MG+M attorneys are invited to participate in our Trial Academy, a 19-month trial advocacy training program aimed at enhancing the skills and capabilities of future trial attorneys. The curriculum is thoughtfully designed to introduce attorneys at various levels without trial experience to all aspects of a trial—from pretrial motions and filings to closing arguments. Through intensive workshops, the Trial Academy offers advanced, hands-on opportunities for training, peer collaboration, practical mentorship and feedback from members of our incredibly accomplished National Trial Team, who serve as faculty. More than a dozen of our seasoned trial attorneys, led by Partners Susan Cole and Max Swetman, developed the curriculum and oversee all facets of the program.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Each session focuses on a specific skill critical for trial success, and the full academy covers every element of a trial, including:
- Opening and closing statements
- Direct and cross examination of fact witnesses and expert witnesses, as well as impeachment
- Jury selection, instructions and charge conferences
- Evidence rules and management, and motions in limine
- Trial preservation depositions of fact and expert witnesses
- Mediation
Following a lecture and demonstration by faculty members, academy participants practice the skill, employing fictionalized case materials based on real litigation our attorneys have managed. In addition to the fictionalized deposition testimony summaries, exhibits and background medical information, sessions also involve a live judge, witnesses and jurors. These training sessions provide opportunities to practice and refine trial techniques and observe various approaches in a constructive and supportive setting. The curriculum also incorporates our firm-wide mentorship program, encouraging attorneys to engage with their assigned mentors and connect with more experienced trial attorneys in their respective offices.
National Trial Center
The Trial Academy sessions are presented, recorded and broadcast across the firm from our National Trial Center located in our New Orleans office. This state-of-the-art courtroom is also used to fortify our clients’ defense strategies in preparation for actual trials.
