New Lawyers Attend Five-Day Trial Boot Camp at Syracuse Law

New Lawyers Attend Five-Day Trial Boot Camp at Syracuse Law

5.18.2022

By Jennifer Andrus

A one-of-a-kind boot camp for trial attorneys who want to improve their courtroom skills kicks off today at Syracuse University College of Law.

The five-day New York State Bar Association Trial Academy covers all aspects of a trial from jury selection to closing arguments. The event draws the best civil and criminal litigators from around the state to teach newer attorneys. Sitting judges also attend to give advice to young lawyers.

Topics include preparation of a witness, the art of cross examination and the use of body language to communicate with a jury. The Trial Academy is the brainchild of New York State Bar Association President-Elect Sherry Levin Wallach and Glen Falls attorney Tucker Stanclift.

“The Trial Academy is what the New York State Bar Association does best, giving our members practical value and experience. Young lawyers walk away feeling more confident and ready for their day in court. Now in its 13th year, it continues to be a rewarding experience,” Levin Wallach says.

What sets this program apart is the hands-on approach, Stanclift says. “This program is designed to enhance trial skills and for some, it’s the first time they are practicing those skills. It’s a well-rounded experience where new lawyers get fundamental skills in a safe environment. Failure does not have consequences here, and real learning takes place.”

You can follow the trial academy on Twitter using #trial 22.