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140: Reinventing Criminal Defense Training: From Classroom to Courtroom with Adam Rossen

Great Practice. Great Life. by Atticus

Release Date: 07/14/2025

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In this episode of Great Practice, Great Life®, Steve Riley is joined by Adam Rossen, a criminal defense attorney who’s doing more than building a successful firm, he’s reinventing criminal defense training for the next generation of lawyers.

Adam’s firm has quadrupled since 2020, yet his passion is mentoring future attorneys. His Florida-based internship program, once a casual drop-in setup, has evolved into a structured, immersive model for reinventing criminal defense training. In 2020, he took on 13 interns, introducing a mock law school exam project, virtual court sessions, and Zoom depositions. He later added a speaker series, a book club exploring criminal justice issues, and field trips to meet judges, giving interns real-world exposure. This action-driven approach, grounded in community responsibility, has transformed his program and amplified his firm’s mission.

Adam reflects on pivotal moments from his career, from his time as a prosecutor to the values he instills in his team today. He shows how reinventing criminal defense training connects to growing a business and serving the community. By mentoring students and immersing them in criminal law, he’s building a stronger, more compassionate legal profession.

Whether you’re looking to launch an internship program or refine your leadership, this episode offers practical ideas for reinventing criminal defense training. Discover how Adam’s approach can elevate your firm, your team, and your impact on the legal world.

In this episode, you will hear:

  • Adam Rossen’s journey in scaling his criminal defense firm fourfold and building a purpose-driven practice.
  • The development and impact of Adam’s structured legal internship program, offering real-world legal experiences to students.
  • How Adam adapted and grew his internship program during the pandemic.
  • Integration of a book club discussing criminal justice topics and plans for a paid mentorship program for non-traditional candidates.
  • Strategies for creating effective legal internship programs, emphasizing hands-on experience and community impact.
  • Reflections on Adam’s career as a prosecutor and the pivotal moments that shaped his empathetic approach to law.
  • The ongoing journey of building a fulfilling legal career, focusing on growth, community service, and overcoming fears.

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