2025 Bench & Bar® Conference – Napa Valley
RegistrationEvent Overview
The Federal Circuit Bar Association® welcomes you to be part of an exclusive gathering of distinguished professionals at the 2025 Bench & Bar® Conference, taking place from June 18 to June 21, 2025, at the luxurious Meritage Resort in Napa Valley, California. This premier event will feature an extensive, coordinated effort to foster in-depth discussions on the important issues confronting the Federal Circuit community.
We will kick off the Conference with the highly anticipated 2025 Mock Argument on Wednesday, June 18, offering a unique opportunity for participants to engage with distinguished judges, legal experts and peers.
Participants will have the flexibility to attend our flagship sessions either in-person or virtually, ensuring access to cutting-edge developments across the Federal Circuit landscape. Gain invaluable insights from esteemed adjudicators, government policymakers, leading private practitioners, and other influential figures in the Federal Circuit Community. Engage in enlightening panel discussions, interactive Q&A sessions, and exceptional networking opportunities designed to foster collaboration and knowledge sharing.
Join us for this unparalleled experience and connect with top appellate practitioners, Federal Circuit and District Court judges, government officials, and corporate legal experts who will share their expertise and perspectives. We look forward to welcoming you to Napa Valley. Registration is now open!
Agenda Overview
You can view and download the draft agenda using the link below.
The Mock Argument Program
The 2025 Bench & Bar® Mock Argument will be held on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, at the Meritage Resort in Napa Valley, CA. Rising advocates present oral arguments to and receive real-time insights from federal judges and leaders of the appellate bar. The mock exercise will consist of a mini-appellate argument involving issues of patent law.
Spacing is limited, so please submit the information on your nominees as soon as possible to: Karla Smith-Lucas at smith-lucas@fedcirbar.org.
Pricing Options & Benefits:
- $3,750 – Mock Argument Registration Pricing
- $3,250 – Supporting Leaders Circle Pricing
- $3,000 – Sustaining Leaders Circle Pricing
- $2,750 – National Leaders Circle Pricing
- Each firm with two participants will receive a discount.
Mock Argument Sponsorship Benefits Include:
- One Mock Argument attendee per registration.
- One night’s lodging at the Meritage Resort on Tuesday, June 17, 2025.
- Attendance at the 2025 Mock Argument Reception on Tuesday, June 17, 2025.
- Participation in the 2025 Mock Argument on Wednesday, June 18, 2025.
- Attendance at the Bench & Bar® Welcome Reception on Wednesday, June 18, 2025.
- Firm recognition in all FCBA Bench & Bar® marketing materials.
Advocate participation award.
While the Mock Argument Sponsorship does not include attendance at the 2025 Bench & Bar® Conference, we are pleased to offer a special registration rate for Mock Argument advocates who wish to attend. This exclusive Mock Argument Bench & Bar® Registration rate encompasses full Conference access and lodging for three nights (Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday).
2025 Bench & Bar® Registration Rates for Mock Argument Participants:
- Individual Advocate: $5,500
- Team of 2 Advocates: $11,000
- Team of 3 Advocates: $16,500
Leaders Circle and Bench & Bar Sponsors have the option to utilize any unassigned Bench & Bar Registrations for their Mock Argument advocates, allowing them to attend the entire Bench & Bar Conference at no additional cost.
For more information, please download the 2025 Mock Argument Flyer here, or contact Karla Smith-Lucas at smith-lucas@fedcirbar.org.
Sponsorship Opportunities
You may view and download our 2025 Bench & Bar Sponsorship Opportunities Flyer here.
If you are interested in sponsoring this Conference, please contact Roseanna Quinlan at quinlan@fedcirbar.org.
*Sponsor Registration is via a separate link sent to each organization’s respective point of contact and not via the individual registration link above.
Leaders Circle Sponsorship
You may view and download our 2025 Leaders Circle Sponsorship Opportunities Flyer here.
If you are interested in joining the Leaders Circle, please contact Roseanna Quinlan at quinlan@fedcirbar.org.
*Sponsor Registration is via a separate link sent to each organization’s respective point of contact and not via the individual registration link above.
Registration Information
- Pre-Registration is open from January 22 until February 5.
- Early Registration runs from February 6 to February 19.
- Regular Registration begins on February 20.
- Sponsor Registration is via a separate link sent to each organization’s respective point of contact and not via the individual registration link above.
The 2025 Bench & Bar Conference will be presented both in-person and virtually. Please view and download our various registration pricing options here.
FCBA 2025 Annual 5K Fund Run/Walk Classic
2025 FCBA 5K Fund Run/Walk Classic
Date: Friday June 20, 2025
Time: 6:30 AM – 7:30 AM
Pricing: $150
The Federal Circuit Bar Association® invites you to register for the annual FCBA 2025 5K Fund Run/Walk Classic, which will take place during the Bench & Bar Conference on Friday, June 20, 2025, at The Meritage Resort located at 875 Bordeaux Way, Napa Valley, CA. The event will be held from 6:30 AM to 7:30 AM.
Participants will start and finish at the Meritage Reserve on the Village Lawn. The course, just under 3.1 miles (5K), features a blend of public and private roadways, sidewalks, and an exclusive dirt terrain through the vineyard. An instructor will be present to guide a pre-run warm-up and stretching session, and a water station will be available for participants.
Your participation in the FCBA 5K Fund Run/Walk Classic will benefit the Federal Circuit Bar Association® Charitable and Educational Fund. Your support will help us continue our commitment to empowering future leaders through scholarships and various charitable initiatives that make a difference in the lives of individuals and communities.
Make a difference by contributing to the FCBA’s charitable and educational efforts, connect with peers while networking, and stay active in a fun, supportive environment. Bring your family, friends, and colleagues to share in the fun and camaraderie. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just looking to enjoy a leisurely walk, all are welcome!
The registration fee for the FCBA 5K Fund Run/Walk Classic is $150. To register, please fill out the Jotform located here: https://form.jotform.com/250554156117150. Thank you.
Bench & Bar Meritage Events & Activities
Explore the wide range of events and activities offered at The Meritage by downloading the amenities flyer below.
Federal Circuit Historical Society Luncheon
More information is forthcoming.