Preserving Judicial Independence and Public Trust in our Courts

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

Preview of the SEABOTA Annual Conference in Charleston

In this episode of ABOTA Speaks, host Jake Courtney converses with SEABOTA President, Christy Crow, about the upcoming SEABOTA Annual Conference, taking place in Charleston, South Carolina, April 23–26, 2026. SEABOTA brings together trial lawyers from across the southeastern United States for a weekend focused on connection, mentorship, and professional growth. This year’s conference—Trial Advocacy in Bloom: Advancing Justice in the Lowcountry—features distinguished speakers, continuing legal education, and opportunities to build meaningful relationships within the trial bar. In this episode, they discuss: * Key speakers and topics for this year’s conference * The importance of mentorship, professionalism, and community within the trial bar * Unique aspects of the conference, including smaller group gatherings and networking opportunities * The structure of SEABOTA and its role within ABOTA’s regional chapters Christy and Jake also explore the realities of legal practices in rural communities, including areas with very few attorneys and the resulting challenges for access to justice. Finally, they also touch on the work of the ABOTA Foundation, including a civics education initiative involving a classroom program in Kentucky. A Pathway Forward documentary https://www.kentuckytotheworld.org/blog/a-pathway-forward-one-year-later [https://www.kentuckytotheworld.org/blog/a-pathway-forward-one-year-later] ABOTA Speaks releases new episodes every two weeks. Learn more about ABOTA: www.abota.org [http://www.abota.org] #ABOTASpeaks #TrialLaw #JuryTrial #SEABOTA #TrialBar

Inside ABOTA’s National Women’s Leadership Summit

In this episode of ABOTA Speaks, host Jill Webb converses with Stacy Garcia and Christa Ramey about the upcoming National Women’s Leadership Summit, taking place in Savannah, Georgia, April 9-12, 2026. Now in its second year, the Summit brings together women trial lawyers from across the country for a weekend focused on connection, mentorship, and professional growth. Building on the success of last year’s inaugural event, this year’s program features keynote speakers, panel discussions, and opportunities to build meaningful relationships within the trial bar. In this episode, they discuss: * Why the Women’s Leadership Summit was created and why it continues to grow * Keynote speakers and panels, including judicial, client, and leadership discussions * How the Summit creates a welcoming entry point to national ABOTA involvement * The importance of mentorship, community, and supporting women in the trial bar They also highlight the collaborative nature of the event, including its unique structure as a fully self-funded program supported by sponsorships and attendee participation. Learn more about ABOTA: www.abota.org [http://www.abota.org] ABOTA Speaks releases new episodes every two weeks. #ABOTASpeaks #TrialLaw #JuryTrial #WomenInLaw #TrialBar