In a striking example of courtroom mishaps, Lindsey Halligan, a former insurance attorney with a brief stint as the U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, demonstrated the pitfalls of inadequate courtroom training. Despite her legal credentials, Halligan's attempts to navigate high-profile criminal cases resulted in judicial rebukes and multiple case dismissals, highlighting a critical gap in practical courtroom education.

Halligan’s failures underscore a broader issue: possessing a law degree does not automatically equip lawyers with the necessary advocacy skills required in a courtroom. This gap has prompted responses from legal education providers who recognize that real-world experience is crucial for developing competent legal professionals.

Recognizing the need for practical courtroom training, the elite litigation firm MoloLamken once again offers its Advocacy Academy, an intensive one-week program aimed at transforming law students into skilled advocates. This unique initiative, set to run from August 3 to August 8, 2026, is designed for rising 3Ls who aspire to hone their trial and appellate advocacy skills under the tutelage of seasoned attorneys.

The program promises an immersive experience where participants engage in examining witnesses and making trial and appellate arguments, all while receiving personalized feedback from MoloLamken’s partners, including co-founders Steven Molo and Jeffrey Lamken. Beyond the invaluable training, participants also receive a $4,500 cash award, with additional provisions for travel and lodging for those coming from outside New York City.

Feedback from past participants highlights the transformative impact of the Academy. Students have described the experience as "mind-blowing" and praised the opportunity to refine their skills in a supportive, low-pressure environment. The program not only enhances their advocacy skills but also helps them turn perceived personal quirks into professional strengths, as illustrated by one participant who learned to use their natural hand movements effectively in court.

As the legal profession evolves, with AI increasingly handling routine tasks, the premium on effective courtroom advocacy rises. Initiatives like the MoloLamken Advocacy Academy are crucial in bridging the educational gap between theoretical law school learning and practical, in-court lawyering. They provide a platform for law students to emerge as competent advocates early in their careers.

For law students eager to build a foundation in trial and appellate advocacy, applications for the MoloLamken Advocacy Academy are now open, with a deadline of March 3. Interested candidates can find more details and apply at mololamken.com/academy. This opportunity is not just an educational experience but a career-defining move to gain firsthand courtroom exposure under the guidance of legal experts.