Adams Leclair associate, Lauren Maddox, recently returned from Albany after successfully completing the 2024 New York State Bar Association’s Trial Academy.  Held at the Albany County Courthouse, the five-day NYSBA Trial Academy program offers newly admitted attorneys the opportunity to enhance and refine their courtroom skills.  

“I had the opportunity to meet attorneys and judges throughout the state and develop trial advocacy skills. I received feedback from experienced attorneys and judges on effective advocacy,” reflected Maddox.

Trial Academy participants attend lectures each day to focus on different parts of trial, including jury selection, opening statements, direct and cross examination, and summation. Lecturers also provide demonstrations. The following day, participants are required to present their own version based on an assigned fact pattern. A panel of critique faculty, composed of judges and attorneys, then provides feedback and guidance. 

“It was helpful to receive feedback from different attorneys because there were many unique approaches, but they were all effective,” said Maddox. “There was an emphasis on building trial skills and presenting in a way that was authentic to each attorney.”

Each presentation is recorded and the participants view their recording one-on-one with a member of the panel.

“We had the advantage of learning from attorneys in different areas of practice and with different backgrounds. We also had the opportunity to practice our trial skills in areas that are different from our usual work.”

As a law firm, Adams Leclair regularly sponsors attorneys and staff members who seek out professional development programs. 

“We readily support continued legal education and encourage young attorneys to take advantage of programs that will help them hone their craft,” said Steven Cole, Managing Partner.  “We make sure to pair our new associates with a partner who can serve as a mentor and guide them as they expand their areas of expertise.”

Maddox is a 2017 graduate of the University of Miami School of Law and joined Adams Leclair in 2023 after growing her legal career as in house counsel for insurers.  She has experience representing individuals and insurers in first party property matters.