Wondering how lawyers can use AI to improve their practice?

This week on Hot Docket, we’re joined by David Drwencke—Founding Partner at DRD Law, LLC—to learn how he's using AI to streamline everything from intake and document review to trial prep and client communications. He also unpacks the realities of practicing in a high-stakes, privacy-sensitive field—where wins are hard to publicize and courtroom persuasion is part art, part science.

Whether you’re exploring legal tech or refining your client experience, David’s approach offers a forward-thinking blueprint for modern law firms.

Tune in to learn:

• Crafting Credibility in Criminal Defense – Why discretion matters more than online reviews in high-stakes, high-privacy cases.
• Persuade with Purpose – How to adapt your trial strategy depending on your audience—facts, law, or theatrics.
• Tech with a Human Touch – How David uses AI to improve speed, accuracy, and personalization—without losing empathy.
• Bench vs. Jury – The hidden dynamics behind choosing your forum—and how to win in either.

Key Actionable Takeaways for Law Firm Owners:

• Digitize Your Voice – Use AI to automate and personalize client comms—boosting engagement without burning out your team.
• Review Before You Send – AI saves time, but human review protects your brand and your clients.
• Track the Right Metrics – From intake call sentiment to conversion rates, use AI insights to refine your process.
• Scale Without the Overhead – Smart automation can help small firms punch far above their weight.

Important Links and Resources:

• Website: https://drdlawllc.com
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-drwencke
• David Drwencke’s podcast: Defending the Windy City: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/defending-the-windy-city-with-david-drwecke/id1804172923
• CoCounsel: https://www.thomsonreuters.com/en/cocounsel

If you have guest ideas or questions you would like our hosts to cover, please email info@hotdocketpodcast.com.

Tune in to hear from more the Hot Docket podcast hosted by Bobby Steinbach and Andrew Nasrinpay on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, Radio Public and more!

What happens when a divorce attorney chooses peace over war?

This week on Hot Docket, we’re joined by Anthony Diaz—aka The Peacemaker—to explore how empathy, creativity, and collaboration are reshaping the world of family law. Anthony shares his unique journey from CPA to nationally known mediation and arbitration attorney, and reveals why his practice is built around one mission: helping families move forward without destruction.

Plus, Anthony shares helpful free resources, including ebooks, to help anyone facing divorce navigate the process with clarity and compassion.

If you work in family law—or know someone going through it—this episode is a must-listen.

Tune in to learn:

• Branding with Integrity – How Anthony built The Peacemaker identity to reflect his commitment to conflict resolution in family law.
• Balance the Books, Calm the Storm – Why Anthony’s CPA background gives him an edge in crafting fair and financially sound divorce agreements.
• Disrupt the Drama – A look at how some attorneys escalate conflict for profit—and why the profession needs a culture shift toward peace.
• Mediate to Win – Why Florida’s mediation-first model resolves up to 95% of family law cases without going to trial.
• Create, Don’t Confront – Real-world examples of collaborative solutions to high-conflict issues like relocation and co-parenting.
• Draw the Line – When and why lawyers need to “fire” clients to preserve integrity, wellbeing, and better outcomes for all parties.
• Modernize the System – Anthony’s take on outdated laws—like alimony guidelines—and how clearer statutes could reduce litigation.
• Empathy Over Ego – Practical de-escalation strategies for attorneys and clients navigating emotionally charged family law disputes.

Key Actionable Takeaways for Law Firm Owners:

• Lead with Values – Build a brand that reflects your mission and attracts the right clients by aligning your marketing with your principles.
• Own Your Niche – Specializing in peaceful, out-of-court resolutions can set your firm apart and appeal to today’s conflict-weary clients.
• Know When to Say No – Firing misaligned clients protects your firm’s culture, your mental health, and your long-term reputation.
• Design Systems for Settlement – Embrace mediation and collaborative tools that streamline case resolution, reduce burnout, and increase client satisfaction.

Important Links and Resources:

• Website: https://anthonydiazlaw.com
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/the1peacemaker
• Divorce Hour Podcast: https://anthonydiazlaw.com/divorce-hour-interviews
• Anthony’s E-Books: https://anthonydiazlaw.com/recommended-resources

If you have guest ideas or questions you would like our hosts to cover, please email info@hotdocketpodcast.com.

Tune in to hear from more the Hot Docket podcast hosted by Bobby Steinbach and Andrew Nasrinpay on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, Radio Public and more!

Can divorce really be amicable, cost-effective, and stress-free—with no lawyers involved?

This week on Hot Docket, we sat down with Dori Shwirtz, founder of Divorce Harmony—a remote mediation practice helping couples divorce smarter, faster, and with less stress. Dori’s here to break down what mediation really is, how it works, and why more people are choosing it over the traditional attorney vs. attorney approach.

With more couples seeking less combative ways to divorce, mediation and uncontested divorces are on the rise… and the legal industry is taking notice! Lawyers and firms are rethinking the traditional courtroom approach to meet the growing demand for more collaborative, peaceful solutions.

Curious to learn more?

Tune in to learn:

• Pivot with Purpose – How Dori transitioned from traditional law to building a thriving niche in remote divorce mediation.
• Build with Intention – The client-first philosophy behind Divorce Harmony and how it sets her practice apart.
• Mediate Remotely, Effectively – A look at how Zoom-based mediation operates and the scalable potential it offers law firms.
• Get Found Online – How strategic use of SEO, referrals, and Facebook drives steady client traffic.
• Balance Tech and Humanity – Why AI can streamline tasks, but empathy and human connection remain essential in family law.
• Guard Your Energy – Practical advice for maintaining emotional boundaries in emotionally charged practice areas.

Key Actionable Takeaways for Law Firm Owners:

• Embrace Remote Mediation – Offering virtual mediation creates a scalable, accessible service that meets clients where they are.
• Educate for Impact – Clear communication and full transparency are essential for successful, informed mediation outcomes.
• Market to Pro Se Clients – Not every mediation needs attorneys; speaking directly to self-represented clients can open new growth channels.
• Set Boundaries to Prevent Burnout – Build systems that protect your energy and time, especially in emotionally intense practice areas.
• Use AI Wisely – Automate admin tasks with tech, but remember: empathy, nuance, and human connection are still mediation’s superpowers.

Important Links and Resources:

• Website: https://www.divorceharmony.com
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dori-s-2979723
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/divorceharmony
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/divorceharmonymediation

If you have guest ideas or questions you would like our hosts to cover, please email info@hotdocketpodcast.com.

Tune in to hear from more the Hot Docket podcast hosted by Bobby Steinbach and Andrew Nasrinpay on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, Radio Public and more!

What happens when a college athlete dies during practice—and the school is to blame?

In this episode of Hot Docket, Attorney Jeff Murphy takes us inside the high-stakes world of sports injury litigation where law, medicine, and tragedy collide. Together, we uncover the hidden truths behind sports-related death and injury litigation.

With over 35 years of experience in law and 17 years as a volunteer high school football coach, Jeff has become a leading voice in representing families of student-athletes who tragically lost their lives during athletic conditioning. He shares compelling stories from landmark cases against major universities, unpacks the complex legal and medical issues surrounding student-athlete deaths, and offers a rare, behind-the-scenes look at how these emotionally charged cases are built—and challenged.

From legal challenges like liability waivers and state immunity to hidden health risks like sickle cell trait and heat-stroke, Jeff breaks down a complex area of law that affects more people than you might think. He also shares how he found his way into this unique legal niche—and how it’s changing both the courtroom and athletic safety standards nationwide.

Tune in to learn:

• The Hidden Risk in Conditioning – Why the start of training periods is the most dangerous time for athletes—and where most of these tragedies occur.
• Medical Conditions Like Sickle Cell Trait – The #1 overlooked factor that can turn intense workouts deadly, especially when staff miss the warning signs.
• Why Waivers Don’t Always Hold Up – How buried legal language and unsafe training practices can render signed waivers unenforceable in court.
• State Immunity & Capped Damages – The legal barrier that limits justice, even after a jury rules in the family’s favor—thanks to sovereign immunity laws.
• Universities Shielding Themselves – How schools use private entities like DSOs to avoid scrutiny while still benefiting from state protections.
• Jeff’s Dual Role: Coach & Attorney – Why having both field and courtroom experience gives him a unique edge in these emotionally charged cases.
• How a Niche Becomes a Calling – The moment one case turned into a national mission, opening the door to help families across the country.

Key Actionable Takeaways for Law Firm Owners:

• Own a Niche to Stand Out – Specializing in a unique legal area builds credibility, visibility, and trust faster than general practice ever will.
• Promote Big Wins – Publicize major case results to attract similar clients and boost your reputation through SEO, media, and referrals.
• Be a Thought Leader – Share your expertise through podcasts, articles, and events to position your firm as the go-to in your niche.
• Double Down on What Works – Once you gain traction in a niche, amplify it with focused marketing to create a referral engine.
• Leverage Media for Authority – Use press coverage of unique cases to extend your reach beyond local markets and attract national attention.

Important Links and Resources:

• Website: https://www.jeffmurphylaw.com
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffrey-d-murphy-58938834
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/personalinjuryattorneytampa#

If you have guest ideas or questions you would like our hosts to cover, please email info@hotdocketpodcast.com.

Tune in to hear from more the Hot Docket podcast hosted by Bobby Steinbach and Andrew Nasrinpay on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, Radio Public and more!

Are you a solo attorney looking to scale your practice and stand out in a competitive legal market? In this episode of Hot Docket, we sit down with Jonathan Breeden, Owner and Attorney at Breeden Law Office, to explore how he transformed his solo practice into one of North Carolina’s leading family law firms.

As law firms across the country turn to digital marketing and tech-driven solutions, Jonathan shares what it really takes to stay ahead—especially in saturated urban and suburban markets.

🔍 Sneak Peek: After partnering with a boutique marketing agency, Jonathan’s firm website climbed into the top 10 law firm websites in North Carolina within just 18 months—a testament to the power of smart strategy and strong online presence.

Whether you're a legal professional looking for law firm growth strategies or simply curious about the evolving world of family law, this episode dives into:

• How to build a law firm with purpose, starting from scratch
• Turning personalized marketing into your competitive edge
• Why practical, real-world skills are essential in legal education
• What it’s really like to practice family law—challenges and rewards
• Tips for navigating law practice in urban vs. suburban settings
• How business coaching can transform your legal career and firm
• Why adaptability and strong ethics are key to long-term success in law

Key Actionable Takeaways for Law Firm Owners:

• Invest in a professional, consumer-tailored website for better lead management.
• Seek out marketing firms that understand your market and can personalize your strategy.
• Consider the practical application of law in your education and ongoing practice.
• Balance aggression and amicability in family law to align with client needs.
• Get a business coach to help grow and scale your law firm effectively.

Important Links and Resources:

• Website: https://www.breedenfirm.com
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathan-breeden-75852ba

If you have guest ideas or questions you would like our hosts to cover, please email info@hotdocketpodcast.com.

Tune in to hear from more the Hot Docket podcast hosted by Bobby Steinbach and Andrew Nasrinpay on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, Radio Public and more!

What does it take to run a family law practice? From high-stakes custody battles to the truth behind prenups, Mark Kachhi, Founder of The Mark Kachhi Law Firm, has seen it all. In this episode of Hot Docket, he shares why he chose family law over other legal fields, the challenges he faces, and the unexpected rewards of the practice.

Mark breaks down prenups and postnups, explaining why they’re more common than you think and when they’re essential. He also reveals the biggest mistakes people make in divorce and custody disputes, plus how a strong strategy can make all the difference. As a solo practitioner, Mark offers an inside look at the dynamics of family law and the importance of building relationships—even with opposing counsel.

In this episode of Hot Docket, Bobby, Andrew, and Mark discuss:

• From Classroom Debate to Family Law – How Mark found his true calling in advocacy
• Prenups Without the Stigma – Why prenuptial agreements strengthen, not sabotage, relationships
• Postnups Done Right – The strategic move that protects assets and prevents future conflicts
• Winning Custody Battles – How smart custody planning can safeguard your parental rights
• Solo, But Never Alone – How Mark built a thriving solo law practice on his own terms
• The Power of Strategy – Why a tactical mindset in legal negotiations changes everything

Key Actionable Takeaways for Law Firm Owners:

• Consider the value of personalized prenuptial agreements to avoid 'one size fits all' settlements.
• Evaluate the potential benefit of postnuptial agreements for clients with significant personal assets or marital changes.
• Encourage clear communication and pre-planned custody arrangements to safeguard client interests.
• Cultivate strong, objective relationships with opposing counsel for smoother negotiations.

Important Links and Resources:

• Website: https://www.themarkkachhilawfirm.com
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-kachhi
• Instagram: @themklawfirm

If you have guest ideas or questions you would like our hosts to cover, please email info@hotdocketpodcast.com.

Tune in to hear from more the Hot Docket podcast hosted by Bobby Steinbach and Andrew Nasrinpay on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, Radio Public and more!

How bold are you willing to be to make your law firm the most recognized and trusted in your community?

This week on Hot Docket, we sat down with Lee Rudin, Founding Attorney at Rudin Law, to talk about his firm's uniquely bold and iconic branding strategies. Known for the slogan, "Stop Being Polite, Get Rude,” Rudin Law is all about tackling their clients’ unique problems in creative ways… so why not do the same for marketing?

From creating content to boosting brand awareness, Lee lets you in on his secrets to success. He breaks down his journey of trial and error in producing social media videos, standing out in legal marketing, and balancing creativity with professionalism.

Ready to get BOLD with your marketing strategy (and have fun doing it)? Tune in!

In this episode of Hot Docket, Bobby, Andrew, and Lee discuss:

• Breaking the Mold of Legal Branding – How Lee Rudin’s "Stop Being Polite, Get Rude" strategy makes his firm unforgettable.
• Creating Scroll-Stopping Content – The benefits of filming multiple videos in a day, using humor, costumes, and strategic scheduling to boost engagement.
• Marketing Through Trial, Error & AI – Lessons he learned from experimenting with content style and hiring a marketing agency.
• Measuring Marketing Success – Why law firms should focus on brand awareness and engagement instead of just lead generation.
• Personal vs. Corporate Branding in Law – How personal branding can be more effective than a firm’s corporate identity.
• Lawyers as Public Figures – The power of creative, consistent marketing in making attorneys recognizable and trusted.
• Innovative Legal Marketing Strategies – How humor, creativity, and bold advertising help law firms stand out in a crowded industry.

Key Actionable Takeaways for Law Firm Owners:

• Go Beyond the Corporate Image – A strong personal brand often resonates more than a corporate identity.
• Dare to Be Different – In a traditional industry, creativity is your competitive edge. Make your competitive edge a bold one.
• Create Engaging Content – Schedule, batch-produce, and use humor to keep your audience hooked.
• Leverage AI & Smart Strategies – Consider using AI tools to enhance video editing and refine your content approach.
• Prioritize Brand Awareness – Engagement and recognition build long-term trust and success.

Important Links and Resources:

• Website: https://www.getrude.com
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leerudin
• Instagram: @getrudelaw
• Facebook: RUDIN LAW

If you have guest ideas or questions you would like our hosts to cover, please email info@hotdocketpodcast.com.

Tune in to hear from more the Hot Docket podcast hosted by Bobby Steinbach and Andrew Nasrinpay on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, Radio Public and more!

Can a law firm be both professional and dynamic? In an industry often seen as rigid and traditional, standing out and connecting with clients is more important than ever. This week on Hot Docket, we explore how creativity can revolutionize your legal practice and client engagement.

Meet Shana Fried, an attorney who traded turntables for trademarks. As a former DJ, record label owner, and Owner/Founder of The Fried Firm, Shana’s redefining what it means to run a law firm by blending legal expertise with a deep understanding of creative industries.

From music and fashion to film and technology, Shana’s firm is a go-to for intellectual property, business law, and entertainment law—helping artists, entrepreneurs, and startups protect their work and build lasting brands.

Want to learn how to protect your business assets and create a legal brand that truly stands out? Tune in now!

In this episode of Hot Docket, Bobby, Andrew, and Shana discuss:

• From Music to Law: Shana’s journey from the music industry to becoming a lawyer.
• Standing Out in Law: 2 key strategies for differentiating your law firm in a competitive market.
• Marketing Success Formula: Why relevance, sophistication, and accessibility are Shana’s three golden rules for building a strong legal brand.
• Trademarks for Startups: Why early trademark registration is crucial for startups.
• Smart Copyright Enforcement: The balance between necessary copyright protections and avoiding exploitative enforcement tactics.
• Human-Centered Legal Services: How to champion approachable, accessible legal support to help creatives navigate complex legal systems.
• Employment Law Must-Knows: Why state-specific employment classifications are essential to avoiding compliance risks and legal trouble.

Key Actionable Takeaways for Law Firm Owners:

• Ditch the traditional, stuffy law firm image—infuse personality and approachability to create a brand that truly connects with clients.
• Strategic, engaging marketing isn’t optional—it’s key! Develop a strategic marketing plan that highlights your firm’s unique strengths and makes legal services accessible and engaging.
• Trademark your firm’s name and key assets now to protect your brand identity and prevent future legal headaches.
• Authenticity wins—integrating personal passions into your brand builds trust, loyalty, and stronger client relationships.
• Leverage automation and legal tech to streamline workflows, improve efficiency, and enhance client interactions.
• Go beyond legal advice—position your firm as a trusted mentor for creative and entrepreneurial clients to foster lasting relationships.

Important Links and Resources:

• Website: https://thefriedfirm.com/team/shana-fried
• LinkedIn: /in/shanafriedesq
• Instagram: @thefriedfirm
• Facebook: The Fried Firm

If you have guest ideas or questions you would like our hosts to cover, please email info@hotdocketpodcast.com.

Tune in to hear from more the Hot Docket podcast hosted by Bobby Steinbach and Andrew Nasrinpay on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, Radio Public and more!