Business Details
42 Years
experience
Missouri Defense Lawyers Association
We are a professional association dedicated to advancing the interests of defense attorneys across Missouri. Since 1984, we have provided continuing legal education programs, legislative advocacy, and amicus curiae brief support to enhance the skills and effectiveness of defense lawyers. Our organization actively promotes fair treatment for civil defendants through judicial engagement, professional development initiatives, and collaboration with legal institutions. We maintain strong partnerships with organizations like the Defense Research Institute and the Missouri Bar to amplify our impact. Our legislative program has secured significant victories over the past decade, while our political action committee strengthens advocacy efforts.Through annual Trial Academies, judicial luncheons, and networking events, we foster professional growth and collegiality among members. Our commitment to improving Missouri's civil justice system includes reducing court congestion, elevating trial standards, and supporting bench quality improvements. With over 1,300 members, we remain focused on creating communication channels that enable defense lawyers to exchange critical knowledge and techniques.
Services
Legal Education Programs
Legislative Advocacy
Amicus Brief Support
Judicial Networking Events
Member Resource Library
Details
- Year established: 1984
Highlights and features
- We provide exclusive continuing legal education programs including annual Trial Academies
- Our legislative program has secured key victories for Missouri defense attorneys
- We offer amicus curiae brief support for appellate court cases of defense interest
- We maintain strategic partnerships with national legal organizations like DRI
- Our 40+ year history demonstrates sustained commitment to Missouri's defense bar
Services
Legal Education Programs
We deliver comprehensive continuing legal education through annual Trial Academies, judicial luncheons, and specialized webinars. Our programs cover evolving legal standards, trial techniques, and legislative updates relevant to Missouri defense attorneys. Participants gain practical insights from experienced practitioners to enhance courtroom effectiveness and case strategy development.
Legislative Advocacy
Our dedicated legislative program shapes Missouri's legal environment through strategic advocacy efforts. We monitor and influence civil justice legislation, maintain a political action committee, and collaborate with lawmakers to protect defense interests. This includes countering plaintiffs' bar initiatives and promoting balanced legal reforms.
Amicus Brief Support
We provide critical appellate court support through our Amicus Committee, which prepares and files amicus curiae briefs in significant cases. This service helps members address issues of broad defense interest while influencing judicial outcomes through well-reasoned legal arguments.
Judicial Networking Events
We organize annual meetings, regional luncheons, and networking events that connect defense attorneys across Missouri. These gatherings facilitate knowledge exchange, foster professional relationships, and include educational components addressing current legal challenges and best practices in civil litigation.
Member Resource Library
Our members access curated legal resources including past newsletters, educational materials, and practice guides. The repository supports ongoing professional development with documented court rulings, procedural techniques, and legislative updates specifically relevant to Missouri defense practitioners.
People
Christopher A. Brackman
President
As President, Mr. Brackman leads strategic initiatives for Missouri defense attorneys while maintaining active trial practice experience. He directs organizational efforts to enhance legal education programs and legislative advocacy effectiveness.
Ryan C. Turnage
Vice-President
Vice-President Turnage oversees operational planning and supports policy development. With extensive civil litigation experience, he focuses on expanding member engagement and improving professional development opportunities across Missouri.
Clayton L. Thompson
Secretary
As Secretary, Mr. Thompson manages organizational records and communications. His legal background informs efforts to strengthen member services and maintain accurate documentation of the association's advocacy activities.
Kevin J. Brooks
Treasurer
Treasurer Brooks administers financial resources while advising on budgetary matters affecting educational programs. His financial oversight ensures sustainable growth of member benefits and event offerings.
Randy J. Scherr
Executive Director
Executive Director Scherr manages day-to-day operations, coordinates events, and implements strategic plans. He serves as primary liaison for member services, ensuring effective delivery of educational programs and advocacy initiatives.
Questions
What is the Missouri Organization of Defense Lawyers' primary mission?
We advocate for fair treatment of civil defendants while providing professional development opportunities for Missouri defense attorneys through education programs and legislative initiatives.
How does MODL support defense attorneys' professional growth?
We offer continuing legal education through Trial Academies, judicial luncheons, webinars, and networking events that enhance trial skills and legal knowledge.
What legislative activities does MODL engage in?
Our organization actively pursues favorable legislation and maintains a political action committee to counterbalance plaintiffs' bar initiatives at the state level.
Do you provide resources for appellate court cases?
Yes, our Amicus Committee prepares and files amicus curiae briefs to support members in significant appellate cases affecting defense interests.
How can I access MODL's member benefits?
Membership benefits including resource libraries, event registrations, and networking opportunities become available after completing our online application process.
