Crime & Federalism

The following arrived in my email this morning. It is a chance to learn the Gerry Spence method of cross examination. But only some lawyers are invited. No insurance defense lawyers, for example. Such silliness. Does the Trial Lawyers College, with which I once affiliated, recommend that folks not take out insurance policies? Are we to roll over when sued, pluck out our wallet and throw dollars to the wind chanting "justice"?

And why the prohibition on prosecutors? Is there really never such a thing as a crime? Aren't some acts prohibited and worthy of punishment?

This sentimental nonsense of pretending to harbor all that is good, true and beautiful on but one side of the courtroom reminds me of why I find the college a little too unctuous for my tastes.

Even so, the program is good, and I recommend going. It is always useful to find another arrow to place in your quiver. But please, someone, some prosecutor or insurance defense lawyer, sneak in and write me a note telling me that you've gone to see the emperor of justice. Then tell me if you think he's fully clothed.

CLE TRIAL ADVOCACY ANNOUNCEMENT

Subject:    Cross Examination

Sponsor:    Gerry Spence's Trial Lawyers College

When:       4/20/06 (4:00 PM) to 4/23/06 (12:00 PM)

Where:      Edith Macy Conference Center, Briarcliff, New York

(located just 55 minutes from Bridgeport; 1 hour 20 minutes from New Haven;
1 hour 44 minutes from Hartford)

Tuition:    $1,450 (covers all lodging, meals, instruction, and materials.)


This program will focus on cross examination.

Learn a new and more effective way to prepare and cross-examine
witnesses, one which will communicate your client¹s story, connect you with
the jury, and help you obtain justice. This program is appropriate for both
new and experienced attorneys as participants are broken out into small
groups for the cross-examination exercise sessions. While there are some
lectures and demonstrations, this is primarily a learn-by-doing program.

A limited number of partial tuition scholarships are available for
this program for those applicants who demonstrate financial need or a
hardship in paying the tuition to attend this program. To apply for a
scholarship, include a letter explaining your circumstances and need with
your application.

Please note: Trial Lawyer College programs are designed exclusively for
lawyers who represent people who have been injured or who have been accused
of criminal misconduct. Therefore, corporate defense lawyers, insurance
defense lawyers, and prosecutors will NOT be accepted for attendance to this
program.

For more information about the Trial Lawyers College, this program, and/or
to download a brochure and application, click on the link below:

http://triallawyerscollege.com/programs/regional.html#2006