On Saturday, September 26^th, the Asian American Bar Association of New York (AABANY) hosted its annual Fall Conference. Haug Partners Associate Aakruti Vakharia ran the Trial Advocacy Program there in her role as co-chair of AABANY’s Litigation Committee.

AABANY’s Trial Advocacy Program (TAP) gives young attorneys and law students the opportunity to sharpen their trial advocacy skills through instruction and individualized feedback. This year, TAP consisted of two remote CLEs and an in-person mock trial. The first CLE, on Opening Statements and Direct Examinations, was moderated by Aakruti Vakharia, and featured instruction from Manisha M. Sheth of Quinn Emmanuel and Magistrate Judge James R. Cho of the Eastern District of New York. The second CLE, on Cross Examinations and Closing Statements, was also moderated by Aakruti Vakharia, and featured Joseb Gim of the Kings County District Attorney’s Office and Samuel Yee of the New York City Police Department.

The Mock Trial took place at the Fall Conference. Attendees had the opportunity to apply what they learned and received individualized feedback from mentors. During the mock trial, Aakruti delivered opening remarks before introducing Keynote Speaker Brian Lee, Executive Assistant District Attorney at the Nassau County District Attorney’s Office. Following the keynote address, participants engaged in a full-length mock trial. During the mock trial, Aakruti filled in as defense counsel, for which she made an opening statement, conducted two direct examinations, two cross examinations, and delivered a summation.

Following TAP, participants joined other Fall Conference attendees at a networking reception, during which Haug Partners was recognized for being a Silver Sponsor to AABANY’s annual gala. Partner Jenny Lee also attended on behalf of Haug Partners.