Reflections from NAELA 2026: Conversations, Connections, and Karaoke

Last week, AshbBer had the opportunity to attend the annual NAELA Conference in Milwaukee, and we’re still reflecting on everything that came out of it.

For our team, this year’s conference didn’t disappoint. From the energy of the sessions to the conversations happening in the hallways, it was a great reminder of how collaborative and thoughtful this community really is.

We were honored to co-sponsor the Welcome Reception alongside Practice 42, and it turned out to be a great way to kick off the conference. AshBer even brought a little Milwaukee spirit to the event with Bernie the Brewer, who was a big hit and made the night even more memorable.

NAELA Night was another highlight. Bowling with a mix of new connections and familiar faces made for a relaxed, fun evening and gave everyone a chance to step outside of casework and just enjoy the people in this space. And somewhere along the way, Stuart helped lead a karaoke session that definitely brought down the house. Not something you see at every conference, but it’s safe to say it left an impression.

Beyond the events, the conference sessions themselves were fascinating.

Discussions ranged from technical Medicaid planning strategies to broader topics shaping the future of elder law. One theme that stood out was the growing role of AI and how it’s beginning to influence the legal landscape. It’s clear this is something that will continue to evolve, and it was interesting to hear how different practitioners are thinking about it.

As always, some of the most valuable moments happened outside the sessions. Quick conversations turned into deeper discussions about challenging cases, different approaches to planning, and how firms are problem solving issues across states.

Attorneys, paralegals, and their teams are managing timelines, documentation, and client expectations all at once, often under tight deadlines. Seeing that up close gives you an even greater appreciation for how much coordination it really takes.

At AshBer, our focus is on making one part of that process feel more straightforward. Simple applications, clear communication, and dedicated support are all part of that.