NYSBA Trial Academy
Wednesday, October 14 – Saturday, October 17, 2026
Albany, New York
The New York State Bar Association Trial Academy is a trial techniques program tailored for new and young attorneys. Through active participation in immersive sessions, participants refine and elevate their courtroom skills. We are also excited to announce our partnership with the National Institute for Trial Advocacy (NITA) for the 2026 Academy. With this collaboration—and an emphasis on hands-on learning—the Trial Academy promises to deliver a powerful training experience.
Key Highlights:
- Hands-On Learning: The Trial Academy places a strong emphasis on active participation. You won’t just be sitting in lectures; you’ll be actively engaged in practical exercises and simulations, allowing you to apply theory to real-world scenarios.
- Expert Faculty: Learn from experienced legal professionals and trial experts who will guide you through every aspect of the trial process. Our esteemed faculty will provide personalized feedback and insights to help you grow as a litigator.
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Over the course of five days, you’ll dive deep into essential trial techniques, including Jury Selection, Opening Statements, Evidence Presentation, Objections, Direct and Cross-Examinations, and Closing Arguments.
- Small Group Breakouts: Benefit from small group breakouts where you’ll work closely with fellow attendees and experienced Team Leaders. These sessions offer a supportive environment for skill development and peer collaboration.
- Fact Pattern-Based Learning: Receive fact patterns and materials in advance, enabling you to prepare thoroughly for each day’s activities. Your practical exercises will be based on these fact patterns, enhancing the relevance of your learning experience.
- Personalized Feedback: Gain insights from your own performance and receive constructive feedback from instructors and critique faculty.
Whether you’re new to the courtroom or looking to refine your trial skills, the New York State Bar Association Trial Academy offers a dynamic learning experience that will empower you to excel as a litigator. Join us for an immersive, hands-on training and leave with the confidence and expertise needed to advocate effectively in the courtroom.
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 1st | 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)
Participation is limited to 32 registrants. Register early to guarantee your spot in this exclusive program!
Thursday, September 3, 2026 — registration closes to ensure materials are ordered in time.
- Full refunds available through June 30, 2026
- 50% refunds available through September 3, 2026
- No cancellations accepted after September 3, 2026
Save 20% when registering as a group of three or more.
Financial aid and tuition assistance are available.
The materials for the program will include both a criminal and civil fact pattern which will be provided to attendees before the program’s start date.
Each day of the Trial Academy will feature lectures on the following aspects of the trial process: Jury Selection, Opening Statements, Evidence, Ethics, Objections, Direct Examinations, Cross- Examinations, Trial Motions and Motions in Limine, and Closing Arguments. Lecture groups will separate into small break-out groups, or teams. Prior to the start of the program each attendee will receive materials that will include which “problem” or “witness” they are to prepare for each day’s break-out group. You will work with this group and your Team Leader throughout the entire Trial Academy. The break- out groups will allow you and your peers to put the theory of the lecture into practice with the feedback of your Team Leader and the rotating critique faculty.
Your presentations will be recorded to allow for personal playback and review.
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.
25 Chapel Street, Albany, New York 12210
This 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.
Hilton Albany
40 Lodge Street, Albany, New York 12207
Please be aware that, while this hotel is conveniently located within a short walking distance from the Bar Center, there is a hill that you’ll need to navigate (uphill from the hotel).
144 State Street, Albany, New York
Holiday Inn Express Albany – Downtown, an IHG Hotel
300 Broadway, Albany, New York 12207
(518) 434-4111
Hyatt Place Albany
82 Montgomery Street, Albany, New York 12207
(518)-977-7778
Please contact directly to inquire about room availability and rates.