Unfortunately, children in the foster care system often get moved from home to home unexpectedly and, because they have so little notice and so few possessions, they sometimes have to pack their belongings in trash bags.  This CLE will feature attorneys and social workers who work in various areas of the system to enforce the rights of these children and help them to get a more stable life.  You will hear the first-hand experiences of professionals in this challenging part of the legal system, learn some tips for navigating through the system, and better understand the obstacles involved and how to overcome them.  Approved by the Alabama State Bar MCLE Commission for 1.0 hour MCLE Credit.

Reception and Book Signing:  After the CLE panel discussion, please join us for a reception and an opportunity to purchase a signed copy of the book written by Keisha Jackson, one of the panelists.  Her book, "Trash: A Foster Care Journey", has been described as a "sweet and accurate portrayal of foster children and what they face."  Read a review of Keisha's book here.  We encourage you to bring a new or gently used piece of luggage to donate to children in foster care so that they can avoid having to pack their belongings in trash bags.

Panelists:

• Referee Amyrtle Allen - Senior Trial Referee in Birmingham's Family Court
• Jacy Fisher - Gregory Varner & Associates
  
• Representative from the Alabama Department of Human Resources
  
• Courtney Reed - Legal Aid Society of Birmingham, Staff Child Protection Attorney and GAL
  
• Justin Forrester - Forrester Law LLC
• Keisha Jackson - Legal Aid Society of Birmingham, Lead Social Investigator and Author of "Trash: A Foster Care Journey"
• Christina Vineyard (Moderator) - Crew Law Group LLC
  

Special Notes:  We encourage you to bring a new or gently used piece of luggage to donate to children in foster care so that they can avoid having to pack their belongings in trash bags.  CLE begins at 4:00pm with reception and book signing at 5:00pm.  Signed copies of "Trash" will be for sale for $15.00.