Retreat Co-Chairs:
Ashley M. Warren, Paralegal
Goding Law, Fairfax

Tashina M. Gorgone, Esq.,
Maddox & Gerock, Falls Church

‘Copyright’: 2026 7.5 Hours CLE (1 hour ethics, 1 hour wellness)  

Synopsis: This advanced CLE is designed as a guided journey through a family law case, told chapter by chapter—from the first client intake to closing the file. The program moves beyond fundamentals to focus on the paralegal’s critical role in shaping case narrative, managing complex client dynamics, supporting trial strategy, and maintaining ethical and professional standards throughout emotionally charged litigation. You will leave with practical tools and takeaways, refined workflows, and a deeper understanding of how each stage of a case connects to the next—creating a cohesive, effective story from beginning to end.

Intended Readership: This program is ideal for experienced family law paralegals and legal assistants who are deeply involved in case management, discovery, trial preparation, and client communication. Please bring a book (or more) for a book swap!

Volume I: Contents for Friday, April 24

Chapter One: Where the Story Begins
Chapter Two: Setting the Narrative and Managing Client Expectations
Chapter Three: Building the Record in Discovery
Chapter Four: Guardrails of the Profession
Chapter 5: Book Club Discussion and Extras

Volume II: Table of Contents for Saturday, April 25

Chapter 6: Sustaining the Reader: Managing Stress and Mental Health in this Profession
Chapter 7: Crafting the Apex in Trial Strategy/Preparation
Chapter 8: Resolution and Implementation in Post-Trial Matters (or Your Client Won (Lost) – Now What?!)
Chapter 9: Legislative Updates
Final Chapter: Completing the Story
Epilogue

Agenda

Register by April 17 to enjoy discounted registration rates.

This retreat is only offered in person
(no live-streaming is offered and the program is not recorded).
 

CLE Certificate and Materials: 
Retreat materials, along with the CLE Certificate of Attendance, will be emailed to you 1-2 days prior to the retreat so that you may print any materials you wish to have with you. If you would like to access these materials while at the retreat, bring your laptop or tablet; no printed copies will be provided. Materials and certificates to any VTLA program you have registered for may be accessed in MyVTLA, located at the top of the VTLA website.

Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes early and come to the VTLA registration table to check in.

Event Anti-Harassment, Discrimination and Safety Policy

The Publisher Hotel
711 William St.
Fredericksburg, VA 22401
Phone: (540) 518-2624

Directions

VTLA has a block of rooms at a discounted rate of $209/night. Reserve your room soon - our block expires April 1st. Self-parking is available in dedicated areas near the hotel and can be paid for individually at hotel reception.

Make your reservations here: Online Reservations

Fredericksburg Farmer's Market is open on Saturdays, 7AM to 1PM. Located in Hurkamp Park, it's an easy 5-minute walk from the hotel. 

Dining Options Within a Short Distance:

• Billiken's Smokehouse
• Fahrenheit 132
• Foode
• Locavore
• Many others to choose from

Area Attractions:

• Historic Downtown Fredericksburg
• Riverfront Park
• Hurkamp Park
• James Monroe Museum
• University of Mary Washington
• Other Nearby Attractions

WE HOPE YOU WON'T, but if you must cancel, the VTLA cancellation policy applies to all paid meeting events, including any scheduled social events. All cancellations or changes must be in writing. Cancellations received before materials are emailed will be refunded the registration fee paid less a $50 cancellation fee. Due to guarantees required to our vendors, no refunds will be given after that point. Thank you for your understanding.??