Associate Training
Our firm has a long history of solving problems for our clients. We believe that it takes more than working on client files though to train our young lawyers on how to best handle our clients' cases. Because of this commitment to our clients, we have developed an unprecedented training program for our associates. We, of course, absorb the costs of this training, which includes areas such as how to streamline document review and production, deposition techniques and teaching courtroom skills for trial. Our goals recognize that while our lawyers come in with the intellect, creativity, integrity, and work ethic to practice law, we as a firm can provide them the tools to better themselves and make a difference in their work.
Starting with Solly Robins in 1938, our trial lawyers have consistently exhibited a willingness to take on difficult and noteworthy causes. To ensure that this tradition will continue, we have developed The Exceptional Advocate training program.
The Exceptional Advocate training program is a 4-year curriculum that is conducted in four phases:
- Phase I - Court Trial / Arbitration. Participants will conduct two arbitrations / trials in a labor matter.
- Phase II - Basic Jury Trials. Participants will conduct two trials of a tort case.
- Phase III - Complex Jury Trials. Participants will take depositions and conduct a Markman Hearing in an IP case and then proceed to trial.
- Phase IV - Advance Jury Trial. Participants will conduct one trial in an IP or complex Business Litigation case.
In Phase I and II, associates are teamed to try cases against other associates in the firm utilizing outside judges and jurors. In the latter phases, associates are teamed with senior associates and partners to try mock cases against senior trial attorneys throughout the firm. Our training staff includes partners and a Trial Advocacy Professor from a local law school to work individually with the associates.
In addition, training specific to an associate's practice group is provided during the associate's career. While litigation associates are given the opportunity to develop their trial skills, the business associates are gearing up for the launch of Phase I in the series of practicums designed specifically for their practice areas.
Other firm training programs include:
- Motion Practice Workshop
- Deposition Skills Workshop
- Rules of Civil Procedure Course
- Evidence Course
- Writing Courses
- Introductory Deposition Program for Summer Associates
- Small Case Opportunities Workshop
- Marketing and Client Relationship Training
- Lectures, Seminars, Discussions and Demonstrations
- CLE Opportunities including on-line CLE