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CLE during Jazz Fest

Friday, April 24, 2026

Take your litigation skills to the next level with this comprehensive, one-day trial advocacy seminar designed for attorneys who want to win in the courtroom. From the moment voir dire begins to the final word of your closing argument, every phase of trial demands strategy, preparation, and precision. This seminar covers it all — learn how to uncover juror biases and build a favorable panel during jury selection, make an unforgettable first impression with a compelling opening statement, and master the art of direct examination and witness preparation to tell your client's story with clarity and impact. You'll also discover proven techniques for turning cross-examination into a powerful offensive tool, and learn how to craft closing arguments that resonate long after the verdict. Rounding out the day, a candid Ethics on Trial panel will help you navigate the professional responsibility pitfalls that lurk at every stage of litigation. Whether you're a seasoned litigator or building your trial practice, this seminar delivers the practical tools and real-world insight you need to perform at your best when it matters most.

Disclaimer: The LSBA’s inclusion of a program in its CLE programming is not to be deemed a statement or an endorsement of the views expressed therein by the LSBA or any member of the LSBA. Speakers on LSBA programs were carefully selected for their knowledge, but neither the LSBA nor the speaker warrant that the presentations or materials were free of errors, or will continue to be accurate. Statements in the presentations and their materials should be verified before relying on them. Opinions expressed are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect opinions of the LSBA, its sections, or committees. Views expressed are those of the authors and contributors only.
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Click Here to Download the Registration Form

Click Here to Download the Flyer

Contact the LSBA if you have any accessibility needs or require accommodations at this conference, including access to a private room for nursing or lactation purposes. The LSBA is committed to ensuring full accessibility for all registrants.

CLE Credit: Approved for a maximum of 6.25 credits, including 1 Ethics hour. 

 

 

Seminar Chair

Kent A. Lambert • Baker, Donelson, Bearman, Caldwell & Berkowitz, PC • New Orleans

8:00-8:30 a.m.              Registration 

8:30-8:45 a.m.              Program Overview

(.25 credit)

8:45-9:45 a.m.              Jury Selection Secrets: The Art and Strategy of Voir Dire

(1 Credit)                      Brett S. Venn • Jones Walker LLP • New Orleans

 

9:50-10:50 a.m.            First Impressions Matter: Crafting a Powerful Opening Statement                

(1 Credit)                      Craig J. Robichaux • Talley, Anthony, Hughes & Knight, LLC • Mandeville                                                                       

10:50 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.  Break

11:00-12:00 p.m.          Bringing Your Case to Life: Mastering Direct Examination and Witness 

(1 Credit)                       Prep 

                                      Rebekka C. Veith • Miller, Thibodeaux, Dysart, Veith, and Paschal LLC • New Orleans

12:00-1:15: Lunch

1:15-2:15                     Winning on Cross: Turning Adversaries into Assets

(1 Credit)                     Mark W. Frilot • Baker, Donelson, Bearman, Caldwell & Berkowitz, PC • New Orleans

 

2:15-3:15                     Lasting Impressions: Delivering a Powerful Closing Argument

 (1 Credit)                     Anthony J. Gambino, Jr. • Phelps Dunbar, LLP • Baton Rouge

 

3:15 – 3:30 p.m.          Break

3:30-4:30                     Ethics on Trial Panel: Avoiding Pitfalls in Litigation 

(1 Credit; Ethics)         Judge Rachel Johnson • 4th Circuit Court of Appeal • New Orleans

 

QUESTIONS??
For more information, contact: CLE Dept. at (800) 421-5722

Andrea Amor

(504) 619-0137

andrea.amor@lsba.org

 

A WORD OF THANKS ...

Those who plan and teach LSBA seminar are volunteers. Their generous contributions of time, talent and energy make this and every LSBA seminar a success. We deeply appreciate their work.

The LSBA continues to encourage all its members to participate in the preparation and presentation of LSBA CLE programs.

Louisiana State Bar Association
601 St. Charles Avenue
New Orleans, LA 70130
(800) 421-LSBA(5722) / (504) 566-1600