2026 Masters In Trial

About this event

Experience the art of trial advocacy in action.

ABOTA’s Masters in Trial offers the opportunity to watch leading attorneys present a full civil trial, or in-depth portions of one, in a single day, complete with jury participation and deliberations. These demonstrations teach by example, providing practical insight into trial strategy, witness examination, and persuasive jury communication.

Designed for plaintiff and defense attorneys at every career stage, the program provides a roadmap for effective courtroom advocacy while advancing ABOTA’s commitment to excellence, civility, professionalism, and preserving the civil jury trial.

THE CASE FILE

A wrongful death action arising out of a fatal highway collision. The defendants admitted liability in full before trial. The case was tried on damages only, to a jury of twelve with two alternates, over four court days.

AGENDA

8:30 AM - Check in & Coffee

9:00 AM - Program Starts - Voir Dire

11:00 AM - Break

11:15 AM - Opening Statements

12:00 PM - Lunch (included for all attendees)

12:45 PM - Evidence & Witnesses

1:45 PM - Break

2:00 PM - Closing Statements

3:15 PM - Jury Deliberations

4:15 PM - Q&A

5:00 PM - Program Ends

MEET THE PANEL

Moderator:

Shelley Jenni, Chapter President, Wilcoxen law

Presiding Judge: Hon. David W. Abbott, Ret. - Judicate West

Plaintiff Panel: John Demas - Demas Law Group Tim Spangler - Demas Law Group

Defense Panel: Carol Weickowski - Evans, Wieckowski, Ward & Scoffield LLP Ross Nott - Spinelli, Donald, and Nott

REGISTRATION: $295 - ABOTA Members $345 - Non-Members Students - Complimentary; please inquire. Lunch included.

SPONSORSHIP:

$2,500 - Sponsorship

Support the program and connect with Sacramento’s legal community through logo recognition in digital communications and signage, two complimentary registrations, and an exhibitor table.

EXHIBITORS