Plaintiff's Trial Academy--2 day

Learn the Skills You Need to Effectively Represent Plaintiffs at Trial

The CTLA - Civil Justice Foundation is proud to offer this intensive, 2-day workshop that guarantees to improve your trial skills - whatever your level of experience!  Connecticut's premiere Plaintiff's Counsel will teach you the methods they use to succeed in the courtroom!

During this Hands-on Training You will Learn:

• How to Give a Compelling Opening Statement
• Present a Powerful Closing Argument
• Effective Questioning Techniques for Direct Examination
• How to Conduct an Effective Cross

Only 2 hours per day is devoted to lecture and demonstration by the faculty.  The remainder of the day is devoted to YOU and honing YOUR trial skills.  Develop the approaches and techniques that work best for you.  On the first day, each student will conduct an opening statement and direct examination, and on day 2 conduct a cross-examination and closing argument.

Learn by Doing in a Supportive Atmosphere

Participation is limited to 40 students, with breakout groups, including two faculty members.  Learn what works for you and get specific suggestions for improving your skills.  Following each student demonstration, one faculty member will discuss the content of presentation and the second faculty member will focus on form.  The program will be very interactive - you will learn from both the faculty and the other students in your group - and also take home a video of your demonstrations.

The Case

Potter v. Shrackle:  This case involves a wrongful death action where a pedestrian is hit by a pick-up truck.  Full case materials include police reports, deposition summaries, exhibits, photographs and blow-ups.

Trial Exercises using this case include:

• Direct examination of the police officer and husband.
• Cross examination of the defendant, eye witness and defense economist.

The case materials will be mailed out approximately one month in advance of the program.  In addition to individual demonstrations, students will have the opportunity to play the part of the non-expert witnesses.

Each student will learn how to conduct effective impeachment of witnesses as well as techniques to maximize damage awards.