Barran Liebman’s annual employment law seminar is an industry classic.
Barran Liebman’s annual employment law seminar is an industry classic.
“Are you ready to rock?” asked Ed Harnden, Barran Liebman’s managing parter, at the opening of the law firm’s 2014 Employment, Labor & Benefits Law Seminar. The audience responded with resounding applause. Over 800 Human Resources professionals, small business owners, upper-level managers and in-house counsel gathered for Barran Liebman’s annual seminar that focuses on cutting-edge employment law topics.
Held each September, the event is the largest of its kind in Oregon. And edgy themes like the Vegas-style “Welcome to Fabulous Barran Liebman” and the college-inspired “Barran Liebman University” make the seminar stand out. This year’s rock ‘n’ roll theme, “Barran Liebman Rocks,” didn’t disappoint.
“Our Annual Seminar is really a reflection of our firm—a combination of A-plus content and fun personalities,” says Harnden, who founded the firm 17 years ago to focus on employment, labor, benefits and compliance law. The Portland firm has represented employers for over two decades, helping them find solutions for their employment law and labor management needs.
“Our number one goal is to effectively and efficiently assist clients in navigating the ever-changing laws and regulations affecting their workplace,” explains Traci Ray, the firm’s executive director. “It’s a lot of fun to host this seminar for hundreds of our clients, touching on seven topics in just four hours. The themes are a big reveal each June and really add to the ambience, helping our guests absorb complex legal advice,” she continues. “We also plan the event completely in-house, with staff and attorneys taking on the lead roles. It’s an amazingly rewarding team effort.”
For the past three years, Barran Liebman’s Annual Seminar has received recognition from regional associations as well as praise from attendees. “As an HR professional, it is important to keep up to date,” says Kathleen Everett, director of business relations at Boly:Welch. Everett explains how infusing the seminar’s legal content with creative themes makes dry topics memorable. “Barran Liebman’s attorneys create a vibrant atmosphere for issues that can sometimes be mind-numbing.”
“The landscape shifts frequently in employment law,” says Renata Marsal, owner of Studio Origin. “This conference provides rock-solid information I can immediately put into use.”
RaeJean Wilson, vice president of GloryBee, agrees. “The annual seminar gives us all an overview of what is buzzing in the legal world,” she says. “The seminar helps us be mindful of potential legal landmines.”
Ray is already planning for next year’s seminar, excited to once again wow audiences with Barran Liebman’s signature annual event.
