In August 2026, the American College of Trial Lawyers held its 8th Trial Advocacy Program in Chicago, Illinois. Lee H. Ayres was both privileged and honored to serve on the faculty alongside some of the finest and most accomplished trial lawyers in the United States and Canada. Over three days, the faculty taught young, aspiring lawyers from a very diverse background, including many from the public sector or public services area. The faculty taught an extensive three-day “learn-by-doing” program. The program covered all phases of trial practice including opening statements, the direct examination and cross-examination of witnesses, and closing arguments. The faculty members served not only as teachers but also as mentors and judges. On the final day of the program, the young lawyers conduct an entire trial. The ACTL’s Trial Advocacy Program is a wonderful opportunity for young lawyers, seeking to gain experience in the courtroom, and Lee is very privileged to have served on its faculty.
The American College of Trial lawyers is an invitation-only fellowship of exceptional trial lawyers from the United States and Canada, who have demonstrated very high standards of trial advocacy, ethical conduct, professionalism, and collegiality. Lee was nominated for, and inducted into, the American College of Trial Lawyers in 2020.