In this episode of Trial War Stories, host Andy Goldwasser sits down with acclaimed Columbus trial lawyer John Camillus to unpack one of the most remarkable cases of his career — a traumatic brain injury trial against Swift Transportation in El Paso, Texas.

John was brought into the case just three days before trial, parachuting in as lead counsel in a high-stakes negligence claim involving a 304-pound trailer door and a trucking company. The episode dives deep into the whirlwind preparation, strategic collaboration with co-counsel, navigating a new judge, and the psychology of connecting with jurors in a border community.

Through candid storytelling and practical insights, Andy and John explore not only the pressure and chaos of trial practice but also the humanity, authenticity, and quick thinking that define great courtroom advocacy.
Whether you’re a practicing attorney, a law student, or just a fan of real-world courtroom drama, this episode offers a masterclass in resilience, authenticity, and the art of trial strategy.
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Podcast Chapters
0:00 – Introduction: Swift Justice & Trial War Stories
Andy introduces the Trial War Stories podcast and his guest, Columbus trial lawyer John Camillus, setting the stage for a deep dive into a remarkable trucking-injury case in Texas.
2:00 – The Case & Background: Swift Transportation and a 304-Pound Door
John explains the facts behind the case — a young truck driver for Swift injured when a trailer door struck her head, resulting in a traumatic brain injury.
6:00 – From Ohio to El Paso: How John Got the Call
John recounts how he was brought into the case by El Paso lawyer Maxie Cher just weeks before trial — and the surprising reason he was asked to step in at the last minute.
10:00 – Three Days’ Notice: Prepping for Trial Under Fire
Andy and John discuss the challenges of joining a complex TBI case with 36 depositions already taken, balancing limited prep time with the duty to the client.
16:00 – Voir Dire in El Paso: Authenticity Over Accent
John reflects on connecting with an 80% Hispanic jury pool as an Ohio lawyer, emphasizing that authenticity, warmth, and humanity transcend geography.
20:00 – The Law & the Strategy: Texas’ Non-Subscriber Rule
John and Andy unpack how Texas law — which denies comparative fault defenses to employers who opt out of workers’ comp — completely reshaped their trial strategy and closing argument.
26:00 – Lessons in Swift Justice: The Takeaways
They conclude with reflections on teamwork, preparation, and grace under pressure — the traits that define effective trial advocacy and turn chaos into courtroom victory.