Wilson Elser trial attorneys from across the firm – from accomplished first chairs to emerging litigators – gathered in the firm’s New York City office on March 12 and 13 for the 2026 Wilson Elser Mock Trial Invitational. In this latest installment of the firm’s mock trial competitions, the Invitational brought together members of the firm’s National Trial Team (NTT), with cochairs Eugene Boulé and Mat Ross at the helm, to serve as judges and mentors. This year’s judges included Robin Gregory, Tim Sheehan, Michael Gallay, Tom Comer, Phil Quaranta, and Paul Karp. In recognition of the program’s value and impact, 62 participants – including the firm’s attorneys, paralegals, and professional staff – took part in the intensive courtroom simulation, which was designed to replicate the pace, pressure, and unpredictability of actual trial proceedings. Participants assumed a range of roles, serving as trial lawyers, witnesses, jurors, and observers. 

Conducted live and in person, the Invitational challenged the 24 attorney finalists representing 18 offices from across the firm to think strategically, adapt in real time, and respond effectively to unexpected developments introduced throughout the trial exercises. From witness examinations and evidentiary disputes to shifting trial dynamics, participants were tested on the same skills demanded in high-stakes litigation nationwide. As with all Wilson Elser NTT training initiatives, attorneys benefited from direct feedback and insight from the firm’s seasoned trial lawyers, whose collective experience spans countless jury trials and appearances in state and federal courts.

The Competition
The Invitational opened with mock trials conducted simultaneously, with teams of plaintiff and defense counsel presenting their cases in a format designed to closely track real courtroom proceedings. Participants delivered opening statements, conducted direct and cross-examinations, presented closing arguments, and received mock jury verdicts following deliberations. After the trial sessions concluded, Boulé, Ross, and the program judges conferred to evaluate the performances and, along with attorney observers, provided participants with detailed feedback in the days that followed. The critiques reflected the realities of trial practice and were direct, thoughtful, and focused on helping attorneys sharpen their courtroom skills and strategic decision-making.

Developed entirely in-house, the Mock Trial Invitational is structured specifically to meet the demands of Wilson Elser’s litigation practice and the firm’s longstanding commitment to trial excellence. The program provides attorneys with practical, experience-driven training in a setting that mirrors the challenges of active litigation while fostering mentorship and professional growth. The Invitational remains a central component of the firm’s broader trial training initiatives, which are designed to ensure that Wilson Elser attorneys are prepared to advocate effectively for clients in the courtroom.