2026 NYSBA Trial Academy in Collaboration with the National Institute for Trial Advocacy (NITA®)

2026 NYSBA Trial Academy

In Collaboration with the National Institute for Trial Advocacy (NITA®)
October 14–17, 2026 | Albany, New York

The New York State Bar Association Trial Academy is an immersive, hands-on trial skills program designed for new and young attorneys who want to build confidence, competence, and credibility in the courtroom.

For 2026, NYSBA is proud to partner with the National Institute for Trial Advocacy (NITA®)—the nationally recognized leader in experiential trial advocacy training. Together, NYSBA and NITA bring you a rigorous, four-day academy grounded in NITA’s proven learning-by-doing methodology, where participants actively practice core trial skills and receive personalized feedback from experienced faculty.

This is not a lecture-based CLE. From opening statements to closing arguments, you will be on your feet—learning by doing, refining your technique, and developing courtroom presence in a supportive, small-group environment.

Key Highlights – Why Attend the 2026 NYSBA Trial Academy?

Hands-On, Experiential Learning
You won’t sit on the sidelines. Participants actively perform trial skills through structured exercises and simulations that mirror real courtroom practice.

NITA’s Proven Training Model
NITA’s methodology emphasizes repetition, performance, and critique—helping attorneys develop skills that translate immediately into practice.

Expert Faculty & Individualized Feedback
Learn from seasoned trial lawyers and judges who are trained to teach advocacy skills. Faculty provide detailed, constructive critiques tailored to your performance.

Comprehensive Trial Skills Curriculum
Over four intensive days, you will practice essential trial techniques, including:

Jury Selection
Opening Statements
Direct & Cross-Examinations
Evidence Presentation & Objections
Impeachment
Expert Witness Examination
Closing Arguments

Small Group Breakouts
Participants work in small teams led by experienced Team Leaders, fostering a collaborative environment that encourages growth, experimentation, and peer learning.

Fact-Pattern Based Training
Participants receive case materials in advance and work from realistic fact patterns throughout the program—enhancing preparation and practical application.

Build Confidence That Carries Into Court
Whether you are preparing for your first trial or sharpening foundational skills, the Trial Academy equips you with techniques you can use immediately.

REGISTRATION RATES

Special Early Bird Offer — NYSBA Members
$2,495 – Register by January 31, 2026 | Group Discount (20% off for 3 more): $1996 per person

$2,695 – beginning on February 1^st | Group Discount (20% off for 3 or more): $2156 per person

NYSBA Co-Sponsoring Section Members
$2,495 – Register by January 31, 2026 | Group Discount (20% off for 3 or more): $1996 per person

$2,595 – beginning February 1st, 2026 | Group Discount (20% off for 3 or more): $2076 per person

Non-Members

No early bird rate available
Flat Rate: $3,195 | Group Discount (20% off for 3 or more): $2556 per person

(Includes one-year NYSBA membership — $395 value)

Important Registration Information

Limited Seating
Participation is limited to 32 registrants. Register early to guarantee your spot in this exclusive program!

Registration Deadline
Thursday, September 3, 2026 — registration closes to ensure materials are ordered in time.

Cancellation & Refund Policy

Full refunds available through June 30, 2026
50% refunds available through September 3, 2026
No cancellations accepted after September 3, 2026

Group Discounts
Save 20% when registering as a group of three or more.

Financial Aid / Tuition Assistance
Financial aid and tuition assistance are available.

This four-day Trial Academy is an immersive, skills-based program designed for litigators seeking intensive, hands-on trial experience. The first day of the Academy focuses on trial practice under New York law, followed by three days devoted to core trial advocacy skills through structured lectures, small-group exercises, and full jury trials.

Participants will work through either a civil or criminal case file which will be provided in advance of the program. These materials form the backbone of the Academy and are used throughout lectures, breakout sessions, and jury trials.

Program Structure

Each day of the Trial Academy features lectures addressing critical stages of the trial process, including:

Jury Selection
Opening Statements
Evidence and Objections
Ethics
Direct and Cross-Examinations
Trial Motions and Motions in Limine
Closing Arguments

Following each lecture, participants break into small teams led by experienced faculty, where they apply courtroom theory in practical exercises. Attendees remain with the same team and Team Leader throughout the program, allowing for continuous feedback, mentorship, and skill development.

Participants are assigned specific witnesses or advocacy problems in advance and will perform as both advocates and witnesses during exercises, reinforcing mastery of the case file and courtroom dynamics.

Jury Trials

On the final day of the Academy, participants will conduct full jury trials under New York law. Each trial lasts approximately three hours. Participants will serve as trial counsel in either a morning or afternoon session and will serve as a witness during the other portion of the day. All participants are required to remain for the full program through its conclusion.

Video Review and Attire

Participant performances will be recorded for personal review, allowing attendees to evaluate their courtroom presence, delivery, and effectiveness from the perspective of the judge and jury. Courtroom attire is required throughout the program.

Program Materials

Access credentials and links will be provided to registered participants in advance of the program.

Lodging in Albany

Please be aware that on-site parking is not available at the New York State Bar Association. Visitors are encouraged to utilize the parking facilities at their respective hotels. You can then conveniently walk or use a car service to reach the Bar Center, eliminating the need to search for street parking near the building. If you opt for street parking, please keep in mind that you will need to pay for a parking meter until 5:00p.m. Monday – Friday. Street parking is free on weekends and federal holidays. Credit cards are accepted at the parking meters.

There are several hotel options near the New York State Bar Association at 1 Elk Street, Albany, NY 12207.

View map of downtown Albany

Hampton Inn & Suites Albany-Downtown
25 Chapel Street, Albany, New York 12210

The New York State Bar Association has secured a limited room block at the Hampton Inn & Suites Albany – Downtown, conveniently located within walking distance of the Bar Center. The special group rate is $159 (++) per night.

Please make your reservation by September 13, 2026 to take advantage of the discounted rate.

Make Your Reservation

Or reserve with the hotel directly at 1-800-HILTONS and please let them know that you are booking your room in the NYS Bar Association Room Group Room block

Please note: This hotel is a 6-minute walk from the Bar Center and Albany County Courthouse but be aware that there is a hill that you will need to navigate (uphill from the hotel). Also please note that the cost to park is $18 per night.

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Downtown Albany

74 State Street, Albany, New York 12207This hotel is a 10-minute walk to the Bar Center. Please note that there is not onsite parking at this hotel. There is limited metered street parking in front of the building and a paid garage located within walking distance. Parking is free from 5pm – 8am and free on the weekends. The Hudson-Green Parking Garage is 1.5 blocks behind the hotel.