Lawyers Without Billboards

Shewmaker & Lewis

Real lawyers, real talk—without the billboards. Lawyers Without Billboards is an unfiltered look at family law, hosted by the partners of Shewmaker & Lewis: Steve and Patty Shewmaker, and Jimmy and Alexa Lewis. With decades of experience in divorce, custody battles, child support, alimony, and criminal law, they break down legal myths, share expert insights, and dive into real cases (sometimes with a side of humor). Expect candid conversations, legal deep dives, and the occasional sidebar on pop culture, legal movies, and life as family law attorneys. Whether you're navigating a family law issue, practicing law yourself, or just enjoy courtroom drama, this podcast offers valuable insights with a dose of levity. New episodes every two weeks Subscribe and listen wherever you get your podcasts!

  1. QDRO Nightmares: Divorce Retirement Mistakes to Avoid | Lawyers Without Billboards S2-Ep22

    2d ago

    QDRO Nightmares: Divorce Retirement Mistakes to Avoid | Lawyers Without Billboards S2-Ep22

    Retirement accounts can become one of the most confusing and expensive parts of a divorce… especially when QDROs are involved. In this episode of Lawyers Without Billboards, the team at Shewmaker & Lewis dives deep into the world of QDROs (Qualified Domestic Relations Orders), retirement account divisions, pensions, gains and losses, plan administrator headaches, and the costly mistakes attorneys and divorcing parties make all the time. Jimmy, Patty, and Alexa break down practical QDRO “practice points” that can save people thousands of dollars and months of frustration, while Steve provides comic relief and repeatedly declares this “the most boring podcast ever.” 😄 From pre-approval mistakes to undividable retirement plans, delayed QDRO disasters, and confusion over gains and losses, this episode is packed with real-world insights for anyone navigating divorce and retirement division issues. 🎧 Whether you're divorcing, practicing family law, or just enjoy hearing Steve slowly unravel during technical legal discussions, this episode delivers. ⏱️ Chapters  00:00 – Welcome to Lawyers Without Billboards  01:06 – What are QDRO practice points?  02:44 – Why pre-approval matters  05:41 – Understanding model language  09:21 – Retirement plans that cannot be divided  10:50 – Gains and losses explained  15:17 – Problems with old valuation dates  17:17 – Why lawyers aren’t financial planners  20:35 – Doing your homework during discovery  23:22 – “Troublemaking provisions” to avoid  24:15 – Why parties should always review QDROs  26:30 – Steve declares this the “worst podcast ever”  27:29 – Closing thoughts  🔔 Subscribe for candid conversations about family law, relationships, and the legal system - without the billboards. 🎙️ Hosts: Steve & Patty Shewmaker, Jimmy & Alexa Lewis  🎧 Watch here:https://youtu.be/NcprnTFIObQ or listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and more. 📩 Contact: pshewmaker@shewmakerandlewis.com | (770) 939-1939 🌐 Website: https://www.shewmakerandlewis.com 🎧 Podcast Library: https://shewmakerandlewis.com/lawyers-without-billboards 🎼 Music by Ben Hernandez – Dragonsong Productions 🎥 Produced by: Bleeding Edge, Inc. 🎬 Audio & Video Production: Rob Burgner 📍 Recorded at: Shewmaker & Lewis, Atlanta, GA

    28 min
  2. The Art of the Opening Statement | Lawyers Without Billboards S2-Ep21

    May 21

    The Art of the Opening Statement | Lawyers Without Billboards S2-Ep21

    What makes a great opening statement? Is it storytelling? Strategy? Psychology? Or knowing exactly when to bend the rules without breaking them? In this episode of Lawyers Without Billboards, the team at Shewmaker & Lewis dives deep into one of the most important — and misunderstood — parts of any trial: the opening statement. Steve, Patty, Jimmy, and Alexa break down:  Why opening statements may matter more than closing arguments  How jurors and judges form impressions early  The importance of themes, roadmaps, and courtroom storytelling  Why lawyers should address bad facts head-on  The difference between arguing and “advocating”  How broken promises in opening statements can destroy credibility  Real courtroom war stories, including jury objections, snap decisions, and Steve’s unforgettable “first-person opening statement” technique Whether you're fascinated by courtroom strategy, jury psychology, or just love hearing experienced trial lawyers swap stories, this episode pulls back the curtain on how cases are framed before the first witness ever testifies. 🎙️ No gimmicks. No billboards. Just real lawyers talking about what really happens in court. ⏱️ Chapters  00:00 – Welcome to Lawyers Without Billboards  00:55 – What is the purpose of an opening statement?  03:30 – Why themes matter in trial strategy  05:20 – Opening statements vs. closing arguments  07:30 – Why jurors make up their minds early  11:05 – Can lawyers “open the door” in opening statements?  12:20 – How to craft a compelling opening  15:55 – How much argument is too much?  16:50 – How long should an opening statement be?  18:20 – Addressing bad facts before the other side does  20:55 – Promises lawyers should never make  22:20 – DUI example: facts vs. argument  25:20 – Why lawyers take notes during openings  26:20 – Turning an opening statement into evidence  27:40 – Art vs. science in courtroom storytelling  28:20 – Favorite courtroom opening statement stories  31:15 – Steve’s unforgettable “first-person opening”  36:20 – Final thoughts on courtroom advocacy  🔔 Subscribe for candid conversations about family law, relationships, and the legal system - without the billboards. 🎙️ Hosts: Steve & Patty Shewmaker, Jimmy & Alexa Lewis  🎧 Watch here: https://youtu.be/0h3fiWjIp0U or listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and more. 📩 Contact: pshewmaker@shewmakerandlewis.com | (770) 939-1939 🌐 Website: https://www.shewmakerandlewis.com 🎧 Podcast Library: https://shewmakerandlewis.com/lawyers-without-billboards 🎼 Music by Ben Hernandez – Dragonsong Productions 🎥 Produced by: Bleeding Edge, Inc. 🎬 Audio & Video Production: Rob Burgner 📍 Recorded at: Shewmaker & Lewis, Atlanta, GA

    39 min
  3. Closing Arguments: The Most Important Part of a Trial? | Lawyers Without Billboards S2-Ep20

    May 14

    Closing Arguments: The Most Important Part of a Trial? | Lawyers Without Billboards S2-Ep20

    What actually happens during closing arguments in court? And are they really the most important part of a trial? In this episode of Lawyers Without Billboards, the attorneys at Shewmaker & Lewis break down the strategy behind effective closing arguments, including how attorneys persuade juries, simplify complicated evidence, and tailor arguments differently for judges versus jurors. The team shares real courtroom experiences involving difficult judges, dramatic jury trials, objections during closing arguments, visual presentations, and memorable courtroom moments that shaped how they practice law today. Topics include:  The purpose of closing arguments  Why openings may matter more than closings  Bench trial vs. jury trial strategy  Using exhibits and demonstrative evidence effectively  Objections during closing arguments  Storytelling techniques in litigation  When attorneys decide not to give a closing at all Whether you’re interested in family law, courtroom strategy, or behind-the-scenes legal stories, this episode offers an entertaining and informative look at trial advocacy from experienced litigators. ⏱️ Chapters  00:00 Intro  00:36 What Is a Closing Argument?  01:51 Are Closing Arguments Important?  03:09 When Judges Don’t Want to Hear Closings  05:07 Do Jurors Decide Before Closing Arguments?  06:07 Explaining Your Case to the Judge  07:04 Effective Closing Argument Techniques  08:33 Should You Script a Closing Argument?  09:35 Learning the Hard Way in Court  10:32 Using PowerPoint and Visual Aids  11:27 When Less Is More in Closing Arguments  13:13 Favorite Courtroom Closing Stories  15:04 Bench Trials vs. Jury Trials  16:24 Visual Demonstratives and Jury Persuasion  17:26 The “Black Hole” Theory of Circumstantial Evidence  19:01 High-Conflict Divorce Trial Stories  20:55 Ethics and Objections During Closing Arguments  23:36 Final Thoughts on Effective Closings  24:20 Outro  🔔 Subscribe for candid conversations about family law, relationships, and the legal system - without the billboards. 🎙️ Hosts: Steve & Patty Shewmaker, Jimmy & Alexa Lewis  🎧 Watch here: https://youtu.be/V9M0Cl-uh1o or listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and more. 📩 Contact: pshewmaker@shewmakerandlewis.com | (770) 939-1939 🌐 Website: https://www.shewmakerandlewis.com 🎧 Podcast Library: https://shewmakerandlewis.com/lawyers-without-billboards 🎼 Music by Ben Hernandez – Dragonsong Productions 🎥 Produced by: Bleeding Edge, Inc. 🎬 Audio & Video Production: Rob Burgner 📍 Recorded at: Shewmaker & Lewis, Atlanta, GA

    25 min
  4. When Does Your Lawyer’s Representation End? | Lawyers Without Billboards S2-Ep19

    May 7

    When Does Your Lawyer’s Representation End? | Lawyers Without Billboards S2-Ep19

    In this episode, the attorneys at Shewmaker & Lewis discuss two recent Georgia Court of Appeals decisions that could significantly impact how lawyers handle appeals and post-trial representation. The conversation focuses on situations where parties attempted to file appeals on their own while their attorneys were still technically counsel of record, and why those filings were treated as legal nullities. Steve, Patty, Jimmy, and Alexa break down:  The dangers surrounding the 30-day appeal window  Why attorney withdrawal orders matter  The distinction between civil and criminal appeal procedures  How these rulings may affect family law and civil litigation practice  Practical steps lawyers may need to take to protect clients and themselves This episode offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at how procedural appellate rules can dramatically affect real cases. ⏱️ Chapters  00:00 Introduction  01:18 “When Does Representation End?”  02:45 The Muhammad v. Clayton County Case  06:50 What Is Summary Judgment?  08:30 The Pro Se Appeal Problem  11:55 Why the Appeal Was Dismissed  13:00 Why Internal Emails Weren’t Enough  16:30 Criminal vs. Civil Appeals  18:35 Why These Cases Scare Lawyers  21:00 How Law Firms May Need to Change Contracts  24:00 Filing Motions for New Trial  26:15 Real-World Examples From Practice  28:15 Will Lawyers Actually Adapt?  29:35 Final Thoughts  🔔 Subscribe for candid conversations about family law, relationships, and the legal system - without the billboards. 🎙️ Hosts: Steve & Patty Shewmaker, Jimmy & Alexa Lewis  🎧 Watch here: https://youtu.be/iu_cxY1J9CM or listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and more. 📩 Contact: pshewmaker@shewmakerandlewis.com | (770) 939-1939 🌐 Website: https://www.shewmakerandlewis.com 🎧 Podcast Library: https://shewmakerandlewis.com/lawyers-without-billboards 🎼 Music by Ben Hernandez – Dragonsong Productions 🎥 Produced by: Bleeding Edge, Inc. 🎬 Audio & Video Production: Rob Burgner 📍 Recorded at: Shewmaker & Lewis, Atlanta, GA

    31 min
  5. QDROs, Pensions, and Divorce: Don’t Make This Expensive Mistake | Lawyers Without Billboards S2-Ep18

    Apr 30

    QDROs, Pensions, and Divorce: Don’t Make This Expensive Mistake | Lawyers Without Billboards S2-Ep18

    Retirement accounts are often one of the largest assets in a divorce — and one of the easiest to mishandle. In this episode, we break down QDROs (Qualified Domestic Relations Orders), how they work, and why failing to handle them correctly can lead to tax consequences, penalties, and costly disputes years later. We cover:  How retirement accounts are divided in divorce  When a QDRO is required—and when it isn’t  Why pensions and government plans can be tricky  Common drafting mistakes that create problems down the road  What to do if a QDRO wasn’t done at the time of divorce If you’re going through a divorce, or advising someone who is, this episode will help you avoid one of the most expensive mistakes people make. ⏱️ Chapters 00:00 – Intro 01:10 – What is a QDRO (and why it matters) 03:30 – Avoiding taxes and penalties in divorce 04:40 – When a QDRO is required… and when it’s not 05:50 – IRAs vs 401(k)s vs pensions 08:00 – What happens when one party doesn’t cooperate 10:00 – Why waiting years can cause major problems 11:50 – Retirement accounts that can’t be divided (TRS pitfalls) 13:20 – Common mistakes in settlement agreements 15:30 – Why pensions are more complicated than you think 18:00 – The challenge of drafting QDROs after the fact 20:00 – Key takeaways: how to protect yourself 🔔 Subscribe for candid conversations about family law, relationships, and the legal system - without the billboards. 🎙️ Hosts: Steve & Patty Shewmaker, Jimmy & Alexa Lewis  🎧 Watch here: https://youtu.be/_rw_DWMQeVg or listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and more. 📩 Contact: pshewmaker@shewmakerandlewis.com | (770) 939-1939 🌐 Website: https://www.shewmakerandlewis.com 🎧 Podcast Library: https://shewmakerandlewis.com/lawyers-without-billboards 🎼 Music by Ben Hernandez – Dragonsong Productions 🎥 Produced by: Bleeding Edge, Inc. 🎬 Audio & Video Production: Rob Burgner 📍 Recorded at: Shewmaker & Lewis, Atlanta, GA

    24 min
  6. Crossing Borders, Crossing Lines: International Child Abduction and the Hague Convention | Lawyers Without Billboards S2-Ep17

    Apr 23

    Crossing Borders, Crossing Lines: International Child Abduction and the Hague Convention | Lawyers Without Billboards S2-Ep17

    Crossing borders can change everything—especially in family law. In this episode, we dive into the Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction, a treaty that governs what happens when a child is taken from one country to another by a parent. We break down how these cases actually work, including:  What “habitual residence” means and why it matters  The legal process for returning a child to another country  The key defenses that can stop a return—even when removal was wrongful  Why these cases are not custody battles, despite how they feel You’ll also hear real-world examples, strategic considerations for attorneys, and why timing can make or break a case. If you think custody law is complicated, wait until it crosses borders. ⏱️ Chapters  00:00 – Intro: International Law Meets Family Law  01:10 – What Is the Hague Convention?  02:30 – Real-World Example of International Child Abduction  04:00 – “Habitual Residence” Explained  05:10 – Where Attorneys Get Involved  06:15 – How Common Are These Cases?  07:30 – Why Some Children Are Never Returned  09:00 – Building a Case: Legal Standards  12:00 – The Burden Shifts: Defenses Begin  12:30 – The One-Year “Well-Settled” Rule  15:15 – Mature Child Objection  17:30 – Human Rights & Rare Defenses  19:30 – Grave Risk of Harm Standard  23:00 – Why “Best Interest of the Child” Doesn’t Apply  24:30 – Federal vs. State Court Strategy  27:00 – When the Law and the “Right Outcome” Clash  31:00 – Timing Matters: Why These Cases Move Fast  32:00 – Preventing International Child Abduction  34:00 – Game Time (Because… of course)  🔔 Subscribe for candid conversations about family law, relationships, and the legal system - without the billboards. 🎙️ Hosts: Steve & Patty Shewmaker, Jimmy & Alexa Lewis  🎧 Watch here: https://youtu.be/Zdcx5lIcvGI or listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and more. 📩 Contact: pshewmaker@shewmakerandlewis.com | (770) 939-1939 🌐 Website: https://www.shewmakerandlewis.com 🎧 Podcast Library: https://shewmakerandlewis.com/lawyers-without-billboards 🎼 Music by Ben Hernandez – Dragonsong Productions 🎥 Produced by: Bleeding Edge, Inc. 🎬 Audio & Video Production: Rob Burgner 📍 Recorded at: Shewmaker & Lewis, Atlanta, GA

    42 min
  7. Title IX Cases: Where the Rules Are Different and the Stakes Are High | Lawyers Without Billboards S2 - Ep16

    Apr 16

    Title IX Cases: Where the Rules Are Different and the Stakes Are High | Lawyers Without Billboards S2 - Ep16

    Title IX cases aren’t criminal court — but they can carry consequences that are just as serious. In this episode, the attorneys at Shewmaker & Lewis break down how Title IX works in real life, from the moment a complaint is filed to the final outcome. They explain how universities conduct their own investigations, why the rules are different, and how students can face suspension or expulsion even when criminal charges aren’t pursued. You’ll hear insights on:  The structure and purpose of Title IX  How misconduct allegations are handled on campus  The investigation and hearing process  The difference between criminal and Title IX standards of proof  Strategic considerations when both cases are happening at once  Appeals and potential outcomes If you or someone you know is facing a Title IX issue, understanding the process early can make all the difference. ⏱️ Chapters  00:00 – Intro: A “Cavalcade of Nines”  00:45 – What Is Title IX (and Where It Actually Lives in the Law)  03:30 – How Title IX Applies to Colleges and Universities  05:00 – When Allegations Trigger a Title IX Investigation  06:30 – University Investigations vs. Criminal Cases  08:00 – Who Handles These Cases (and Why That Matters)  09:30 – The Investigation Process and Its Limitations  11:00 – How Hearings Used to Work vs. Today  12:00 – The Right to Cross-Examine (and Why It Changed)  13:30 – Balancing Title IX and Criminal Defense Strategy  15:00 – Why Title IX Can Help (or Hurt) a Criminal Case  15:30 – The Lower Burden of Proof Explained  16:30 – Real Case Example: When Outcomes Don’t Make Sense  17:00 – Appeals and Fighting Back  18:00 – Possible Punishments: From Suspension to Expulsion  19:00 – What Expulsion Means for a Student’s Future  20:00 – Can Students Continue Classes During Investigations?  20:30 – Does Title IX Apply to High Schools?  22:00 – Real-World Case Outcomes and Lessons Learned  23:30 – How to Avoid a Title IX Situation  25:30 – Should You Hire an Attorney?  26:00 – Final Thoughts and Takeaways  🔔 Subscribe for candid conversations about family law, relationships, and the legal system - without the billboards. 🎙️ Hosts: Steve & Patty Shewmaker, Jimmy & Alexa Lewis  🎧 Watch here: https://youtu.be/w85iMCiQaJc or listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and more. 📩 Contact: pshewmaker@shewmakerandlewis.com | (770) 939-1939 🌐 Website: https://www.shewmakerandlewis.com 🎧 Podcast Library: https://shewmakerandlewis.com/lawyers-without-billboards 🎼 Music by Ben Hernandez – Dragonsong Productions 🎥 Produced by: Bleeding Edge, Inc. 🎬 Audio & Video Production: Rob Burgner 📍 Recorded at: Shewmaker & Lewis, Atlanta, GA

    29 min
  8. Judge Ann Harris on Law, Lawyers, and What Actually Matters in Court | Lawyers Without Billboards S2-Ep15

    Apr 9

    Judge Ann Harris on Law, Lawyers, and What Actually Matters in Court | Lawyers Without Billboards S2-Ep15

    What actually matters in court? In this episode of Lawyers Without Billboards, we sit down with Judge Ann Harris, Chief Judge of the Cobb County Superior Court, for a candid conversation about how decisions are really made from the bench. Judge Harris shares her journey from a 19-year career in the District Attorney’s office to presiding over a courtroom that handles everything from criminal cases to complex domestic and civil matters. Along the way, she offers insight into what judges look for, what lawyers often miss, and how courtroom strategy can make or break a case. We cover:  How judges evaluate arguments, evidence, and credibility  When and why judges reserve rulings  The realities behind attorney’s fees decisions  Common mistakes lawyers make in court  The importance of clarity, structure, and relevance  Mental health accountability courts and their real-world impact This episode pulls back the curtain on the courtroom and offers a rare perspective from someone who sees it all. ⏱️ Chapters  00:00 – Intro & why judges make great guests  01:00 – Meet Judge Ann Harris  03:30 – From prosecutor to judge: taking the leap  09:30 – Learning domestic law from scratch  13:00 – The biggest challenges on the bench  16:00 – When judges rule immediately vs. later  18:30 – Do lawyers or clients bring more emotion?  21:00 – Attorney’s fees: what judges actually look for  25:00 – What makes evidence persuasive (and what doesn’t)  27:30 – “This is not moving the needle”  30:00 – Do lawyers really understand evidence rules?  34:30 – Favorite movies & personal side of judging  38:00 – Life beyond the bench  41:00 – Mental health accountability courts explained  48:00 – International judicial work (Republic of Georgia)  50:30 – Final thoughts  🔔 Subscribe for candid conversations about family law, relationships, and the legal system - without the billboards. 🎙️ Hosts: Steve & Patty Shewmaker, Jimmy & Alexa Lewis  🎧 Watch here: https://youtu.be/xiTL6TbrFTk or listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and more. 📩 Contact: pshewmaker@shewmakerandlewis.com | (770) 939-1939 🌐 Website: https://www.shewmakerandlewis.com 🎧 Podcast Library: https://shewmakerandlewis.com/lawyers-without-billboards 🎼 Music by Ben Hernandez – Dragonsong Productions 🎥 Produced by: Bleeding Edge, Inc. 🎬 Audio & Video Production: Rob Burgner 📍 Recorded at: Shewmaker & Lewis, Atlanta, GA

    52 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
10 Ratings

About

Real lawyers, real talk—without the billboards. Lawyers Without Billboards is an unfiltered look at family law, hosted by the partners of Shewmaker & Lewis: Steve and Patty Shewmaker, and Jimmy and Alexa Lewis. With decades of experience in divorce, custody battles, child support, alimony, and criminal law, they break down legal myths, share expert insights, and dive into real cases (sometimes with a side of humor). Expect candid conversations, legal deep dives, and the occasional sidebar on pop culture, legal movies, and life as family law attorneys. Whether you're navigating a family law issue, practicing law yourself, or just enjoy courtroom drama, this podcast offers valuable insights with a dose of levity. New episodes every two weeks Subscribe and listen wherever you get your podcasts!

Information

  • Creator
    Shewmaker & Lewis
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    64
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Lawyers Without Billboards
  • Show Website
    Lawyers Without Billboards

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