Trial Lawyer Nation

What does it take to become a true trial lawyer? Michael Cowen and Malorie Peacock discuss the importance of getting into the courtroom, learning from losses, and continuously improving your trial skills. They share lessons from their own experiences, explain why attorneys need opportunities to try cases, and offer practical advice on training, coaching, public speaking, and developing an authentic courtroom presence. Ultimately, becoming a great trial lawyer takes experience, confidence, and a commitment to getting better with every case.

Michael Cowen and Malorie Peacock discuss how to balance trial prep with a full docket without burning out. They share practical tips on prioritizing high-value work, delegating effectively, using AI, and building stronger trial teams. Learn how to prepare smarter, perform at your best, and make the most of every trial.Register For Our McAllen Seminar Here: 2026 Personal Injury Masterclass – Fill out form

Great trial lawyers don’t wing it. In this episode, Michael Cowen sits down with legendary Chicago plaintiff’s attorney Robert A. Clifford to discuss the preparation, strategy, and discipline behind a career handling complex aviation disasters and mass torts.Clifford shares lessons from his mentor Philip Corboy, explains how mock trials and focus groups help uncover juror bias, and breaks down his approach to case selection, settlement decisions, and working with experts. He also discusses mentoring younger lawyers, building a strong practice, and why preparation, reputation, and integrity remain essential to lasting success in trial law.

Michael Cowen and Malorie Peacock discuss how to uncover and develop a client’s damages story beyond what can be found in the medical records. They share practical strategies for building trust, asking better questions, conducting effective in-person visits, and uncovering the details that help bring a client’s pain, loss, and life changes to the jury.

The personal injury industry is changing fast, with private equity, AI, and MSOs reshaping how firms operate and grow. Michael Cowen sits down with Chad Dudley, co-founder of Dudley DeBosier, to discuss how trial lawyers and firm owners can adapt, scale, and build more durable practices without losing sight of client service. Chad shares real-world strategies for building strong systems, developing leadership, protecting lawyer judgment, and creating a firm built to succeed for the long term.Chad Dudley | [email protected] Dudley was born in Southern California and raised in Honolulu, Hawaii. He grew up playing competitive tennis at a national and international level. At the age of 15, Chad was awarded a scholarship to the Nick Bollettieri Tennis Academy (now IMG Academy) in Bradenton, Florida. He finished high school in Florida and moved to Baton Rouge, Louisiana to accept a tennis scholarship at Louisiana State University. Chad played for the LSU Men’s Tennis Team for four years and obtained his undergraduate degree in Marketing.After obtaining his undergraduate degree at LSU, Chad attended the LSU Paul M. Hebert Law Center where he received his law degree.From his very first job out of law school, Chad has always represented those who have been injured by others, helping them get the justice they deserve.Chad Dudley started Dudley DeBosier Injury Lawyers with his partners, Steven DeBosier and James Peltier, in 2009. They have since recovered over a billion dollars for tens of thousands of individuals throughout the state of Louisiana. The firm now has over 50 attorneys with offices across the state. Chad has also been a consultant to personal injury firms for over 15 years. He has worked with over 200 firms across the country, helping them grow their practice. He is considered an industry expert in the field of law firm management and building firms that get great results for their clients. Additionally, Chad is the CEO of cj Advertising, an advertising company that represents personal injury firms. He is a nationally recognized speaker on the topics of law firm management, marketing, and technology.In his free time, Chad still plays lots of tennis and pickleball.

Most law firms don’t lose great attorneys because they lack talent. They lose them because they onboard them the wrong way.In this episode, Michael Cowen and Malorie Peacock break down how to onboard attorneys with clarity, confidence, accountability, and real buy-in.From first-day expectations to file reviews, check-ins, culture, and phased caseloads, they share what works and what can backfire.If you’re a law firm owner, managing attorney, or lawyer starting somewhere new, this episode is worth a listen. 🎧

In this episode of Trial Lawyer Nation, Michael Cowen and Malorie Peacock share the behind-the-scenes story of a challenging federal trucking trial that tested their preparation, adaptability, and trial strategy. From unexpected courtroom changes and complex logistics to a lengthy jury selection process, they discuss how they navigated uncertainty and turned obstacles into opportunities.They break down the strategies behind connecting with the jury, building trust through storytelling, handling last-minute rulings, and staying focused when the pressure is at its highest. Through the lessons learned from this hard-fought victory, Michael and Malorie reveal why preparation, patience, and the ability to adapt can make all the difference in the courtroom.

Join Michael Cowen as he sits down with Sharif Gray to discuss the trial strategies that helped secure a $20 million verdict in a conservative venue. Sharif shares how powerful case framing, compelling storytelling, and connecting with jurors through trust, hope, and dignity can make all the difference at trial. Tune in for practical insights you can apply in your next case.Sharif [email protected]://graybroughton.com/team/sharif-gray/

Artificial intelligence is transforming the practice of law, but only if you know how to use it. In this episode, Nathan Gaffney shares practical strategies for leveraging AI to brainstorm ideas, draft stronger briefs, streamline discovery, and prepare for trial while protecting client confidentiality. He also discusses the risks of AI hallucinations, privilege concerns, and how to integrate AI into your practice ethically and effectively. Tune in to learn how to use AI with confidence and stay ahead in an increasingly technology-driven legal landscape.Nathan [email protected]://www.friedgoldberg.com/about-our-firm/nathan-a-gaffney/

In this Ask Michael & Malorie Anything episode, Michael Cowen and Malorie Peacock answer listener questions and share practical insights on some of the most important challenges trial lawyers face in the courtroom. From deciding when to discuss damages with a jury to recognizing and addressing classism during jury selection, they offer strategies designed to help lawyers connect more effectively with jurors and present stronger cases.Michael and Malorie also explore the power of storytelling in damages cases, emphasizing the importance of helping jurors understand the human impact behind an injury. They discuss how trust, preparation, and authenticity can influence trial outcomes, while sharing their perspectives on retrials, legal narratives, and the role of belief in advocating for clients.The episode concludes with a candid conversation about overcoming stage fright and building confidence in the courtroom. Whether you're a seasoned trial lawyer or just starting your career, this episode is packed with actionable trial tips, courtroom strategies, and lessons on becoming a more effective advocate.