
About the American College of Trial Lawyers (ACTL)

Being inducted into the American College of Trial Lawyers is a significant achievement for any lawyer. It is an invitation-only fellowship that recognizes exceptional trial lawyers who display the highest standards of ethical conduct, professionalism, and collegiality.
The ACTL has stringent membership criteria that ensure only the most qualified trial lawyers are accepted into its prestigious ranks. To be considered for Fellowship, individuals must meet the following criteria:
- Unquestionable Expertise: Prospective members must unquestionably demonstrate their exceptional qualifications as trial lawyers, recognized as the best in their respective state or province.
- Ethical Excellence: High ethical and moral standards are a prerequisite, with a strong emphasis on maintaining an excellent character throughout their legal career.
- Extensive Trial Experience: Membership requires a minimum of 15 years of active engagement in trial work, signifying a substantial commitment to the field.
- Geographic Neutrality: Geographic distribution does not play a role in acceptance; Fellows are not concentrated in metropolitan areas, nor are they denied to those in rural regions. This ensures a fair and diverse representation.
- Non-Discrimination: The College upholds a strict non-discrimination policy, ensuring that qualified individuals are not excluded from consideration or denied Fellowship based on factors such as race, sex, religion, or national origin.
These comprehensive criteria uphold the College’s commitment to maintaining a select membership of top-tier trial lawyers while promoting inclusivity and fairness in the selection process.
About David Abramson
David Abramson earned his B.A. degree at Dartmouth College in 1989 and a J.D. from the Louisiana State University School of Law in 1992. He has dedicated his career to fighting for the rights of clients who have been injured by other people’s negligence. His primary practice areas include:
- Medical Malpractice
- Hospital and Nursing Home Malpractice
- Maritime and Admiralty Law
- Civil Litigation
David is an active member of the American Association for Justice (AAJ), Louisiana Association for Justice (LAJ), New Orleans Bar Association (NOBA), American Bar Association (ABA), and Federal Bar Association (FBA). He has previously received the prestigious Louisiana Association for Justice President’s Award in recognition of his outstanding and highly dedicated service to the legal profession and the Association. He has also held several prominent leadership positions such as the past Chair of the Admiralty Law Section of the AAJ and currently serves on its executive committee. He also served as the past Chair of the Medical Malpractice Section of the LAJ and currently holds that position once again.
