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Courses/Law/Trial Competence / Skills

Newly Admitted: The Skills You Didn’t Learn in Law School P1

Master the practical side of litigation with expert insights on courtroom decorum, case investigation, and legal writing to navigate your early career with confidence.

Created byNYS Academy of Trial Lawyers
BeginnerUpdated Feb 12, 2026
Newly Admitted: The Skills You Didn’t Learn in Law School P1

What You'll Learn

check_circleMaster courtroom decorum and etiquette.
check_circleNavigate Preliminary and Compliance Conferences.
check_circleConduct thorough case intakes and investigations.
check_circleDetermine strategic jurisdiction and venue.
check_circleDraft professional legal memos and motions.

About This Course

Join us for this two-part skills series for newly-admitted attorneys covering everything you really need to know to practice law. Part 1 will cover: Courtroom & Practice Fundamentals, Case Intake & Investigations, and Legal Research & Writing for Practice.

This program focuses on the mechanics of being a successful lawyer, from the moment you walk into a courtroom to the way you draft legal documents. The presenters share invaluable insights on building a professional reputation, avoiding common pitfalls, and managing the logistical hurdles of the court system. Whether you are a newly admitted attorney or a practitioner looking to refine your procedural skills, this course provides a comprehensive guide to the practical side of law.

Key learning outcomes and topics covered in this course include:

  • Courtroom Decorum and Fundamentals: Master the unwritten rules of the courtroom, including proper attire, punctuality, how to give appearances, and the respectful way to address judges and court staff.
  • Preparation and Procedure: Learn the importance of knowing your file, handling preliminary and compliance conferences, and navigating electronic filing systems.
  • Case Intake and Investigation: Develop strategies for screening potential clients, identifying red flags, understanding statutes of limitations, and gathering crucial evidence such as video footage and medical records.
  • Strategic Decision Making: Understand the nuances of jurisdiction and venue selection to position your case for the best possible outcome.
  • Legal Research and Writing: Enhance your writing skills for various audiences, including judges and supervisors, by focusing on clarity, structure, and the effective use of samples and hyperlinking.

By the end of this session, viewers will possess the practical knowledge necessary to handle court appearances with confidence, evaluate new matters effectively, and produce high-quality legal writing that meets professional standards.

Your Instructors

NYS Academy of Trial Lawyers
NYS Academy of Trial Lawyers
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The NYS Academy of Trial Lawyers is the largest statewide trial bar in the US with 5,700+ lawyer and judge members. We are committed to protecting, preserving and enhancing the civil justice system. Our highly acclaimed CLE programming features extraordinary presenters covering the most timely and important topics.

Andrew J. Smiley, Esq.
Andrew J. Smiley, Esq.

Attorney at Smiley & Smiley LLP

Andrew is the lead trial attorney for Smiley & Smiley, where his practice focuses on significant personal injury, medical malpractice and wrongful death. Andrew is a graduate of Brooklyn Law School. He served as Academy President in 2017–2018 and is also a Past President & Board Member of the New York City Trial Lawyers Alliance. He hosts The Mentor, Esq., a podcast for lawyers.

Michael  Solomon, Esq.
Michael Solomon, Esq.

Associate at Smiley & Smiley LLP

Michael is an Associate at Smiley & Smiley where he focuses on personal injury, medical malpractice, and wrongful death cases. Prior to joining Smiley & Smiley, Michael is a former NYC Prosecutor. He graduated from the University at Buffalo Law School and earned his undergraduate degree from Binghamton University. Michael is the Chair of the Academy's Associate Board of Directors.

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Frequently Asked Questions

We are a registered provider with 327+ associations and regulatory bodies worldwide. We operate across 29 global markets including Canada, the US, Australia, and the UK. Every course page clearly displays its specific accreditations. Upon completion, you receive a professional certificate that can be validated online. Our certificates include all necessary accreditation details, credit hours, and completion dates, and are formatted specifically to meet the submission requirements of most global regulatory bodies.