Another Successful Annual Trial Basics Seminar

Our AAML Southern California Chapter presented its fourth annual Trial Basics Seminar in Costa Mesa on April 13, 2018. As before, it was free to all 100 attendees, who came from all corners of Southern California. This year’s TBS was better than ever, and I am honored to remain its Dean. Chris Melcher was clear and direct concerning the introduction of evidence, examination of witnesses, opening statements and etc. Rob Benavente handled multiple topics including order of proof, cross-examination and closing arguments. Jim Schaefer and Justice Sheila Sonenshine (Ret.) (through video clips) discussed “Successfully Guiding Your Expert Witnesses.” Gordon Cruse and I gave a point/counter-point discussion on motions in limine. Gordon also discussed electronic evidence, and I also presented on pre-trial discovery and expert witness concerns. Sandy Mayberry spoke regarding hearsay, objections and protecting the record. Claudia Ribet joined us for the first time, speaking on post-trial motions and appeals. California family law guru, Garrett Dailey, was his usual gracious and insightful self as our moderator. A unique aspect of the TBS is that we provide follow-up hands-on sessions. These allow our attendees to practice the trial skills that they learned at the April 13 main session. On April 28, Sandy will lead the San Diego County breakout and Chris will lead the Los Angeles County one. In the four years that our Chapter has presented the TBS, we have educated nearly 400 young (in their practices) family law attorneys throughout Southern California. HLG got the program off the ground, and we remain a strong supporter. We sincerely thank TBS’ 2018 sponsors: Attorney’s Briefcase; Schaefer & Company; E-Legal Services; Cohen, Miskei & Mowrey; Nigro, Karlin, Segal & Feldstein; Seastrom, Seastrom & Tuttle; Gursey Schneider; Hamilton York Estate Buyers; White, Zuckerman, Warsavsky, Luna & Hunt and Whalen Bryan.