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.