2026 MIE National Conference for Legal Aid Managers

Legal aid organizations are navigating a period of real flux — hybrid arrangements, shifting demographics, growing polarization, and uncertainty around funding are all reshaping how programs operate and connect with the people they serve. This panel discussion will explore how civil legal aid programs are maintaining strong community ties amid these changes, both in terms of priority and presence.

From there, the session will explore topics ranked by conference attendees - come with your phone to share what topics matter most to you!

This session will cover key aspects for new or veteran supervisors managing a unionized workforce, including relationships with union stewards and representatives, an overview of the NLRA and NLRB fundamentals and compliance (such as tips for avoiding unfair labor practices and obligations for complying with an employee's Weingarten rights), common union contract provisions to be aware of, and advice for handling the grievance and arbitration process.

Coaching skills are essential to both leadership and management—of programs and people. A coaching approach to managing others supports reflection, awareness, communication, and accountability. In this interactive plenary session, participants will be introduced to a practical set of foundational coaching skills and explore how they can apply these skills in everyday leadership and management situations.