Trial Lawyer Nation

In this episode of Trial Lawyer Nation, Michael Cowen and Malorie Peacock discuss the effective examination of treating doctors in trial settings. They emphasize the importance of concise and persuasive direct examination techniques, the necessity of understanding medical terminology, and the critical role of establishing causation through expert medical opinions. The conversation provides practical insights into preparing for depositions, structuring witness testimony, and ensuring that jurors can easily follow the medical aspects of a case.

In this episode of Trial Lawyer Nation, host Michael Cowen interviews David Craig, a seasoned truck accident lawyer from Indianapolis. They discuss David's journey into truck accident law, the unique challenges of these cases, and the importance of knowledge and mastery in the field. David shares insights from interviewing truck drivers, the role of rapid response teams in preserving evidence, and effective strategies for transitioning from a referral-based practice to direct consumer marketing. He also offers valuable advice for aspiring truck accident lawyers, emphasizing the importance of education, trial experience, and building relationships within the industry.

In this episode of Trial Lawyer Nation, Michael Cowen and Natalie Arledge delve into the complexities of a challenging legal case that resulted in a remarkable $1.7 million verdict. They discuss the strategic decisions, overcoming liability challenges, and the importance of trusting the jury. Join them as they share insights and lessons learned from navigating this intricate legal journey.

In this episode of Trial Lawyer Nation, Michael Cowen sits down with Todd Tracy, a powerhouse attorney in automotive product liability. Todd shares his journey from defending car manufacturers to fighting for crash victims. They dive into what it takes to spot and win vehicle defect cases, and Todd stresses how important it is for lawyers to work together and share resources to get the best results. He breaks down the top five types of cases worth pursuing—like seat back failures and missing center airbags—and talks about the challenges, costs, and rewards of handling these complex cases. From deep investigations to strong teamwork, this conversation is packed with tips for getting justice in automotive defect cases. 

In this episode of Trial Lawyer Nation, host Michael Cowen sits down with renowned jury consultant Robert Hirschhorn. Robert shares his journey from criminal defense attorney to pioneering jury consultant, and how he and his partner, Cathy Bennett, helped transform the field. He introduces Verdict Hub, an AI-driven platform making jury research more accessible for personal injury lawyers, and discusses the role of AI in trials, blending data with human intuition, and what’s ahead for tech in the courtroom.Robert Hirschhorn | Jury and Trial Consultant/Attorneyhttps://www.cebjury.com/https://verdicthub.ai/

In this episode of Trial Lawyer Nation, host Michael Cowen sits down with partner, Malorie Peacock to introduce a new trial series focused on effective trial tactics. They discuss the concept of the '30-Minute Witness'—the practice of limiting witness testimonies to 30 minutes or less to maintain jury attention. They emphasize the importance of preparation, simplifying case elements, and using visuals to make testimonies more engaging and persuasive. Michael and Malorie also share tips on handling expert qualifications, video depositions, and using physical objects as demonstratives. This approach aims to keep juries engaged, awake, and entertained to secure favorable outcomes.

Sonia Rodriguez, a personal injury attorney with nearly 20 years of experience, shares her insights on navigating complex cases. She emphasizes the power of personal narratives and the importance of trust among jurors, especially when clients appear to have 'recovered' from traumatic injuries. The discussion covers effective strategies for fostering a positive mindset, adapting to courtroom dynamics, and the role of compelling visual evidence and witness testimonies. Sonia's approach led to an impressive $8.5 million award for their client after overcoming significant challenges.

These cases are “righteous,” explains host Michael Cowen, “because when a tractor trailer is backing across the roadway, it is very difficult for oncoming traffic to see the trailer in time to stop.” He and trial partner Laura Pazin Porter recently resolved just such a case, in which their clients’ father died after striking an 18-wheeler that was backing across a highway at night. Laura describes how she established trust with the grieving family members, and Michael reveals how he channeled his “Just Keep Swimming” mantra during adverse rulings. Together, they achieved a confidential settlement right before closing arguments.Michael and Malorie welcome listener questions for a new "Ask Michael and Malorie Anything" feature. To submit a question, email Michael.Featured GuestName: Laura Pazin PorterAbout: Laura has over 20 years of experience in civil litigation, complex litigation, civil trial, and appellate law. She has participated in cases across multiple states and has been recognized as a "Texas Rising Star" by Thomson Reuters.Company: Cowen Rodriguez PeacockConnect: LinkedInConnect with Trial Lawyer Nation☑️ Follow us on X, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.☑️ Subscribe to Trial Lawyer Nation on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube.In this popular and award-winning podcast for trial lawyers, noteworthy author, sought-after speaker, and renowned trial lawyer, Michael Cowen explores critical topics distinctive to the legal profession with some of the biggest names in the industry – specifically focused on developing extremely efficient law practices, securing a competitive edge in the industry, and wildly excelling in the courtroom.Produced and Sponsored by LawPods.

In 2023, an American Bar Association report revealed that 81% of lawyers who use social media use LinkedIn. “That sounds like a huge number, but I guarantee you they don't maximize their use of the platform,” Delisi Friday says to host Michael Cowen. The founder of First Call Friday, Delisi trains lawyers how to get the most out of LinkedIn and other marketing strategies. Tune in for her pro tips, including her coaching Michael, in real time, on how to improve his LinkedIn headline.Michael and Malorie welcome listener questions for a new "Ask Michael and Malorie Anything" feature. To submit a question, email Michael.Featured GuestName: Delisi FridayAbout: Delisi has 20 years of marketing experience in the legal industry, including B2B marketing, CLE event planning, brand recognition, client engagement, podcast management and analytics, and direct mail marketing. She founded First Call Friday in 2025 to help law firm owners create legal marketing and business development strategies for attorney case referrals. Company: First Call Friday | Facebook | InstagramConnect: LinkedIn | FacebookConnect with Trial Lawyer Nation☑️ Follow us on X, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.☑️ Subscribe to Trial Lawyer Nation on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube.In this popular and award-winning podcast for trial lawyers, noteworthy author, sought-after speaker, and renowned trial lawyer, Michael Cowen explores critical topics distinctive to the legal profession with some of the biggest names in the industry – specifically focused on developing extremely efficient law practices, securing a competitive edge in the industry, and wildly excelling in the courtroom.Produced and Powered by LawPods

Receptionist-turned-litigator Juishree Samant got a masterclass right after law school when she worked in pre-litigation, convincing potential clients to hire the firm and resolving around 500 cases. “It puts you in a position where you're comfortable picking up the phone no matter who it is you're talking to, whether that be the client, whether that be adjuster, opposing counsel,” she explains in this conversation with her boss and host Michael Cowen. Now an associate at Cowen Rodriguez Peacock, Juishree recounts her unique path and shares how she navigated her career transitions. Next up: handling depositions on her own, driving an 18-wheeler at the Academy of Truck Accident Attorneys, and attending the firm’s Big Rig Boot Camp on July 10.Michael and Malorie welcome listener questions for a new "Ask Michael and Malorie Anything" feature. To submit a question, email Michael.Featured GuestName: Juishree SamantAbout: Juishree started her legal career in 2016 as a receptionist. She later served as a paralegal and then went to law school. Today, she is an associate in commercial litigation.Company: Cowen Rodriguez PeacockConnect: LinkedInConnect with Trial Lawyer Nation☑️ Follow us on X, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.☑️ Subscribe to Trial Lawyer Nation on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube.In this popular and award-winning podcast for trial lawyers, noteworthy author, sought-after speaker, and renowned trial lawyer, Michael Cowen explores critical topics distinctive to the legal profession with some of the biggest names in the industry – specifically focused on developing extremely efficient law practices, securing a competitive edge in the industry, and wildly excelling in the courtroom.Produced and Sponsored by LawPods.