
The (un)conference challenges the traditional law conference format. It's an immersive, participant-driven experience at San Diego's Rancho Bernardo Inn for leaders in the legal profession seeking clarity, growth, and community as they navigate life professionally and personally.
Small group discussions and resort activities encourage participants to contribute, not just consume. We prioritize creating positive energy and space to recharge, (un)like those exhausting multi-day conferences. Join us to build deep, trusting connections within a community of professionals embracing opportunities for change.
Step away from daily demands and focus fully on your growth.
Registration will open soon.
Destination


RECOMMENDED ARRIVAL AND DEPARTURE DATES
We recommended arriving
Tuesday, March 2. We intentionally create space for you to schedule client meetings (or personal excursions) on Tuesday and Wednesday morning to help you make the case for attending the (un)conference. The agenda begins at noon on Wednesday.
Programming ends
Friday, March 5, at 10:30 am, making it easy to depart that day. (Or stay through the weekend with our discounted room rate, and make a whole trip out of it!)
HOTEL
We will have a discounted room rate. More information coming soon.
Please be aware of scammers claiming to offer a better rate at the conference property. Use our link only to book your room. Remember to never follow a link or answer any questions if you are contacted by anyone other than NAWL. Please report any scams to
nawl@nawl.org.
TRAVEL
We're partnering with United to offer discounted rates for flights to the (un)conference. Additional information is provided in your registration confirmation email.
We recommend flying into the San Diego International Airport (SAN), about a 30-minute drive from the Rancho Bernardo Inn. For flexibility and freedom to get around, renting a car is the best option. Ridesharing is also available.
Need help making the case to your employer?
Sponsorship
Our sponsorship packages offer more than visibility. They give you the chance to build genuine connections with senior leaders and high-net-worth individuals in an environment that encourages conversation and trust.
Whether you’re representing a law firm, consumer brand, or another type of organization, sponsoring lets you form relationships that can open doors to lasting opportunities.
The (un)conference is ideal for:
- Legal leaders with at least a decade of experience, eager to collaborate with other change-makers in similar roles and learn from their experiences.
- Innovators wanting to explore new strengths and share strategies to empower transformative change within themselves and their organizations.
- Seasoned attorneys ready to amplify their leadership capabilities and leverage their influence to challenge and rewrite the (un)written rules of the legal profession.
Agenda
As we're confirming the agenda, check out the 2025 program for a taste of what to expect!
Note: All meals are included from lunch on Wednesday to breakfast on Friday.
Sessions offering CLE credit will be indicated on the agenda as credits are approved.
Wednesday
March 3
12:00 pm - 1:30 pm PT
Opening Lunch: First Course, Fresh Perspectives + Welcome Mainstage
Wednesday
March 3
1:30 pm - 2:00 pm PT
Break
Taking advantage of the beautiful setting, we'll enjoy facilitated activities outdoors.
Wednesday
March 3
2:15 pm - 3:45 pm PT
Small Group Discussions
We'll break into more intimate groups to discuss topics related to the (un)written rules of the legal profession. But rather than being talked at, you will be an integral part of the conversation, with facilitators rather than "speakers" to help guide the discussion.
Personalize your experience by choosing the track that most resonates for you. Look for these icons to identify the sessions in each track:
Wellness
Professional
Visibility
Navigating the C-Suite
Wednesday
March 3
5:00 pm - 6:00 pm PT
Starlight Social
What's the best part of being in San Diego in March? Warm weather and beautiful sunsets, of course! Leave your winter wear in your suitcase and join us on the terrace for cocktails.
Wednesday
March 3
6:00 pm - 8:00 pm PT
Alfresco Exchange
We'll keep the warm-weather vibes going with dinner under cafe lights.
Thursday
March 4
8:00 am - 9:00 am PT
Morning Flow Breakfast
Rise and shine! The day begins with yoga for movement and a healthy, delicious breakfast in the sunshine.
Thursday
March 4
9:30 am - 11:00 am PT
Small Group Discussions
Similar in format to Wednesday's Small Group Discussions, you'll choose from the following topics:
Thursday
March 4
11:00 am - 11:30 am PT
Break
Grab a healthy snack before moving on to your next small group discussion.
Thursday
March 4
11:30 am - 1:00 pm PT
Small Group Discussions
Once again, we'll break into more intimate groups discussing those (un)written rules and how they impact us as leaders and the next generation of legal professionals.
Thursday
March 4
1:00 pm - 2:00 pm PT
Lunch Without an Agenda
While we're bringing the group together for lunch, this an an intentionally unstructured break in the day. We have boxed lunches and plenty of seating, but we encourage you to grab your lunch, find folks you're interested in continuing to chat with, and find a beautiful outdoor space on the property to enjoy.
Thursday
March 4
2:00 pm - 4:00 pm PT
Choose Your Own Adventure
For some organic, fun networking opportunities, choose from these resort activities led by members of the Host Committee.
Thursday
March 4
4:00 pm PT - Varied End Times
Explore
What's the point of traveling to San Diego if we don't give you time to enjoy it? We've highlighted nearby must-see spots for you to explore on your own or in small groups. More details will be available in the (un)conference app, available to participants about two weeks before the event.
Thursday
March 4
5:00 - 6:00 pm PT
Golden Hour Cheers
Join us as the sun dips below the horizon for an unforgettable reception of cocktails and vibrant conversation. Celebrate the magic of San Diego's golden hour with refreshing drinks and relaxed vibes.
Thursday
March 4
6:00 - 8:00 pm PT
SoCal Supper Club
This will be an unforgettable evening under the San Diego sky, where the stars above set the perfect backdrop for a stunning outdoor dinner. Savor exquisite flavors and enjoy lively conversation.
Friday
March 5
8:00 am - 9:00 am PT
Closing Breakfast: Farewell for Now
This will be our final gathering as a full group as we enjoy the morning fresh air over an outdoor breakfast.
Friday
March 5
9:00 am - 10:30 am PT
Closing Conversation
You’ll actively engage, exchange ideas, and learn from each other’s perspectives—walking away from the (un)conference not just inspired, but equipped with practical strategies and actionable steps to tackle challenges and grow as a learner and leader.
The (un)conference is open to registered attendees only.
More (un)expected Elements
Attire
Going from yoga, to small-group discussions, to hikes will be much easier in casual or athleisure attire. We encourage you to wear whatever makes you feel comfortable and allows you to move freely.
Treat Yourself! Stay Through the Weekend
(And even bring the fam if you want!) We encourage you to use our discounted room rate to extend your stay over the weekend. Also, we've intentionally kept Wednesday morning and Friday afternoon free for you to spend time with family, friends, or clients.
Registration
Space is limited to ensure an intimate experience. Secure your spot early!

The registration fee is $2,500 which includes:
- Meals from lunch on Wednesday to breakfast on Friday.
- Facilitated round-table workshops and learning materials.
- Group resort activities on- and off-campus.
Registration will open soon!
Need help making the case to your employer?
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is this called an (un)conference?
We’ve "NAWL-ified" the unconference format (a loosely structured conference that emphasizes the informal exchange of information among participants) to work for our members.
Knowing that the traditional conference format is not conducive to building deep relationships, and realizing you want more engaging programming, we’ve combined these ideas into NAWL’s (un)conference.
Created with a general structure and defined topics, the format allows space for your voice to be heard, your questions asked, and your ideas shared. Throughout the event, organically build authentic relationships through conversation and resort activities.
Who should attend this event?
The (un)conference is designed for leaders in the legal profession looking to hone their skills and network with peers.
NAWL welcomes all attorneys regardless of age, race, religion, ancestry, disability, political affiliation, sexual orientation, or gender identity. We recognize and celebrate the value that a vast range of backgrounds, cultures, and professional experiences brings to our community.
Can I earn CLE?
Yes, if you indicate on your registration form that you are seeking CLE credit, NAWL will send you a certificate of attendance after the event. Make sure you include the states where you want credit on your registration form.
NAWL will apply for CLE accreditation in California, Texas, and Washington. California typically takes a couple of months to approve programs; we appreciate your patience. We do not expect the program to be eligible for credit in Illinois. Additional CLE provider applications may be submitted based on states where attendees seek credit.
Approximately 4-6 CLE credit hours are expected for this program.
Speaker attendance is not guaranteed and is subject to change without notice.
Questions? Email Ola.
Are there scholarships available?
Due to the intentionally intimate nature of the event, NAWL is not able to offer scholarships for the (un)conference.
Is there a Code of Conduct for NAWL programs?
Yes. NAWL programs are designed to evoke the spirit of community, curiosity, and consideration. Attendees and speakers are invited to join our programs with an open mind and a willingness to learn.
NAWL program participants agree to:
- Be respectful of fellow attendees' boundaries.
- Thoughtfully and openly communicate with others and be considerate of a diversity of viewpoints and opinions.
- Approach difficult conversations with grace and empathy.
- Avoid soliciting services or products.
If you experienced or witnessed any behavior you feel is in violation of this code of conduct, we ask that you fill out this form to anonymously report the incident, or email Chelsea Robinson, NAWL's Program Director.
What is NAWL's cancellation policy?
Please send cancellation requests to nawl@nawl.org by Wednesday, February 3, 2027. Full refunds will be honored on or before this date.
I have special dietary needs. What do I do?
Please indicate any dietary needs on your registration form. If you have already registered and did not include this information, please email us at nawl@nawl.org with your request at least two weeks before the conference.
What is the dress code?
There is no dress code for this program. Going from yoga to small-group discussions to hikes will be much easier in casual or athleisure attire.
We encourage you to wear whatever makes you feel comfortable and allows you to move freely.

