What are the liabilities related to hosting user-generated content on the Web? What impact does In re Bilski have on patenting methods claims? What are the most critical issues arising from the Patent Reform Act of 2009? These questions and more will be explored at the 2009 American Bar Association Annual Meeting, July 30 – Aug 4, in Chicago.

With more than 1,500 top quality legal programs and events, and presentations by the foremost law experts and speakers, including Attorney General Eric H. Holder Jr., the ABA Annual Meeting is the nation’s premier gathering of legal professionals.

The 555-member House of Delegates will meet on Aug. 3 and 4 in the Hyatt Regency Chicago, Grand Ballroom, Gold Level, East Tower to consider policy recommendations and vote on resolutions.  During the Aug. 3 meeting, Holder will address the delegates and William H. Gates Sr., co-chair of the William and Melinda Gates Foundation, will receive the ABA Medal, the association’s highest honor.

Among policies to be debated by the House is a plan to facilitate increased legal aid to persons facing crisis from the recession. Other proposals urge repeal of a provision in the Defense of Marriage Act that denies federal marital benefits and protections to lawfully married same-sex spouses; call on Congress to approve a national study of the state of criminal justice aiming to reduce crime and incarceration, save tax dollars, enhance fairness and increase public confidence in criminal justice.

For details and updates on these and more than two dozen proposals for debate and vote by the House, check this site.