Successful Lawyers Are Lifelong Learners: VTLA Convention Takeaways

Tom, Justin, and Rakin recently returned from the Virginia Trial Lawyers Association (VTLA) annual convention at the historic Greenbrier Estate. VTLA’s annual convention aims to keep attorneys abreast of the new laws, gain insight into how to maximize the value of a case, and network with fellow attorneys throughout Virginia.

This year was no exception.

The Curcio Law team gathered valuable information to better represent their clients and present the strongest possible case. The esteemed lecturers included judges, senators, and attorneys who offered a new perspective on handling cases and better-representing clients. Such panelists consisted of Connecticut attorney Joshua Koskoff, who successfully represented the victims of the deadly Sandy Hook shootings. Through his tireless efforts, he was able to pierce the gun manufacture’s broad federal immunity by showing how some manufacturers of assault rifles market towards at-risk minors. Attorney Timothy Heaphy, Chief Investigative Counsel for the United States House Select Committee on the January 6 Attack, also presented. He discussed the ethical issues of all practicing attorneys and how many in power abuse their ethical responsibilities to further their agendas.

One speaker particularly resonated with the Curcio Law team. Dwayne Betts, a former inmate who became a Yale Law School graduate, presented his experiences with being incarcerated and his difficulties adapting to a new world after being released. At 16, Dwayne carjacked an individual in Springfield, Virginia, and was sentenced to nine years in prison as an adult. He began reading and found an ever-growing interest in learning while incarcerated. After being released, Dwayne was accepted and graduated from Yale Law School. He has since founded the non-profit organization Freedom Reads, which provides libraries, bookshelves, and books to prisons nationwide. Dwayne is truly a remarkable individual who has dedicated his life to improving the world. You can donate and help Dwayne and his cause at the Freedom Reads site.