Trial Lawyer Prep

Elizabeth Larrick | Trial Consultant

Trial Lawyer Prep is a biweekly podcast about the craft of building successful plaintiff cases — from the moment a case walks in the door to the outcome that closes it, whether that's a jury verdict or settlement. Each episode is a how-to: focus group methodology, witness preparation, persuasion and case themes, trial tactics, deposition strategy, and case preparation that delivers the best possible outcome for your client. Hosted by Elizabeth Larrick — a former plaintiff personal injury attorney turned trial consultant — the show pulls back the curtain on the work that happens behind the scenes to build stronger cases. Episodes alternate between solo deep-dives on specific tactics and conversations with trial lawyers who are doing the work.

  1. 6D AGO

    Depo Clips or Live Witness: The Call That Won the Case [Ep 166]

    Five days before trial, a team chose to play defense witness deposition clips, instead of calling the witnesses live. Instinct tells us, training tells us: do it live. Live is better. Live is more persuasive. Live is much more catchy for cross exam. Video puts people to sleep. However, what I walk you through today really boils this down to a primacy question, or in other words, first impressions. In the case above, focus group data showed that clips were having far more impact in setting the stage, and locking in that first impression. So the team pivoted, and the trial took on an entirely new phase. Playing short clips produced visible juror annoyance, and later live testimony only confirmed the negative impression, contributing to a verdict of over $7 million. The choice between clips and live testimony should be data-driven. It could mean using either clips or live witnesses, but the principle is this: don't just assume that live is better. If you've got a trial coming up and a decision you're wrestling with, and you want to test it out to find the first impression, book a free call with me:   https://www.calendly.com/elizabethlarrick   In this episode, we cover: How primacy affects jurors' first impressions significantly. Why live witnesses are traditionally seen as more persuasive. Understanding juror perception is key to trial success, and focus groups help guide that understanding. Testing witness credibility through focus groups is essential. Why the first impression of a witness is hard to change once set. You can also watch today's episode on my YouTube Channel: Depo Clips or Live Witness: The Call That Won the Case [Ep 166]   Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Don't miss out on the Trial Lawyer Prep Newsletter that is delivered right to your email with extra tips and 'how to' information. Join the newsletter here: www.larricklawfirm.com/connect

    12 min

  2. MAY 6

    Using AI in Trial Prep and the Courtroom with Matthew Fornaro [Ep 165]

    AI has hit the mainstream, and not just in everyday life, but in trial law and legal prep. The days of startups and experimental software have quickly evolved to comprehensive, through and reliable AI-based programs, used by countless law firms and lawyers every day. As a result, it feels like we are racing to keep up. To jump on the bandwagon before it's too late, yet making sure you're using AI in accurate, and ethical, ways. Matthew Fornero is a South Florida business litigator, with over 20 years of courtroom experience and a long track record of representing small businesses, entrepreneurs and startups in commercial litigation, contract disputes and arbitration. But what brings him to Trial Lawyer Prep today is his insight on using AI in trial prep and the courtroom. Matthew has dedicated his time to learning different AI programs, applying them to different types of cases, and analysing the results. He is thus well-placed to detail with us specific platforms and strategies for using AI, that enhance trial outcomes. AI serves as a collaborative tool, not a replacement for human judgment. But knowing how to integrate it into your practice can pay huge dividends in time, accuracy, the effectiveness of response and rebuttal, and ultimately: better results for you and your clients. In this episode, we cover: The various aspects of AI application, including document review, jury instructions, and cross-examination AI helps lawyers distil complex cases into understandable narratives Using AI responsibly requires fact-checking and ethical considerations How to make sure you are choosing software that is conceptually proven, not just theoretical (looks good on paper) How AI can democratize access to legal resources for smaller firms. Learn more about my guest Matthew Fornaro: https://fornarolegal.com/ mfornaro@fornarolegal.com   Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.   Have a trial or mediation coming up and want to test with a focus group? Book a free consultation call with Elizabeth to learn more: www.calendly.com/elizabethlarrick Don't miss out on the Trial Lawyer Prep Newsletter that is delivered right to your email with extra tips and 'how to' information. Join the newsletter here: www.larricklawfirm.com/connect

    40 min

  3. APR 22

    3 Steps to Get Reliable Juror Feedback [Ep 164]

    Running a good focus group is really a lot like conducting a good trial: Fundamentally, it's about understanding people.   And you don't need a psychology degree to do so. If you have an innate understanding for human behavior, relationships, biases and different means of communication, then you already have the instinct to make the most of your focus groups.   Today's episode breaks down three key steps to be organized and prepared for your next group. Armed with these tools, you can then hit the ground running and really connect with juries and clients.   We cover: Setting clear goals for focus group sessions Developing a structured plan to ensure effective listening Overcoming personal biases in focus group settings Avoiding common pitfalls like overloading information and lack of organization Conducting test runs to improve the quality of focus group feedback Don't assume that you're a natural presenter; preparation is key Make sure you're listening more than speaking Seeking help if you're too biased to run a focus group Set up a free consultation today: https://www.calendly.com/elizabethlarrick You can also watch today's episode on my YouTube Channel: 3 Steps to Get Reliable Juror Feedback [Ep 164] Additional resources: How to Do Your Own Virtual Focus Groups Part 2: Planning and Moderating   Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.   Have a trial or mediation coming up and want to test with a focus group? Book a free consultation call with Elizabeth to learn more: www.calendly.com/elizabethlarrick Don't miss out on the Trial Lawyer Prep Newsletter that is delivered right to your email with extra tips and 'how to' information. Join the newsletter here: www.larricklawfirm.com/connect

    11 min

  4. APR 8

    Witness Prep Strategies That Embrace Brain Science [Ep. 163]

    Heading into deposition prep, your clients are typically nervous, anxious, overwhelmed and lacking confidence.   They are most likely in a situation they have never found themselves in before, and undoubtedly the stakes feel very high.   But we need to get them to focus, to remember, to think and answer clearly, and to let go of their fear and uncertainty.   This episodes focuses on three clear, distinct strategies that also help you remember how to get the most out of your clients at this crucial juncture. Clients will feed off of not just your confidence, but your calm demeanor and encouragement.   Elevate your practice with these insights for building a strong foundation in witness preparation. We tap into some fascinating brain science to help us all understand not just what to do, but why our brains, and therefore our emotions, function the way they do.   In this episode, learn how: Your working memory holds only three to five things at a time. Fear can block rational thought and memory retention. Using clear language and expectations supports and empowers clients. Roadmaps help clients understand their roles in depositions. Repetition is key to overcoming the forgetting curve. Role-playing scenarios help your client feel comfortable and confident during deposition. Links from this episode: Learn more about Hermann Ebbinghaus' Forgetting Curve (via growthengineering.co.uk) You can also watch today's episode on my YouTube Channel: Improve Your Clients' Memory and Confidence With These 3 Techniques [Ep 163] Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.   Have a trial or mediation coming up and want to test with a focus group? Book a free consultation call with Elizabeth to learn more: www.calendly.com/elizabethlarrick Don't miss out on the Trial Lawyer Prep Newsletter that is delivered right to your email with extra tips and 'how to' information. Join the newsletter here: www.larricklawfirm.com/connect

    16 min

  5. MAR 25

    Trial Lawyers and Time Management: Wisdom from Dina Cataldo [Ep 162]

    We're all busy trial lawyers and specialists, typically juggling multiple cases at once.  Time management and organization is crucial, and we can't allow ourselves to get overwhelmed, to risk impacting not just the case but our own health and well-being. It's worth taking the time to make sure your tasks and workflow are efficient, your calendar flows logically, and your habits are positive and healthy. Even just a few minutes' pause for retrospection and meditation can make a huge difference. And I've been right in the thick of it lately myself! As a trial consultant, I was getting two separate trials off the ground here recently, and so was devoting a lot of time to helping those trials get their opening statements, hit lists, and order of proof ready. This week's episode was one of the most popular of 2025, and features lawyer coach Dina Cataldo. Dina talks to us about the unique challenges lawyers face in managing their time effectively, the importance of mindset in overcoming overwhelm, and practical strategies for creating healthy routines.  Dina reveals methods like "Sunday planning," and setting time limits for tasks, to streamline workflow and improve efficiency.  And we talk about the unique challenges female attorneys face, balancing demanding careers with personal responsibilities, and provide strategies to enhance daily productivity and instill confidence. In this episode, learn how: Lawyers need to treat themselves as humans, not robots. Implementing time management is key for anyone in the legal field. Self-awareness is at the core of managing time and reducing stress. Healthy habits, including nutrition, impact overall performance and help you get better results. Creating a structured plan can alleviate trial-related stress. You can avoid getting caught underestimating the time needed for tasks. Address internal resistance and developing a healthy relationship with time. Links from this episode: Learn more about Dina Cataldo: https://www.dinacataldo.com Get Dina's Free Workbook: 3 Sneaky Problems Stealing Your Time and Productivity (and How to Fix Them Now!) https://dinacataldo.lpages.co/3-sneaky-problems/ You can also watch today's episode on my YouTube Channel: Trial Lawyers and Time Management: Wisdom from Dina Cataldo [Ep 162]   Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.   Have a trial or mediation coming up and want to test with a focus group? Book a free consultation call with Elizabeth to learn more: www.calendly.com/elizabethlarrick Don't miss out on the Trial Lawyer Prep Newsletter that is delivered right to your email with extra tips and 'how to' information. Join the newsletter here: www.larricklawfirm.com/connect

    50 min

  6. MAR 11

    The Hard Truth about Persuasion and the Lawyer Brain [Ep 161]

    We know we live in an attention-deficit age, where attention spans and concentration levels are lower than ever.   It's not just about social media though. These trends carry forward into every day life, including in the court room. We simply can't assume that just because the jurors are there and present, that they will necessarily be paying as close attention as we expect. It's human nature to start to drift away and think about something else when you're not otherwise captured by a subject, and there is fascinating brain science that demonstrates why!   So today we look at ways to maximize your impact, grab hold of the narrative, choose the most effective facts and frame your arguments in a way that keeps jurors engaged and wanting more.   Even the judge will notice this approach! And will appreciate how you started with the hook.   In fact, you could say that regardless of the impact of social media doom-scrolling, understanding these persuasion techniques has been a winning strategy in courtrooms, and beyond, for generations.   So, get to the point, cut the small talk, lean into the hook and the best facts, and remember who you're talking to: tailor your presentation so that it resonates with a juror's brain.   Set up a free consultation today: https://www.calendly.com/elizabethlarrick   In this episode, learn how: Mediation focus groups help assess case value and strategy. Running focus groups early can provide critical insights. Each focus group builds on the previous one for better results. Timing is key; don't wait until the last minute. Lawyers should commit to at least one focus group per case. Links from this episode: Beyond Bullet Points: Using PowerPoint to tell a compelling story that gets results, by Cliff Atkinson Mark Lanier, Lanier Trial Academy - laniertrialacademy.com You can also watch today's episode on my YouTube Channel: The Hard Truth about Persuasion and the Lawyer Brain [Ep 161]   Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.   Have a trial or mediation coming up and want to test with a focus group? Book a free consultation call with Elizabeth to learn more: www.calendly.com/elizabethlarrick Don't miss out on the Trial Lawyer Prep Newsletter that is delivered right to your email with extra tips and 'how to' information. Join the newsletter here: www.larricklawfirm.com/connect

    16 min

  7. FEB 25

    The Three-Phase Focus Group Strategy Every Trial Lawyer Needs [Ep 160]

    You're not going to be one of those lawyers that only starts thinking about a focus group 30 days before the trial, right?   To make the most of the power and impact of focus groups, work backwards through this three-phase roadmap that helps you plan and prepare.   You will see, and feel, a remarkable difference in your confidence, arguments and ultimately, your case.   Why three phases?   This structure taps into the various stages of trial prep, and gives you focus groups that are appropriate and effective for the moment your case is in.   Whether it's in Phase 1 (Discovery), Phase 2 (Settlement/Mediation), or Phase 3 (Trial), focus groups reflect juror attitudes, bias and weakness detection, theme and damages testing, witness credibility feedback, and help lawyers make better settlement-versus-trial decisions.   Work with me to fine-tune this strategy and ensure you're getting the most out of your focus groups!    Set up a free consultation today: https://www.calendly.com/elizabethlarrick   In this episode, learn how: Mediation focus groups help assess case value and strategy. Running focus groups early can provide critical insights. Each focus group builds on the previous one for better results. Timing is key; don't wait until the last minute. Lawyers should commit to at least one focus group per case. I also talk in today's episode about a common misconception we have on how decisions are made for mediation. There is a dedicated episode on this topic, Episode 142, which you can find here:  Avoid This Mistake if You Plan to Use Focus Group Clips in Mediation [Ep 142]   You can also watch today's episode on my YouTube Channel: The Three-Phase Focus Group Strategy Every Trial Lawyer Needs [Ep 160]   Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.   Have a trial or mediation coming up and want to test with a focus group? Book a free consultation call with Elizabeth to learn more: www.calendly.com/elizabethlarrick Don't miss out on the Trial Lawyer Prep Newsletter that is delivered right to your email with extra tips and 'how to' information. Join the newsletter here: www.larricklawfirm.com/connect

    22 min

  8. FEB 11

    Traditional Methods of Jury Selection are Broken! with Sharif Gray [Ep 159]

    The jury selection process is changing and evolving. Are you willing to be bold and confront jury selection challenges head-on?   This was a popular and very actionable conversation that I had with Sharif Gray last year, where we talked about what could be broken with your jury selection.   We looked at assumptions and stereotypes that are often made, and I think it's a question worth returning to as we get deeper into 2026, when you may have trials coming up on the horizon. It could be very useful to consider these suggestions and tips when you're making important decisions on selecting, or deselecting, your jury members.   Sharif turns the tables on many standard approaches and perspectives, and suggests that instead, we take potential concerns and weaknesses and turn them to our advantage. In so doing, you will demonstrate credibility, authenticity, trust and respect, for the potential jurors, the judge and even the defence.   "We're there for fairness. So I'm looking for jurors who are going to do right by my client, but I'm also looking for jurors who are going to do right by the defense. Because it's not justice if you're  going to close your eyes and just vote for my side every day of the week." - Sharif Gray.   Sharif is a trial lawyer based in Richmond, Virginia, and the host of the Courtroom Stories and Tactics podcast, where he and his guests do deep dives on topics like voir dire, jury selection, the role of the legal system, and one of my favorites: focus groups! I was honored to be a guest on Sharif's show earlier this year.   In this episode, you will learn about: Challenges in Traditional Jury Selection Building Credibility with the Jury Starting Jury Selection Right Effective Communication Techniques Building Credibility in the Courtroom Handling Juror Bias and Concerns   Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.   Supporting Resources: Guest Sharif Gray of Broughton Injury Law. Find Broughton Injury Law here: graybroughton.com Reach Sharif personally at RVA Trial Lawyers: rvatriallawyers.com Listen to Courtroom Stories and Tactics, by RVA Trial Lawyers: rvatriallawyers.com/podcast/ Find my episode on Sharif's podcast: Mastering Witness Preparation Method and Focus Groups | with Elizabeth Larrick (Trial Consultant) The Voir Dire to Verdict training event is happening again! October 23, 2026. Click here for more info Email Sharif: triallawyers@rvatriallawyers.com  You can also watch this episode on YouTube here: Traditional Methods of Jury Selection are Broken! with Sharif Gray (replay) [Ep 159]   Have a trial or mediation coming up and want to test with a focus group? Book a free consultation call with Elizabeth to learn more: www.calendly.com/elizabethlarrick Don't miss out on the Trial Lawyer Prep Newsletter that is delivered right to your email with extra tips and 'how to' information. Join the newsletter here: www.larricklawfirm.com/connect

    57 min
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4.9
out of 5
30 Ratings

About

Trial Lawyer Prep is a biweekly podcast about the craft of building successful plaintiff cases — from the moment a case walks in the door to the outcome that closes it, whether that's a jury verdict or settlement. Each episode is a how-to: focus group methodology, witness preparation, persuasion and case themes, trial tactics, deposition strategy, and case preparation that delivers the best possible outcome for your client. Hosted by Elizabeth Larrick — a former plaintiff personal injury attorney turned trial consultant — the show pulls back the curtain on the work that happens behind the scenes to build stronger cases. Episodes alternate between solo deep-dives on specific tactics and conversations with trial lawyers who are doing the work.

Information

  • Creator
    Elizabeth Larrick | Trial Consultant
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2026
  • Episodes
    150
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Larrick Law Firm 2021
  • Show Website
    Trial Lawyer Prep

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