Courtroom Stories & Tactics

Dog bite cases are rarely about just one victim—they’re about public safety, accountability, and preventing the next attack. 

"You have to show that this could happen to pretty much anyone. This could happen anytime, anywhere. You have to get the jury's mind ticking, and get them to see that it's not just that person who got bit on the face, it's anybody."

Ashley Strandjord describes her approach to prosecuting dog attacks, and other personal injury cases, demonstrating their impact on individuals, communities and societies. Through her work, Ashley helps victims harmed by negligent or careless behavior. She’s known for her meticulous case preparation, strategic litigation skills, and compassionate representation.

In this episode, we discuss:

◼️ Why dog bite cases are emotionally driven, but also time-consuming, and therefore how to prepare your case.
◼️ How notice requirements can complicate dog bite cases.
◼️ How dog owners have a legal duty to secure their pets, and the nuances of this on a case.
◼️ Why establishing a pattern of incidents is what strengthens a case.
◼️ How to build credibility with the jury, something critical for success.
◼️ Why courtroom etiquette can have such a strong influence on jury perception.

Chapters

00:00 Understanding Dog Bite Cases
03:05 The Emotional Impact of Dog Bite Cases
05:56 Legal Responsibilities of Dog Owners
08:54 Navigating Notice Requirements in Dog Bite Cases
17:56 The Importance of Evidence in Court
20:53 Accountability and Deterrence
23:56 The Broader Implications of Dog Bite Cases
27:02 Trial Strategies
36:00 Building Credibility in the Courtroom
38:58 Practical Tips for Trial Attorneys
41:48 The Human Element in Legal Practice

Courtroom Stories & Tactics | RVA Trial Lawyers
Available on Spotify, Apple, YouTube, and at RVATrialLawyers.com 

Based out of Richmond, Virginia, Courtroom Stories & Tactics by RVA Trial Lawyers exists for lawyers who try cases to juries on behalf of people. Through our podcast, we hope to learn from them, support them, connect them, inspire them, and preserve their work for future trial lawyers.

If you are willing, we would greatly appreciate it if you left us a 5-Star Google Review by clicking here. Your review will help people find us.

Thank you!

Sharif Gray and Nael Abouzaki

You've completed law school, taken the bar exam, have built a network of contacts and are ready to start practicing. 

And then, your entire law school's results are thrown out. 

You're faced with the choice: walk away completely for a new career, or go back to law school and do it all over again.

"I graduated the first time, took the bar, and I had to ask myself then before I was even a licensed lawyer, will I do it all again?"

Rodd Santomauro joins us to share his compelling story of persistence, perseverance and authenticity in building a thriving career as a plaintiff's personal injury attorney, and most recently, VP of Strategic Partnership and lien resolution strategist with Synergy.

Learn just how important it is to be proactive, assertive and taking responsibility for your own career. "I wouldn't let the inaction of others negatively impact my dreams," says Rodd. Protect your sanity, and your clients’ money, by being true to yourself. 

The results will follow.

In this episode, we discuss:

◼️ Why over-preparation is crucial to standing out, and can make a real difference in work and life.
◼️ Why proactive advocacy is crucial for achieving the best outcomes for clients.
◼️ Why understanding liens is essential for personal injury lawyers.
◼️ How negotiating with lien holders can significantly impact client settlements.
◼️ Strategies used to negotiate lien reductions, ultimately benefiting both lawyers and their clients.
◼️ How empathy and active listening help you truly understand your clients, and get the best possible results.

Chapters

00:00 Finding Fulfillment in Your Career
03:53 The Importance of Personal Style
06:44 Embracing Authenticity in the Legal Profession
08:32 Forced to Repeat Law School: Lessons in Perseverance
15:27 The Role of Continuous Learning
17:58 Rodd's Work with Synergy
24:34 Understanding the MCO Case
25:21 Client Impact and Fee Structure
30:55 Explaining Liens to Clients
36:17 Negotiating with Lien Holders
40:30 Pushing Forward in Legal Cases
44:38 Advice for Young Lawyers

Courtroom Stories & Tactics | RVA Trial Lawyers
Available on Spotify, Apple, YouTube, and at RVATrialLawyers.com 

Based out of Richmond, Virginia, Courtroom Stories & Tactics by RVA Trial Lawyers exists for lawyers who try cases to juries on behalf of people. Through our podcast, we hope to learn from them, support them, connect them, inspire them, and preserve their work for future trial lawyers.

If you are willing, we would greatly appreciate it if you left us a 5-Star Google Review by clicking here. Your review will help people find us.

Thank you!

Sharif Gray and Nael Abouzaki

If you want more high-value cases without giving more money to Google, this episode is for you.

"Understanding referral generation is crucial for business growth, and a law practice must be a business first. "

Today we look at the importance of referrals in law firms, focusing on who is responsible for generating these referrals and how to effectively manage this process. 

In keeping with this theme, please share this episode with your colleagues and network, to make sure that they can benefit from this information as well.

Erica Caviness is a law firm coach and business specialist, and founder of Thrive Concepts, which guides law firms on becoming successful, sustainable and thriving businesses. With a professional journey rooted in legal and medical coaching expertise, she stands out as a seasoned authority in the coaching realm, particularly within the intricate landscape of law firms.

In this episode, we discuss:

◼️ Why the first question to ask of your law firm is, "Who is in charge of referrals?"
◼️ Why law firms need maintain a focus on business development strategies.
◼️ How effective management of referrals and relationships can lead to increased cases.
◼️ Whether your referral expert needs to be a trial lawyer as well.
◼️ How to brand and market your firm to attract referrals.

Chapters

01:07 Erica's Journey and Expertise
11:44 Developing Effective Referral Programs
18:53 Diversifying Referral Sources
21:54 Recruiting and Training for Success
23:34 Understanding Referral Partners
29:20 Marketing Campaigns and Core Values
36:30 The Significance of Referrals

Follow Courtroom Stories & Tactics
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rvatriallawyer/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rvatriallawyers
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rva-trial-lawyers-richmonds-trial-lawyer-podcast/id1669382040
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7DH4Jp8slQmDZlYvQ4eVxk

Courtroom Stories & Tactics | RVA Trial Lawyers
Available on Spotify, Apple, YouTube, and at RVATrialLawyers.com 

Based out of Richmond, Virginia, Courtroom Stories & Tactics by RVA Trial Lawyers exists for lawyers who try cases to juries on behalf of people. Through our podcast, we hope to learn from them, support them, connect them, inspire them, and preserve their work for future trial lawyers.

If you are willing, we would greatly appreciate it if you left us a 5-Star Google Review by clicking here. Your review will help people find us.

Thank you!

Sharif Gray and Nael Abouzaki

If you want to learn how to live a full, sustainable life as a lawyer, this episode is for you. Matt Long breaks down how to build a healthy firm culture, communicate effectively, and avoid burnout as a lawyer.

Please consider sharing this episode with someone who could benefit from it.

Matt is the President of Bowen Ten Long & Bal in Richmond, Virginia. Over his 17+ year career, he has led with a simple philosophy: protect your people, communicate openly, and never let the profession consume your entire life. His open-door style has created a positive, honest, and supportive culture that keeps both clients and employees thriving.

In this episode, we discuss:
◼️ How to build a firm culture people genuinely want to be part of
◼️ Why open-door communication prevents most internal problems
◼️ How to avoid burnout when every client needs you “right now”
◼️ How he prioritizes employees, clients, and the business itself
◼️ The realities of practicing in smaller Virginia jurisdictions
◼️ How rising insurance limits are reshaping PI practice
◼️ Why prioritizing family and self-care makes you a better lawyer

1:42 Meet Matt Long: A Lawyer's Intentional Life
2:23 Matt's Legal Career and Specializations
4:00 Running a Legal Listserv for Small Firms
6:07 The Challenge of Access to Legal Counsel
8:19 Legal Deserts and Unmet Needs
10:15 Attorney Fees and the Johnny Depp Trial
10:57 Challenges in the Court System
13:28 The Shortage of Lawyers and Legal Deserts
14:57 Reaffirming Life-Work Balance and Priorities
17:25 Strategies for Time Management and Delegation
20:32 Autonomy and a 'Fruitful, Free Life' as a Lawyer
22:43 Pet Peeves: Lack of Responsiveness & Procrastination
26:50 Building a Positive Firm Culture
29:59 Managing Growth and Feedback in a Firm
31:49 The Role of a Firm President: Prioritizing People
35:05 Employee Well-being Beyond Perks
37:48 Unique Approach to PI Negotiations (Mother's Influence)
39:22 The Art of Adjuster Relationships & Ammunition
42:57 Leveraging Technology for Efficient Demands
47:50 Insurance Limits and Client Challenges
49:56 Managing Client Expectations in Tough Cases
51:57 Favorite Travel Destinations
53:02 Writing a Book on Travel Hacking
54:24 Advice to Young Lawyers: Full Ownership

Follow Courtroom Stories & Tactics
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rvatriallawyer/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rvatriallawyers
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rva-trial-lawyers-richmonds-trial-lawyer-podcast/id1669382040
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7DH4Jp8slQmDZlYvQ4eVxk

#TrialLawyers #LawFirmLeadership #WorkLifeBalance #AttorneyWellness #PlaintiffLaw #RichmondLawyers #LegalProfession

Courtroom Stories & Tactics | RVA Trial Lawyers
Available on Spotify, Apple, YouTube, and at RVATrialLawyers.com 

Based out of Richmond, Virginia, Courtroom Stories & Tactics by RVA Trial Lawyers exists for lawyers who try cases to juries on behalf of people. Through our podcast, we hope to learn from them, support them, connect them, inspire them, and preserve their work for future trial lawyers.

If you are willing, we would greatly appreciate it if you left us a 5-Star Google Review by clicking here. Your review will help people find us.

Thank you!

Sharif Gray and Nael Abouzaki

"It gives me so much purpose and meaning: we are helping educate people in a place where they don't know anything. And they need the help."

Michele Lewane is runs the Injured Workers Law Firm in Richmond, VA, which since 2006 has been advocating to get the benefits injured workers deserve for their worker's compensation claims.

Worker's compensation is a complex and bureaucratic field that requires tremendous expertise and preparation to navigate. Michele guides us through the intricate details, from initial injury reporting to hearings and litigation. She talks about the challenges faced by injured workers in getting the care, coverage and compensation they deserve, and she shares examples that illustrate the importance of early legal intervention.

Michele is also the co-founder of Kids’ Chance of Virginia, which provides post-secondary and trade school scholarships to the children of Virginia workers who have been severely or fatally injured in a workplace accident. You can learn more here: www.kidschanceva.org

It was a privilege having Michele join us.

Courtroom Stories & Tactics | RVA Trial Lawyers
Available on Spotify, Apple, YouTube, and at RVATrialLawyers.com 

Based out of Richmond, Virginia, Courtroom Stories & Tactics by RVA Trial Lawyers exists for lawyers who try cases to juries on behalf of people. Through our podcast, we hope to learn from them, support them, connect them, inspire them, and preserve their work for future trial lawyers.

If you are willing, we would greatly appreciate it if you left us a 5-Star Google Review by clicking here. Your review will help people find us.

Thank you!

Sharif Gray and Nael Abouzaki

"What helps motivate us in part is institutional or organizational betrayal: where the bond between the institution and the person is strong, but there's a big power differential due to the size and strength of the institution." - Peter Everett

Peter Everett and Barkley Horn from Blankenship & Keith joined us to talk about their firm's approach to personal injury law. They focus on catastrophic injury cases with a particular focus on representing survivors of violent crimes.

Their cases can often be brought down to the question of institutional betrayal, where trusted organizations fail to protect individuals or cover up wrongdoing. 

Peter and Barkley share their strategies for developing their cases, and they share some fascinating stories of trial experiences, including high-profile and complex cases involving violent crimes and wrongful death.

It was a privilege having Peter and Barkley join us.

Courtroom Stories & Tactics | RVA Trial Lawyers
Available on Spotify, Apple, YouTube, and at RVATrialLawyers.com 

Based out of Richmond, Virginia, Courtroom Stories & Tactics by RVA Trial Lawyers exists for lawyers who try cases to juries on behalf of people. Through our podcast, we hope to learn from them, support them, connect them, inspire them, and preserve their work for future trial lawyers.

If you are willing, we would greatly appreciate it if you left us a 5-Star Google Review by clicking here. Your review will help people find us.

Thank you!

Sharif Gray and Nael Abouzaki

AI is not perfect yet, you still have to babysit it, but it's scary. Because two years ago I used AI and thought, "Well that was kind of like using a high school senior." Now when I'm using AI, it's like, "I'm using a second year associate."

Penn Crawford joined us for a wide-ranging discussion. We talked about the realities of running a small, boutique law firm and what makes firms of this size effective for the people they represent. We also discussed the growing role of AI in legal practice — how it’s changing research, trial preparation, and day-to-day work. 

Beyond the practice of law, Penn shared his perspective on maintaining personal well-being, the value of preventative care, and the distinction between managing energy versus managing time.

It was a privilege having Penn join us.

Courtroom Stories & Tactics | RVA Trial Lawyers
Available on Spotify, Apple, YouTube, and at RVATrialLawyers.com 

Based out of Richmond, Virginia, Courtroom Stories & Tactics by RVA Trial Lawyers exists for lawyers who try cases to juries on behalf of people. Through our podcast, we hope to learn from them, support them, connect them, inspire them, and preserve their work for future trial lawyers.

If you are willing, we would greatly appreciate it if you left us a 5-Star Google Review by clicking here. Your review will help people find us.

Thank you!

Sharif Gray and Nael Abouzaki

"My thought when I go into a courtroom, and I feel this way throughout the trial, is I just am welcoming people into my house. I go in, I talk to my jury, I make eye contact with them, and I try to talk to them the way that I would talk to anybody: a clerk at the grocery store or you guys - us sitting in this room doing this podcast. "

The way we interact with a jury, particularly in voir dire, sets the tone for the trial and can make or break the case. 

Courtney Winston is an expert at making that connection, being authentic, and treating this interaction as a conversation, not a dictation. Courtney is a trial lawyer doing plaintiff's personal injury work, to which she brings a background in legal aid and criminal defense.

Sharif and Nael talk with Courtney about the importance of humanizing clients, building trust, and developing control and confidence during a trial.

It was a privilege having Courtney join us.

Courtroom Stories & Tactics | RVA Trial Lawyers
Available on Spotify, Apple, YouTube, and at RVATrialLawyers.com 

Based out of Richmond, Virginia, Courtroom Stories & Tactics by RVA Trial Lawyers exists for lawyers who try cases to juries on behalf of people. Through our podcast, we hope to learn from them, support them, connect them, inspire them, and preserve their work for future trial lawyers.

If you are willing, we would greatly appreciate it if you left us a 5-Star Google Review by clicking here. Your review will help people find us.

Thank you!

Sharif Gray and Nael Abouzaki

"The community at the time was just furious with me for charging any of the counter-protestors with anything. And I was very sympathetic to the ideology of the counter-protestors, and was mortified by some of the viewpoints of the alt-right individuals. But I said, 'I have to prosecute conduct, not content,' and if you start picking sides, that's a scary thing."

Joe Platania, the Commonwealth’s Attorney for Charlottesville, joined us for a candid conversation about what it truly means to serve as a prosecutor. 

From starting as a public defender to leading the prosecution of high-profile cases—most notably those arising from the 2017 Unite the Right rally—we explored the immense power and responsibility of prosecutorial discretion, the balance between victim advocacy and fairness to the accused, and the importance of proactive engagement with the communities prosecutors serve.

It was a privilege having Joe join us.

Courtroom Stories & Tactics | RVA Trial Lawyers
Available on Spotify, Apple, YouTube, and at RVATrialLawyers.com 

Based out of Richmond, Virginia, Courtroom Stories & Tactics by RVA Trial Lawyers exists for lawyers who try cases to juries on behalf of people. Through our podcast, we hope to learn from them, support them, connect them, inspire them, and preserve their work for future trial lawyers.

If you are willing, we would greatly appreciate it if you left us a 5-Star Google Review by clicking here. Your review will help people find us.

Thank you!

Sharif Gray and Nael Abouzaki

"The number one takeaway is trust yourself. Because we know our stuff. We are better than them. They are inundated with so much work, and they're doing the same old stuff. We're going to conferences and learning cutting edge technology. So believe in yourself."

Tarun Rana of Rana Law Group in St. Louis, MO joined us for a conversation about learning, improving, and working alongside other trial lawyers. Tarun shared his approach to trial preparation, his insight on building a successful practice, and his experience in utilizing big data and focus groups. 

Tarun and Sharif met in the first place thanks to our common friend Chris Finney ("Trying Cases the Right Way," Episode 21, April 2025), further proof of the power of networking and sharing knowledge and resources.

It was a privilege having Tarun join us.

Courtroom Stories & Tactics | RVA Trial Lawyers
Available on Spotify, Apple, YouTube, and at RVATrialLawyers.com 

Based out of Richmond, Virginia, Courtroom Stories & Tactics by RVA Trial Lawyers exists for lawyers who try cases to juries on behalf of people. Through our podcast, we hope to learn from them, support them, connect them, inspire them, and preserve their work for future trial lawyers.

If you are willing, we would greatly appreciate it if you left us a 5-Star Google Review by clicking here. Your review will help people find us.

Thank you!

Sharif Gray and Nael Abouzaki