Criminal Law Section to host legislative update CLE during Bar’s Fall Meeting
Florida lawyers can go “Inside the Florida Legislature” during the Criminal Law Section’s annual legislative update — a free, half-day, in-person CLE on October 30 in conjunction with The Florida Bar Fall Meeting in Orlando.
Sponsored by Shumaker Advisors, this program will give criminal law practitioners an insider’s view of the legislative process and timely insights into recent and upcoming developments shaping Florida’s criminal justice system.
Joe Spataro
“Understanding the legislative process and staying updated on legal changes are critical for criminal law practitioners because new laws can change penalties, criminalize new behaviors, or reform existing systems,” said Joe Spataro, a partner with Shumaker in Tampa and a former chair of the Criminal Law Section. “This knowledge allows attorneys to effectively represent clients by understanding the laws that govern their cases, adapting strategies to new precedents, and ensuring compliance.”
Designed to help attorneys stay ahead of legislative and policy changes that directly affect criminal law practice, Inside the Florida Legislature brings together lawmakers, legal experts, and policy professionals for an in-depth look at the forces shaping Florida law. Participants will explore 2025 legislative reforms, ethical standards for public officials, the state budget process, and what to expect in the 2026 session — all in one afternoon of education and discussion.
Rep. Sam Garrison
Featured speakers include Florida House Speaker-designate Sam Garrison, R–Fleming Island; Sen. Carlos Guillermo Smith, D–Orlando); Rep Charles “Chuck” Brannan III, R–Macclenny; attorney, former prosecutor, and Florida House legislative aide Jason Carter; Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers President-elect Aaron Wayt, Pumphrey Law; Florida Commission on Ethics Staff Attorney Amelia Naomi; Florida Clerks of Court Operations Corporation Executive Director Jason Welty; Clay County Clerk of Court and Comptroller Tara Green; and the Criminal Law Section’s lobbyist, election lawyer Natalie Kato, who will moderate the legislative panel discussion.
The CLE includes lunch and a post-event reception, offering an opportunity for members of the criminal law community to network and engage directly with legislative leaders.
Program details:
- Date: October 30
- Time: 12–4:30 p.m.
- Location: JW Marriott Bonnet Creek, Orlando
- Credits: Earn 5 CLE (1 Ethics) and 5 certification credits each in Criminal Appellate, Criminal Trial, and State and Federal Government and Administrative Practice
- Cost: No charge for Criminal Law Section members; non-section members add $40 at checkout for Criminal Law Section membership
- Registration: bit.ly/CLS_9337
