Pennsylvania Bar Institute

"I am not concerned that you have fallen. I am concerned that you arise."
-- Abraham Lincoln.

A personal catastrophe can manifest in a professional`s life either physically or mentally, either suddenly or progressively. Its effects can be short-term or long-term, or even permanent.A personal catastrophe will affect abilities to perform professionally for clients and to meet business obligations. Personal catastrophes also affect co-workers and family members. Yet, with targeted treatments, a support system, and thoughtful, optimistic strategies, professional recovery and personal readjustment is achievable.

Our panelists discuss difficult issues but address them in a positive way. Many of them have experienced personal catastrophes in their own lives. Join them for a frank and useful discussion on what you can do to prepare for a personal catastrophe, and what strategies and tools are available to help you recover and rebuild your career and lifestyle afterward.

• What is a personal catastrophe?
• Who can assist in dealing with a personal catastrophe?
• What legal issues must be considered? Medical coverage, Social Security, disability insurance
• What business and ethical issues will arise?
• How can you ensure your practice and your clients` interests are protected?
• What tools are available to help you continue practicing law in the event of a disability?
• What can you expect as you recover from trauma or medical procedures?
• How will you deal with the medical realities, like pain, medications and depression?

Neil E. Hendershot, Esq., Of Counsel, Serratelli, Schiffman & Brown, P.C., Harrisburg

Ellen Freedman, CLM, PBA Law Practice Management Coordinator, Harrisburg

Michael F. Brown, Esq., Serratelli, Schiffman, Brown & Calhoon, P.C., Harrisburg

Lori K. Serratelli, Esq., Serratelli Schiffman & Brown, P.C., Harrisburg

Trisha Torrey, Every Patient's Advocate

Kenneth J. Hagreen, Esq., Lawyers Concerned for Lawyers of Pennsylvania, Inc., Camp Hill

Jennifer L. Ellis, Esq., Lowenthal & Abrams, PC, Bala Cynwyd

Mayur Narayan, M.D., M.P.H., M.B.A., Trauma /Critical Care Surgeon-Assistant Professor Dept. Surgery, Cowley Shock Trauma Center, University of Maryland, Baltimore

Donna D. Audia, RN, University of Maryland, R. Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center , College park, MD

Michael S. Greevy, PHD, Commonwealth Affiliates, Harrisburg

Lawrence S. Markowitz, Esq., The Law Office of Larry Markowitz, York