Tuesday, September 29, 2026

9:00 AM - 10:00 AM | Opening Keynote: Two Years of the Texas Business Court from the Frontline

In this opening keynote, Judge Andrea Bouressa offers an inside look at the First Division of the Texas Business Court and its mission to streamline high-stakes commercial litigation. As one of the court’s inaugural appointees, Judge Bouressa will discuss the practical realities of navigating this new specialized system, including unique procedural nuances and the court's evolving jurisdictional reach. Attendees will gain a better understanding of how this expert forum aims to provide the predictability and efficiency required for complex business disputes in North Texas.

The discussion will also provide strategic guidance for General Counsel on managing corporate litigation in a shifting legal landscape. Judge Bouressa will share her perspective on effective advocacy within the Business Court, the impact of forum selection clauses, and how the court’s specialized focus helps resolve sophisticated cases that might otherwise languish in general dockets. This fireside chat is a must-attend for legal leaders looking to align their department's litigation strategies with the latest judicial developments in the Lone Star State.

11:10 AM - 11:40 AM | Networking Break

4:00 PM - 5:00 PM | Ethics Under Pressure: The Modern In-House Counsel Challenge

General counsel must constantly balance aggressive corporate goals with strict legal compliance, effectively fitting a square peg into a round hole. This session examines how in-house leaders navigate the thin line between business advocacy and ethical obligation when guardrails are sparse. Participants will analyze the pressures of corporate strategy, the tactical shifts brought by litigation, and the role of leadership norms in safeguarding the organization.

• Identify the true client by applying Model Rule 1.13 and up-the-ladder reporting.
• Protect attorney-client privilege during dual-purpose business and legal communications.
• Maintain professional civility to safeguard corporate reputation during high-stakes litigation.

5:00 PM - 6:00 PM | Networking Reception