Behind The Trial podcast: Mike McKool, McKool Smith

Managing IP is part of Legal Benchmarking Limited, 1-2 Paris Gardens, London, SE1 8ND

Copyright © Legal Benchmarking Limited and its affiliated companies 2026

Accessibility | Terms of Use | Privacy Policy | Modern Slavery Statement

Behind The Trial podcast: Mike McKool, McKool Smith

Sponsored by

mckool.png
btt-newsletter.jpg

In association with McKool Smith, the Behind the Trial podcast series features in-depth discussions with the US's most iconic trial lawyers. Episode 10 features an interview with Mike McKool, chairman and a founder of McKool Smith

  

Behind The Trial · EP 10 - Mike McKool

Episode 10 of Behind the Trial features an interview with Mike McKool. 

As chairman and a founder of McKool Smith, Mike is largely responsible for creating what The Wall Street Journal describes as "one of the biggest law firm success stories of the past decade". 

Established in 1991, the firm has amassed 21 VerdictSearch "Top 100 Verdicts" – more than any other law firm. Mike's rigorous case preparation, formidable courtroom skills, and superlative record place him among the US’s most prominent trial lawyers. 

In his 45-year career, he has tried more than 100 jury trials and developed an enhanced understanding of the psychology that governs how juries decide cases. His clients have included a who's who list of innovators and industry leaders – American Airlines, Alcoa, Ericsson, and legendary music producer Quincy Jones, among many others.

For previous episodes of Behind The Trial, please visit Managing IP's partner site Benchmark Litigation, here.

 

Behind The Trial

Behind The Trial on Stitcher

How do the most celebrated trial lawyers of our generation convince 12 strangers? What are their secrets of persuasion and tricks of the trade? "Behind the Trial" will take you to the front lines and reveal how it all works when lives, fortunes, and reputations hang in the balance.

Presented by Benchmark Litigation, in association with McKool Smith, the Behind the Trial podcast series features in-depth discussions with the nation's most iconic trial lawyers.

Behind the Trial captures the unique voice and style of each trial star by covering their best practices for presenting to a jury or judge, pitfalls to avoid, and the art of persuasion.


more from across site and SHARED ros bottom lb

More from across our site

Labelled the ‘largest law firm merger in history’, the new outfit could also spell an opportunity for US clients to capitalise on Hogan Lovells' UPC expertise
Andy Lee and Amy Brooks of Brandsmiths explain how the firm secured a win for Peppa Pig over rival children’s character Wolfoo, in a case that centred on copied audio clips
Pedro Moreira outlines proposals by INPI that look set to open a discussion regarding biological materials, extracts, sequences, genetically edited plants, and computer programs
The combined firm, which has a newly appointed IP partner in London, brings together more than 3,500 practitioners across 52 offices, with flagship hubs in Seattle, London, Sydney and New York
A host of SEP-rich law firms, both leading arguments and as intervenors, are set to feature in the UK Supreme Court’s third FRAND episode, though one ground of appeal has been settled
Law firms are investing in generative engine optimisation and boosting their online presence in the hope of gaining a new client base
A decision on a licensing rate payable by Warner Bros and Paramount, and a survey outlining UK businesses’ lack of IP preparation ahead of launching abroad, were among other major talking points
A fresh wave of deals highlights why investors favour IP firms and why independent outfits may soon have to rethink their strategy
King & Spalding has now hired 15 partners from Winston Taylor and legacy firm Winston & Strawn in offices spanning Texas, San Francisco, and Chicago
Firm says its work with a nonprofit client could signal a sea change in how - and when - law firms enter the drug development process
Gift this article