Fullerton Beck Invests in Trial Advocacy Training to Strengthen Next Generation of Courtroom Lawyers

Fullerton Beck LLP continues to deepen its commitment to trial excellence by sponsoring an intensive three-day trial advocacy program conducted through the National Institute for Trial Advocacy (NITA). The initiative reflects the firm’s focus on ensuring its attorneys are prepared to handle complex matters in the courtroom as well as helping to shape how the team handles cases pre-trial.

The program was designed for eight attorneys who are actively building their trial practices and preparing to assume greater courtroom responsibility. Training was led by Adam Shlahet, a professor at New York University School of Law, who also oversees NITA programming for the New York City Law Department.

Unlike traditional continuing legal education courses, the NITA program centers on a fully immersive trial simulation. Over three days, participants worked through a fictional case modeled on real litigation, including evidentiary materials, witness testimony, and evolving legal issues that required strategic decision making as the trial unfolded.

Attorneys practiced core trial skills including opening statements, direct examination, cross examination, evidentiary objections, and closing arguments. Instructors provided real time feedback and coaching throughout the program, allowing participants to refine advocacy techniques and courtroom strategy under realistic trial conditions.

“Being a firm that tries cases and takes verdicts drives how we train our lawyers,” said Eileen Fullerton, Fullerton Beck LLP managing partner. “In just the past year, Fullerton Beck has taken six verdicts, which is a significant number for any firm in today’s legal environment—and particularly for a firm of 26 attorneys. Investing in hands on trial advocacy training ensures our lawyers are ready to meet that demand and continue delivering strong representation for our clients.”

“We wanted to provide our attorneys with the high-caliber, intense trial training that Eileen and I received earlier in our careers while serving at the New York City Corporation Counsel,” said Katrine Beck, Fullerton Beck co-founding partner. “That kind of immersive, practical experience is key to developing confident, effective trial lawyers, and bringing it to the firm was an intentional step in strengthening our trial bench.”

The initiative also addresses a broader challenge facing the legal industry, as many defense firms contend with a shrinking pool of experienced trial lawyers. By investing early in structured training and mentorship, Fullerton Beck is building a pipeline of attorneys prepared to step into trial roles and sustain the firm’s litigation practice over the long term.