The Herbert F. Kolsby Distinguished Lectureship in Trial Advocacy, first presented in 2001, brings symposia and advocacy presentations to promote the discipline of trial advocacy within the national academic and legal community. Our distinguished lecturers are selected from among prominent trial lawyers, judges or professors who have been recognized for contributions to the field of trial advocacy.

The lectureship formally recognizes and honors Herb Kolsby, a 1951 Temple Law graduate, for his accomplishments and remarkable career, as well as for his contributions to the Masters in Trial Advocacy program at Temple.

Herb Kolsby has figured prominently in the achievements and recognition of the Trial  Advocacy program at Temple’s James E. Beasley School of Law. He was a guiding force in the establishment of the Masters in Trial Advocacy Program and served as its first Director. While at Temple, he also taught Advanced Trial Advocacy in the J.D. program and served on the faculty in the Academy of Advocacy.

He now holds the title of Director Emeritus of the LL.M. program and serves on its faculty. Professor Kolsby was the inaugural speaker in this lecture series.

Past Kolsby Lectures

Year Lecturer Title
2015-2016 Thomas Duffy
2013-2014 Chilton Davis Varner “Reflections on Atticus Finch and Scout: Lessons Learned in the Law”
2011-2012 Robert Mongeluzzi
2010 Michael E. Tigar “Why You Should Be An Advocate”
2009 Barry C. Scheck
2008 Herbert J. Stern “A Peek Through the Blindfold and a Thumb on the Scale”
2007 Mary Jo White “Trying Terrorism Cases in the Civilian Criminal Courts: Does It Make Sense?”
2006 David Boies
2005 Bryan A. Stevenson A lecture on his work on behalf of condemned prisoners
2004 David E. Kendall “Life in the Courts: What I Didn’t Learn in Law School”
2003 Morris Dees “With Justice for All”
2001-2002 Herbert F. Kolsby “Friendly Persuasion”