Libsyn Directory

Time Management for Trial Lawyers with Special Guest Dina Cataldo [Ep 133]

Release Date: 02/12/2025

Trial Lawyers and Time Management: Wisdom from Dina Cataldo [Ep 162]

Trial Lawyer Prep

We're all busy trial lawyers and specialists, typically juggling multiple cases at once. Time management and organization is crucial, and we can't allow ourselves to get overwhelmed, to risk impacting not just the case but our own health and well-being. It's worth taking the time to make sure your tasks and workflow are efficient, your calendar flows logically, and your habits are positive and healthy. Even just a few minutes' pause for retrospection and meditation can make a huge difference. And I've been right in the thick of it lately myself! As a trial consultant, I was getting two...

The Hard Truth about Persuasion and the Lawyer Brain [Ep 161]

Trial Lawyer Prep

We know we live in an attention-deficit age, where attention spans and concentration levels are lower than ever. It's not just about social media though. These trends carry forward into every day life, including in the court room. We simply can't assume that just because the jurors are there and present, that they will necessarily be paying as close attention as we expect. It's human nature to start to drift away and think about something else when you're not otherwise captured by a subject, and there is fascinating brain science that demonstrates why! So today we look at ways to...

The Three-Phase Focus Group Strategy Every Trial Lawyer Needs [Ep 160]

Trial Lawyer Prep

You're not going to be one of those lawyers that only starts thinking about a focus group 30 days before the trial, right? To make the most of the power and impact of focus groups, work backwards through this three-phase roadmap that helps you plan and prepare. You will see, and feel, a remarkable difference in your confidence, arguments and ultimately, your case. Why three phases? This structure taps into the various stages of trial prep, and gives you focus groups that are appropriate and effective for the moment your case is in. Whether it's in Phase 1...

Traditional Methods of Jury Selection are Broken! with Sharif Gray [Ep 159]

Trial Lawyer Prep

The jury selection process is changing and evolving. Are you willing to be bold and confront jury selection challenges head-on? This was a popular and very actionable conversation that I had with Sharif Gray last year, where we talked about what could be broken with your jury selection. We looked at assumptions and stereotypes that are often made, and I think it's a question worth returning to as we get deeper into 2026, when you may have trials coming up on the horizon. It could be very useful to consider these suggestions and tips when you're making important decisions on...

Trial Strategy v. Trial Tactics: Why Lawyers Confuse Them and What it Costs You [Ep 158]

Trial Lawyer Prep

Are you confident in knowing the difference between trial strategy and trial tactics? Because ultimately the question is, does your jury understand what you're doing? Today, we're looking at how to identify a clear strategy as the overarching theme that guides the trial, followed by the tactics to achieve that strategy. There's a risk of confusing the two, including wasted time and causing confusion for jurors. The best strategies combine preparation and flexibility when you're in the courtroom. And remember, focus groups can test strategies early in the trial...

Three Focus Group Questions You can Use to Reveal Hidden Case Weaknesses [Ep 157]

Trial Lawyer Prep

"What part of this story just doesn't hit you right?" How would a potential juror answer that question? We're talking about gut feeling, instinctive reaction: something that's there, and they're trying to put their finger on it. These are very good avenues to explore in focus groups, and can uncover emotional and cognitive responses that you weren't expecting. Today's episode features three questions that are deceptively simple yet powerful in their nuance and framing. Successfully applying them will not only make your case stronger, but help you be much better prepared...

What Trial Lawyers Loved in 2025: Guests, Topics & Focus Group Trends [Ep 156]

Trial Lawyer Prep

It's your favorite episodes, topics and themes from Trial Lawyer Prep in 2025, as reflected by the data: you know how much we love facts! I look at what you enjoyed the most, and why, with all the links below if you want to revisit or catch up on these episodes and their valuable information. I'm excited in 2026 to bring you more content on trial strategy, more inspiring guests, and useful tools that help us in our preparation as trial lawyers. I love providing advice and insight to help you present the best case possible, whether you're a long time listener or brand new to the...

Why Trial Lawyers Use Focus Groups, It’s Not What You Think [Ep 155]

Trial Lawyer Prep

We're going back to the basics this week, asking, "Why do trial lawyers even do focus groups?" Focus groups are not primarily for determining case value or winning cases. Instead, focus groups provide valuable insights into jury perceptions, case weaknesses, and effective storytelling strategies. I share some real-life examples of effective use of focus groups, including a doozy of an example that, although it was a rough go, it left the lawyer with much more clarity on the path forward, and where to concentrate their time. In this episode, you will learn: How...

Comparison: A Powerful and Simple Persuasion Tool for the Courtroom [Ep 154]

Trial Lawyer Prep

In this week's episode, we're looking at a powerful and often overlooked tool for persuasion: side-by-side comparisons. Discover how this method can simplify complex information and sway jury decisions in your favor. I shares practical insights from my virtual focus groups, which offer strategic ways to leverage this tool throughout your case. Our brains respond intrinsically to visual comparisons, and I'll show you how to implement this tactic in opening statements, mediation packets, and beyond. Learn how side-by-side comparisons can become your secret weapon for a...

No Voir Dire? Here’s A Way to Create Your Own Secret Weapon [Ep 153]

Trial Lawyer Prep

Today, we're talking about the advantages of using virtual focus groups to enhance jury selection, especially in jurisdictions with limited voir dire. I share a real-life success story where a lawyer used virtual focus groups and a detailed jury research chart to navigate a challenging trial with confidence. We then look at the nuts and bolts of how to conduct virtual focus groups, create insightful jury profiles, and maximize the value of focus group feedback. By analyzing qualitative data from focus groups, lawyers can identify potential jurors who may not align with their...

More Episodes

Explore practical time management and mindset strategies tailored for trial lawyers with expert insights from lawyer coach Dina Cataldo. In this episode, Dina shares her journey from criminal prosecutor to coach, offering actionable advice to manage stress, prioritize tasks, and overcome negative thoughts. Discover how small habit changes can lead to significant improvements in your legal practice and personal life.

Elizabeth and Dina address the unique challenges female attorneys face, balancing demanding careers with personal responsibilities, and provide strategies to enhance daily productivity and instill confidence. Learn how structured planning and healthy routines can conserve energy and reduce stress, essential skills for the fast-paced world of trial law.

Dina reveals methods like "Sunday planning" and setting time limits for tasks to streamline workflow and improve efficiency. Understand the importance of addressing internal resistance and fostering a healthy relationship with time for professional growth.

In this episode, you will hear:

Time management strategies tailored for trial lawyers.
Importance of mindset in enhancing courtroom performance and managing stress.
Techniques for optimizing energy levels and reducing daily frustrations.
Structured planning methods, including "Sunday planning" and setting time limits for tasks.
Addressing internal resistance and developing a healthy relationship with time.
Emphasis on self-care and prioritizing personal goals alongside professional duties.

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Supporting Resources:

Learn more about Dina Cataldo: www.dinacataldo.com

Get Dina’s Free Workbook: 3 Sneaky Problems Stealing Your Time and Productivity (and How to Fix Them Now!)

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Learn more about how Elizabeth helps trial lawyer here.

Connect with Elizabeth on LinkedIn.

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Episode Credits

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know I sent you.

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