Summary

In this episode, host Michael Takla interviews Andrew McKinnon, a defense attorney who transitioned to the plaintiff side. They discuss Andrew's journey, the importance of trial experience, effective communication in legal practice, and the implementation of standard operating procedures in law firms. Andrew shares insights on client preparation, the significance of human damages in cases, and innovative approaches in depositions. The conversation also touches on networking, community involvement, and advice for aspiring attorneys.

Takeaways

• Andrew McKinnon shares his journey from defense to plaintiff side.
• The importance of trial experience is emphasized throughout the conversation.
• Effective communication and reporting are crucial in defense work.
• Human damages play a significant role in case outcomes.
• Client storytelling is essential for successful case preparation.
• Standard operating procedures can streamline law firm operations.
• Delegation and automation can enhance efficiency in legal practice.
• Mentorship and learning from experienced attorneys are invaluable.
• Innovative approaches in depositions can make a difference in case strategy.
• Networking and community involvement are key for career growth.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Andrew McKinnon and His Background

02:43 Transitioning from Defense to Plaintiff Work

05:24 Understanding the Defense Perspective

08:07 The Importance of Trial Experience

11:04 Key Reporting Requirements in Defense Cases

13:44 The Role of Human Damages in Cases

16:35 Standard Operating Procedures for Law Firms

19:07 Implementing Effective Intake Procedures

24:25 Building Client Relationships

26:17 Effective Delegation and Trust in Teams

27:29 Establishing Key Performance Indicators

29:02 Innovative Approaches in Litigation

31:37 Reflections on Early Career Choices

36:18 Networking and Community Involvement

39:19 Learning from Experience and Mentorship

In this episode, Michael and Sari discuss the intricacies of jury selection, the importance of understanding juror bias, and the application of the funnel method in trial strategy. They emphasize the need for attorneys to engage jurors through personal experiences and the significance of practicing trial skills. The conversation also highlights the mindset required for attorneys to effectively communicate with juries and the critical role of damages in trials.

1. Bias is inherent in jurors; understanding it is crucial.
2. Jurors are not the enemy; they can be motivated to act.
3. Principle-centered voir dire focuses on universal truths.
4. The funnel method guides jurors to key principles.
5. Engaging jurors through personal experiences can be effective.
6. Practice is essential for trial preparation and success.
7. Mindset impacts how jurors perceive attorneys and cases.
8. Asking for damages requires confidence and clarity.
9. Money is a tool for justice, not a taboo subject.
10. There are no bad answers in jury selection; they can be leveraged.

Welcome to a new season of Bad Law, Worse Facts!

We’re back with more real stories and practical lessons from the courtroom. This season, we’ll take on topics that matter deeply to trial lawyers and clients alike:

• Inclusive voir dire – building juries that reflect fairness and diversity.

• Clear and concise depositions – how precise questioning can make or break your case.

• Traumatic brain injuries – exploring the medical, legal, and human challenges behind these high-stakes cases.

And, as always, we’ll highlight cases where bad law collides with even worse facts—reminding us why this profession is never dull.

Join us for Season 4 of Bad Law, Worse Facts, where strategy, storytelling, and the strangest cases meet.

In this episode, Michael Takla interviews Katie James, a Texas licensed attorney who has successfully transitioned to a remote law practice while utilizing technology and AI to enhance efficiency. They discuss the challenges and benefits of remote work, the integration of AI in legal processes, and the importance of effective task management systems. Katie shares her experiences with various legal tech tools, including Even Up and Hona, and emphasizes the need for continuous improvement in legal practices. The conversation highlights the evolving landscape of law in the digital age and the balance between technology and the human element in legal services.

Chapters

00:00 Remote Law Practice: Breaking Boundaries

06:01 Harnessing AI in Legal Workflows

11:52 Streamlining Task Management with Technology

23:31 The Impact of Technology on Legal Efficiency

25:55 Continuous Improvement in Legal Systems

27:56 Maximizing Technology for Law Firm Efficiency

30:23 The Importance of Client Communication

32:30 Receptionist Services and Call Management

39:14 AI in Legal Practice: Opportunities and Challenges

44:29 Conclusion and Contact Information

In this conversation, Stephanie Rhima, an experienced defense attorney, discusses her approach to jury trials, emphasizing the importance of embracing facts, accountability, and understanding medical evidence. She shares insights on how to prepare clients for depositions, the significance of witness impressions, and strategies for both defense and plaintiff attorneys. Rhima also highlights the critical role of jury selection and the need for reasonable expectations regarding damages in trial outcomes. In this conversation, Stephanie M. Rhima and the host discuss various aspects of legal practice, focusing on the challenges faced in disputed cases, the importance of ethical considerations, and the dynamics of jury perception. They explore trial strategies, the role of evidence, and the necessity of maintaining credibility with jurors. The discussion also touches on the implications of attorney-driven cases and the need for transparency in legal claims, emphasizing proactive approaches to legal representation.

Summary

In this conversation, Michael Pita shares his journey from being a defense attorney to transitioning into the plaintiff's side of law. He discusses the importance of understanding both perspectives in cases. Pita emphasizes the significance of credibility, managing client expectations, and the role of medical records in trials. He also highlights the need for attorneys to maintain professional relationships and the challenges of engaging with clients who are more involved in their cases. The discussion provides valuable insights into trial strategies and the dynamics of the legal profession.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Michael Pita's Journey

02:59 Transition from Defense to Plaintiff's Side

05:38 Understanding Jury Dynamics and Credibility

08:35 The Importance of Medical Records in Trials

11:17 Navigating Claims and Trial Strategies

14:15 The Role of Anchoring in Verdicts

17:18 Strategic Case Evaluation and Preparation

23:14 Humanizing the Defendant

29:42 Navigating the Plaintiff's Perspective

32:24 Transitioning from Defense to Plaintiff

41:07 Building Relationships in Law

In this conversation, Sean Claggett shares his journey as a trial lawyer, emphasizing the importance of understanding one's 'why' in legal practice. He discusses how big data and focus groups have transformed his approach to trial strategy, allowing him to achieve significant verdicts, including a notable $480 million case. Claggett advocates for financial responsibility among lawyers to make better decisions for their clients and stresses the need for continuous learning and adaptation in the legal field. He provides valuable advice for young attorneys on how to improve their skills and understanding of the law.

David Bergen from the Buzbee law firm discusses a case involving a mining accident that resulted in a wrongful death. Initially, the defense claimed it was operator error and blamed the deceased for the accident. However, through extensive investigation and depositions, Bergen discovered evidence that the brakes on the truck had been systematically failing. He also found witnesses who testified to the company's negligence in addressing the brake issue. The case ultimately resulted in a settlement with the company tendering all of their insurance and issuing a letter of apology to the family. In this conversation, David Bergen discusses two different cases and the strategies he used to achieve successful outcomes. In the first case, he talks about a wrongful death lawsuit involving a trucking accident. Despite facing challenges with liability and limited damages, Bergen was able to secure a settlement of nearly $22 million by uncovering hidden evidence and presenting a compelling case to the jury. In the second case, Bergen shares how he turned a seemingly minor rear-end car accident into a significant lawsuit by focusing on the defendant's negligence in sending an inexperienced driver from Australia to Houston. He emphasizes the importance of digging deep, finding evidence, and creating a strong narrative to maximize the value of a case.

Michael Takla went on the Dirty Verdict's Podcast to discuss his background, why he became a plaintiff lawyer, and how he gets cases resolved.

Main Topics Discussed:

We sat down with Michael Cowen, Partner of Cowen Rodriguez Peacok, author of Big Rig Justice, and host of Trial Lawyer Nation. We spoke about trucking cases and his most recent verdict of $4 million dollars on a tough liability trucking case.

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