Topic: Preparing for Trial: Paralegal Strategies

This practical and litigation-focused presentation provides family law paralegals with the tools, systems, and strategies necessary to effectively prepare a case for trial. From exhibit organization and witness coordination to financial summaries and trial notebook creation, attendees will learn how to streamline trial preparation, anticipate evidentiary challenges, and support attorneys in presenting a clear and persuasive case.

The session will cover best practices for organizing complex financial documentation, preparing exhibit lists and subpoenas, coordinating courtroom logistics, and creating user-friendly summaries that judges appreciate. Emphasis will be placed on proactive planning, strategic organization, and avoiding common trial pitfalls.

Ideal for paralegals and legal support professionals involved in trial preparation, this presentation focuses on elevating efficiency, reducing last-minute stress, and strengthening the overall trial presentation.

Speakers: Jennifer Heinen, Michelle Swenson, and Amanda Bean

Jennifer Heinen: Jen is an experienced family law paralegal and supports the Henschel Moberg team of attorneys in a variety of needs and situations, including trial preparation and discovery support. She has extensive experience with and understanding of complex dissolution related financial and property issues, as well as custody and parenting time issues. Jen’s attention to detail, keen understanding of difficult legal issues, and eagerness to learn about new areas, make her an asset to any case. Jen also has experience working on International Family law issues. In 2012, Jen received the Distinguished Service Award from the International Academy of Matrimonial Attorneys.

Michelle Swenson: With over 20 years of experience in family law, she is dedicated to providing clients with compassionate and dependable support. Her role involves assisting attorneys and clients through all phases of family law matters, including marriage dissolution, child custody, paternity, and related issues. She focuses on making challenging processes more manageable by bringing organization and a calm, practical approach to each case.

As a member of Henson Efron’s family law team, her responsibilities include drafting motions, affidavits, and other pleadings; managing discovery preparation and review; and preparing detailed financial analyses, including income summaries, budgets, and property division spreadsheets. She also assists with mediation preparation, business and asset valuations, and coordination with experts for custody and psychological evaluations. Additionally, she handles trial and appellate preparation, ensuring all aspects of a case are managed thoroughly and efficiently.

She is passionate about treating clients with respect and providing non-judgmental support throughout their legal journey. By fostering trust and maintaining careful attention to detail, she helps clients feel informed and supported as they navigate significant life transitions.

Amanda Bean: Amanda is a family, juvenile, and adoption law paralegal with Heimerl and Lammers in Minneapolis, Minnesota, bringing over 20 years of experience in the legal profession. In addition to managing day-to-day tasks, Amanda assists with any ‘fires’ that arise for those in need and always puts her organizational skills to use for the clients and her team. Amanda’s attention to detail, genuine compassion for clients, and extensive knowledge in the legal field are just a few of the qualities that clients routinely compliment her on.

Amanda enjoys interacting with clients and assisting them through all steps of the legal process. She takes pleasure in being there for clients in their time of need by discussing procedures in plain language and ensuring they know what to expect as their process unfolds. Amanda is involved in all aspects of a case from beginning to end, which allows clients to feel comfortable with her and confident in the guidance she provides.

Remote attendance only.

• Member Cost: Free
• Non-Member Cost: $15

CLE credit has been applied for this session.

Please RSVP by May 21, 2026.

Sponsored by: Family Law Sectional

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Amanda Bean at amandab@hllawfirm.com.