Heels In The Courtroom: Recent Episodes
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When you wear Heels In The Courtroom, life and law are a little bit different. This fresh and insightful new podcast from the female trial attorneys at The Simon Law Firm offers mentoring, community and great girl talk about being the best you can be in every part of your life. So kick off those heels, pour a glass of wine, and get to know Amy Gunn, Erica Slater, Liz Lenivy, Mary Simon, Elizabeth McNulty and Megan Crowe. The Simon Law Firm consists of trial attorneys specializing in medical malpractice, personal injury and corporate law. Since the Firm’s founding in 2000, Simon trial attorneys have earned over one billion dollars in verdicts and settlements for their clients. Recognized as one of the winningest firms in America by the National Law Journal, the dedicated attorneys at the Simon Law Firm bring experience, integrity and passion to every case they try. Contact The Simon Law Firm at info@simonlawpc.com or comments@heelsinthecourtroom.law
Whether you are in college or considering a mid-life career change, choosing to go to law school is a big decision. We’ll share some of the pros and cons of our profession and offer a few questions you should ask yourself before you decide to join us in this noble and sometimes gnarly career.
Do you apologize for moving a meeting or asking a legitimate question? Apologizing can be a knee jerk reaction that implies a weak position, or it can be a powerful tool to get what you want. We’ll discuss when it’s appropriate to apologize and how to do it without diminishing your self-worth.
According to the Humane Society, 4.7 million people are bitten by dogs every year in the United States. Today we take a look at the laws regarding responsible pet ownership, including what constitutes vicious propensity and what your insurance may or may not cover if you or your dog is injured by another person’s pet.
Liability waivers appear all around us…..on amusement park tickets, at ax throwing establishments, prior to medical procedures and maybe even as a requirement from your son’s friend’s parents before that weekend party at their lake house. Are these documents really enforceable, or are they just toothless deterrents? And should you sign them?
We’re done with opposing counsel’s snarky emails, loud yawners, attorneys who think their years of experience means the law should be bent for them and people who creep out our kids. Laugh along as we vent about everyday annoyances and share the good stuff that makes up for all that crap.
Under what circumstances should you consider calling an adverse witness? Today’s discussion examines the risks involved and offers tips on how to be successful if adverse witness testimony is critical to your case.
Can the attributes of a good trial attorney run in the family? Part Two of our Father’s Day discussion about practicing law with your Dad talks about the decision to follow your father’s footsteps and live up to the family reputation.
If given the opportunity, would you say yes to working with your Dad? In recognition of Father’s Day, father-daughter trial lawyer duos John Simon and Mary Simon, and Judge Jack Garvey and Colleen Garvey discuss the joys and frustrations of going to work every day with Dad.
Erica has “thunder tears.” Liz becomes “hot garbage.” We’ve all had days where life is a big hot mess. In this encore episode, Amy, Mary, Erica and Liz talk about how they re-center when everything goes sideways, and how to downplay the guilt that goes with it.
Our Heels in the Courtroom community has grown to thousands of downloads since our first episode. Tune in to hear a reprise of EP101 and get a little background on who we are and why we started this empowering podcast for female trial attorneys.
The judge says “mistrial” and Poof! Your half-argued case just became a do-over. What now? It recently happened to us and we want to supply some insight into what can cause a mistrial and how we handled it. We also had a big win which included punitive damages and a unique argument….tune in for the dish on our latest trials and tribulations.
Which attorney has jumped out of an airplane? Had an invisible friend? Or was required to wash rocks as a child? We went around the table using a fun life experiences questionnaire that prompted revelations and introspection from four Heels in the Courtroom attorneys. Get to know us by learning who did what…then try it with your own friend group and get to know them a little better too.
Everyone daydreams about winning the lottery and never “working” again. That fantasy probably won’t happen, but thinking about it can help you recognize some passions you might want to make room for in your life right now. Play along with our candid discussion about how much we love the law vs the grind and take this listener challenge: guess who wants to open a swim school, who would seriously consider running a beach chair business, which attorney would teach law and who wouldn’t change her career at all.
Great, you’ve got a job offer! Should you take less money to follow your passion or jump at a paycheck that might not be in the practice area you love? Acclaimed St. Louis attorney Joan Lockwood joins us to share her inspiring personal success story that started off a bit unconventionally but delivered the fulfilling life Joan wanted in the long run. Tune in for great advice to keep in mind when you come to a crossroads in your career path.
Female attorneys are still being asked to get the coffee. Will that ever change, and what can we do to make it change? Ladies, we need to find camaraderie and courage to speak out, stand together and share a little grace when the going gets tough. That starts with each of us taking small steps toward positive change that benefits all of us. Get a little inspiration for your personal journey in the final episode of our Arizona roundtable.
Even though you are a successful female attorney, do you ever feel like this career is not for you? You’re not alone. Women attorneys are twice as likely to make an early exit from their practices as men and they continue to disappear even after making partner. There are a lot of reasons, but one might be the fact that male equity partners make 27% more than female equity partners. Women of color represent nearly 20% of all first- and second-year associates who left their firms in 2018. What can you do to hold on to your career and keep other women in the field with you? We’ve got a few suggestions and some facts to arm and inspire you when you feel like moving on.
Decades of research tells us why women leave their legal careers; it's the same story on repeat. So what is the difference between women who love their legal careers and those struggling to hang on? At different stages of their careers, the ladies of The Simon Law Firm have created a podcast based on answering that question. Starting with the basics, the hosts of “Heels in the Courtroom” will share the wisdom they’ve gained from experience, each other, and overcoming adversity as women in a fast-paced litigation practice with little room for error.
Yes, you are a counselor, but does that mean you have to be a therapist too? Our clients may expect more compassion from us because we are women, but how do we protect our delicate sense of compassion when our jobs bombard us with pain and injustice? Can we compartmentalize and have compassion too? It’s a tough topic…..grab some grace and tune in.
You’ve been trial prepping day and night for weeks, totally focused, running on adrenaline and honestly, kinda loving the rush. Suddenly, the case settles and you’re adrift. When the waves of litigation rock your boat…how do you ease back into your routine? We’ve got tips on how to steady your emotions, give yourself permission to resume the rest of your life, and how boundaries can help you get back to smooth sailing.
Trial attorneys win and lose every day, and that roller coaster can be intellectually and emotionally exhausting. Learn how to become more resilient by processing quickly, letting go, and giving yourself permission to spend as much time on the positive as you did on the negative. What does that have to do with being a goldfish? Tune in and find out.
You filed your notice. You defined the topics. And after countless emails and months of waiting, the corporate rep is finally in the chair ready to answer your questions. But wait…..they canceled the night before. They don’t know what you’re talking about. The documents disappeared. And counsel is objecting to every question you ask. If you haven’t faced this yet, you probably will, and today’s tips will help you avoid frustration, preserve your record and use evasive testimony to build your case around corporate rep roadblocks.
Your expert’s role is to teach the facts and science of your case to the jury. To be their most effective, you need to help them help you. Today’s discussion covers whether or not to share your outline, how to use demonstratives effectively, tips for in-person prep, and how to fire up your expert. Because if you want to win, your expert needs to be as passionate about your case as you are.
“Don’t stomp your little last season Prada shoes at me, honey.” Can you name that movie? It’s one of the top three legal movies on our list, and if you can’t name it, you’d better listen to this episode. If you can name that film, you’ll love our spirited discussion of the classic legal films that inspire us, make us laugh, and teach us to be humble. And should you choose to disagree with our picks, you may invoke the classic line from My Cousin Vinny…..”Everything that guy just said is……”
Self-awareness in the courtroom can make a real difference. Should you intervene or just sit back and let the awkwardness linger when someone misses cues from the judge or jury? Can you teach self-awareness? And if so, how? In part two of our deep dive into self-awareness, you’ll get a few tips on how to enhance your ability to read the room and respond appropriately, even when others don’t.
Respected attorneys play by the rules. But when opposing counsel won’t produce evidence or plays dirty….sanctions are the last resort. In this encore episode, Amy, Liz, Erica, Mary, and Elizabeth share true-life sanction stories and discuss how to protect your reputation if “them fightin’ words” are ever thrown your way.
When was the last time you stopped and recognized what’s good about you? Today, we put the deadlines on pause and reflect upon our biggest life successes. There’s plenty of emotion and lots of group hugs in this episode, so find your quiet place, sit back and share our most personal stories. Then, it’s your turn to celebrate your own accomplishments, cuz if you’re listening and learning, you’re trying to make yourself the best you can be. And that is something to be proud of.
Be honest. There’s plenty of stuff you hate doing. We probably hate the same stuff you do. Today’s roundtable offers every Heels in the Courtroom attorney the chance to share what she hates and how she handles it. Join us for light-hearted self-examination, rookie-mistake stories, and some solid tips on tackling distasteful tasks.
You did your homework and discovered the opposing counsel’s expert contradicted himself in previous depositions. Once you get your excitement in check, you need to make a strategic decision; Do you drop the bombshell in the depo, or wait for a mic drop in court? Today’s discussion examines the pros and cons of both decisions and offers a gentle reminder to remember to do the same research on your own experts, because having the mic dropped on you ain’t nearly as much fun.
Congrats! The female trial attorneys at Heels in the Courtroom have recorded 100 episodes of wit and wisdom, and we hope you’ve learned something that helps you in your life and career. But what have we learned from baring our souls, investing in each other, and trying to create a supportive female-led community? Join our round-table introspection and accept our sincere thanks for being a loyal listener and a partner on our podcast journey. It’s kind of a love-fest, and you’re definitely invited.
Back-to-back trials and trial prep take their toll on your time. How can you make room for the rest of your life? Take a moment to focus on knowing what you need to feel refreshed, schedule your rewards ahead of time, and don’t ever feel bad about doing it. Even if it’s just cleaning your apartment or making a turkey burger, make time to do you and reward yourself. Now.
It’s an auto accident case in a small town where everybody knows everybody and the injured wife is suing another driver and her husband. How do you approach voir dire and take on two defendants? Today’s trial story offers interesting trial insights and a well-deserved win in a rural venue.
This hard-fought birth injury case didn’t turn out as we hoped, but we learned a few valuable lessons and you can too. Tune in to hear the trial story and how asking one specific question during deposition brought a whole new light to the case. We also share our secret “trial dares”….personal challenges to keep ourselves grounded during the intense pressure of trial. This particular trial dare involved a song from The Beatles…..download this episode to hear how it played out.
Even the best plaintiff’s attorneys statistically lose more cases than they win. When the trial attorneys from Heels in the Courtroom experience a loss, they take a deep breath and share what they learned, what made them laugh, and how it can help you in your next trial. So if your last case wasn’t a win, pour a glass and cheer up with us. We’ll share the good, the bad, and the ugly from two recent trials that didn’t go as we hoped, but reinforced our resilience and resolve. Cheers to that.
How can you establish immediate rapport with your client in order for them to trust you, listen to you, and make sure your advice is getting through? In this encore of a pre-COVID episode, Amy, Mary, Erica, Liz, and Elizabeth share stories and tips on putting clients at ease for deposition, do’s and don’ts for deposition etiquette, and how to stand up to hostile opposing counsel gracefully.
Women attorneys walk a fine line between being perceived as being powerful and assertive or aggressive and not-very-nice. Knowing when to channel each is a delicate balance that can enhance or adversely impact your reputation. Today’s discussion tackles the double-standard of assertiveness between male and female attorneys and offers tips on how you can temper your behavior to project the right tone at the right time.
Have you ever avoided talking to a co-worker who is not performing up to expectations, or put off telling a client you can’t take their case just because you don’t want to have that uncomfortable conversation? How you set expectations can make difficult discussions more productive and less personal. Amy, Liz, Erica, and Elizabeth share their experiences with difficult discussions and offer constructive tips that may help make putting on your big girl pants a little easier.
Opposing counsel is being difficult, or the client is confused. You’re trying to be nice, but the message isn’t getting through. Before you throw up your hands and shout “What do you want?!”….try our 7 tips for more effective communication. They will help you build trust with your clients, receive better work products, and be more productive in any conversation.
You’re out of the office, but the clients and the cases never stop. Do you send an email at the Washington Monument, or wait until you get home? What will happen if you don’t respond immediately? And is the anxiety of being “disconnected” when you turn off your email really giving you a break at all? Tune in for research and real-life suggestions that can help you balance your work with your well-deserved vacation time. And if you think you don’t deserve it or can’t find the time for a vacation…..you definitely need to listen to this episode.
How can you successfully advocate for your client if you haven’t walked a mile in their shoes? Going beyond a five-minute intake phone call will help you better understand your client’s needs, fears, and goals, open new avenues in your arguments and build trust that pays off throughout the entire litigation process. Learn how and when to reach out, specific questions to ask to jumpstart deeper conversations, and how to set boundaries in today’s podcast.
Women often back down from conflict. It’s in our nature, but is it in our best interest? Today’s episode offers insight on when to stand down and when to stand your ground when a co-worker gives you a work product that doesn’t meet your expectations, a partner promises you a significant trial opportunity and then gives it to someone else, and opposing counsel is less than cooperative. Tune in for some spicy tips that will help you pick your battles and preserve your reputation.
A reporter requests information on your case. Do you have an ethical responsibility to respond to their inquiry? Are there benefits to be gained from pre- or post-trial publicity? Or is “no comment” always the best response? This episode reviews ABA rules on comments to the media and explores on and off-the-record responses, providing information for background and how to weigh media requests while keeping your focus on serving your client's best interest.
File the motions. Schedule the depos. Read the records. Prep the exhibits. When should you write your open, directs, crosses, and close? Who is getting the hotel for the expert? And why should you write this all down? This episode outlines key items for your trial prep checklist starting at 60 days, 30 days, two weeks, and one week from the trial date. These scheduling tips will help you reduce stress, meet your deadlines and make time to build your strongest case.
Her house is bigger. He did an expert depo and you haven’t. She’s got four trials in the next two months and you only have one. Does it really matter? Will attaining that thing actually make you happy? And why do we compare ourselves to others and suck the joy out of our own accomplishments? Prepare to examine your own vulnerabilities as we discuss upward and downward comparisons, personal priorities, and strategies to keep unproductive comparisons from living rent-free in our brains.
Location, location, location. Strategic attorneys know where you file your lawsuit has a big impact. Today’s discussion covers important considerations such as damage caps, jury pool, and what to do if your case is removed from state to federal court. We also clarify some tricky details on multi-state filings, snap removals, and the pros and cons of hiring local counsel to assist.
Mediation poses unique challenges and isn’t always successful. In order to present your most persuasive case, what facts or documents should you prepare for the mediator? If you think the mediator is being biased, what can you do? And when the final offer is on the table and you’re not happy, should you stay or should you go? Get pro tips on preparing your client and your case for mediation in this encore episode of Heels in the Courtroom.
There are three key concepts to keep in mind during oral arguments. Do you know what they are? Should you hope for a hot bench or a cold bench? And what do you say if the judge asks a question you can’t answer? Find answers to these questions and more in part two of our instructive discussion on appeals and be more confident in front of the bench, whether it’s hot or cold.
Are you thinking about appealing your case even before you go to court? You should. This episode explains how to preserve an error for the record, clarifies when a judgment is actually final, and outlines the major writs to remember. We’ll also review the basic rules of appeal because you can’t win if you don’t know the rules. And when it comes to appeals, rules rule.
It’s business, don’t take it personally.” How many times have you heard that, and how do you react? Is there a middle ground that allows tough skin and a tender heart? Today’s thought-provoking discussion examines how we can make business decisions with humanity in mind and draw boundaries that help us honestly evaluate harsh criticism or aggressive language from opposing counsel while protecting our self-esteem.
Opposing counsel's expert’s report raises doubts in your mind about scientific methodology or adherence to industry-standard practices….do you file a Daubert motion to seek to exclude the presentation of that expert’s testimony to the jury? You may not deal with Daubert motions every day, but they can play a key role in your case, so it’s worth a few minutes of your time to learn when to file a Daubert motion, what strategies can strengthen your motion, and why the savvy play may be to not file the motion at all.
As a lawyer, you may think you are a good listener. But could you listen more effectively, and in turn, be heard more clearly? With tips from the Heels in the Courtroom trial attorneys and insights from Kate Murphy’s book, You’re Not Listening: What You’re Missing and Why It Matters, you can improve your listening skills. Better communication will advance your practice, enhance your relationships and make your next obligatory cocktail party a little less painful.
We all know the feeling…your heart starts racing, your stomach starts turning and your palms are getting sweaty…. This episode of Heels in the Courtroom focuses on how to reduce negative nervousness and turn apprehension into motivation. But if you’re still afraid you might sweat through your silk blouse, tune in for a surprising pro tip.
Mentorship isn’t just giving work advice to a younger attorney. It’s a professional and personal relationship built on trust and mutual respect that benefits the mentor and the mentee. And you shouldn’t stop with just one! Learn how to find mentors, why you’ll benefit from building multiple relationships at various levels of experience and how to ignite effective mentorships in your firm on today’s Heels in the Courtroom.
Every case requires some legal research, and we don’t mean Google. This hard-skills episode focuses on pro tips like how to use Westlaw more efficiently, where to start your research and whether or not it’s a smart move to omit case law that could be detrimental to your position. Today’s strategies will help you hone your research skills and put you on a more solid foundation for your next case.
Did you know the average person makes over 35,000 conscious decisions every day? Decision fatigue is real but there are ways to cope. Today’s discussion examines asking for and evaluating advice, setting decision-making boundaries, and recognizing that every decision is really just a choice. Make the decision to check out this podcast, and you’ve got only 34,999 more decisions to go…..
When determining whether you can sue a hospital, municipality, or the federal government in wrongful death or personal injury litigation, it’s vital you understand the nuances of sovereign immunity. Many government entities and municipalities are exempt from certain types of lawsuits, but there are exceptions and limitations you need to know. Tune in for a better understanding of sovereign immunity and how it could impact your next case.
Opposing counsel is hammering your client with irrelevant questions, an intimidating tone, and maybe even false evidence. Under this intense pressure, your client may take the bait and respond in a manner that could derail your case. What can you do? Today’s empowering discussion focuses on ways to protect your client and your case from rude and harassing intimidation tactics during deposition and defuse overly-aggressive interrogation.
How does it feel when you open your email and it’s addressed to “Gentlemen?” Have you been asked on the phone if you are an assistant just because you have a feminine voice? And why are women fifty percent of law school grads but still only 15% of the partners? Female attorneys have been practicing for over 100 years, but we are still grappling with issues of attire, attitude, and acceptance. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about the progress we’ve made and take on one of our suggestions about what you can do to advance the cause of women in the courtroom. Because Ladies, we still have work to do.
Even if you and your firm are completely above reproach, you could be sued. Your conduct may be scrutinized and every document you ever sent in a case may be discoverable. Are you prepared for that? This episode offers key insight into basic legal malpractice issues from being sued to handling a malpractice case for your firm.
Sloppy jury instructions can lead to appeal due to instructional error or confusion in deliberations, and nobody wants that. In this episode, you’ll learn about verdict directors, clean and dirty instructions, roving commissions, potential pitfalls, and resources to help you draft more concise instructions that help the jury come to a decision in your favor.
Directed verdicts are no longer just for the defense. Creative plaintiff attorneys are considering this approach in complex injury cases too. Tune in to hear about Megan’s recent case which resulted in two directed verdicts and learn how to use the record to reinforce your evidence and protect yourself from vulnerability on appeal.
In many med mal and trucking cases, it’s not always clear if an employer is liable for the actions of their employee. The issue of Agency is vital for knowing whom you can sue and what you can potentially recover for your client. Today’s podcast clarifies general issues of Agency and points out how recent changes in Missouri law severely limit the damages you and your client can recover from medical malpractice. An insightful episode for lawyers and laypeople because negligence can happen to anyone.
Ever said something in a meeting that is ignored when you say it, but suddenly becomes a great idea when repeated moments later by a male in the room? Are you passed over when solutions are being discussed, but at the top of the list when the work is dished out? If you often feel invisible, you are not alone. This episode covers subtle ways to be heard and acknowledged in your next meeting. Try our tips. And if all else fails, you can always wear a unicorn head...
As the new year approaches, you may be re-evaluating your priorities and searching for a better balance. This popular archive episode offers a few ideas that can help you restructure your day, reduce your stress and keep your batteries charged. Resolve to tune in and take charge of your day in a better way.
The phrase “Work-Life Balance” is considered inadmissible by the female trial attorneys at The Simon Law Firm. In an encore presentation of this popular episode, you’ll find out why Amy, Erica, Liz, and Mary refuse to accept this stressful mindset and offer tips that can help you release a little guilt and truly enjoy the holidaze.
The end of the year means parties, presents and perhaps a little bit of stress. Get back in the spirit of the season with this episode’s timely tips on trickle-down office gift-giving, professional party behavior, and a much-needed nudge to take time for a purposeful analysis of your goals and excuses for this year and next. And don’t forget your accountabilibuddy! Happy holidays from all of us at Heels in the Courtroom.
It’s a complicated trucking case involving the tragic death of a child. In the face of intimidation tactics and late nights at trial, you must set those issues aside and get it done for your client. Plaintiff attorney Erica Slater managed the complex dynamics of a spouse suing a spouse, last-minute revelations in discovery, and phantom vehicles, and received a significant verdict for her client too. Hear the whole story and some interesting legal insights in this episode of Heels in the Courtroom.
Do you do a statutory interpretation of board game rules at every family gathering? Does a trip to the grocery store involve observations about slip and fall potential? And how many liability lawsuits would you have filed over the Jurassic Park debacle? Laugh along with this spirited discussion about trying to turn off your lawyer brain…..and get solid advice on what to do if you can’t.
Don’t fall into the TV trap of coming in hot on every witness. You could burn your own case if the jury remembers you were mean to a witness and forgets the key points of their testimony. But you don’t want to be a pushover either, so how do you temper your approach? Amy, Liz, Megan, Mary, and Elizabeth share trial-tested tactics on when to pivot your attitude, how non-verbals can telegraph your frustration, and what you should always keep in mind when you have to cross-examine a nice person.
In Part Two of our analysis of a $10 million dollar medical malpractice verdict for our client, Amy Gunn and Liz Lenivy discuss witness prep, damages, and defense tactics that didn’t seem to land well with the jury. Amy also reveals the toll this massive case and an extremely hectic return to the courtroom have taken on her resolve, and how she plans to get everything “back on the rails” after celebrating one of the biggest wins in her career.
Most med mal cases aren’t decided for the plaintiff, so when a verdict of this magnitude is ruled in your client’s favor, it’s something to celebrate and learn from. In this episode of Heels in the Courtroom, Amy Gunn and Liz Lenivy share their pre-trial and courtroom strategies and discuss the concepts of agency, bifurcation, and some little-known facts about medical records. It’s a great story filled with drama, deceit, and darn good discovery skills that helped our client get the compensation he deserved.
Want to know what the interviewer really wants to see on your resume? What’s the biggest opportunity to sell yourself most interviewees miss? Should you talk about your hobbies? How about using a cover letter template? What questions do interviewers hate to hear? Is it important to send a thank-you note, and if so, how and when? This episode answers these questions and more and will help you make a positive and memorable impression in your next interview. Note to self: your obsession with the Kardashians might not be the best thing to lead with.
Be honest. Underneath your steel facade that always looks poised and perfect, you’re drowning in a sea of deadlines, demands, and sleep deprivation. Are you suffering from everyday stress or chronic burnout? And is there a cure? Give yourself the grace to take a breath and listen to some great burnout-busting advice from the Heels in the Courtroom attorneys. We’re feeling the burn too!
Young lawyers often stress about where to take their careers. But St. Louis attorney Shamon Moss is shining a light on a new path…letting the journey take you. Shamon shares her philosophy on self-motivation and giving back, and describes how she turned an empty space without a stick of furniture into a thriving satellite office for a major national firm. No matter what is in her future, Shamon Moss shows what a winning attitude can do when you let the journey lead.
Court is back in session with a variety of COVID protocols in place, and that brings additional stress to your trial prep. Get an update on our first face-to-face trial in a while and hear the challenges of reading masked jurors, working out of town, and trying to stay focused with more distractions than ever. Tune in and dial down your pre-trial stress….we survived, and you will too.
Feel like you’re drowning in a tidal wave of escalating work responsibilities, COVID-occasion catch-up, and every single thing in the world piling on right now? Yup, we are too. If being back in the saddle feels more like being dragged with one foot in the stirrup right now, tune in to share your stress and remember it’s ok if you fail small and know you did your best. So saddle up, sister, and let’s git ‘er done together.
Ellie Krug was the first Iowa lawyer to transition gender. She lost her practice and for a while, her family, to become her authentic self. Today, Ellie Krug is a wildly popular speaker and advocate for Otherness, teaching all of us to break down the walls and reach out to those around us who choose a different path. Tune in for a truly life-changing podcast with Ellie Krug and open your heart and mind to embrace inclusion, acceptance, and compassion for the human condition we all try to survive.
Is your practice a revolving door of ever-changing paralegals and assistants? Maybe it’s not a people problem… it could be a process problem. And if you’re delegating too much of this critical task, you could be part of the problem too. This week’s podcast offers honest advice on how to interview, train and monitor new hires to help ensure their new job is a win-win for them and for you.
Ever think you aren’t good enough or smart enough and it’s only a matter of time before you’re found out? Or do you secretly believe you’re just lucky and not talented at all? It’s called “imposter syndrome” and professional women are its most common victims. Megan, Elizabeth, Liz, and Erica reveal their own vulnerabilities and talk about how we can identify this evil inhabitant in our heads, diffuse it, and lift up our female friends and co-workers who are probably struggling with the same undeserved feelings of inadequacy.
Opposing counsel is leading his witness, again. You’ve pointed out speaking objections but he just won’t stop. What do you do? This instructive discussion features verbatims from actual depos where the objections were effective. Learn new strategies to regain control of your depo, and learn when, and when not to push the nuclear option of calling the judge.
Enlisting men as allies is a great way to expand awareness of women’s issues and level the playing field for inclusion and understanding. Tune in to this eye-opening discussion and learn how, and why, you should actively engage in treating men as allies instead of adversaries.
With courts closed for over a year, even the most experienced attorney may have lost the edge in their courtroom conduct. Tune in for a quick refresher on courtroom etiquette and get a few tips on what to wear, what benefits you can gain by never looking at opposing counsel and what non-verbals are appropriate. And one more tip…..never, ever poke the judge.
Lost wages. Medical bills. Potential earnings. Is it in your best interest to present these issues in trial, or will they negatively anchor the jury and open the door to unwanted discovery? This episode follows up on a previous discussion on non-economic damages and offers expert advice on organizing, presenting and developing strategy regarding economic damages in your case.
Did you know that the Missouri legislature has put limits on how much you can recover if you are a victim of medical malpractice? Why is this the only area of injury that has limits? And is this entry into the judicial system the first step in other changes that could affect you? This timely episode raises awareness about the impact of legislative decisions on the courts, your rights and your ability to receive justice.
Congratulations, you’re having a baby! But are you carrying guilt, anxiety and fear about maternity leave too? In her first podcast after a 12 week maternity leave, Erica Slater leads the discussion about how to set maternity leave expectations, why men should be encouraged to take family leave time and why you should embrace the policies that enable you to put your life and your baby first. Just remember, you are not asking your firm for a favor, you are building a family!
Saying “No” often brings feelings of guilt, overload and FOMO. But it can be a carefully considered decision-making tool that advances your life goals. This episode explores strategies that take the guilt out of saying “no” by setting priorities, evaluating the favor being asked of you from different angles and understanding how and when to explain yourself. Say “Yes!” to this episode and use your words for a better life balance.
If you’re a plaintiff attorney, you might want to consider these examinations Defense Medical Examinations, because by definition, the defense is requesting them for a reason. Should you always fight IMEs or can they actually help your case? What strategies can you use to protect our client’s interests if an IME is requested? Today’s discussion may make you look at IMEs as a tool you can use on your client’s behalf, rather than a knee jerk “no way” request.
Pain, suffering and loss of independence are not numbers on a page. Every witness, from family members to physicians, can become a damages witness if you know how to elicit emotional stories that help jurors empathize with your client. Learn how you can paint a picture of what was taken away from your client and strengthen your argument for non-economic compensatory damages in this instructive hard-skills session.
Do you measure your success with dollars and wins? Nationally recognized plaintiff attorney John Simon, founder of The Simon Law firm, one of the winningest firms in the country, argues there is much more. Tune in to learn how the power of a positive upbringing, the wisdom of hard work and the joy of a generous heart helped John Simon become one of the top attorneys in America.
Yeah, losing sucks and nobody likes to talk about it. But loss offers profound opportunities for insight and inspiration once we get past the bruise to our ego. Amy, Mary, Liz and Megan share stories about big losses that won’t go away, and how they turned those experiences into more positive mindsets that helped build deep foundations for long-term careers.
Please excuse Mary’s audio on this episode – connection was poor. Topic is Great!
Corporate rep depos can open many doors in your case if you know how to use the rules. Does your notice limit the scope of questioning? Should you record the depo? And what do you do if the corporate rep just won’t give you the answers you need? Amy, Elizabeth, Mary, Liz and Megan discuss the importance of prep and how this powerful tool can broaden your case and strengthen your arguments.
Please excuse Mary's audio on this episode - connection was poor. Topic is great!
INFJ? ESTP? What does that mean and why should you care? The Myers-Briggs Personality Inventory can reveal a lot about innate personality traits which rule how you perceive, judge and respond to situations. This can be extremely helpful in understanding what motivates and inhibits you and your coworkers, partners and friends. Take the test to gain your own insights, then tune in to compare your results to the Heels in the Courtroom attorneys.
Expert testimony can be key to your case. But when do you need an expert? How do you find the right one? What do you say in your initial communication? And what materials do you send for review? How you handle these nuances early in the case will help you or haunt you. Get expert advice about onboarding experts from Amy, Liz, Mary and Megan in this pro-tip packed episode.
Lawyers are fierce competitors. But if every aspect of your life becomes a challenge, are you really winning? Liz, Mary, Amy and Megan discuss the difference between healthy competition and selfish comparisons, and how losing can be a win in the long run, especially when playing checkers with Mom.
Young lawyers face big challenges with limited experience. How do I manage a team? Can I ask for help? And will I ever stop second guessing myself about everything? Elizabeth McNulty, Mary Simon and Megan Crowe, the newest member of Heels In The Courtroom, open up about their experiences as young lawyers and remind young attorneys that drive, diligence and over-the-top preparation will help you overcome just about anything. Just don’t let ‘em see you sweat.
There’s a new pair of heels in the courtroom. Meet Megan Crowe, the Simon Law Firm’s newest female trial attorney. Tune in to hear about her journey as a young lawyer learning in the online era, her Alabama roots (Roll Tide!) and how this podcast literally changed her life.
Soooooo close! Heels in the Courtroom Season Three drops May 19, 2021. We’re all about creating a positive professional community and with almost 10,000 downloads, there’s a lot of folks joining the conversation. In our first episode, you’ll meet our new attorney, Megan Crowe, and hear her perspective on life, law and SEC football. We’re kicking off a fantastic third season, so subscribe today, and send us your topic ideas at heelsinthecourtroom.law!
Hey ladies! Heels in the Courtroom Season Three drops May 19, 2021. We’re having a blast recording our new episodes and want to know what’s on your mind. Whether it’s professional or personal, you know we have an opinion! Send your topic ideas to heelsinthecourtroom.law and subscribe today to catch every new episode.
Eight lives taken in Atlanta. Assaults on the rise. Fear in your heart because of your race or gender. Is this our America? In a moving personal message, Liz Lenivy speaks out against recent brutality and the ugly rise in hate crimes targeting the AAPI (Asian American and Pacific Islander) community. Hear her voice, open your mind and take action to become an anti-racist ally and honor the lives lost in Atlanta.
If you don’t know what you want, you’ll never get it. But goal setting can be intimidating. This episode attacks the excuses that delay goal-setting and encourages you to evaluate your goals, direct your energies and claim the life you want to live. Join us for the last episode of the season as we send you off with what might be the most important skill of all….. how to achieve success on your own terms.
You’re staring into the faces of dozens of strangers who could potentially cast the deciding vote in your case. How do you get them to reveal their potential biases and personal beliefs in less than three hours? Learn how the Heels in the Courtroom attorneys ask carefully crafted questions, listen for subtle clues and respond to the answers given by potential jurors to uncover prejudicial biases and help seat a jury that is as fair and impartial as you can make it.
It’s gonna happen. You’re gonna get mad about a case, a co-worker or a crazy deadline. Will you allow your anger to be a drain or a drive? Amy, Liz, Mary, Erica and Elizabeth discuss male and female stereotypes of anger and suggest ways you can turn your anger into motivation, resolve and power.
Colored pens. Codes. Grids, web searches and teamwork. If this isn’t part of your voir dire process, it should be. Voir dire is a nerve-wracking, frenetic and critically important element of every case. Take a few tips on voir dire prep and process from the Heels in the Courtroom trial attorneys. You’ll face your next jury pool with confidence, a note taker, and a few more pens.
So. Someone just lied to you, called you an unprintable name or acted like a complete and total jerk. You’re crushed, you’re appalled, and you’re probably pissed. How do you respond? Amy, Erica, Liz, Mary and Elizabeth share their own bad blood stories and offer satisfying advice on keeping a list, covering your back and taking the high road until karma comes around.
The most important decision you make about a case is whether or not to take it. What factors should go into your consideration? Amy, Erica, Liz, Mary and Elizabeth share tips on client analysis, records reviews and damages potential so you can evaluate your next potential case more effectively. Then, learn how to better explain the nuances of your decision to your client.
Are you unhappy at your job? Before you jump at the first offer that comes your way, have you honestly asked yourself what you want to change, and how badly you want to change it? Amy, Liz, Erica and Elizabeth reveal the true motivation behind their career decisions and bring up some key considerations you should keep in mind if your first thought in the morning is “Ugh.”
Business on top and party on the bottom works for a remote hearing with the judge, until you stand up. Does the judge care if you dial in from your car? And seriously, what IS that over your shoulder on the webcam? Amy, Erica, Liz and Mary share insights into the new world of virtual hearings, including some classic mic and camera mute-button fails.
No matter what your age, it’s always wise to listen to great advice. This conversation takes a turn into deep waters as Liz, Amy, Erica, Mary and Elizabeth share life lessons learned from experience that empower all of us to become who we really want to be. Tune in and take the opportunity to think about what you would tell your younger self, and live it now.
Respected attorneys play by the rules. But when opposing counsel won’t produce evidence or plays dirty….sanctions are the last resort to uphold the sanctity of the law. Amy, Liz, Erica, Mary and Elizabeth share true-life sanction stories and discuss how to protect your reputation if “them fightin’ words” are ever thrown down on you.
After months of working from home, virtual depos, limited human interaction and court dates booking two years from now, COVID-19 is taking a toll on our positivity. Amy, Erica, Liz, and Elizabeth share their personal struggles with COVID fatigue and offer some sanity-saving tips for days when the thought of one more zoom call makes your head explode. Tune in and join the conversation…you know you need it right now!
You worked hard all day, but only one item is checked off your to-do list. That doesn’t mean you’re a bad time manager. Perhaps you’ve learned to respond properly to changing priorities. This podcast goes beyond basics and gives you permission to manage your time in your own way. Invest less than an hour in this podcast and reap timely rewards in productivity and personal satisfaction.
Getting the basic facts for your case should be easy, but opposing counsel can throw up frustrating roadblocks that waste your time and try your patience. At this stage, it’s important to pick your battles and play nice. Learn timesaving tips for getting what you want while maintaining positive professional relationships with opposing counsel and the court.
What does success mean to you? And is there a “right path” to get there? Amy Gunn introduces you to three St. Louis attorneys who created opportunities, changed focus and readjusted their goals to find personal satisfaction and achieve their own definition of success. If you are grappling with self-doubt or are just tired of coloring inside the lines, don’t miss this inspiring podcast.
Jennifer L. Hardester founded her consulting firm, STL Med Law, LLC, in 2017 to assist counsel representing patients in potential or actual claims against healthcare entities. She helps navigate clinical records, find experts, draft discovery, work on trial strategy and determine how to get the best, most efficient resolution for their clients
Joy Harris Hennessy, Partner at Thompson Coburn, LLP, Joy advises health systems, health plans, group purchasing organizations, physician groups, and other health care entities on a wide range of health care legal issues.
Jennifer J. Roy, Assistant U.S. Attorney in the Circuit Attorney’s Office, Jennifer has been appointed to serve as the District Election Officers (DEOs) for the Eastern District of Missouri, and in that capacity are responsible for overseeing the District's handling of complaints of election fraud and voting rights concerns in consultation with Justice Department Headquarters in Washington.
Is your legal writing as persuasive as your argument? Are you getting to the point or wasting time searching a thesaurus? Erica, Liz, Mary and Elizabeth share insights on how to set a communication goal, establish the proper tone, address the appropriate audience and keep your message simple. You’ll also learn their most feared typos and uncover common copy and paste pitfalls.
You cannot do it all. But delegation takes trust, commitment, clear communication and an open door. Who has time for that? Amy, Erica, Liz and Mary encourage you to delegate by sharing strategies that strengthen teams, build trust and just might lighten your load. Why not start right now? Delegate anything that gets in the way of listening to this podcast.
Closing arguments are often your last chance to address the jury. Do you rely on Powerpoints or passion? Recap the case or direct the deliberations? Or try to do it all? Amy, Liz, Erica and Elizabeth share winning strategies that will help you prepare your next closing argument.
It’s not easy to tell a client you can’t take their case or talk to a co-worker who is not performing up to expectations. How you frame the conversation can make it more productive and less personal. Amy, Liz, Erica and Elizabeth share their experiences with difficult discussions and offer constructive tips that help make putting on your big girl pants a little less daunting.
In person or virtual, mediation poses unique challenges. How do you handle a mediator who steps out of line? What additional terms should you include in negotiations? And when the final offer is on the table, should you stay or should you go? Learn a few tips on preparing your client and your case for mediation in this week’s episode of Heels in the Courtroom.
Society views ambition as a positive trait for men, but not necessarily for women. Are we subconsciously creating our own glass ceiling? And what can we do to change? Heels in the Courtroom kicks off Season Two with an inspiring conversation on feminine ambition for female professionals who struggle to attain the recognition they deserve.
So close! Season Two of Heels in the Courtroom starts tomorrow, October 7, 2020. We’re recording new episodes and bringing guests into the conversation to share new perspectives. Got a topic you want us to talk about? Drop us an email at heelsinthecourtroom.law.
You don’t have to wait much longer! The first episode of Season Two drops October 7, 2020. In the meantime, explore our existing library for episodes you might have missed. We’re recording the new season now, so send your topic ideas to heelsinthecourtroom.law and let us know what’s on your mind.
Season Two of Heels in the Courtroom drops October 7, 2020. We’re in the studio recording new conversations for Season Two, and we’ve got some great skills and sanity-saving insights we can’t wait to share. Join the conversation and contribute to our Season Two topic list by emailing your ideas to heelsinthecourtroom.law. Tune in October 7!
It’s time to talk about it. We see racial bias in the courtroom, the boardroom and many aspects of our lives. Do you call it out, politely step aside, or find your life situation hasn’t allowed you to even see the issue? Heels in the Courtroom’s season finale is full of honest self-examination, reflection and small-step ideas on how you and your firm can promote diversity and inclusion and be actively anti-racist.
Face it. We all make mistakes. But does your worst day still haunt you? And do your best days continue to inspire you? Amy, Erica, Liz, Mary and Elizabeth share their emotional stories and come to one conclusion…..learning from both situations is a vital survival skill.
Imagine that every expert you hire is saying “Help me help you.” Are you doing enough to ensure your expert delivers the strongest possible depo? Amy, Erica, Mary and Liz share their tips on how to prep experts to know their role in your case, stand by their opinion and keep their cool when opposing counsel turns up the heat.
Is your go-to trial outfit sending the wrong message? Are four-inch heels in the courtroom persuasive or provocative? What’s the verdict on bare arms, pantyhose and ponytails? And do you dare to wear a brightly colored dress? Amy, Erica, Liz and Mary gently push the black power suit to the back of the closet and share an empowering discussion on how to dress for your own comfort and confidence.
Is your go-to trial outfit sending the wrong message? Are four-inch heels in the courtroom persuasive or provocative? What’s the verdict on bare arms, pantyhose and ponytails? And do you dare to wear a brightly colored dress? Amy, Erica, Liz and Mary push dark suits to the back of the closet and empower women to embrace their personalities and dress for comfort and confidence.
Face it. You might not be at this firm forever. But how do you know when to leave and where you belong? Amy, Mary, Erica, Liz and Elizabeth at Heels In The Courtroom discuss insightful questions to ask yourself before deciding to pivot or persevere at your current firm.
Heels In The Courtroom defines the #MeToo social movement with a simple phrase potential offenders should be able to understand, “Don’t be a creepy a**hole!” What is the best way to get this information out into the workplace? Learn why everyone should care.
Are you a passenger in your own career? Being successful means defining your niche, marketing your skills and finding ways to make it rain. Introverts and extroverts will gain empowering insights to help build your career and legal reputation from your first day in law school to your next appearance in the courtroom.
Of course you know how to deal with email. But are you committing an email sin without knowing it? Do you type in all caps? Use too many exclamation points? Or BCC? Get great tips on how to draft more professional emails and learn how Amy and Erica respond to keyboard warriors. Yes, that’s a thing. Don’t miss it…exclamation point!!!
Covid-19 forced every attorney in America to change the way they do business. How are you doing? Amy, Erica, Liz, Mary and Elizabeth share their struggles with team coordination, tech and toddlers, and discuss how working from home offered unexpected insights that will change the way they work forever.
Women walk a fine line between being perceived as being assertive or aggressive. One is a positive, the other might give you a reputation as a royal pain. This Heels In The Courtroom podcast tackles the double-standard of assertiveness between male and female attorneys, and how to turn the table to your advantage.
If something in your closet no longer gives you joy, throw it out. But does that apply to work and social situations too? Liz, Amy and Erica talk about de-cluttering your home, your office and your contact list in this wide-ranging conversation. De-clutter your schedule and tune in.
Stick to the rules and your opponent will have to focus on substance. Learn some tips from Amy, Erica and Liz on avoiding the distracting pitfalls of legal procedures, and why it matters in the courtroom.
When you meet a potential client for the first time, you have plenty of questions, and so does your client. How can you learn the facts while building a connection with your client? Amy, Erica, Mary and Elizabeth discuss successful first client meetings and the importance of being an attorney and counselor for your clients.
You’ve got 24 hours. How do you carve out time to keep your batteries charged while also check everything off the list? From night owls to early risers, the female attorneys at The Simon Law Firm offer perspective and helpful tips to make the most out of every day.
Prepare. Practice. Prepare. Practice. Amy, Mary, Erica, Liz and Elizabeth discuss best strategies for preparing for opening statement. Learn some tips from the Heels in the Courtroom trial attorneys and make your next opening statement the blockbuster performance you want it to be.
Erica has “thunder tears.” For Liz, it’s “hot garbage.” No matter what you call it, we’ve all had days where life is one big hot mess. Amy, Mary, Erica and Liz talk about how they re-center when everything goes sideways, and how to do it without guilt….well, almost.
Want to connect more effectively with your clients? And deal with opposing counsel more effectively when they get in your client’s face? Amy, Mary, Erica, Liz and Elizabeth share stories and tips on putting clients at ease for deposition while gaining confidence in your own skills.
Battling the balance? Stop! The phrase “Work-Life Balance” is considered inadmissible for the female trial attorneys at The Simon Law Firm. Find out why Amy, Erica, Liz and Mary refuse to accept this stressful mindset and how you can release your guilt.
Looking for a professional community with a female voice? Join the trial attorneys at The Simon Law Firm as they share great stories about turning insults into inspiration. Get empowering tips on how to keep your cool when, not if, it happens to you, and learn why being underestimated may be the most powerful tool in your toolbox.
When you wear Heels In The Courtroom, life and law are a little bit different. This fresh and insightful new podcast from the female trial attorneys at The Simon Law Firm offers mentoring, community and great girl talk about being the best you can be in every part of your life.
So kick off those heels, pour a glass of wine, and get to know Amy Gunn, Erica Slater, Liz Lenivy, Mary Simon and Elizabeth McNulty.