This year’s 2026 Cusimano Symposium (held on January 30 as part of the Alabama Association for Justice Winter Summit) brought together trial lawyers and legal professionals for a thoughtful, engaging day focused on persuasion, strategy, and connection. We’re excited to share highlights and photos from a truly inspiring program.
Engaging Perspectives on Persuasion and Advocacy
At the heart of this year’s Symposium was the central question of what truly persuades today’s juries and how advocates can refine their craft in a changing legal environment.
The day’s opening presentation came from Tad Thomas, who spoke on From Seeds to Trees: Using AI to Build Your Case Using Proven Principles of Persuasion. Thomas’s session explored how artificial intelligence, when used thoughtfully and ethically, can enhance case development while remaining anchored in the foundational principles that guide effective advocacy.
Next, David A. Wenner delivered a compelling presentation titled The Jury Has Changed: What Actually Persuades Now — Why Old Trial Strategies Are Failing in an Age of Distrust. Based on social science research and current juror data, Wenner’s remarks underscored how shifts in public trust and expectations are reshaping trial communications.
Local Insight and Continuing Conversation
Following these sessions, our own Mike Roberts offered Alabama Tort Law in Motion: Selected Observations and Insights, providing practical context on recent developments in state tort law and their implications for practitioners across Alabama.
The program concluded with remarks from Gregory S. Cusimano, who reflected on themes from his book Seeds for Success: Proven Principles of Persuasion and tied together the day’s insights with a lasting message about preparation, credibility, and principled advocacy.
Moments Worth Remembering
Whether through thought-provoking presentations or informal learning and connection moments, the 2026 Symposium once again delivered meaningful takeaways and fostered professional growth among attendees. We’re grateful to all who participated and helped make the day such a success.
Thank You to Our Speakers and Colleagues
Thank you to all of the speakers, volunteers, and attendees whose contributions brought this year’s program to life. Here’s to continued advocacy, collaboration, and excellence in the months ahead.
Stay Connected: If you’d like to revisit sessions or learn more about the Symposium theme and speakers, reach out here for updates and information.
