My First Federal Trial 2025: Proper Procedure and Successful Advocacy

For Video Player Technical Assistance, please contact SeminarWeb at 737-201-2059 or support@seminarweb.com.
 

My First Federal Trial: Proper Procedure and Successful Advocacy

Program Originally Presented Thursday, July 31, 2025 

The handling of a lawsuit in federal court is much different than state court practice.  Not only are the stakes usually much higher but the federal court has its own Rules of Civil Procedure and Rules of Evidence.  

This CLE program offers fundamental guidance to attorneys with little or no experience trying federal civil cases, and acts as a refresher course for attorneys looking to brush up on best practices for federal trials. Hear practical advice on how to handle a federal trial, with a focus on the immediate pre-trial requirements and the trial itself.  The program, taught by federal court judges and experienced practitioners, provides proven trial strategies and techniques that can help you with your first or next federal trial.

Schedule:
(hour 1) Pre-Trial Matters: Panelists address all things trial-related before the opening statements, including pre-trial conferences, motions in limine, pre-trial memos, jury instructions, verdict sheets, stipulations, exhibits, and more.

Break

(hour 2) Trial: Panelists examine the ins and outs of the trial itself, including opening/closing statements, lay witnesses, expert witnesses, direct and cross examination, Rule 50 motions, technology, charging conferences, and jury selection. 

Panelists will also highlight the importance of knowing your trial judge and their applicable courtroom procedures. 

This practical program is a MUST ATTEND if you're interested in developing or enhancing trial advocacy skills at the federal level.

Course Planner/Moderator:
Leslie Miller Greenspan, Esq.
Founding Partner, Greenspan Patel
Chair, Federal Courts Committee

Pre-Trial Matters Panelists:
Hon. Mary Kay Costello
U.S. District Court Judge
U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania

Hon. Catherine Henry
U.S. District Court Judge
U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania

Andrew F. Pomager, Esq.
Divisional Deputy City Solicitor, Civil Rights Unit
City of Philadelphia Law Department

Jessica A. Rickabaugh, Esq.
Partner, Tucker Law Group

Trial Matters Panelists:
Hon. Pamela A. Carlos
Magistrate Judge
U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania

Hon. Gail A. Weilheimer
U.S. District Court Judge
U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania

Christine E. Burke, Esq.
Partner, Karpf, Karpf & Cerutti

Richard Harris, Esq.
Executive Partner, Philadelphia office
Holland Knight LLP

0330ODV