ABOTA Speaks

Bill Shapiro and Cameron Getto on the ABOTA Summer Conference and National Board Meeting in Detroit

Host Jill Webb speaks with 2026 ABOTA National President Bill Shapiro and 2026 Michigan Chapter President Cameron Getto about the upcoming ABOTA Summer Conference and National Board Meeting in Detroit, Michigan. Bill and Cameron share why Detroit was selected as the host city and discuss the remarkable transformation the city has undergone over the past two decades. From revitalized historic buildings and thriving downtown neighborhoods to professional sports, restaurants, and entertainment, they offer a preview of what attendees can expect when they arrive in the Motor City. The conversation also highlights the unique value of attending an ABOTA National meeting. They discuss the conference speakers, planned activities, opportunities to explore Detroit, and why the event is designed to be enjoyable not only for members but also for spouses, guests, and families. Whether you are a longtime ABOTA member or have never attended a National meeting, this episode offers an inside look at what makes these gatherings such a meaningful part of the ABOTA experience. Register [https://www.abota.org/Online/Events/Event_Display.aspx?EventKey=26NBM3] for the ABOTA Summer Conference and National Board Meeting in Detroit. Learn more about ABOTA: www.abota.org [http://www.abota.org] ABOTA Speaks releases new episodes every two weeks. #ABOTA #ABOTASpeaks #TrialLaw #Detroit #RuleOfLaw

ABOTA Speaks with Javier Espinoza on Mentorship, Leadership, and the TEX-ABOTA Santa Fe CLE Roundup

Host Jake Courtney speaks with Javier Espinoza, President of TEX-ABOTA, about his journey from immigrant to trial lawyer, law firm owner, and ABOTA leader. Javier reflects on the teachers, mentors, and role models who helped shape his career and discusses the opportunities and relationships that helped him see possibilities he had not previously considered. Jake and Javier also discuss the upcoming TEX-ABOTA Santa Fe CLE Roundup in Santa Fe, New Mexico, including its unique history, nationally recognized speakers, and why it has become one of ABOTA's most anticipated educational and networking events. For information about the Roundup, including registration and hotel accommodations, visit the TEX-ABOTA Roundup registration page [https://web.cvent.com/event/198aa691-8da2-4430-adf7-655fb7e93a79/summary]. The episode concludes with a discussion of Javier's podcast, LatinX Mentor, and the importance of mentorship for the next generation of professionals. Learn more about LatinX Mentor [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/latinx-mentor/id1704560335]. Learn more about ABOTA: www.abota.org [http://www.abota.org] ABOTA Speaks releases new episodes every two weeks. #ABOTA #ABOTASpeaks #TrialLaw #Mentorship #Leadership #TEX-ABOTA

Chief Judge Jennifer W. Elrod on Civility, Jury Trials, and Judicial Independence

In this episode of ABOTA Speaks, host Jill Webb speaks with Chief Judge Jennifer W. Elrod of the United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit about civility in the legal profession, the importance of jury trials, and protecting public confidence in the judiciary. Drawing from her experience as both a trial judge and appellate judge, Chief Judge Elrod shares practical wisdom on professionalism, mentorship, and why lawyers must learn to work respectfully with those they may oppose in court. She reflects on how collegiality and civility shape stronger lawyers, stronger courts, and stronger communities. The conversation takes a musical twist as she offers a memorable example of how she teaches these values—through musical performances with her local Inn of Court—showing how creativity and connection can make lessons about professionalism and ethics truly stick. Watch an example from 2020: “We’ll Be Back,” performed by federal trial and appellate judges in Houston and Galveston:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-TJ1ohwAsgY [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-TJ1ohwAsgY] The conversation explores the constitutional importance of jury trials, preserving the Seventh Amendment, and why young lawyers need more real courtroom experience early in their careers. Chief Judge Elrod also discusses judicial independence, public confidence in the courts, and the responsibility lawyers have in defending the rule of law. She closes with a reminder that professionalism begins with human connection—stepping away from our phones, listening carefully, and treating one another with respect. Learn more about ABOTA: www.abota.org [http://www.abota.org] ABOTA Speaks releases new episodes every two weeks. #ABOTA #ABOTASpeaks #TrialLaw #JuryTrial #JudicialIndependence #Civility

Professor Elizabeth Fraley on Artificial Intelligence, Ethics, and the Future of Trial Practice

In this episode of ABOTA Speaks, host Jake Courtney speaks with Professor Elizabeth Fraley of Baylor University School of Law about the growing role of artificial intelligence in legal practice and why lawyers should be learning how to use it now. A full-time trial lawyer, law professor, and ABOTA board member, Professor Fraley brings a practical and balanced perspective to the conversation. Rather than asking whether lawyers should use AI, she explains why ethical practice may increasingly require it. They discuss how AI can improve efficiency for clients, reduce costs, and help lawyers work more effectively, from document review and legal research to mediation prep and trial work. Just as important, they discuss the risks: hallucinations, confidentiality concerns, overreliance, and the professional responsibility lawyers still carry to verify every source and exercise independent judgment. Professor Fraley emphasizes that AI is not a replacement for lawyers. It cannot replace empathy, wisdom, advocacy, or professional judgment, but it can be a powerful tool when used thoughtfully and responsibly. She also offers practical advice for lawyers who feel hesitant about adopting new technology: start with one problem you want to solve and work from there. This is a practical conversation about technology, ethics, and how the legal profession can adapt without losing what matters most. Learn more about ABOTA: www.abota.org [http://www.abota.org] ABOTA Speaks releases new episodes every two weeks. #ABOTA #ABOTASpeaks #TrialLaw #ArtificialIntelligence #LegalEthics #TrialPractice

Preserving Judicial Independence and Public Trust in our Courts

In this episode of ABOTA Speaks, we feature an extended conversation with Chief Judges Dori Contreras, Mark Green and Mark Pfeiffer of the Council of Chief Judges of the State Courts of Appeals (CCJSCA) – a strong partner of the American Board of Trial Advocates (ABOTA). Together, they explore the role of appellate courts, the importance of judicial independence, and the shared responsibility of judges and trial lawyers in maintaining public confidence in the justice system. The discussion highlights how collaboration between the bench and bar strengthens the Rule of Law. Key topics include: * The mission of the Council of Chief Justices and its role in supporting appellate courts across the country * Why public understanding of the judicial process is essential to maintaining trust in the courts and ultimately understanding and maintaining our democracy * The importance of collaboration between judges and trial lawyers as partners in the justice system * Challenges facing the judiciary, including public perception and political pressures * Practical insights for trial lawyers, including preserving the record on appeal and maintaining professionalism The conversation also touches on judicial selection systems across the states and how emerging issues, including artificial intelligence, may shape the future of the legal system. Learn more about ABOTA: www.abota.org [http://www.abota.org] ABOTA Speaks releases new episodes every two weeks. #ABOTASpeaks #TrialLaw #JuryTrial #JudicialIndependence #RuleOfLaw