NYSBA Trial Academy
Saturday, April 6 – Wednesday, April 10, 2024
New York State Bar Association
1 Elk Street, Albany, New York
The New York State Bar Association Trial Academy is a five-day trial techniques program tailored for new and young attorneys. Through active participation in sessions, participants will enhance and refine their courtroom skills. With an emphasis on direct participation, the Trial Academy is a great learning experience for all involved.
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, Trial Motions, Motions in Limine, 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: Your presentations will be recorded, allowing for personalized playback and review. 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 five days of immersive, hands-on training and leave with the confidence and expertise needed to advocate effectively in the courtroom.
Don’t miss this opportunity to invest in your legal career. Register today!
31.0 MCLE Credits: 22.0 Skills, 1.5 Ethics, 7.5 Areas of Professional Practice
This program is transitional and suitable for newly admitted attorneys.
Register by December 31, 2023 for the Early Bird Discount!
Early Bird NYSBA Member Price: $995.00
Early Bird Non-Member Price: $1195.00
Registration rate after December 31:
$1295 NYSBA Members
$1,495 for Non-Members after December 31.
No refunds for cancellations after March 15
Trial Academy 2024
Saturday, April 6 – Wednesday, April 10, 2024
New York State Bar Association
1 Elk Street, Albany, New York 12207
31.0 MCLE Credits
22.0 Skills, 1.5 Ethics, 7.5 Areas of Professional Practice
This program is transitional and suitable for newly admitted attorneys.
Saturday, April 6 (Day 1)
Registrants: Please view the Pre-Recorded “Jury Selection” webinar created for Trial Academy as part of your preparation.
1:30 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Check in
2:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Welcome and Introductions
Great Hall
2:30 p.m. – 3:20 p.m.
Storytelling & Developing Your Case Theory
1.0 MCLE Credit in Areas of Professional Practice3:20 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Break
3:30 p.m. – 4:20 p.m.
Faculty Demonstration of Jury Selection
No MCLE Credit4:20 p.m. – 5:10 p.m.
How to Introduce Evidence
1.0 MCLE Credit in Skills5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Welcome Cocktail Reception & Founders Award Presentation
Hinman Library & Patio
All Trial Academy students, faculty and volunteers are invited to attend this complimentary reception. Beer, wine and soda and light refreshments will be served. Come and meet your fellow students and faculty and network over a drink!
Sunday, April 7 (Day 2)
7:30 a.m.
Continental Breakfast
Hinman Library
8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Team Meetings – Jury Selection Presentations
Please go directly to your designated Team Room to check in. Team rooms will remain the same each day for students.
Each team member will present a demonstration to the Team of a Jury Selection/Voir Dire based on the provided fact pattern. The critique faculty will provide constructive feedback and guidance following each presentation. In addition, a recording of each presentation will be used during a one-on-one critique session with a rotating faculty of experienced trial attorneys and judges.
12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Lunch
Great Hall
1:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Trial Ethics
Great Hall
1.5 MCLE Credits in Ethics2:30 p.m. – 2:40 p.m.
Break
2:40 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Opening Statements
2.0 MCLE Credits in Areas of Professional Practice4:30 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Faculty Demonstration of Opening Statements
Great Hall
Speaker TBD
Monday, April 8 (Day 3)
7:30 a.m.
Continental Breakfast
Hinman Library
8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Team Meetings – Opening Statements and Demonstrations
Please go directly to your designated Team Room to check in. Team rooms will remain the same each day for students.
Each team member will present a demonstration to the Team of Opening Statements based on the provided fact pattern. The critique faculty will provide constructive feedback and guidance following each presentation. In addition, a recording of each presentation will be used during a one-on-one critique session with a rotating faculty of experienced trial attorneys and judges.
12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Lunch
Great Hall
1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Direct Examinations
Great Hall
1.0 MCLE Credit in Areas of Professional Practice2:00 p.m. – 2:20 p.m.
Break
2:20 p.m. – 3:10 p.m.
Trial Motions and Motions in Limine
Great Hall
1.0 MCLE Credit in Areas of Professional Practice3:10 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Basics of Cross Examination
Great Hall
1.5 MCLE Credits in SkillsTuesday, April 9 (Day 4)
7:30 a.m.
Sign-in and Continental Breakfast
Great Hall
8:00 a.m. – 8:40 a.m.
Cross Examinations
Great Hall
0.5 MCLE Credit in Areas of Professional Practice8:40 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.
Faculty Demonstration of Direct and Cross Examinations
Great Hall
No MCLE Credit9:30 a.m. – 9:40 a.m.
Break
9:40 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Team Meetings – Direct and Cross Examinations
Please head to your designated Team Room to check in. Team rooms will remain the same each day for students.
Each team member will present a demonstration to the Team of Direct and Cross Examinations based on the provided fact pattern. The critique faculty will provide constructive feedback and guidance following each presentation. In addition, a recording of each presentation will be used during a one-on-one critique session with a rotating faculty of experienced trial attorneys and judges.
1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Lunch
Great Hall
2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Team Meetings – Direct and Cross Examinations (continued)
Please return to your designated Team Room to check in. Team rooms will remain the same each day for students.
Each team member will present a demonstration to the Team of Direct and Cross Examinations based on the provided fact pattern. The critique faculty will provide constructive feedback and guidance following each presentation. In addition, a recording of each presentation will be used during a one-on-one critique session with a rotating faculty of experienced trial attorneys and judges.
4:00 p.m. – 4:10 p.m.
Break
Great Hall
4:10 p.m. – 5:50 p.m.
Closing Arguments
Great Hall
2.0 MCLE Credits in Areas of Professional Practice6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Closing Reception
Hinman Hall/Patio
Wednesday, April 10 (Day 5)
8:00 a.m.
Sign-in and Continental Breakfast
Great Hall
8:30 a.m. – 9:00 a.m.
Faculty Demo of Closing Arguments
Great Hall
No MCLE Credit9:00 a.m. – 9:10 a.m.
Break
9:10 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Team Meetings – Closing Arguments
Please head to your designated Team Room to check in. Team rooms will remain the same each day for students.
Each team member will present a demonstration to the Team of a Closing Argument based on the provided fact pattern. The critique faculty will provide constructive feedback and guidance following each presentation. In addition, a recording of each presentation will be used during a one-on-one critique session with a rotating faculty of experienced trial attorneys and judges.
11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Lunch, Closing Remarks and Farewell
Great Hall
12:30 p.m.- 2:30 p.m.
Team Meetings – Closing Arguments (continued)
Please head back to your designated Team Room to check in. Team rooms will remain the same each day for students.
Each team member will present a demonstration to the Team of Direct and Cross Examinations based on the provided fact pattern. The critique faculty will provide constructive feedback and guidance following each presentation. In addition, a recording of each presentation will be used during a one-on-one critique session with a rotating faculty of experienced trial attorneys and judges.
2:30 p.m.
Trial Academy Adjourns
T. Andrew Brown, Esq.
Brown Hutchinson LLP
Rochester, NY
Hon. Jerald S. Carter (ret.)
Nassau County District Court
Catherine Christian, Esq.
Liston Abramson, LLP
New York, NY
Jonathan Cohn, Esq.
Gerstenzang, Sills, Cohn & Gerstenzang
Albany, NY
Richard D. Collins, Esq.
Collins Gann McCloskey & Barry PLLC
Mineola, NY
Julie D’Agostino, Esq.
Of Counsel to Mangi and Graham, LLP
Westbury, NY
Vincent E. Doyle, III, Esq.
Connors LLP
Buffalo, NY
Clotelle Drakeford, Esq.
Trial Academy Program Co-Chair
Associate Attorney for Special Litigation and Program Counsel
The Legal Aid Society of Westchester County
White Plains, NY
Steven B. Epstein, Esq.
Barket Epstein Kearon Aldea & Loturco, LLP
Garden City, NY
Hon. Erin P. Gall
Supreme Court Justice
Oneida County Supreme Court
Marc Gann, Esq.
Collins Gann McClosky & Barry, PLLC
Mineola, NY
Sharon Stern Gerstman, Esq.
Magavern Magavern Grimm LLP
Buffalo, NY
Peter Gerstenzang, Esq.
Gerstenzang, Sills, Cohn & Gerstenzang
Albany, NY
E. Stewart Jones, Jr. Esq.
E. Stewart Jones Hacker Murphy
Troy, NY
Richard C. Lewis, Esq.
President, New York State Bar Association
Hon. Robert McDonald
New York State Supreme Court
Mineola, NY
Joseph D. Morath, Jr., Esq.
Connors LLP
Buffalo, NY
Peter J. Moschetti, Jr., Esq.
Anderson Moschetti & Taffany
Albany, NY
Eric H. Sills, Esq.
Gerstenzang, Sills, Cohn & Gerstenzang
Albany, NY
Tucker C. Stanclift, Esq.
Trial Academy Co-Founder & Program Co-Chair
Stanclift Law PLLC
Queensbury, NY
Laurie Vahey, Esq.
Vahey Muldoon Reston Getz LLP
Rochester, NY
Sherry Levin Wallach, Esq.
Immediate Past President, NYSBA
Trial Academy Co-Founder
Deputy Executive Director
The Legal Aid Society of Westchester County
White Plains, NY
Robert Wells, Esq.
New York State Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
Syracuse, NY
Kaylin L. Whittingham, Esq.
Whittingham Law & The Legal Ethics Lab
New York, NY
Trial Academy Faculty
Coming soon
To ensure adequate preparation for the Academy, registrants are strongly encouraged to register at least one month in advance. This advanced registration allows participants to be well-prepared for the Trial Academy, where they will be tasked with presenting a Jury Selection/Voir Dire on the first day, followed by other presentations each subsequent day. Registrants will need to view the Pre-Recorded “Jury Selection” webinar created for Trial Academy as part of your preparations for Day One.
To kickstart your preparations for Day One, registrants should view the Pre-Recorded “Jury Selection” webinar specifically created for the Trial Academy. You can access the webinar by clicking on this link: https://nysba.ce21.com/ViewerUnAutheticatedLink?x=2WOt5Ic0ciTwH3h2KtRHNw==
Check-in for the event will commence on Saturday afternoon in the Great Hall of the New York State Bar Association at 1:30 p.m. The program will run from Saturday through Wednesday, concluding at 3 p.m. on the final day. Please allocate time each evening to prepare for the following day’s activities.
The program materials will encompass both criminal and civil fact patterns, which will be distributed to attendees ahead of the program’s start date. If, for any reason, you do not receive a fact pattern via email two weeks before the Academy, please promptly contact Gina Bartosiewicz at [email protected].
Attendees are strongly encouraged to make the most of their preparation time by utilizing the provided fact patterns and materials.
Throughout the Trial Academy, participants will benefit from lectures covering various aspects of the trial process, including Jury Selection, Opening Statements, Direct Examination, Evidence, Cross-Examinations, Trial Motions and Motions in Limine, and Closing Arguments.
Each day, the lecture group will divide into smaller break-out groups. Ahead of the program’s commencement, attendees will receive materials specifying which “problem” or “witness” they are responsible for preparing in their respective break-out groups. You will collaborate closely with this group and your designated Team Leader throughout the entirety of the Trial Academy.
These break-out groups are specifically designed to provide you and your fellow attendees with an opportunity to put the lecture theory into practice. You will receive invaluable feedback from your Team Leader and the rotating critique faculty during these sessions. Additionally, all presentations will be recorded, allowing for personal playback and review, further enhancing the learning experience.
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.
Thank you to the following sponsors!
Gold Sponsor
Silver Sponsor
Bronze Sponsors
Interested in sponsoring the NYSBA Trial Academy? Please reach out to Gina Bartosiewicz ([email protected]) for more information!
Several Sections of the NYSBA offer scholarships to attend the NYSBA Trial Academy. To apply for a Trial Academy scholarship, complete and submit the application form along with your resume. This application will be reviewed for consideration by multiple NYSBA Sections; no need to apply to each Section individually. Note that the scholarship covers the meeting registration, scholarship recipients need to cover their travel, accommodation and any other expenses.
Deadline for Applications Extended to 3/1/24
Click the link below to download the scholarship application:
There are several hotel options near 1 Elk Street that are holding space for attendees of the Trial Academy. It’s worth noting that although these hotels are conveniently located near the Bar Center, please be aware that there is limited metered street parking available near the New York State Bar center at 1 Elk. Parking is free at the meters from 5 p.m. – 8:00 a.m. and is free on the weekends.
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Downtown Albany
74 State Street, Albany, New York 12207
NYSBA has secured a limited number of rooms at the rate of $114 until March 6th, 2024
Reserve online here: https://www.marriott.com/event-reservations/reservation-link.mi?id=1697549951630&key=GRP&app=resvlink
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.
Hampton Inn & Suites Albany-Downtown
25 Chapel Street, Albany, New York 12210
Reserve online here: https://www.hilton.com/en/attend-my-event/albhshx-bar-c7a5cd3a-6bfd-46d6-8206-e1f89d57fa1d/
NYSBA has secured a limited number of rooms at the rate of: $139 per night.
This hotel is a 6-minute walk from the Bar center 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.
Hilton Albany
40 Lodge Street, Albany, New York 12207
NYSBA has secured a limited number of rooms at the rate of: $149 per night until March 7, 2023
Reserve online here: https://www.hilton.com/en/attend-my-event/nys-bar-association-april-2024/
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).
Other nearby hotel options (please contact directly to inquire about room availability and rates):
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
The Renaissance Albany Hotel
144 State Street, Albany, New York
Volunteer as a Juror or Witness:
The NYSBA Trial Academy is seeking volunteers to participate in the program as jurors & witnesses.
Volunteers do not need to have legal experience, and law students are welcome to audit lectures.
An information session will take place prior to the program to familiarize you with your role.
Please reach out to Clotelle Drakeford ([email protected])for more information on volunteering!
Please note that volunteers will not be reimbursed for travel or lodging
Q&A
Q: When and Where is the Trial Academy?
A: The Trial Academy will be held the New York State Bar Association on 1 Elk Street, Albany, New York 12207 on April 6 – April 10, 2024
Q: How Does Trial Academy Work?
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. If you do not receive a fact pattern via email two weeks prior to the Academy, please contact Gina Bartosiewicz ([email protected]) immediately
Attendees are strongly encouraged to prepare as much as possible using the fact pattern and materials.
Each afternoon of the Trial Academy will feature a lecture on the following aspects of the trial process: Jury Selection, Opening Statements, Evidence, Foundations and Objections, Direct Examinations, Cross-Examinations, Trial Motions and Motions in Limine, and Closing Arguments.
On the following morning, the lecture group will separate into small break-out groups. 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 breakout 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.
Q: My practice focuses on mostly civil litigation. Can I request that I only present from the civil fact pattern?
A: The Academy focuses on the major aspects of both a civil and criminal trial. Students must make their presentations from both the criminal and civil fact pattern. The critique faculty is a diverse mix of those with civil and criminal experience.
Q: How late can I register and what about refunds?
A: We strongly recommend that you register at least two weeks prior to the Academy to allow sufficient time to prepare. Two weeks prior to the Academy you will be provided with the fact pattern and other materials. You should begin preparing immediately and not wait until the night before.
Q: What CLE Credits are Available?
A: Under New York’s MCLE rule, this program has been approved for a total of up to 31 MCLE credit hours: 22.0 Skills, 1.5 Ethics, and 7.5 Areas of Professional Practice. This program is transitional and therefore suitable for newly-admitted attorneys.
Q: Are Discounts and Scholarships Available?
A: Scholarships are available through several of NYSBA Sections. Check the website listing for application deadlines. Please note that scholarships only cover the registration fee, and do not cover travel, accommodations, or other expenses.
Attorneys may receive financial assistance to attend this program. Under New York State Bar Association policy, attorneys who require financial assistance may apply in writing, no later than 10 working days prior to the program, explaining the basis of his/her hardship, and, if approved, may receive a discount or scholarship, depending on the circumstances. For more details, please contact: Gina Bartosiewicz, New York State Bar Association, One Elk Street, Albany, New York 12207, [email protected].
Q: Are there Accommodations for Persons with Disabilities?
A: Yes. NYSBA welcomes participation by individuals with disabilities. NYSBA is committed to complying with all applicable laws that prohibit discrimination against individuals on the basis of disability in the full and equal enjoyment of its goods, services, programs, activities, facilities, privileges, advantages, or accommodations. To request auxiliary aids or services or if you have any questions regarding accessibility, please contact Gina Bartosiewicz at least 2 weeks in advance of the event at gbartosiewicz or 518-487-5671.
Q: Where do I park?
Please be aware that on-site parking is not available at the New York State Bar Association. To ensure a hassle-free experience, we recommend that visitors 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 – Weds. Your convenience and ease of access are our priorities.
Q: What meals are provided?
A: Continental breakfast, hot and cold buffet lunch and snack breaks are provided Sunday – Wednesday. You will be on your own for dinner, although there are cocktail receptions on the first and last evenings. Breakfast and lunch will have vegetarian options available, no need to make a special request. If you have other dietary restrictions or requests, please let us know in advance. Kosher meals are available to those who order in advance. If you have requested Kosher meals in advance, please identify yourself to the wait staff to receive your meal as they are labeled individually. Kosher breakfast and lunch are ordered online when you register for the Academy. All conference attendees are on their own for dinner.
Q: Will I be the only one with no trial experience? OR, will there be other attorneys participating who do have trial experience?
A: No, you won’t be the only new or experienced attorney. Every year the Trial Academy has great diversity among its participants. There is always a mix of those no trial experience, limited trial experience, and experienced attorneys.
Q: I’ve registered for Trial Academy! What happens next?
A: Approximately 2 weeks prior to the program, you will be sent an email. It will contain a fact pattern to use to study and prepare. Thorough review of these materials is critical to being ready for the program, and presentations. You will be expected to present on your first day of the Academy on Jury Selection.
Approximately one week prior to the program, you will be emailed your team assignment. All participants in the Academy will gather together in the morning for a lecture, and the split into teams for the afternoons. Each afternoon of the Academy will be spent with your team of approximately 10-15 other students, practicing techniques and studying various trial aspects. Each team will have a rotating critique faculty to observe and provide feedback on student presentations.
Along with the team information, you will be sent your problem assignment, which indicates whether you will be handling the civil or criminal case, and when you will be representing the plaintiff or defense.
Q: Are there course materials?
A: Yes. All course materials are available online. We are striving to conserve paper and present the materials in a convenient electronic format. Printing all of the materials would result in two very large books for you to carry throughout the week.
Wi-Fi is available at the meeting site for you to access the materials online during the program. A high volume of users can slow access so you may want to save the course materials in advance on the laptop or tablet that you are bringing. You do not need to print the course materials.
You must have Adobe Acrobat in order to view, save, and/or print the materials. If you do not already have Adobe Acrobat Reader, you can download a free copy at this link: http://get.adobe.com/reader/
Q: What should I bring?
A: Bring a laptop or tablet, if you have one. A link to program materials will be provided in advance, and you may want to access these materials onsite during the lectures. We will not provide notepads for note-taking.
Bring business cards, if you have them. You will have lots of opportunities to network and exchange contact information with fellow attendees, leading litigators, judges and NYSBA leadership.
Dress to impress. Please wear business attire each day. This will help you feel more confident and will make your presentations feel more like an actual court appearance.
Q: Can I tweet about the Academy?
A: Yes! You can follow or post about the program on Twitter, at: #TrialAcademy24
Q: How do I prepare?
A: Advance preparation is essential!
Approximately three weeks before the program, you will be emailed a set of materials to study in advance of the Academy. This information will prepare you and help you feel more confident about your participation. We strongly encourage you NOT to wait until the evening before Trial Academy to read the materials. Any time you put into preparation using the provided materials will pay off. Please note, on the afternoon of the first day, students will be asked to make presentations on the topic of the day.
Please note that all participants will be required to present to their small group each day of the Academy, including the first day. Day one you will be conducting a voir dire. Day 2: an opening statement. Day 3: a direct examination. Day 4: a cross examination. Day 5: your closing argument. Please prepare as best you can for these in advance of the Academy, once you review the fact patterns and course materials. Some of the course materials relate to the fact patterns.
Q: What Else Can I Do to Prepare for Trial Academy?
A: RELAX. It is natural to be a bit nervous—keep in mind that you are not alone—everyone is feeling the same way you are. Remember that perfection is not expected, only improvement. This is a learning experience. Please come ready to work hard, have fun, begin new friendships, and learn a great deal.
We look forward to seeing you at the Academy!
