2021 Annual Institute of Trial Practice (ABOTA)

A live trial demonstration

As criminal justice reform talks have picked up steam in the past several years, the legal doctrine of qualified immunity has come under increased scrutiny. Critics of the doctrine believe that qualified immunity has led to “near-zero accountability” for police officers accused of misconduct, while supporters argue that it’s necessary for officers to do their jobs without fear of being sued.¹

As the legislature considers qualified immunity reform, open legal questions remain. The 31st Annual Institute of Trial Practice will examine qualified immunity in a case involving a "no-knock" search warrant.

Learn from the best

Veteran trial attorneys will argue the case before presiding judge Hon. Angela W. Sutkiewicz, Wisconsin ABOTA's 2020 Trial Judge of the Year. You’ll be able to observe expert litigators’ varying styles, techniques, and nuances during:

• Opening statements
• Direct and cross examinations of the plaintiff, defendant, and witnesses
• Jury instructions
• Closing arguments

Each lawyer will share the reasoning behind their strategies at every stage, and Judge Sutkiewicz will discuss the arguments from the perspective of the bench. In addition, watch and listen as jury members deliberate, and learn how and why they reached their decision.

If you’ve ever wondered what an experienced litigator would do in front of a judge, dont't miss the 31st Annual Institute of Trial Practice!