The 2026 Western Nebraska Dan Jewell Trial Institute was held in Gering, Nebraska on August 3 and 4. It was the FIRST Dan Jewell Trial Institute to be held in western Nebraska and was a tremendous success.
Eight attorneys participated in the Institute and had a fun and rewarding time learning how to put a trial together from either the plaintiff or defense side. Some of the areas they had an opportunity to delve into was examining and impaneling a jury, deliver opening and closing statements, question witnesses on direct and cross-examination, offer exhibits, and review jury instructions.
If offered a unique opportunity for attorneys to refine their trial advocacy skills. Throughout the event, participants were immersed in real trial scenarios, guided by experienced mentors, and presided over by Nebraska judges. This hands-on approach allowed our participants to gain invaluable practical insights into the world of civil litigation. The case involved a contested will and the issues presented were; (1) whether the decedent had testamentary capacity, and (2) whether the will offered was procured by undue influence.
Thank you to all of the attendees at this year's Institute, as well Judges; The Honorable Leigh Ann Retelsdorf (Retired, Omaha), The Honorable Anne Paine (McCook), and The Honorable Andrea Miller (Chair of the Institute, Gering); and attorney mentors, Steve Gealy (Lincoln), Ron Krause (Omaha), Steve Olsen (Scotts Bluff), and Jamian Simmons (Gordon), who contributed to the success of our event.
For more information on this event and other Dan Jewell Trial Institutes, CLICK HERE