This year’s Battle of the Barristers, sponsored by Seattle King County Realtors (SKCR), saw record-breaking attendance as more than 730 Washington Realtors and affiliates tuned in to the virtual event Oct. 7.

The fundraising event provided three clock hours of continuing education to SKCR members. According to SKCR’s website, it raised $34,817 for the Seattle King-County First Citizen Scholarship Foundation, which funds scholarships for Realtors and their families in Washington, D.C.

“Ranked as the most valuable annual member event in our 2021 member survey, the best legal battle of the year is a great opportunity for members to learn from five of the best real estate attorneys on the best practices in today’s extraordinary market,” the website says. 

Lawyer and clock-hour instructor Mike Spence served as moderator of the “battle,” with help from real estate attorneys Annie Fitzsimmons, Lars Neste, Chris Osborn and Doug S. Tingvall.

The attorneys debated on scenarios and practice areas concerning money deposits, brokers contributing to seller’s remodeling costs, proof of funds issues, listing properties under value to encourage a bidding war and dealing with uncooperative sellers. Real estate professionals learned about the importance of real estate legal issues.

“This course offers real-life application and a great reminder of our legal duties and boundaries,” said Tammy Heldridge, an agent with Windermere Real Estate.