Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education, Inc., MCLE | New England
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In-Person Program

 
Freedom of Information & Public Records Law

What you need to know about the publics right to know

Product Number: 2110307P01
Date(s): Tuesday, 6/28/2011, 9:00 am - 12:00 pm
Location: MCLE Conference Center, Ten Winter Place, Boston (directions)
CLE Credits: 3 substantive credits, 0 ethics credits

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Open government is a cornerstone of our democracy. This principle is advanced by the Freedom of Information Act and at state and local levels by the provisions of the Open Meeting Law and the Public Records Law. What legislation may be needed to incorporate todays communication and record-keeping technologies which can expand access to government? How can counsel give confidential advice to officials without running afoul of the limits of the "litigation exception?" How does one make a valid disclosure of interests or decision not to participate in a matter before ones board? Where do the requirements of the Open Meeting Law and the Public Records Law appear to conflict? What can a governmental entity do to "cure" or "remedy" its violations? What role does the power of the Superior Court to impose fines play in enforcement and who should pay?

You will learn...

  • What type of information is exempt from disclosure under the Public Records Law
  • How to handle overly broad or burdensome requests for information
  • How to draft effective public records requests, and how to appeal denials
  • When officials can close an otherwise public meeting
  • About proposals to toughen the Massachusetts Open Meeting Law
  • What the pitfalls of electronic communication are with respect to right-to-know laws

Agenda

  • Overview of the Massachusetts Open Meeting Law
  • The Public Records Law: Advising Governmental Bodies
  • Disclosure of Interests and Non-Participation in Meetings
  • Access in the Digital Age: Applications Permitted Under the Open Meeting Law
  • Legislative Proposals to Address Education and Consistent and Timely Enforcement
  • "Ask the Experts" Q&A Session

Faculty

Fees

  • $225
  • $195 MCLE Sponsor Members
  • $145 New lawyers admitted to law practice after 2006, pending admittees and law students

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Audio CD: Freedom of Information & Public Records Law
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eBook: Freedom of Information and Public Records Law
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mp3 Recording: Freedom of Information & Public Records Law
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Recorded Webcast: Freedom of Information & Public Records Law
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