CLM’s Litigation Management Institute (LMI) was created in 2011, with the goal of helping CLM members better understand the dual perspectives of handling claims and litigation management from the attorney and client side. The end goal? To improve relationships and optimize results by helping educate attorneys regarding the business of litigation. One of LMI’s original chancellors, Larry Beemer, vice president of casualty claims at Tokio Marine HCC – Casualty Group, gives us a preview of the annual event, which takes place Oct. 20-23, 2022, in Chicago.
What does the typical LMI attendee look like, professionally?
Beemer: LMI was originally designed for the CLM attorney who had 7-12 years of experience, but we have had plenty of firm partners complete the program, and even some younger attorneys. Interestingly, upwards of 25% of attendees now are insurance professionals seeking to hone their professional skills because many of these courses go right to the heart of what they are doing in their jobs every day.
What is the structure of the event?
Beemer: LMI is very selective and limited to 100 people or less. Candidates earn the Certified Litigation Management Professional (CLMP) designation only after participating in a rigorous course of study consisting of three days of intensive education and homework in a group setting with other like-minded, experienced professionals. That is part of what makes LMI such a unique event.
What advice would you give to someone who is trying to convince their boss that they should attend?
Beemer: I would suggest that they tell their boss that this is considered the best course CLM has to offer. This is high-end learning at its best, that they can bring back to their law firm or claims department and utilize it as training. LMI also provides a network of professionals who can be called upon to help with any issues encountered at work after the event. The courses are all designed to be a resource for the student, so the material is not lost. For a lawyer, LMI will ultimately help them understand what insurance clients want and need.
You have been working on LMI for over a decade. What stands out over those years?
Beemer: I am most proud of the legacy of LMI. Certainly, we are proud to be able to impart knowledge to attendees and help them get better at their craft, but the thing that I have always liked and appreciated—which we never imagined at the beginning of this—is the camaraderie and friendship that has become a big part of the event. The intensity and group nature of the work creates a bond
and so it is not unusual to hear, “I went to the CLM Annual and our LMI group got back together,” or “I still have all of my friends from LMI, we send notes to each other and still help each other in our daily business.” I never envisioned that, and I find it exciting that LMI is playing a part in creating those relationships.
To learn more or to register, go to theclm.org.