Credit: 12.0 Total Credit Hours, 3.0 Credit Hours Per Session

Description: This series is a great introduction to and overview of the trial skills a lawyer must possess in the courtroom. From jury selection and opening statements to witness preparation, direct examination, cross-examination, and closing arguments, this class will help you become more effective in court. The series includes lectures, discussions, and demonstrations emphasizing the rules, practices, and procedures in local and federal courts in the Washington metropolitan area. Both civil and criminal trial considerations will be discussed.

Part 1: Opening Statements and Closing Arguments (February 6) Start out right and finish strong at your next trial. This session will look at opening and closing arguments from several key perspectives, including preparation, presentation, and objections. Faculty: Debra S. Katz, Katz, Marshall & Banks, LLP; Michael F. Williams, Kirkland & Ellis LLP

Part 2: Jury Selection (February 13) This session will examine the process and procedures of jury selection, including learning the composition of the jury pool, peremptory strikes, and using jury selection services. Faculty: Paulette Chapman, Koonz, McKenney, Johnson, DePaolis & Lightfoot, L.L.P.; Janet Mitchell, Public Defender Service for the District of Columbia; Dwight Murray, Jordan Coyne & Savits LLP

Part 3: Witness Preparation and Direct Examination (February 20) Well-prepared witnesses and persuasive direct examinations (or lack thereof) can make or break your case at trial. This program will cover the vital task of preparing your witnesses to testify credibly at trial. It also will examine techniques and strategies for effective direct examination, maximizing your witness' potential and minimizing his or her weaknesses. Faculty: Catherine D. Bertram, Regan Zambri & Long, PLLC; Patrick J. Coyne, Finnegan, Henderson, Farabow, Garrett & Dunner, LLP;Sara E. Kropf, Baker Botts LLP

Part 4: Cross-Examination (February 27) This session will teach you how to use cross-examination to tell your story, to control the witness, and to impeach the witness. The class is useful to attorneys who have yet to cross-examine a witness, as well as to practitioners who have a modest level of trial experience. It will delve into the objectives, strategies, tactics, mechanics, and legal principles governing effective cross-examination. Faculty: Patrick J. Attridge, King & Attridge; L. Barrett Boss, Cozen O'Connor