AI, Jury Trials, and the Rule of Law — Bill Pickett on What Makes a Great Trial Lawyer

Trial lawyer and former Washington State Bar Association President Bill Pickett joins Favian Valencia for a candid conversation about trial law, artificial intelligence, jury trials, and the future of justice.Bill shares his unconventional path to becoming a lawyer—from commercial fishing and deep-sea diving in Alaska to founding a solo law practice and eventually co-founding LGP Law. Today, his practice focuses on catastrophic injury, police misconduct, and medical malpractice, representing clients against well-resourced institutions and insurance companies.The conversation explores:How AI is changing legal research, litigation strategy, and trial preparationWhy AI can enhance—but never replace—human judgment and empathyThe ethical duty for lawyers to stay competent with legal technology and AI toolsWhy jury trials still matter in an increasingly automated worldThe critical difference between rule of law vs. rule by lawCollaboration, contingency-fee practice, and surviving long-term as a trial lawyerBurnout, secondary trauma, faith, and sustaining a meaningful legal careerBill also discusses his current work as a Rule of Law Ambassador, his multi-state practice (Washington, Alaska, Oregon, Arizona), and his international efforts through Building Bridges Cambodia–USA, working with judges and lawyers to strengthen legal institutions abroad.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Background06:08 Starting a Solo Practice11:58 AI Tools in Law Practice17:54 AI as an Equalizer24:03 Case Management Software and AI31:57 AI Tools for Lawyers43:37 The Role of AI in Legal Practice59:10 The Power of the Heart in Trial Law01:08:11 Understanding Rule of Law01:34:42 The Importance of Self-Care01:44:13 Investing in Peaceful Retreats01:50:23 Book Recommendations and Lessons01:59:15 Considerations for Starting a Law Firm