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Empowered Advocacy Symposium Brings Florida Lawyers Together

Conrad & Scherer was proud to sponsor the Third Annual Empowered Advocacy Symposium at St. Thomas University College of Law. The event took place on February 20 and 21, 2026. Over two days, attorneys from across Florida gathered for advocacy training, trial skills sessions, and leadership programming.

Supporting Advocacy Training in Florida

The Empowered Advocacy Symposium gave attorneys practical tools they can use in real cases. The program focused on trial skills, courtroom strategy, and professional growth. It also gave attendees a chance to connect with judges, lawyers, and legal leaders from across the state.

As a sponsor, Conrad & Scherer was honored to support a program that invests in stronger advocacy. Events like this help attorneys sharpen their skills and grow in their careers.

Veronica Hazzard Represented the Firm

Senior Associate Attorney Veronica Hazzard, who also serves as President of the F. Malcolm Cunningham, Sr. Bar Association, represented Conrad & Scherer at the symposium. She also moderated “Witness Control & Story Development: Direct and Cross as Strategic Warfare.”

Her panel featured Judge Miesha Darrough, Frantz Destin, and Linnes Finney Jr. Together, they discussed witness preparation, case themes, and the role of strong storytelling in trial work.

Veronica’s role at the event reflects her leadership in the legal community as well as the firm’s continued focus on advocacy, service, and courtroom excellence.

Judges and Legal Leaders Took Part

The symposium also featured respected members of the judiciary. Highlights included Florida Supreme Court Justice Renatha Francis as well as Judge Tanya Brinkley, Judge Rodney Smith, and Judge Fabienne Fahnstock.

Their participation gave attendees valuable insight into trial practice, professionalism, and the legal system in Florida.

Why This Event Matters

At Conrad & Scherer, we value programs that strengthen the legal profession. We also support events that help attorneys build real courtroom skills. The Empowered Advocacy Symposium did both.

We were honored to sponsor this year’s event and proud to see Veronica Hazzard represent the firm. We thank the organizers, panelists, and attendees who helped make the symposium a success.