Trial prep: anticipating the enemy

We are going to trial again. Against my nemesis.

The last time was a five week trial in the fall of 2022. We thumped him hard. He deserved it. I’ll never forget watching the sneer get wiped right off his face as the judge read the jury verdict. Three and a half years later his clients are still trying to appeal it.

And so we face off again. Nothing has changed.

When we have to participate by zoom we act professionally. But my jaw is tight. Teeth clenched. His eyes match mine - unsmiling even as our mouths turn up at the corners. Our clashes are not loud and fiery. But seemingly sedate. Even as we rip into each other.

His attacks are never ending. My responses swift and feral.

As I put the finishing touches on various trial briefs on a Saturday afternoon, the one word that best describes me is - happy. Glowing with the anticipation of trial. Against an adversary whom I detest. To champion a client.

Photo: Grandma Lawyer with Jo & Murphy