Among the various niches and specialties of the legal profession, trial law is certainly near the top of the list in rapidly changing areas of the profession. This is true largely because of the prominent creative element inherent in being a trial lawyer. As discussed in previous articles, being a trial lawyer is an art, not a science. Art is ever-changing and evolving as are the techniques and tecnologies we use in our profession. In this evolving environment, trial lawyers must diligently keep up to date on what others in the profession are learning and implementing. Some may say that CLE programs are simply boring, mundane requirements that we all have to suffer through. Others insist that they are merely a platform for shameless self promotion where “big shots” pat themselves on the back and tell war stories in hopes that the attorneys in the audience will refer cases to them. While there is some true to both of these opinions, there are many worthwhile CLE programs where trial lawyers can truly learn something useful to their practice.
Yesterday, I presented for the first time at High Impact’s ski CLE in Beaver Creek, Colorado. At the end of the day, one of the attendees mentioned that every time he had attended, he learned one or two things that helped him in his practice. He also said that if he could even learn one thing at a CLE that helped him win a case, attending the entire program would be worth it. The High Impact CLE is certainly one that I believe fits the description of a CLE that even the most seasoned trial attorney will benefit from. Case in point, the attorney responsible for the above statements had been a practicing and accomplished trial lawyer for decades.
So, do not write off all CLE programs as useless, boring requirements. There are many programs worthy of attending even if you have fulfilled your yearly requirement. The High Impact event is certainly one of them. In addition, I highly recommend the Advocacy Track at AAJ’s Annual Convention and the Torts Made Perfect biannual program in Las Vegas. As trial lawyers, we never stop learning, so get out there and better yourself and your clients’ chances of recovery at the same time.
