Family Law Section

Minutes - March 10, 2010

Present: Angela Fonnesbeck, Dena Sarandos, Jared Hales, Paul Morken, Stephanie Saperstein,
Commissioner Faulkner, AI Pranno, Doug Adair, Commissioner Conklin; Judge Thomas, Judge Jones, Louise Knauer Adam Caldwell (via telephone); Louise Knauer

Excused: Dixie Jackson, Sally McMinimee, Patti Abbott, Christina Miller, Lauren Barros, Judge Lindberg, Jon Sheaffer, Russ Minas

Guests: Bryant McConkie and David Reed

Approval of Minutes: The minutes from the previous Executive Committee meeting of February 10, 2010 were approved.

Sub-Committee Reports:

A.  Utah Journal of Family Law: Bryant McConkie and David Reed made a presentation relating to this issue. The Utah Journal of Family Law would be an in-depth commentary on the current issues in family law practice in Utah. Ideally, this publication would feature articles authored by judges, commissioners, lawyers and other experts in the field. Features could also include district specific sample forms, checklists and useful guidelines for day-to-day practice. There could also be an online presence.  It is anticipated that it would cost approximately $6,000 to commence this publication. Ideally, the first issue would be distributed in November, 2010. Bryant McConkie requested us to ask our respective firms for contributions.

B.  Financials: Angela Fonnesbeck distributed the February Financial Statements. There were no
questions relating to these statements.

C.  Monthly CLE's: The monthly CLE's are drawing approximately 100 people. The cost is $25 per person. This is profitable.

D.  Finance Sub-Committee: A suggestion was made that the Executive Committee should set up a Finance Sub-Committee. This recommendation was favorable and the committee will have future discussions on this issue.

E.  Annual Bar Convention: Stephanie Saperstein indicated that the Convention begins on July 17, 2010. There will be discussion of pro bono family law cases and how to handle these types of cases. Doug Adair indicated that Jared Jennings is willing to present on the overlap on bankruptcy and family law. There may be a topic involving immigration.

F.  Socials: There was not an update on social events other than the committee is requesting that a member volunteer his or her house in order to have the annual summer social.

G. Scholarships: AI Pranno informed the Committee that there was nothing new in this area.

H.  May Seminar: There will be a Judge's panel, a legislative update, and a presentation involving Collections 101.

I.  Website: Nothing new in this regard.

J.  Spring Convention: Adam Caldwell reported that Dr. Kristy Farnsworth will make a presentation regarding how you impute income to a person who previously earned a six figure income and now has lost his or her employment.

K.  Legislative Update: Stewart was not present so an update was not presented. Lyle Hillyard has sent information to Angela Fonnesbeck regarding the issue of formulaic alimony. The Committee may consider establishing a sub-committee to investigate and analyze this issue.

L.  Equitable Distribution of Property: Paul Morken has been researching this issue by comparing other states' statutes to Utah statutes. He will continue to provide updates to the Committee.

The meeting is adjourned. The next meeting is April 14, 2010.