Verdict on the Rocks

Host Gabriel Sepulveda-Sanchez sits down with junior associate Ozzie Peña for a candid conversation about the leap from law student to first-year litigation attorney, and what it really feels like when the stakes become real. From landing a hard-fought settlement on a tough trip-and-fall case to navigating depositions, pressure, and the day-to-day grind of a growing firm, Ozzie shares the lessons that are shaping him early in his career. Along the way, Gabriel breaks down what experience teaches over time: how to stay client-focused, think strategically, learn from losses, and build the kind of skill set that can settle cases for value and still be ready for trial when it counts.

In this episode of Verdict on the Rocks, trial lawyer Alonso Zavala-Soto joins the show to talk about the realities of being a public defender, the discipline he carried from the Marine Corps into trial work, and why authenticity rather than polish wins juries. From serious felony cases to wrongful death trials, Alonzo shares hard-earned lessons about jury selection, storytelling, and the emotional toll of standing alone in the first chair.

The conversation dives deep into the Gerry Spence Method and explores why vulnerability is a strength, how scene-setting can shift a courtroom, and why trial lawyers often learn more from losses than from wins. Alonzo also opens up about the loneliness, fear, and growth that come with trying cases and why some verdicts ultimately belong to the jury, no matter how well you prepare.

This is a raw and honest conversation for trial lawyers, public defenders, and anyone who wants to understand what it truly means to fight for someone in court.

Host Gabriel Sepulveda-Sanchez sits down with Brent Marlis, founder of The Work Justice Firm, for a candid conversation about breaking partnerships, building brands, and finding purpose in the grind of law. From hustling for clients to leading with vision, Brent shares how he turned struggle into a firm that fights for workers’ rights one case at a time.

In this episode of Verdict on the Rocks, attorney Gabriel Sepulveda-Sanchez sits down with immigration lawyer Sharon Abaud of Abaud Legal for an in-depth conversation on law, business, and community impact. They explore timely issues like immigration today, ICE raids, marriage-based visas, and the unique challenges immigrants face in the U.S., beyond the courtroom. Sharon and Gabriel dive into entrepreneurship; scaling a law firm, the power of masterminds, culture-building, and the role of vision, accountability, and leadership in running a successful practice. The discussion also tackles the realities of jury trials, client trust, and strategies for navigating high-stakes cases.

 Learn more about Sharon’s work at Abaud Legal - https://www.abaudlegal.com/

Connect with Gabriel and his team at Sepulveda Sanchez Accident Lawyers - https://sepulvedalawgroup.com/ 

Step into the world of legal innovation
and human stories with Gabriel Sanchez,
CEO of the renowned Gabriel Sepulveda
Law Firm, on our riveting podcast.
Gabriel, with his unique blend of
expertise and empathy sit down with an
eclectic mix of guests from the legal
realm, including trailblazing lawyers,
influential judges, and the unsung heroes
of the courtroom. Through a series of
intimate and revealing conversations, he
navigates the complex tapestry of law,
shedding light on the personal journeys
that inspire and drive legal professionals
to make a difference. This podcast goes
beyond the statutes and case law to
explore the passion, dedication, and
perseverance that fuels the pursuit of
justice and reform in the legal field.
Whether you're a seasoned legal expert, a
newcomer to the world of law, or simply
intrigued by the stories of those who
advocate within it, Gabriel's insightful
dialogues offer a rare glimpse into the
challenges and triumphs of life in law.
Join Gabriel Sanchez for a journey into
the heart of the legal profession, where
every episode promises to educate,
inspire, and provoke thought.

In this enlightening episode of "Beyond the Bar", host Gabriel Sepulveda Sanchez, the dynamic CEO of Sepulveda Law, invites Elias Bello, the innovative CEO of Sign Up Guys. They delve into an engaging discussion about how Sign Up Guys' services have remarkably transformed and multiplied the business operations at Sepulveda Law. Gabriel shares his first-hand experiences and the significant impact these services have had, providing listeners with valuable insights into business growth and digital strategy. Tune in to discover the secrets behind this successful collaboration and gain practical tips for your own business endeavors.

In this episode of Beyond the Bar, we are excited to sit down with Argilio Rodriguez, the founder of Rodriguez Law. With his expertise in high-stakes commercial litigation and liquor licensing throughout the state of New York, Argilio has made a name for himself in the legal industry.

Argilio earned his degree from Syracuse University College of Law and is a native of Manhattan. As a member of the Latino business community, he takes pride in his efforts to advance this community throughout New York City. His dedication and hard work have not gone unnoticed, as he has been recognized as a rising star by Super Lawyers magazine since 2015.

During our conversation, Argilio will share with us his experiences and insights into commercial litigation and liquor licensing in the state of New York. We'll explore the challenges and opportunities that come with working in this area of law and gain a better understanding of what it takes to succeed in this field.

On this episode of Beyond the Bar, Gabriel Sepulveda-Sanchez sits down with Eric Canton, the new managing attorney at Sepulveda Sanchez Law. The two discuss their experiences growing up Hispanic and Mexican-American, professional and personal struggles, and lessons they’ve learned from losing tough cases over the years of practicing law.

Eric’s recent addition to the Sepulveda Sanchez Law team has only strengthened the All-Star Latino lineup. The firm has been making big waves in the legal industry in Los Angeles and beyond. Members of the all-Latino staff bring their culture to work and bond over their camaraderie while staying connected to the Latino community.

John Stenson is a litigation attorney with over 16 years of litigation experience. He was previously a partner at a national litigation firm where he headed the securities litigation division and has also served as corporate counsel at one of the largest privately held investment banking firms on the west coast. He began his career as a District Attorney where he prosecuted felony and misdemeanor cases in Illinois state. He now focuses his practice full time on trials and catastrophic injury cases.

Jay Jones is the President and CEO of AlwaysON Pr, INC, a boutique intellectual, entertainment talent and public relations firm with a focus on media exposure, branding, and marketing. 
He is a TV industry veteran with decades of leadership in senior management, and show production. He is a proud Syracuse University Newhouse Graduate. Jay Jones has booked thousands of guests in national, regional, local, and international outlets. 
Jones has been named "Executive Producer of The Year" and has worked with celebrity talk shows hosts such as Steve Harvey, Dr. Phil, Geraldo Rivera, Montell Williams, Tyra Banks, and Russell Simmons. Jay Jones is based in New York City on the Upper West Side.