Steven S. Kaufman Family Anatomy of a Trial Lecture Series 2026 – Session 1

Add to Calendar: Add to Calendar: 2026-02-27 15:30:00 2026-02-28 12:00:00 Steven S. Kaufman Family Anatomy of a Trial Lecture Series 2026 – Session 1 Event Description The Steven S. Kaufman Family Anatomy of a Trial Lecture Series is a signature program designed to take participants inside the art and strategy of trial advocacy—step by step, decision by decision. Led by nationally respected trial lawyers and judges, the series goes beyond theory to show how exceptional advocates actually prepare, think, and perform in the courtroom. This spring, the series continues its deep dive into trial practice by following one complete case file across all three sessions, allowing participants to see how early strategic choices shape every phase of trial—from pretrial motions through jury deliberations. Each session builds on the last, offering a rare, cohesive look at how a case is developed, presented, and argued before a jury. Participants will receive the case materials in advance, observe live demonstrations, and engage in candid discussions about advocacy choices, pitfalls, and persuasion. Session 1: Motions in Limine, Voir Dire, and Openings February 27–28, 2026 Featuring Susan Petersen and Luke Dauchot This session focuses on shaping the battlefield before the first witness is called—framing evidentiary issues, selecting a jury, and delivering an opening that establishes credibility and theme from the outset. What to Expect Each session follows the same immersive format: Friday Evening 3:30–4:30 p.m. — Pre-meeting and case setup 4:30–6:30 p.m. — Lecture and live demonstration Saturday Morning 8:30–9:00 a.m. — Breakfast 9:00–11:00 a.m. — Lecture and demonstration Concluding Q&A and faculty commentary Across all three sessions, attendees will not only hear from elite advocates—they will see the case come alive, watch strategic choices unfold in real time, and leave with practical insights they can apply immediately in their own trial work. Speaker Bios Luke Dauchot - Kirkland & Ellis LLP Luke Dauchot is a nationally recognized trial lawyer and partner at Kirkland & Ellis LLP, where he focuses on high-stakes commercial litigation and complex trial matters. He has served as lead trial counsel in jury and bench trials across the country, representing clients in disputes involving significant financial and business risk. Mr. Dauchot has been recognized by leading legal publications, including Chambers USA and The Best Lawyers in America, for excellence in complex litigation and trial advocacy. Known for his strategic judgment, disciplined preparation, and persuasive courtroom presence, he is frequently entrusted with matters at their most critical stages and is widely respected for his ability to present complex issues clearly and effectively to judges and juries. Susan Petersen – Petersen & Petersen Susan Petersen is a highly respected trial attorney with a long track record of representing seriously injured individuals and fighting for justice in complex personal injury and medical negligence cases. She has consistently been recognized as one of Ohio’s Top 100 Trial Lawyers and named an Ohio Super Lawyer multiple years running, including elevation to the Top 50 Women Lawyers in Ohio in 2026—honors that reflect her standing among peers for excellence in advocacy and impact in the courtroom. Susan’s litigation results include substantial jury verdicts and negotiated settlements in cases involving catastrophic injury, wrongful death, and professional negligence, underscoring her reputation as a tenacious and trusted trial advocate for plaintiffs. George Gund Hall Moot Courtroom 11075 East Blvd. Cleveland, OH 44106 School of Law School of Law America/New_York public