The ABA Section of Family Law's Trial Advocacy Institute is the preeminent trial training program for family law practitioners. Now in its 24th year, this sell-out program has given nearly 1,000 attorneys the most rewarding trial experience of their career.

Small group sessions provide both the beginning and the seasoned attorney with individualized trial training. Videotape review of each day's exercises and immediate feedback from leading national authorities on advocacy and family law allow for extensive participatory experiences. Special workshops are presented on Evidence and Business valuation.

The Advanced Trial Advocacy Institute is a four-day program which builds upon Institute curriculum. The Advanced program goes even more in-depth for the experienced attorney looking to further enhance their trial skills.

Early enrollment is advised; registration will open on November 15, 2010. Applications are processed based on date of receipt with full payment. Enrollment is limited to 48 attorneys, providing a ratio of one faculty member to every four students within the small working groups. The communication and interaction between students and faculty members made possible by limited enrollment results in a tremendous learning environment. The program sells out every year and many applicants are wait-listed.

Advanced Trial Advocacy Institute
The Advanced Trial Advocacy Institute is open to any graduate of the Trial Advocacy Institute. Enrollment for the Advanced program is limited to 12 attorneys to provide an intensive learning experience. All past alums of the TAI are highly encouraged to attend this program.

The focus of the 2010 Advanced Trial Advocacy Institute is: Mental Health Experts & Psychological Testing

The Trial Advocacy Institute consists of an entire week of intensive training. A complete program schedule (subject to change) is linked below. Standard programming includes Direct and Cross Examination, Use of Psychological Testing, Examination of Financial Experts, Business Valuation Advocacy, and a complete trial. A combination of lecture, demonstration, exercise and video review are used in instruction.

• 2009 Course Schedule

Our faculty members are highly experienced, well respected family law professionals who will provide you with indispensable and invaluable training that is sure to improve your trial skills. Faculty members include attorneys, judges, and financial and psychological experts. Trained to use the National Institute for Trial Advocacy (NITA) method, our faculty provides unparalleled insights, expertise, and critiques. Still not sure what our faculty can offer you? Check out the testimonials (at right) for comments from 2008 TAI attendees. Then click on the link below to begin perusing the faculty biographies.

Faculty biographies (2009)

Accreditation is requested for this program from every state with MCLE requirements. Lawyers seeking credit in Pennsylvania and Louisiana must submit a certificate and pay fees directly to those states. The Trial Advocacy Institute course contains approximately 45 CLE credits and 1 hour ethics (based on a 60-minute hour scale).

Tuition for the 2009 program is $3600, with a special discounted rate of $3400 for ABA Section of Family Law members and is payable in full at the time of your application. This fee includes 7 full days of instruction and/or simulated trial practice, special workshops, course materials, textbooks, videotaping, daily lunches and refreshment breaks, transportation between the hotel and program site, and a closing luncheon. (Travel, lodging, and other meals are not included.)