Readers, I hope you will be able to attend an exciting event on the Hague Service and Evidence Conventions this autumn in Washington. Titled “Service of Process and Taking of Evidence Abroad: The Impact of ‘Electronic Means’ on the Operation of the Hague Conventions,” the event will feature panels of distinguished scholars and practitioners from around the world on topics such as (a) the origins, theory and practice of the Conventions, (b) the role of Central Authorities, (c) how civil lawyers and common lawyers deal with issues under the Conventions, and (d) future challenges facing those who use convention mechanisms. I’ll be speaking on one of the panels, though I disclaim the “distinguished” label. Christophe Bernasconi, the Secretary-General of the Hague Conference on Private International Law, will deliver opening remarks, and the keynote speaker will be the Hon. Rimski Yeun, Hong Kong’s Secretary of Justice. A reception will follow.

The event is hosted by the Center on Transnational Business and the Law at Georgetown University Law Center. The co-sponsors are Covington & Burling, Jones Day, Winston & Strawn, the American Branch of the International Law Association, the American Society of International Law, the ABA Section of International Law, and the Hague Conference on Private International Law. You will be able to read about the event right here at Letters Blogatory, but it would be even better to be there in person.