Tucker Ellis LLP is pleased to announce the revival of its immersive trial-skills training program, the Tucker Ellis Trial Academy. The reenvisioned in-house program gives the firm’s top mid-level trial attorneys a unique opportunity to enrich their courtroom skills through a combination of practical seminars led by veteran Tucker Ellis trial attorneys and on-your-feet experience based on an actual case. Leading and developing the program is Rita Maimbourg, a Fellow of the American College of Trial Lawyers with over four decades of experience in medical-related litigation, with support from the firm’s Director of Professional Development, Heather Bartzi.

“We have an obligation to share the lessons we’ve learned and strategies we’ve developed over our decades of experience with the next generation of Tucker Ellis trial lawyers,” Ms. Maimbourg said. “With fewer trials happening, there are fewer opportunities for our up-and-coming trial attorneys to get real-world experience. With the Trial Academy, our clients can feel confident that the next generation of trial lawyers is ready to handle their cases the ‘Tucker Ellis way’ long after my colleagues and I retire.”

“Our Trial Department prides itself on being trial-ready. And our accomplished partners are fully committed to ensuring the more junior attorneys are prepared to take up the mantle going forward,” said Karl Bekeny, Chambers-ranked chair of the firm’s Trial Department.

This year’s Trial Academy consists of two trials, one a breach of contract case and the other a wrongful death negligence case. The program kicks off with a two-day training session beginning April 21 during which senior Trial Department partners present on the various steps of a trial and demonstrate key trial skills based on real-life cases they have litigated. Then, trial participants divide into teams of two representing either the plaintiff or defendant. In the weeks leading up to the trials – which are scheduled to take place over three days beginning May 17 and June 7, respectively – both teams establish theories of the case and strategies to win it.

Teams engage in every step of the trial process, from jury selection and arguing motions in limine, to giving opening statements, direct- and cross-examining of lay witnesses, and making closing arguments. Following each trial, senior partners provide critical feedback to each participant assessing their courtroom skills. Because the trials are video recorded, participants will study their performances and work with partners to address areas for improvement.

The firm’s in-house approach to trial-skills development allows participants to receive substantive training that is tailored to their specific needs. The seasoned trial lawyers facilitating the program have often worked with the participants throughout their careers on various client matters. As such, they are able to provide individualized guidance, in contrast to the one-size-fits all approach common of outside trial-skills programs. Developing the firm’s top-flight talent into first-chair trial lawyers, the Trial Academy represents an important investment Tucker Ellis is making in its next generation.