ABOTA Speaks with Jason Barnes and Chris Dominic on Understanding the Next Generation of Jurors

As America celebrates its 250th anniversary, what does this historic milestone mean for our system of justice and the work of ABOTA? Host Jill Webb is joined by 2026 ABOTA National President William D. Shapiro and Eastern Pennsylvania Chapter President Nancy K. Raynor to reflect on our Nation's founding and the enduring importance of ABOTA's mission. Shapiro discusses the principles embodied in the Declaration of Independence and their relationship to the right to trial by jury, the rule of law and an independent judiciary. Raynor brings the conversation to Philadelphia, where American history is woven throughout the city and where ABOTA will gather for its 2026 National Fall Conference and National Board Meeting. They also explore the importance of civics education, the ABOTA Foundation's longstanding support of the National Constitution Center, and the historical landmarks and attractions that make Philadelphia a fitting destination for this year's gathering. Together, they offer a reminder of why understanding our Nation's history matters and how ABOTA continues to uphold the ideals that have shaped American democracy. In addition, the ABOTA Speaker Series will feature Jeffrey Rosen, CEO Emeritus of the National Constitution Center, who will reflect on his newest book, The Pursuit of Liberty: How Hamilton vs. Jefferson Ignited the Lasting Battle Over Power in America. Finally, since artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming the practice of law, the Speaker Series will conclude the year with the program, “Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Trial Practice,” featuring legal technology innovators in a candid panel discussion. Learn more about ABOTA: www.abota.org #ABOTA #ABOTASpeaks #America250 #JuryTrials #RuleOfLaw #JudicialIndependence #CivicsEducation #ArtificialIntelligence

What happens when a trial lawyer sees technology not as a novelty, but as another way to help jurors understand the evidence? Host Jake Courtney talks with Florida trial attorney Kenneth Padowitz about a career spent pushing the boundaries of visual evidence in the courtroom. Padowitz traces that interest back to one of his earliest jury trials, when a simple hand-drawn diagram taught him a lasting lesson about the power of giving jurors something they could see. That lesson eventually led him to be the first to successfully introduce computer animation in the courtroom in 1992, an approach later upheld on appeal. Decades later, he took another step forward by successfully introducing virtual reality (“VR”) during a Florida court hearing. His creative approach to two-dimensional animations and immersive VR depicting the opinion of experts is inspirational. Padowitz and Courtney discuss how animations and VR can help fact finders visualize an expert’s opinion, the legal and practical challenges of introducing new technology into evidence, and why careful preparation and verification remain essential. They also look ahead to artificial intelligence and the growing role technology will play in trial practice. Learn more about Kenneth Padowitz and his firm: www.lauderdalecriminaldefense.com. Learn more about ABOTA: www.abota.org. ABOTA Speaks releases new episodes every two weeks. #ABOTA #ABOTASpeaks #TrialLaw #VirtualReality #LegalTechnology #CourtroomTechnology #JuryTrials

Pulitzer Prize finalist and acclaimed historian H.W. Brands joins host Jill Webb for a fascinating conversation about political parties, democracy, and the American jury system. Drawing from his book Founding Partisans: Hamilton, Madison, Jefferson, Adams and the Brawling Birth of American Politics and his own recent experience serving on a civil jury, Brands explores the parallels between jury trials and democratic self-government—and the trust both place in ordinary citizens to listen to competing arguments, weigh the information before them, and make important decisions together. Brands reflects on what jury service taught him about deliberation and the importance of hearing all sides before forming an opinion. He considers what the jury room might teach us about political discourse and shares how the experience gave him a deeper appreciation for judges, trial lawyers, judicial independence, and the American justice system. The conversation offers a thought-provoking look at political parties, civic responsibility, and what the jury system can teach us about making decisions together in a democracy. Learn more about H.W. Brands and his books: H.W. Brands author page Learn more about ABOTA: www.abota.org ABOTA Speaks releases new episodes every two weeks. #ABOTA #ABOTASpeaks #JuryTrials #Democracy #JudicialIndependence #RuleOfLaw

Today's workplace includes more generations working side by side than ever before. How can leaders create an environment where every generation feels valued, engaged, and motivated to succeed? Host Jake Courtney is joined by generational expert Amelie Karam to discuss how law firms and organizations can build stronger multigenerational workplaces through intentional leadership, better communication, and meaningful connection. Amelie explains why successful firms move beyond generational stereotypes and instead create cultures where everyone feels heard, needed, and relevant. The conversation explores practical ways to strengthen workplace relationships, provide meaningful feedback, reduce burnout, and retain talented professionals. Jake and Amelie also discuss how these leadership principles apply not only to law firms, but to families, juries, and organizations of every kind. Whether you lead a law firm, mentor young attorneys, or simply want to better understand today's workplace, this episode offers practical insights for leading a multigenerational workforce. Learn more about Amelie: https://ameliekaram.com/ Learn more about ABOTA: www.abota.org ABOTA Speaks releases new episodes every two weeks. #ABOTA #ABOTASpeaks #Leadership #Mentorship #TrialLaw #WorkplaceCulture

The ABOTA National Trial College is more than a trial advocacy course—it's an immersive experience designed to help lawyers become more confident, capable, and effective advocates. Host Jake Courtney is joined by our 2026 Co-Chairs, Hon. Patricia Alvarez, Craig Peters, and Rich Schoenberger, to discuss what makes the ABOTA National Trial College one of the Nation’s premier educational programs for trial lawyers. They share how students spend the week learning by doing, receiving hands-on instruction from accomplished trial lawyers and judges, while developing the practical skills needed to succeed in the courtroom. The conversation explores the program's emphasis on professionalism, mentorship, and constructive feedback, along with the supportive environment that allows participants to build confidence by getting on their feet and trying new approaches in a safe setting. They also discuss the lasting friendships and professional relationships that continue long after the week concludes. Whether you are an experienced trial lawyer or an attorney looking to strengthen your trial advocacy skills, this episode offers an inside look at why the ABOTA National Trial College continues to have a lasting impact on the next generation of trial advocates. Learn more about the ABOTA National Trial College: www.abota.org ABOTA Speaks releases new episodes every two weeks. #ABOTA #ABOTASpeaks #TrialAdvocacy #NationalTrialCollege #RuleOfLaw