the newest associates. Topics include: how "reverse mentorship" empowers senior attorneys to master AI-driven research and communication tools; how to build a culture that prevents burnout through clear boundary-setting, leverages technology for superior client access, and fosters the authentic connections vital for long-term retention; how mentoring can be used as a form of legacy-building; and the importance of teaching skills that transcend generations, such as judgment, ethics, and client empathy.
David A, Johnson, Jr., Aronberg Goldgehn, Chicago
For best practices, before attending the program using ISBA's Zoom platform, please visit our Technical Support page.
Program Information
- Fees:
- ISBA Member - $53
- ISBA sponsoring section members get a $10 registration discount (which is automatically calculated in your cart when you log in to register).
- Non-Member - $105
- New Attorney Member (within the first five years of practice) - $25
- Law Student Members - Free
- Special pricing is available for Legal Service Attorneys.
- If you cannot attend the live web event, a full refund is available, if you cancel your registration up to the start of the live web event on the program page in your “My CLE Account”.
- Please Note: MCLE credit is available to registrants only on the day of this live event – and you must attend the entire program to earn MCLE credit. All registrants will receive access to a recording of the event a few days after the program, but credit is NOT available for the recording.
