ABOTA Speaks

American Board of Trial Advocates

ABOTA Speaks is the official podcast of the American Board of Trial Advocates, where history, law, and storytelling meet. Each week, ABOTA members sit down with world-renowned historians, legal experts, and accomplished trial lawyers and judges for insightful conversations about justice, the rule of law, and the art of advocacy. New episodes release every Wednesday.

  1. Scott Costantino on Leadership, Service, and the Future of the Trial Bar

    3 DAYS AGO

    Scott Costantino on Leadership, Service, and the Future of the Trial Bar

    In this episode of ABOTA Speaks, host Jake Courtney sits down with Scott Costantino, a trial lawyer from Jacksonville, Florida, ABOTA leader, and current President of the International Society of Barristers, for a conversation about leadership, service, and involvement in the trial bar. Scott reflects on his early career and how membership in ABOTA began as an aspiration—something to work toward as he gained trial experience and built his reputation in the courtroom. He shares how showing up, volunteering, and raising his hand to serve opened the door to leadership opportunities within the organization. The conversation also explores how the realities of modern litigation—fewer jury trials and increasing costs—have changed the path for younger lawyers seeking courtroom experience. Scott and Jake discuss why organizations remain essential to mentoring the next generation of trial lawyers and protecting the right to trial by jury. Scott also offers perspective from his role as President of the International Society of Barristers, an invitation-only organization of plaintiff and defense trial lawyers that emphasizes professional fellowship and lifelong relationships within the trial bar. Learn more: American Board of Trial Advocates: www.abota.org International Society of Barristers: www.isob.com ABOTA Speaks releases new episodes every two weeks. #ABOTASpeaks #TrialLaw #JuryTrial #TrialBar #RuleOfLaw

    27 min
  2. Inside the American Civil Trial Bar Roundtable: Protecting the Right to Trial by Jury

    4 MAR

    Inside the American Civil Trial Bar Roundtable: Protecting the Right to Trial by Jury

    In this episode of ABOTA Speaks, host Jill Webb sits down with John Cuttino and Sean Domnick, co-facilitators of the American Civil Trial Bar Roundtable, to discuss the unique role this organization plays in protecting the civil justice system. The American Civil Trial Bar Roundtable brings together leaders from major plaintiff and defense organizations—including DRI, AAJ, the American Bar Association, and others—for high-level discussions about the challenges facing the civil jury trial system. From artificial intelligence to mandatory arbitration clauses to protecting the judiciary, the Roundtable provides a forum for candid dialogue and collaboration across the trial bar. John and Sean explain: · What the American Civil Trial Bar Roundtable is—and why it was founded · How ABOTA serves as the founder and host organization · Why the structure of the Roundtable is essential to its effectiveness · How diverse trial groups collaborate on issues affecting the profession · Why the Seventh Amendment remains foundational to American democracy They also discuss how the Roundtable’s work extends beyond lawyers—impacting everyday citizens by helping preserve access to meaningful jury trials and addressing emerging threats to the Rule of Law. Learn more: American Board of Trial Advocates: www.abota.org DRI – Association of Lawyers Defending Business : www.dri.org American Association for Justice: www.justice.org #ABOTASpeaks #JuryTrial #SeventhAmendment #CivilJustice #RuleOfLaw #TrialLaw

    25 min
  3. Camille Vasquez on Preparation, Professionalism, and Changing the Narrative in a Jury Trial

    18 FEB

    Camille Vasquez on Preparation, Professionalism, and Changing the Narrative in a Jury Trial

    In this episode of ABOTA Speaks, host Jake Courtney sits down with trial attorney Camille Vasquez, widely known for her cross-examination of Amber Heard in the jury trial where she represented Johnny Depp, for a conversation about preparation, credibility, and the realities of practicing law in high-profile cases. Camille reflects on her early participation in the ABOTA Fellowship program during law school, and how that experience shaped her approach to courtroom advocacy. She discusses the discipline required to build credibility with juries, the importance of preparation, and how lawyers are perceived in the courtroom. The conversation also explores her role in the highly publicized Depp v. Heard trial, offering insight into what it means to try a case under intense national and international scrutiny. Camille shares lessons on composure, professionalism, and maintaining focus when the spotlight is consistent and constant during trial. Topics include: · How the ABOTA Fellowship influenced her career path · The discipline behind effective trial preparation · Juror perception and courtroom credibility · Practicing law in a nationally televised trial · Why civility and professionalism remain essential in modern advocacy Learn more about ABOTA: www.abota.org #ABOTASpeaks #JohnnyDepp #DeppvHeard #TrialLaw #Litigation

    17 min
  4. Judges on Civility, Credibility, and the Future of the Jury Trial

    4 FEB

    Judges on Civility, Credibility, and the Future of the Jury Trial

    In this episode of ABOTA Speaks, host Jill Webb is joined by U.S. Judge Robert L. Pitman of the Western District of Texas, U.S. Chief Judge Amos L. Mazzant III, of the Eastern District of Texas, and Justice Chari L. Kelly for the Texas Third Court of Appeals for a candid conversation about jury trials—from the perspective of the bench. Drawing on their collective experience, these judges discuss openly how jurors experience the courtroom, what builds or erodes credibility, and why civility and professionalism remain essential to the future of the jury trial. Their conversation explores how jurors perceive attorneys and witnesses, the subtle details that influence trust, and the responsibility lawyers share in maintaining confidence in the justice system. Along the way, the judges offer thoughtful observations and real-world examples that underscore just how closely juries are paying attention. This episode offers valuable insight for trial lawyers and anyone interested in the evolving role of juries and the enduring importance of credibility in the courtroom. ABOTA Speaks releases new episodes every two weeks. Support the podcast: Subscribe on YouTube, follow us on your favorite podcast app, share this episode or leave a review on Apple Podcasts. We want others to discover these great conversations! Learn more about ABOTA: www.abota.org

    22 min
  5. Talmage Boston on Law, Leadership, and Lessons from History

    21 JAN

    Talmage Boston on Law, Leadership, and Lessons from History

    Season 2 of ABOTA Speaks continues with a thoughtful conversation that reflects on leadership, discipline, and the value of historical perspective. Host Jake Courtney is joined by Talmage Boston, a trial lawyer, historian, and author, for a discussion about how studying the past can inform the way we think, lead, and practice law today. Drawing on his experience both in the courtroom and as a writer, Talmage shares insights into the habits of effective leaders, the discipline required for meaningful work, and why long-form thinking still matters. In this episode, the conversation explores: · How Talmage balances trial practice with writing and historical research· What studying leadership across time reveals about preparation, character, and judgment· Why curiosity, discipline, and reflection are essential traits for lawyers and leaders alikeABOTA Speaks releases new episodes every two weeks. Support the podcast: Subscribe on YouTube, follow us, share this episode and leave a review. We want others to discover these great conversations. Learn more about ABOTA: www.abota.org Learn more about Talmage Boston: Cross-Examining History Podcast: https://pod.link/1460591295 https://talmageboston.com/ #ABOTASpeaks #ABOTA #Leadership #LegalProfession #TrialLaw #Civility

    12 min
  6. A Year of Connection: Bill Shapiro on Leading ABOTA in 2026

    7 JAN

    A Year of Connection: Bill Shapiro on Leading ABOTA in 2026

    Season 2 of ABOTA Speaks begins with a conversation that sets the tone for the year ahead and introduces a new rhythm for the podcast. Host Jake Courtney sits down with Bill Shapiro, who will be sworn in as ABOTA’s National President for 2026, to talk about leadership, connection, and the future of the organization. Bill brings a sense of enthusiasm, warmth, and optimism to a wide-ranging discussion about what it means to lead ABOTA at this moment. In this episode, Bill reflects on: What first drew him to ABOTA and the relationships that shaped his long-term involvementWhy civility, professionalism, and human connection matter—both inside and outside the courtroomHis vision for a welcoming, inclusive year ahead, including opportunities for members to engage, connect, and feel at home in ABOTAListeners also get a glimpse of Bill beyond the courtroom, including how his personality, interests, and love of community shape his approach to leadership. ABOTA Speaks is now releasing new episodes every two weeks. The next episode will be available on January 21, 2026. Enjoying ABOTA Speaks? Following the podcast, subscribing on YouTube, or leaving a review is a simple way to support the show and help more members discover these conversations. #ABOTASpeaks #ABOTA #Civility

    27 min
  7. Judge Clifton B. Newman on Civility in the Courtroom

    17/12/2025

    Judge Clifton B. Newman on Civility in the Courtroom

    In this episode of ABOTA Speaks, host Jill Webb talks with the Honorable Clifton B. Newman, ABOTA Honorary Diplomate and one of the Nation’s most respected judicial voices. Known internationally for presiding over the Alex Murdaugh trial, Judge Newman brings decades of experience, insight, and uncommon steadiness to this conversation on civility, judicial independence, and the evolving role of the courtroom in public life. Judge Newman reflects on how judges can model dignity, fairness, and restraint even under intense scrutiny; why civility is essential not just for lawyers but for the health of the justice system itself; and how livestreaming, media attention, and public pressure intersect with the judge’s duty to maintain order and impartiality. He also shares stories from his path to the bench, including the unexpected moment in high school that first sparked his interest in the law, and discusses his transition to mediation following decades of service on the South Carolina Circuit Court. Whether you followed the Murdaugh trial closely or want practical wisdom on professionalism and courtroom leadership, this conversation offers thoughtful guidance from a judge known for his calm, clarity, and commitment to justice. Enjoying ABOTA Speaks? Follow the podcast on your favorite platform, subscribe to our YouTube channel, and consider leaving a review to help others find the show. #ABOTASpeaks #CliftonNewman #CivilityInTheCourtroom #JudicialLeadership #RuleOfLaw #TrialAdvocacy #LegalProfession #CourtroomCivility

    14 min
  8. John Sweeney on Fighting for Justice in the Toughest Cases

    10/12/2025

    John Sweeney on Fighting for Justice in the Toughest Cases

    In this episode of ABOTA Speaks, host Jake Courtney talks with John Sweeney, the 2025 CAL-ABOTA Trial Lawyer of the Year, whose landmark civil rights cases in Los Angeles have shaped national conversations about policing, accountability, and justice. Sweeney has tried some of the most emotionally charged and high-profile cases in California—cases involving police shootings, system failures, and families fighting for answers. He speaks candidly about what it means to step into the courtroom when the stakes could not be higher, and how leadership often looks like courage, preparation, and the willingness to tell a story that others are afraid to tell. Their conversation explores: • What real leadership looks like when lives, legacies, and public trust are on the line • The pressures and responsibilities of trying emotionally charged civil rights cases • Why courage, professionalism and civility remain indispensable even in the most hard-fought trials Whether you’re drawn to trial strategy, courtroom leadership, or the deeper calling behind civil rights work, Sweeney delivers a powerful, uncompromising look at what it means to stand up for justice in the toughest cases. Learn more about John Sweeney: https://thesweeneyfirm.com and ABOTA: https://www.abota.org #ABOTASpeaks #TrialAdvocacy #CivilRightsLitigation #JusticeSystem #JohnSweeney

    33 min
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About

ABOTA Speaks is the official podcast of the American Board of Trial Advocates, where history, law, and storytelling meet. Each week, ABOTA members sit down with world-renowned historians, legal experts, and accomplished trial lawyers and judges for insightful conversations about justice, the rule of law, and the art of advocacy. New episodes release every Wednesday.

Information

  • Creator
    American Board of Trial Advocates
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    19
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Show Website
    ABOTA Speaks

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