Most lawyers are terrified of improv. And that’s exactly why they need it.

In court, you’re improvising constantly—whether you admit it or not. A juror surprises you in voir dire. A witness answers sideways. A judge cuts off your motion argument. No script survives first contact with the courtroom.

So why do we train lawyers like they’re robots reading from legal outlines?

Improv Trains the Muscles Lawyers Actually Use

Improv isn’t about being funny. It’s about listening hard, responding with precision, and staying present under pressure. It teaches you to adapt in real time, think on your feet, and build rapport when the room shifts on you.

These are courtroom skills, not stage tricks.

• Cross-examination stalls? Improv teaches recovery without panic.
• Juror throws you off? Improv keeps the conversation alive.
• Judge interrupts mid-argument? Improv teaches how to pivot with purpose.

What We Do in IACLS Trainings

We bring in professionals from outside the legal world—improv actors, directors, voice coaches—and pair them with trial lawyers. You’ll run drills that feel ridiculous at first. Then you’ll realize you’re better at voir dire, smoother in argument, and faster on your feet.

You don’t need a new outline. You need new reflexes.

Who It’s For

If you’ve ever left a hearing thinking “I should’ve said…”—this is for you.

If you’ve ever frozen in front of a jury or fumbled through cross because you didn’t expect the answer—this is for you.

Upcoming Workshops

Our next improv-infused voir dire lab is in the works. Space is always limited. Check the Training page or email friends@iacls.org to get on the list.

You don’t need a better script. You need better instincts. Start there.