Southern Trial Lawyers Association

For more than 30 years, the Southern Trial Lawyers Association has fostered camaraderie, learning, and networking among trial lawyers throughout thirteen southern states. STLA does not engage in political activity or fundraising of any kind, leaving those worthwhile activities to the state trial lawyer associations and the American Association for Justice.

The Southern Trial Lawyers Association encompasses the following member states:
Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, and West Virginia.

We offer members two educational events a year, both overflowing with opportunities to forge professional and personal relationships that will last a lifetime. The Annual Conference during Mardi Gras in New Orleans features exceptional CLE and world class fun in one of America's most fascinating and entertaining cities. The Fall CLE Seminar is where the members of STLA come together to learn and share strategies in a fun and inviting location.

Upcoming Events

Fall CLE Seminar, October 1-4, 2026, Dominican Republic

Escape to the breathtaking beauty of Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic and the stunning St. Regis Cap Cana Resort. Connect with other trial lawyers in an unforgettable setting designed for both learning and relaxation. Join us for exceptional programming, meaningful networking, and a destination experience you won’t want to miss. Registration is now open!

Annual Mardi Gras Conference, January 27-31, 2027, New Orleans

Join us for our marquee event held each year in New Orleans during Mardi Gras season. The STLA Annual Conference is designed exclusively for plaintiff's personal injury lawyers and features CLE sessions presented by some of the best lawyers in the country. The social events are not only fun, but provide a unique opportunity to build meaningful connections. Registration opens fall 2026.

STLA Announces 2027 Annual Conference in New Orleans

The STLA 2027 Annual Mardi Gras Conference takes place January 27–31, at the Ritz-Carlton New Orleans. The event features three days of CLE designed specifically for plaintiff's attorneys, and includes opportunities to connect with colleagues, exchange ideas and strengthen professional relationships. Education and networking remain at the heart of the Annual Mardi Gras Conference, providing attendees with practical insights they can take back to their practices while building connections with fellow trial lawyers. Registration open in the fall.

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STLA Fall Seminar in Punta Cana

The Southern Trial Lawyers Association presents the Fall CLE Seminar and Board Meeting, October 1-4, 2026, in Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic.

Trade the office for paradise at the STLA Fall CLE Seminar in beautiful Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic. Earn valuable CLE credits while networking with colleagues against the backdrop of white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. Register today!

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Trial Lawyers Giving Back

Each year, STLA donates to one or more charities of the president's choosing. President Ken Suggs has selected the Girl Scouts of South Carolina—Mountains to Midlands and World Wildlife Fund to receive $10,000 each.

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The mission of Girl Scouts is to build girls of courage, confidence, and character who make the world a better place. Girl Scouts of South Carolina—Mountains to Midlands carries out that mission by delivering leadership experiences, outdoor adventure, and life-skills programming to girls in central and western South Carolina, empowering them to grow into strong, capable young women.

For more than 50 years, World Wildlife Fund has been at work to protect our living planet, so it remains a source of joy for generations to come. WWF’s mission is to build a future in which people live in harmony with nature. They work to conserve and restore biodiversity, the web that supports all life on Earth; to reduce humanity's environmental footprint; and to ensure the sustainable use of natural resources to support current and future generations.

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