Membership in the Academy is limited to 500 Fellows from the United States.  Membership qualifications are extremely high and the consideration of nominees is very extensive and thorough.  Nominees are evaluated by colleagues and judges in their jurisdiction and must exhibit outstanding skills and extensive trial experience as well as unimpeachable personal and professional character, integrity, and honesty. 

The International Academy of Trial Lawyers was chartered in 1954.  Its purpose is to cultivate the science of jurisprudence, promote reforms in the law, facilitate the administration of justice, and elevate the standards of integrity, honor, and courtesy in the profession.