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

IPH’s strategy of integrating acquired businesses into its larger premium brands, may offer an early signal of how externally funded IP firms will pursue scale, efficiency and market strength
After bringing on board three new partners, the recently merged firm has its eyes on breaking into the top-flight of firms for patent disputes and ITC litigation
While the US and the UK remain the biggest markets for representation of women, their lead has narrowed
Former professional cricketer Ben Scott talks through the challenges of building a legal tech platform, transitioning from sportsman to entrepreneur and why he believes he has found a gap in the market
The benefits of offering a range of services, innovative enforcement approaches, and gradual AI adoption are all helping SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan develop its IP offering
Nick Redfearn, head of enforcement at Rouse and a classic car enthusiast, explains the sudden viral appearance of classic car restomod parts from China and the impact of IP in this new trade
Our 2026 rankings for Western Europe, taken with historical data, reveal that some European IP markets hardly change – while others are more fluid
Selina Hinchliffe, head of commercial services at Shakespeare Martineau, reflects on rejecting Cambridge, leading through empathy, and why authenticity matters more than fitting in
US corporates are using the UPC, but much of that work still flows to European boutiques. Last week’s merger, as well as others, could alter that dynamic
Publicly listed Australian group IPH delivered on its promise to profoundly shake up the Canadian market. Four years on, rivals have had time to adapt
Gift this article