This briefing will provide a roadmap to federal litigation for legal aid, public interest, and pro bono attorneys, focusing on red flags and obstacles advocates should anticipate and how to address and overcome common hurdles. This briefing will be of special interest to new attorneys or those new to federal litigation and will also be a refresher for those with more experience. Faculty will address select issues for legal aid, public interest and pro bono advocates who are navigating federal litigation, including:

• Understanding pitfalls in drafting complaints (10 minutes)
• Assessing how to meet Article III requirements such as standing and mootness (10 minutes)
• Focusing on standards for obtaining relief through preliminary and permanent injunctions (10 minutes)
• Considering 11th Amendment and other immunities (10 minutes)
• Examining issues that arise in negotiations and enforcement of consent decrees (10 minutes)
• Reviewing attorney’s fees issues and other select topics arising in federal litigation (10 minutes)

Who Should Attend: Legal aid and legal services advocates, nonprofit lawyers, pro bono attorneys and allied professionals interested in better understanding typical issues representing clients in federal litigation