Massachusetts Bar Association's Trial Academy

The Massachusetts Bar Association is pleased to launch its first-ever Trial Academy, which will provide new attorneys with training in basic trial practice and procedure.

The MBA’s Leadership Team recognizes there are limited opportunities for new lawyers pursuing careers as trial attorneys to obtain real experience trying cases. Effective advocacy is a critical skill all attorneys must have and can acquire through proper training and with experience.

The Trial Academy program will give graduates the opportunity to practice their own trial techniques with expert feedback and critique from experienced trial lawyers. Attendees will be able to apply their classroom training by providing limited-assistance representation (LAR) to pro se litigants in the civil sessions of either the Dedham District Court or Boston Municipal Court.

During this two-day intensive program, an all-star faculty will provide training in civil trial procedure, practice and techniques including:

• Opening statements
• Presenting plaintiff’s case in chief
• Direct and cross-examination of plaintiff
• Presenting defendant’s case in chief
• Direct and cross-examination of defendant
• Direct and cross-examination of expert witnesses
• Introducing evidence and preserving the record for appeal
• Closing arguments

Space will be limited to ensure an engaging learning environment with individualized instruction and feedback.

The training is exclusive to MBA members. Not an MBA member? Click here to join the MBA.