Bench & Bar May/June 2026

ABOUT THE AUTHOR STEPHEN EMBRY is a frequent speaker, blogger and writer. He is publisher of TechLaw Crossroads, a blog devoted to the examination of the tension between technology, the law and the practice of law. He is also co-author of a book entitled, “Mass Tort Claims Resolution Facilities,” and the 2017 and 2016 editions of the American Bar Association’s “TechReports.” Formerly a member of Frost Brown Todd LLC and the firm's class action, privacy and mass tort groups, he is a national litigator and advisor who is experienced in developing solutions to complex litigation and corporate problems. He now practices with his own firm, embryLaw LLC, and serves as co-chair of the Kentucky Bar Association’s Law Practice Committee.

because they believe it’s too divisive and somehow partisan, it was refreshing to see TechShow take these issues head on. And of course, the show kicked off on Wednesday evening with the well-known and traditional start-up pitch competition. The competition was moderated by Bob Ambrogi and featured 15 legal tech start ups facing off, with the winners selected by audience vote. It’s always exciting and past finalists have gone on to greater glory. This year the winner was CollBox, whose mis sion to get lawyers and law firms paid faster with less lawyer involvement and internal friction. The Show ended Saturday morning with the traditional 60 in 60 where TechShow leaders gave their favorite 60 apps and tools in 60 minutes. AS always, it was fast paced and As I mentioned above, this year over 120 vendors displaying their wares who were more than happy to talk to attendees were there. The exhibit floor traffic this year was a record (over 1,100, a 33% increase over last year). Of course, the puppies were back on the exhibit floor to help those who needed to unwind. A CONFESSION AND INVITE I’ll be honest. I’m a real fan of TechShow. Always have been from the time I first attended several years ago to serving on the TechShow Board and co-chairing it last year. TechShow is welcoming and friendly and the attendees by and large care about the practice of law, the use of technology and, more importantly, other attendees. Hope to see many of you there next year again at McCormack Convention Center on March 3-6. Registration is already open. full of practical hints and tips. THE EXHIBIT FLOOR

Traditional Real Estate Agent

Neutral role unless scope formally changes by agreement Designed to reduce conflict and keep matters moving Trained in divorce time lines, access issues and conflict sensitivity Certified Divorce Real Estate Expert (CDRE®) Case-aware and settlement-focused Neutral FMV analysis prepared for settlement discussions Attorney-aligned communication with defined reporting

Transaction-focused

Role Definition

CMA prepared for pricing only

Valuation Approach

Client-driven, consumer style communication

Communication

Limited familiarity with divorce dynamics Dual agency permitted in KY but challenging in divorce matters. Risk of delays, disputes, or misalignment

Process Awareness

Neutrality

Case Impact

Melia Hord is Central Kentucky’s only Certified Divorce Real Estate Expert® (CDRE®)

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