CLE: The Art of Storytelling

Thursday, June 18, 2026

Check-in & Dinner: 5:30 pm
Panel Discussion & Live Demo: 6-8 pm 

In-person at Touro Law Center, Central Islip, NY

2 Skills NYS CLE Credits available for all participating NY attorneys.

$20 General Admission
Free for Judges and Touro faculty, students, and staff

"Opening Statements: Understanding the Art of Storytelling" is a skills-based NY State CLE program that brings together experienced trial attorneys and judges for an engaging panel discussion and live demonstration focused on effective strategies for crafting compelling, persuasive opening statements. Drawing on real-world experience, panelists will address techniques applicable to both civil and criminal proceedings in state and federal courts, including how to structure your narrative, highlight key facts, and avoid common pitfalls. Through practical insights and a dynamic demonstration, attendees will gain concrete skills to enhance their courtroom advocacy and deliver opening statements that clearly present your theory of the case, connect with jurors, and set the stage for success.

This program offers 2 NYS Skills CLE credits for all admitted attorneys and is designed to provide practical, real-world guidance for litigators.

MODERATOR:

The Hon. Andrew A. Crecca
District Administrative Judge, 10th Judicial District, Suffolk County

PANELISTS:

Mark C. Gann, Esq.
Partner, Collins Gann McCloskey & Barry PLLC

Frederick C. Johs, Esq.
Principal, Lewis Johs Avallone Aviles, LLP

Kevin J. Keating, Esq.
Principal, The Law Offices of Kevin J. Keating

Michael Levine, Esq.
Partner, Rappaport, Glass, Levine & Zullo LLP.

The Honorable Joseph Pastoressa
New York State Supreme Court Justice, 10th Judicial District, Suffolk County
Adjunct Professor of Law, Touro University Jacob D. Fuchsberg Law Center

*Attorneys wishing to attend CLE courses at or through Touro Law Center may apply for tuition assistance.