Family Law Section

Minutes -September 8, 2010

PRESENT: Dena Sarandos, Honorable Catherine Conklin, Sally McMinimee, John Sheaffer,
Paul Morken, Louise Knauer, Douglas Adair, Jared Hales, Lauren Barros, Russell Minas,
Honorable Douglas Thomas, James Hanks, Angela Fonnesbeck, Stacey Schmidt, Stewart Ralphs

EXCUSED: Al Pranno, Kellie Williams, Judge Lindberg, Marcie Keck

APPROVAL OF MINUTES: Meeting called to order by Dena Sarandos. The minutes from the
August meeting were unanimously approved as drafted.

DISCUSSION: Changes to the Civil Discovery Rules being proposed, led by Todd Shaunessy
            Impetus for the changes were reducing the costs associated with discovery which is
making the Court inaccessible to people of moderate means as well as to simplify the process.
This is an outgrowth of a movement across the country looking at civil procedure. The federal
rules have undergone a similar analysis.
            There were several initial concerns and thoughtful debate raised by those present and Mr.
Shaunessy assured them that the reason for these meetings is to gather input and feedback from
practice groups as the Rules Committee attempt to craft the new Rules. The Rules Committee
welcomes all suggestions and concerns as it goes forward with the project. Please e-mail all
comments, thoughts and considerations to Todd Shaunessy or Tim Shay. A link to a chart
presented by Mr. Shaunessy that outlines the different tiers and requirements of discovery will be
distributed.
            Dena Sarandos closed the meeting by soliciting comments and input from the various
individuals present.

NEXT MEETING: The next board meeting will occur on October 6, 2010 at noon. The next
monthly luncheon seminar will occur on September 24, 2010 at noon. Commissioner Evans will
speak on the custody evaluation process.