Learn and practice the core elements of a jury trial in an actual courtroom.
The Trial Program teaches each element of the jury trial in a series of lectures and demonstrations, and then provides attorneys the opportunity to practice those skills in an actual courtroom with experienced local judges and lawyers coaching and mentoring them.
Students who complete the College of Trial Advocacy will be in a much better position to try cases in a first or second chair capacity. The cost of the program is among the lowest in the country for the caliber of the training received.
Watch demonstrations from experienced trial attorneys and judges. Hone your skills in small workshops with immediate feedback.
The Trial Program takes place on 6 evenings over 3 consecutive weeks. It includes three lectures by prominent San Diego trial attorneys and members of the judiciary, and three “hands on” workshops facilitated by experienced workshop leaders and judges. The format is a Thursday lecture followed by a Tuesday workshop.
The 2024 Trial Practice Program explores Opening Statement, Direct and Cross-Examination, and Closing Argument.
For the workshops, each student is assigned to a specific fact pattern, and paired with another student to conduct the exercises. One student is assigned to represent the plaintiff and the other is assigned to represent the defendant. A maximum of six students are assigned to each of 18 courtrooms, with each pair having one hour to practice what they learned in the lecture/demonstration.
2024 Trial Program Schedule
Registration Deadline: October 4, 2024 at 11:59 PM
Cost: $400 for private practice attorneys; $350 for public/non-profit sector attorneys*
Part I: Opening Statement
Lecture
Thursday, October 10, 2024
Check-in: 5:00 p.m.
Lecture: 5:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
James M. Carter and Judith N. Keep United States Courthouse
Jury Assembly Room
333 West Broadway, San Diego
Workshop
Tuesday, October 15, 2024
Check-in: 5:00 p.m. for courtroom assignment
Workshop: 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
San Diego Superior Court
Central Courthouse
1100 Union Street, San Diego
The opening statement lecture and demonstration covers crafting a theme, developing the theory of the case, and introducing the testimony and exhibits expected to be received into evidence.
During the first workshop, students practice delivering opening statements. The workshop leaders and judges coach and provide input on how to improve both structure and delivery.
Part II: Direct and Cross-Examination
Lecture
Thursday, October 17, 2024
Lecture: 5:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m
James M. Carter and Judith N. Keep United States Courthouse
Jury Assembly Room
333 West Broadway, San Diego
Workshop
Tuesday, October 22, 2024
Workshop: 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
San Diego Superior Court
Central Courthouse
1100 Union Street, San Diego
The second night of instruction and demonstration covers direct and cross-examination. Participants learn how to craft compelling and memorable examinations, including making objections, admitting exhibits, impeachment, and refreshing recollection. Students will practice those skills during the direct and cross workshop.
Part III: Closing Argument
Lecture
Thursday, October 24, 2024
Lecture: 5:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
James M. Carter and Judith N. Keep United States Courthouse
Jury Assembly Room
333 West Broadway, San Diego
Workshop
Tuesday, October 29, 2024
Workshop: 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
San Diego Superior Court
Central Courthouse
1100 Union Street, San Diego
The final classroom portion of the College teaches best practices for drafting and delivering persuasive closing arguments. A final workshop session gives participants the opportunity to practice closing argument and receive feedback.
*Scholarships: Need financial assistance to attend the Trial Program? Limited Scholarships are available for registrants who need financial assistance. For more information on how to apply for a scholarship, please email info@sdinnofcourt.com.
“The San Diego Inn of Court program fundamentally changed the way I tried cases. The experience of listening to Superior Court Judges comparing and contrasting courtroom techniques, and the opportunity to practice proper techniques with veteran trial lawyers gave me the clarity and confidence I needed to become a better advocate.”
Nicholas J. Moore, Esq.