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Trial Advocacy Program

September 26 @ 9:00 am – 5:45 pm

AABANY’s Litigation Committee is proud to present the 2026 Trial Advocacy Program (“TAP”) at the Fall Conference this year. TAP offers junior lawyers a unique opportunity to hone their trial skills under the guidance of seasoned trial veterans (former state and federal prosecutors and state and federal trial judges) and receive constructive feedback to help you become a stronger trial advocate. This year, we will conduct TAP as a fifth track at the Conference, focusing on essential trial skills, including opening statements, direct examinations, cross examinations, and closing statements. Participants will be given a mock trial problem to work through with a partner and then perform the mock trial for a faculty of mentors, who will provide individualized critiques to help participants sharpen their trial advocacy skills.

Please note that TAP registrants will have to attend all TAP sessions to receive CLE credits. 

Please also note that your registration includes the Plenary Lunch Session and the Cocktail Reception at the end of the day. TAP registrants can attend any of the CLE programs being offered during the last afternoon session, which are scheduled for 4:15 to 5:45 pm. You can attend the Diversity Career Fair only during the times that do not conflict with TAP sessions.

Agenda & Curriculum:

Registrants will be asked to prepare portions of openings, direct examinations, cross-examinations, and summations focused on developing specific skills relevant to each.  Registrants will receive the fact pattern and materials around September 12, 2026, along with further information as to what skills they should focus on as they prepare their examinations. 

The program will begin at 9:00am–4:15pm, and will consist of speaker lectures on direct examination, cross-examination, and summation and closing practice tips.  Students will be able to practice and hone their trial skills in small group settings and will receive individualized, tailored feedback on their presentation and efficacy. 

Confirmed Faculty and Speakers:

Experienced judges and trial attorneys will serve as lecturers and/or coaches who will provide feedback in small group settings. Students will have the opportunity to practice in front of them and ask questions on best practices and applicable rules.

The list of confirmed faculty and speakers include the following, and will be updated as we near the date of the program.

Details

  • Date: September 26
  • Time:
    9:00 am – 5:45 pm