Lawyers Without Billboards

Retirement accounts are often one of the largest assets in a divorce — and one of the easiest to mishandle.In this episode, we break down QDROs (Qualified Domestic Relations Orders), how they work, and why failing to handle them correctly can lead to tax consequences, penalties, and costly disputes years later.We cover: How retirement accounts are divided in divorce  When a QDRO is required—and when it isn’t  Why pensions and government plans can be tricky  Common drafting mistakes that create problems down the road  What to do if a QDRO wasn’t done at the time of divorce If you’re going through a divorce, or advising someone who is, this episode will help you avoid one of the most expensive mistakes people make.⏱️ Chapters00:00 – Intro01:10 – What is a QDRO (and why it matters)03:30 – Avoiding taxes and penalties in divorce04:40 – When a QDRO is required… and when it’s not05:50 – IRAs vs 401(k)s vs pensions08:00 – What happens when one party doesn’t cooperate10:00 – Why waiting years can cause major problems11:50 – Retirement accounts that can’t be divided (TRS pitfalls)13:20 – Common mistakes in settlement agreements15:30 – Why pensions are more complicated than you think18:00 – The challenge of drafting QDROs after the fact20:00 – Key takeaways: how to protect yourself🔔 Subscribe for candid conversations about family law, relationships, and the legal system - without the billboards.🎙️ Hosts: Steve & Patty Shewmaker, Jimmy & Alexa Lewis 🎧 Watch here: https://youtu.be/_rw_DWMQeVg or listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and more.📩 Contact: [email protected]| (770) 939-1939🌐 Website: https://www.shewmakerandlewis.com🎧 Podcast Library: https://shewmakerandlewis.com/lawyers-without-billboards🎼 Music by Ben Hernandez – Dragonsong Productions🎥 Produced by: Bleeding Edge, Inc.🎬 Audio & Video Production: Rob Burgner📍 Recorded at: Shewmaker & Lewis, Atlanta, GA

Crossing borders can change everything—especially in family law.In this episode, we dive into the Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction, a treaty that governs what happens when a child is taken from one country to another by a parent.We break down how these cases actually work, including: What “habitual residence” means and why it matters  The legal process for returning a child to another country  The key defenses that can stop a return—even when removal was wrongful  Why these cases are not custody battles, despite how they feel You’ll also hear real-world examples, strategic considerations for attorneys, and why timing can make or break a case.If you think custody law is complicated, wait until it crosses borders.⏱️ Chapters 00:00 – Intro: International Law Meets Family Law 01:10 – What Is the Hague Convention? 02:30 – Real-World Example of International Child Abduction 04:00 – “Habitual Residence” Explained 05:10 – Where Attorneys Get Involved 06:15 – How Common Are These Cases? 07:30 – Why Some Children Are Never Returned 09:00 – Building a Case: Legal Standards 12:00 – The Burden Shifts: Defenses Begin 12:30 – The One-Year “Well-Settled” Rule 15:15 – Mature Child Objection 17:30 – Human Rights & Rare Defenses 19:30 – Grave Risk of Harm Standard 23:00 – Why “Best Interest of the Child” Doesn’t Apply 24:30 – Federal vs. State Court Strategy 27:00 – When the Law and the “Right Outcome” Clash 31:00 – Timing Matters: Why These Cases Move Fast 32:00 – Preventing International Child Abduction 34:00 – Game Time (Because… of course) 🔔 Subscribe for candid conversations about family law, relationships, and the legal system - without the billboards.🎙️ Hosts: Steve & Patty Shewmaker, Jimmy & Alexa Lewis 🎧 Watch here: https://youtu.be/Zdcx5lIcvGI or listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and more.📩 Contact: [email protected]| (770) 939-1939🌐 Website: https://www.shewmakerandlewis.com🎧 Podcast Library: https://shewmakerandlewis.com/lawyers-without-billboards🎼 Music by Ben Hernandez – Dragonsong Productions🎥 Produced by: Bleeding Edge, Inc.🎬 Audio & Video Production: Rob Burgner📍 Recorded at: Shewmaker & Lewis, Atlanta, GA

Title IX cases aren’t criminal court — but they can carry consequences that are just as serious.In this episode, the attorneys at Shewmaker & Lewis break down how Title IX works in real life, from the moment a complaint is filed to the final outcome. They explain how universities conduct their own investigations, why the rules are different, and how students can face suspension or expulsion even when criminal charges aren’t pursued.You’ll hear insights on: The structure and purpose of Title IX  How misconduct allegations are handled on campus  The investigation and hearing process  The difference between criminal and Title IX standards of proof  Strategic considerations when both cases are happening at once  Appeals and potential outcomes If you or someone you know is facing a Title IX issue, understanding the process early can make all the difference.⏱️ Chapters 00:00 – Intro: A “Cavalcade of Nines” 00:45 – What Is Title IX (and Where It Actually Lives in the Law) 03:30 – How Title IX Applies to Colleges and Universities 05:00 – When Allegations Trigger a Title IX Investigation 06:30 – University Investigations vs. Criminal Cases 08:00 – Who Handles These Cases (and Why That Matters) 09:30 – The Investigation Process and Its Limitations 11:00 – How Hearings Used to Work vs. Today 12:00 – The Right to Cross-Examine (and Why It Changed) 13:30 – Balancing Title IX and Criminal Defense Strategy 15:00 – Why Title IX Can Help (or Hurt) a Criminal Case 15:30 – The Lower Burden of Proof Explained 16:30 – Real Case Example: When Outcomes Don’t Make Sense 17:00 – Appeals and Fighting Back 18:00 – Possible Punishments: From Suspension to Expulsion 19:00 – What Expulsion Means for a Student’s Future 20:00 – Can Students Continue Classes During Investigations? 20:30 – Does Title IX Apply to High Schools? 22:00 – Real-World Case Outcomes and Lessons Learned 23:30 – How to Avoid a Title IX Situation 25:30 – Should You Hire an Attorney? 26:00 – Final Thoughts and Takeaways 🔔 Subscribe for candid conversations about family law, relationships, and the legal system - without the billboards.🎙️ Hosts: Steve & Patty Shewmaker, Jimmy & Alexa Lewis 🎧 Watch here: https://youtu.be/w85iMCiQaJc or listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and more.📩 Contact: [email protected]| (770) 939-1939🌐 Website: https://www.shewmakerandlewis.com🎧 Podcast Library: https://shewmakerandlewis.com/lawyers-without-billboards🎼 Music by Ben Hernandez – Dragonsong Productions🎥 Produced by: Bleeding Edge, Inc.🎬 Audio & Video Production: Rob Burgner📍 Recorded at: Shewmaker & Lewis, Atlanta, GA

What actually matters in court?In this episode of Lawyers Without Billboards, we sit down with Judge Ann Harris, Chief Judge of the Cobb County Superior Court, for a candid conversation about how decisions are really made from the bench.Judge Harris shares her journey from a 19-year career in the District Attorney’s office to presiding over a courtroom that handles everything from criminal cases to complex domestic and civil matters. Along the way, she offers insight into what judges look for, what lawyers often miss, and how courtroom strategy can make or break a case.We cover: How judges evaluate arguments, evidence, and credibility  When and why judges reserve rulings  The realities behind attorney’s fees decisions  Common mistakes lawyers make in court  The importance of clarity, structure, and relevance  Mental health accountability courts and their real-world impact This episode pulls back the curtain on the courtroom and offers a rare perspective from someone who sees it all.⏱️ Chapters 00:00 – Intro & why judges make great guests 01:00 – Meet Judge Ann Harris 03:30 – From prosecutor to judge: taking the leap 09:30 – Learning domestic law from scratch 13:00 – The biggest challenges on the bench 16:00 – When judges rule immediately vs. later 18:30 – Do lawyers or clients bring more emotion? 21:00 – Attorney’s fees: what judges actually look for 25:00 – What makes evidence persuasive (and what doesn’t) 27:30 – “This is not moving the needle” 30:00 – Do lawyers really understand evidence rules? 34:30 – Favorite movies & personal side of judging 38:00 – Life beyond the bench 41:00 – Mental health accountability courts explained 48:00 – International judicial work (Republic of Georgia) 50:30 – Final thoughts 🔔 Subscribe for candid conversations about family law, relationships, and the legal system - without the billboards.🎙️ Hosts: Steve & Patty Shewmaker, Jimmy & Alexa Lewis 🎧 Watch here: https://youtu.be/xiTL6TbrFTk or listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and more.📩 Contact: [email protected]| (770) 939-1939🌐 Website: https://www.shewmakerandlewis.com🎧 Podcast Library: https://shewmakerandlewis.com/lawyers-without-billboards🎼 Music by Ben Hernandez – Dragonsong Productions🎥 Produced by: Bleeding Edge, Inc.🎬 Audio & Video Production: Rob Burgner📍 Recorded at: Shewmaker & Lewis, Atlanta, GA

What do high schoolers really understand about the law, and where can everyday behavior turn into real legal consequences?In this episode of Lawyers Without Billboards, Steve and Patty are joined by their daughter, Molly,  a high school student for a candid, eye-opening conversation about life inside today’s schools. From vaping and gambling to driving risks and school discipline, they break down the difference between what’s “normal” and what can actually lead to serious trouble.Along the way, they explore how school rules differ from criminal law, why certain behaviors are treated more seriously than others, and the surprising age when teens can be charged as adults.It’s an honest look at the gray areas most people don’t think about — until they matter.Whether you’re a student, a parent, or just someone who’s ever said, “I didn’t know that was illegal,” this episode offers practical insight into how the law really works in everyday situations.⏱️ Chapters 00:00 Intro 00:41 Meet Our First High School Guest 01:35 What Teens Actually Talk About (Legal Topics & Current Events) 03:10 School Rules vs. Real Crimes 04:20 Common High School Infractions (Vaping, Gambling, etc.) 06:10 What Schools Enforce vs. What Slides 06:44 Guns, School Zones, and Legal Boundaries 08:15 Alternative School: What It Really Means 10:54 Drugs in High School: The Reality 12:10 Risky Behavior & Real Consequences 13:30 Teen Driving & Decision-Making 14:03 When Do You Become an “Adult” in the Eyes of the Law? 16:00 Being Charged as an Adult (Even Under 18) 17:00 Final Advice for High Schoolers 🔔 Subscribe for candid conversations about family law, relationships, and the legal system - without the billboards.🎙️ Hosts: Steve & Patty Shewmaker, Jimmy & Alexa Lewis 🎧 Watch here: https://youtu.be/YLyQGAK947M or listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and more.📩 Contact: [email protected]| (770) 939-1939🌐 Website: https://www.shewmakerandlewis.com🎧 Podcast Library: https://shewmakerandlewis.com/lawyers-without-billboards🎼 Music by Ben Hernandez – Dragonsong Productions🎥 Produced by: Bleeding Edge, Inc.🎬 Audio & Video Production: Rob Burgner📍 Recorded at: Shewmaker & Lewis, Atlanta, GA

Cross-Examination: Where Cases Win or ImplodeCross-examination is often the most critical moment in any case—and the most dangerous.In this episode, the attorneys at Shewmaker & Lewis break down how they prepare clients for cross-examination, what can go wrong on the stand, and why credibility is everything in front of a judge.They discuss the importance of identifying weaknesses early, understanding the opposing side’s perspective, and having honest, sometimes uncomfortable conversations with clients before trial.The key takeaway: there are no perfect clients—but owning your mistakes and preparing properly can make the difference between winning and losing.⏱️ Chapters00:00 – Intro: What Is Cross-Examination? 01:14 – Why Cross-Examination Can Make or Break Your Case 02:36 – Finding Weak Spots in Your Own Case 03:38 – Practicing Cross-Examination with Clients 04:46 – How Attorneys “Box You In” on the Stand 06:23 – When Evidence Backfires 07:06 – How Clients Should Handle Tough Questions 08:01 – Rule #1: Tell the Truth (Even When It Hurts) 09:22 – Get Ahead of Weaknesses Before Cross 10:04 – Military Lessons on Seeing the Other Side 12:20 – If You Can’t Explain Your Case Simply, You’re Not Ready 14:53 – Owning Your Mistakes Builds Credibility 17:21 – Why Judges Care More About Honesty Than Perfection 20:24 – Mock Cross-Examinations & Real Preparation 22:39 – “I Don’t Know” vs. Losing Credibility 25:51 – Why Some Lawyers Don’t Prepare (And Why That’s Risky) 27:17 – Final Takeaways: Preparation + Perspective + Ownership🔔 Subscribe for candid conversations about family law, relationships, and the legal system - without the billboards.🎙️ Hosts: Steve & Patty Shewmaker, Jimmy & Alexa Lewis 🎧 Watch here: https://youtu.be/Rr8GEwRTFcg  or listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and more.📩 Contact: [email protected]| (770) 939-1939🌐 Website: https://www.shewmakerandlewis.com🎧 Podcast Library: https://shewmakerandlewis.com/lawyers-without-billboards🎼 Music by Ben Hernandez – Dragonsong Productions🎥 Produced by: Bleeding Edge, Inc.🎬 Audio & Video Production: Rob Burgner📍 Recorded at: Shewmaker & Lewis, Atlanta, GA

Divorce is one of the most common legal experiences in real life… so why does Hollywood almost never portray it?In this episode of Lawyers Without Billboards, we take a closer look at Marriage Story and break down how accurately it reflects the realities of divorce. From courtroom strategy to emotional conflict, we compare the film’s portrayal with what actually happens in family law cases.We also explore why divorce is such a difficult topic for storytelling — and why so few films attempt to tackle it.Whether you're navigating a divorce, supporting someone who is, or just interested in how law and media intersect, this episode offers insight you won’t get from the movies.⏱️ Chapters00:00 – Intro01:12 – Why Are There So Few Divorce Movies?04:30 – Introducing Marriage Story 07:10 – First Impressions from a Legal Perspective 10:25 – What the Movie Gets Right 16:40 – Attorney Dynamics & Strategy 22:15 – Emotional Reality vs. Legal Reality 28:05 – What Hollywood Gets Wrong 34:20 – Custody & Financial Misconceptions 40:10 – Real Divorce vs. Movie Drama 45:30 – Final Thoughts🔔 Subscribe for candid conversations about family law, relationships, and the legal system - without the billboards.🎙️ Hosts: Steve & Patty Shewmaker, Jimmy & Alexa Lewis 🎧 Watch here:https://youtu.be/vhcboXAoPCs or listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and more.📩 Contact: [email protected]| (770) 939-1939🌐 Website: https://www.shewmakerandlewis.com🎧 Podcast Library: https://shewmakerandlewis.com/lawyers-without-billboards🎼 Music by Ben Hernandez – Dragonsong Productions🎥 Produced by: Bleeding Edge, Inc.🎬 Audio & Video Production: Rob Burgner📍 Recorded at: Shewmaker & Lewis, Atlanta, GA

After a full year of Lawyers Without Billboards, the team takes a moment to look back at the topics, lessons, and surprising realities they’ve covered since launching the podcast.In this anniversary episode, attorneys Steve Shewmaker, Patty Shewmaker, Jimmy Lewis, and Alexa Lewis reflect on some of the biggest themes from their first year behind the microphones. From divorce myths to custody disputes and the realities of family law litigation, they discuss what people often misunderstand about the legal system and what actually happens inside the courtroom.It’s an honest conversation about the cases, misconceptions, and legal realities that come up again and again in family law.⏱️ Chapters00:00 – Introduction to Lawyers Without Billboards 00:41 – Meet the hosts 01:55 – Celebrating one year of the podcast 02:30 – Why the team started the show 05:10 – Looking back at the first episodes 08:20 – Divorce myths people still believe 11:45 – Custody battles and what really matters in court 15:20 – What surprises clients the most about family law 18:40 – The reality of courtroom litigation 22:10 – Lessons learned after a year of podcasting 25:05 – Favorite topics and memorable moments 27:40 – Final thoughts and looking ahead to year two🔔 Subscribe for candid conversations about family law, relationships, and the legal system - without the billboards.🎙️ Hosts: Steve & Patty Shewmaker, Jimmy & Alexa Lewis 🎧 Watch here: https://youtu.be/vhcboXAoPCs  or listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and more.📩 Contact: [email protected]| (770) 939-1939🌐 Website: https://www.shewmakerandlewis.com🎧 Podcast Library: https://shewmakerandlewis.com/lawyers-without-billboards🎼 Music by Ben Hernandez – Dragonsong Productions🎥 Produced by: Bleeding Edge, Inc.🎬 Audio & Video Production: Rob Burgner📍 Recorded at: Shewmaker & Lewis, Atlanta, GA

In Part 2 of our ROTC disenrollment series, we examine the hearing process itself — and why it shocks so many families.Yes, you can hire an attorney. No, your attorney cannot speak during the hearing.Instead, the cadet must conduct their own examination of witnesses, cross-examine accusers, introduce evidence, and make arguments — often in cases involving serious allegations.We break down: • The structure of ROTC disenrollment hearings • Why post-hearing review can take over a year • What happens if command overrides the board • The financial consequences if disenrollment stands • Why preparation can cost more than trial representationIf you’re facing ROTC disenrollment, this episode explains the reality of the process — and why strategic preparation is critical.⏱️ Chapters00:00 – Part 2 Begins: Why This System Is So Frustrating 01:04 – Should You Hire an Attorney Who Can’t Speak? 02:43 – Why “Winning” Doesn’t End the Process 03:05 – The Army’s Multi-Level Review Process 04:48 – A Year in Limbo After Victory 05:59 – Sexual Assault Allegations in ROTC Hearings 08:40 – The Proof Chart Strategy 09:02 – Training a Cadet to Act as Their Own Lawyer 11:38 – The Real Cost of Preparation 13:46 – False Allegations & Military Culture 17:24 – Is There Any Appeal After ROTC Command? 18:11 – Repayment: $25,000 to $200,000+ 19:21 – Enlistment vs. Repayment 20:09 – Final Takeaways🔔 Subscribe for candid conversations about family law, relationships, and the legal system - without the billboards.🎙️ Hosts: Steve & Patty Shewmaker, Jimmy & Alexa Lewis 🎧 Watch here: https://youtu.be/4p0HMzJgMuQ or listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and more.📩 Contact: [email protected]| (770) 939-1939🌐 Website: https://www.shewmakerandlewis.com🎧 Podcast Library: https://shewmakerandlewis.com/lawyers-without-billboards🎼 Music by Ben Hernandez – Dragonsong Productions🎥 Produced by: Bleeding Edge, Inc.🎬 Audio & Video Production: Rob Burgner📍 Recorded at: Shewmaker & Lewis, Atlanta, GA

What happens when an ROTC cadet is accused of misconduct, academic failure, or a serious violation of military standards?In this episode of Lawyers Without Billboards, the team breaks down the high-stakes world of ROTC disenrollment hearings — where a scholarship can suddenly transform into a six-figure debt or even mandatory enlisted service.ROTC contracts are not symbolic. They are binding agreements with the United States government. And when issues arise — whether involving grades, conduct, DUIs, drugs, or allegations of sexual misconduct — cadets can find themselves facing a formal disenrollment process that feels more like a military tribunal than a campus disciplinary hearing.In Part 1, the panel explains:What ROTC disenrollment actually meansHow the process beginsThe types of allegations that trigger hearingsWhat rights cadets haveHow scholarship repayment is calculatedWhy early legal strategy mattersIf you or your student is contracted in ROTC, this is information you need before a problem arises.Part 2 will dive deeper into hearings, outcomes, and appeals.⏱️ Chapters00:00 – Intro00:41 – Welcome & Today’s Topic: ROTC Disenrollments02:00 – What Does ROTC Stand For?02:14 – The Three Paths to Becoming an Officer04:30 – How ROTC Works on College Campuses06:18 – ROTC vs Academies: Who Produces Better Officers?09:25 – ROTC Contracts & Giving Up Civil Liberties10:19 – What Is a Contracted Cadet?11:53 – What Gets You Kicked Out of ROTC?14:12 – “Back in the 80s”: ROTC Then vs Now16:24 – Contracted vs Non-Contracted Cadets18:31 – Notice of Disenrollment: What Happens First?20:33 – When Title IX & Criminal Charges Complicate Things22:47 – Requesting a Hearing (Or Waiving It)23:21 – Air Force vs Other Branches: Key Differences24:12 – What the Hearing Looks Like27:38 – Winning the Board Isn’t the End29:57 – Repayment vs Enlisted Service30:28 – Part 2 Preview🔔 Subscribe for candid conversations about family law, relationships, and the legal system - without the billboards.🎙️ Hosts: Steve & Patty Shewmaker, Jimmy & Alexa Lewis 🎧 Watch here: https://youtu.be/p2Tfy5Ntv_U or listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and more.📩 Contact: [email protected]| (770) 939-1939🌐 Website: https://www.shewmakerandlewis.com🎧 Podcast Library: https://shewmakerandlewis.com/lawyers-without-billboards🎼 Music by Ben Hernandez – Dragonsong Productions🎥 Produced by: Bleeding Edge, Inc.🎬 Audio & Video Production: Rob Burgner📍 Recorded at: Shewmaker & Lewis, Atlanta, GA

Military retirement benefits can be one of the most valuable — and most misunderstood — assets in a divorce.In this episode of Lawyers Without Billboards, Steve, Patty, Jimmy, and Alexa break down the fundamentals of military pensions, including the often-confused 10-10 Rule, how DFAS works, and what “High-36” really means.They explain how military retirement differs from private-sector pensions, why the 20-year “cliff vesting” rule matters, and what can go wrong when attorneys draft unclear or incorrect pension language in settlement agreements.Whether you're a service member, spouse, or attorney handling a military divorce, this episode provides practical insight into:• How military pensions are calculated • The difference between the old retirement system and the blended retirement system • What the 10-10 Rule actually does (and doesn’t do) • When DFAS will pay a former spouse directly • Common drafting mistakes that create major problems later • Why “pay me now or pay me later” applies to military pension divisionMilitary pension division is nuanced, technical, and full of traps for the unwary. Getting it right matters.⏱ Chapter Markers00:00 – Introduction 01:00 – What Is a Military Pension? 02:30 – Cliff Vesting: The 20-Year Rule 04:30 – Active Duty vs. Reserve Retirement 07:00 – How Military Pensions Are Calculated (High-36 Explained) 10:00 – The Blended Retirement System vs. the Old System 13:30 – The 10-10 Rule: What It Actually Means 17:30 – When DFAS Pays the Former Spouse Directly 20:00 – Common Drafting Mistakes in Military Divorce 24:00 – Offsetting the Pension Instead of Dividing It 27:00 – Why Military Pension Language Must Be Precise 28:30 – Closing Thoughts🔔 Subscribe for candid conversations about family law, relationships, and the legal system - without the billboards.🎙️ Hosts: Steve & Patty Shewmaker, Jimmy & Alexa Lewis 🎧 Watch here: https://youtu.be/qMYIukopyrc or listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and more.📩 Contact: [email protected]| (770) 939-1939🌐 Website: https://www.shewmakerandlewis.com🎧 Podcast Library: https://shewmakerandlewis.com/lawyers-without-billboards🎼 Music by Ben Hernandez – Dragonsong Productions🎥 Produced by: Bleeding Edge, Inc.🎬 Audio & Video Production: Rob Burgner📍 Recorded at: Shewmaker & Lewis, Atlanta, GA

Should lawyers prepare their clients for testimony? Absolutely.But preparation does not mean telling someone what to say.In this episode of Lawyers Without Billboards, Steve, Patty, Jimmy, and Alexa break down what real trial preparation looks like — and why it starts long before you ever step into a courtroom.From correcting language habits in the very first consultation to organizing emails months before trial, the team shares practical strategies that separate prepared attorneys from those who simply “wing it.”They also discuss:Why clients revert to their “lowest level of training” under stressThe dangers of waiting until the courthouse steps to preparePreparing witnesses remotely vs. in personHow to structure testimony in clear, logical chaptersWhy you should always practice cross-examination with your own clientAnd what happens when lawyers call witnesses they’ve never spoken toIf you’re a client heading toward court — or a younger attorney learning the ropes — this episode offers real insight into how strong trial preparation wins cases.Because surprises in court are expensive.⏱️ Chapter Markers 00:00 – Introduction 01:41 – Should Lawyers Prepare Witnesses? 03:00 – When Trial Preparation Really Begins 04:08 – Breaking Bad Language Habits Early 06:00 – Reverting to Your Lowest Level of Training 09:05 – Organizing Emails & Building Trial Strategy Early 12:46 – In-Person vs Remote Witness Preparation 17:00 – Zoom Hearings & Technology Pitfalls 21:47 – Why You Must Prepare Every Witness 24:25 – How to Structure Direct Examination (Chapters & Topics) 29:02 – Repetition, Drilling & Reducing Surprises 31:59 – Preparing Clients for Cross-Examination 🔔 Subscribe for candid conversations about family law, relationships, and the legal system - without the billboards.🎙️ Hosts: Steve & Patty Shewmaker, Jimmy & Alexa Lewis 🎧 Watch here: https://youtu.be/RZbNPK0NvSA or listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and more.📩 Contact: [email protected]| (770) 939-1939🌐 Website: https://www.shewmakerandlewis.com🎧 Podcast Library: https://shewmakerandlewis.com/lawyers-without-billboards🎼 Music by Ben Hernandez – Dragonsong Productions🎥 Produced by: Bleeding Edge, Inc.🎬 Audio & Video Production: Rob Burgner📍 Recorded at: Shewmaker & Lewis, Atlanta, GA

What happens when a marriage becomes a zero-sum game - and what does it really cost to “win”?In this episode of Lawyers Without Billboards, Steve and Patty Shewmaker and Jimmy and Alexa Lewis put the 2025 remake The Roses on trial, comparing it to the original War of the Roses and examining what both films reveal about marriage, power, identity, and conflict.Unlike the original, which focused heavily on divorce and courtroom warfare, The Roses reframes the story as a study of marriage itself - career imbalance, resentment, sacrifice, and the quiet ways couples lose each other long before lawyers get involved.The panel explores how modern dynamics—dual careers, public humiliation, social media, and shifting power - reshape the story, and why the most revealing moments don’t happen in court at all.Topics include:How The Roses differs from War of the Roses in focus and messageWhy this remake is about marriage more than divorcePower shifts when one spouse’s career collapses as the other’s explodesThe role of resentment, sacrifice, and unspoken expectationsWhat Amy and Barry reveal about “surviving” marriageWhy the house becomes the ultimate battlegroundHow social media accelerates marital destructionThe lone legal scene—and what it gets right and wrongWhy “winning” often leaves everyone worse offWhether you’re married, divorced, or advising clients in conflict, this episode offers a surprisingly sharp lens on how relationships unravel—and why the most dangerous fights are rarely about the law.⏱️ Chapter Markers00:00 – Podcast introduction and show overview 00:00:40 – Welcome to Lawyers Without Billboards 00:01:15 – Introducing The Roses and its connection to War of the Roses 00:03:02 – Why remakes often fail—and why this one works 00:05:10 – Divorce movie vs. marriage movie: the key distinction 00:06:57 – Career collapse, career explosion, and shifting power 00:09:14 – Resentment, sacrifice, and the “altar of marriage” 00:11:32 – Amy and Barry: the most honest take on marriage in the film 00:14:02 – When friends see the cracks before the couple does 00:15:48 – The house as leverage, identity, and weapon 00:18:06 – Social media, public humiliation, and modern conflict 00:20:11 – The dinner party scene and performative cruelty 00:22:34 – Destruction as communication: escalation without brakes 00:24:41 – The lone legal scene: mediation, lawyers, and realism 00:27:03 – Why “winning” becomes the real loss 00:28:52 – Final thoughts: marriage, mortality, and what the ending means🔔 Subscribe for candid conversations about family law, relationships, and the legal system - without the billboards.🎙️ Hosts: Steve & Patty Shewmaker, Jimmy & Alexa Lewis 🎧 Watch here: https://youtu.be/RZbNPK0NvSA  or listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and more.📩 Contact: [email protected] | (770) 939-1939 🌐 Website: https://www.shewmakerandlewis.com 🎧 Podcast Library: https://shewmakerandlewis.com/lawyers-without-billboards🎼 Music by Ben Hernandez – Dragonsong Productions 🎥 Produced by: Bleeding Edge, Inc. 🎬 Audio & Video Production: Rob Burgner 📍 Recorded at: Shewmaker & Lewis, Atlanta, GA

What really happens inside Temporary Protective Order (TPO) court, and how do judges separate real danger from strategic filings?In this episode of Lawyers Without Billboards, Steve and Patty Shewmaker and Jimmy and Alexa Lewis sit down with Fulton County Magistrate Judge Alex Manning for an unfiltered conversation about life on the bench, domestic violence hearings, and the realities judges face every day in TPO court.Judge Manning pulls back the curtain on how credibility is evaluated, why volume does not equal truth, and how TPOs can be misused during divorce and custody disputes. She also shares unforgettable courtroom moments, lessons learned during COVID-era virtual hearings, and the emotional weight judges carry long after the courtroom clears.This episode blends humor, hard truth, and professional insight into one of the most misunderstood areas of family law.Topics include:• What really happens in TPO court • How judges assess credibility and firsthand knowledge • Common mistakes attorneys make in protective order hearings • Strategic misuse of TPOs in divorce cases • Why judges talk and patterns matter • COVID courtroom chaos and virtual hearing disasters • The emotional toll of domestic violence cases • Why in-person hearings matter for credibility • Lessons lawyers and litigants should take into every courtroomIf you practice family law, handle protective orders, or want an honest look at how decisions are made from the bench, this episode delivers rare perspective straight from the judge’s chair.⏱️ Chapter Markers00:00 – Podcast introduction and show overview 00:00:40 – Welcome to Lawyers Without Billboards 00:01:15 – Introducing Judge Alex Manning 00:02:45 – What magistrate judges really do 00:04:30 – Inside TPO court and why it’s misunderstood 00:06:10 – Spotting weak and strategic TPO filings 00:08:05 – Credibility, firsthand knowledge, and facts vs. noise 00:10:12 – “I cannot unsee that”: courtroom rules and phone evidence 00:12:10 – COVID-era hearings and virtual courtroom chaos 00:14:40 – Why in-person hearings matter 00:16:20 – Judges talk: strategy, patterns, and consequences 00:18:15 – When TPOs intersect with divorce and custody cases 00:20:30 – The emotional toll of domestic violence cases 00:22:45 – Managing stress, perspective, and burnout on the bench 00:24:40 – Judge Manning’s background and path to the bench 00:27:30 – Final thoughts and closing remarks🔔 Subscribe for honest conversations about family law and the legal system without the billboards.🎙️ Hosts: Steve & Patty Shewmaker, Jimmy & Alexa Lewis🎧 Listen or Watch Watch on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/qLVEoh0xuaw or listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and more.📩 Contact: [email protected] or call (770) 939-1939🌐 Website: https://www.shewmakerandlewis.com🎧 Podcast Library: https://shewmakerandlewis.com/lawyers-without-billboards📺 Subscribe for candid conversations about family law, custody, mediation, and courtroom reality.🎼 Music by Ben Hernandez at Dragonsong Productions 🎥 Produced by: Bleeding Edge, Inc. 🎬 Audio & Video Production: Rob Burgner 📍 Recorded at: Shewmaker & Lewis, Atlanta, GA

Military Divorce Pitfalls: The Survivor Benefit Plan ExplainedWhat happens to a military pension after divorce, and what happens if the service member dies?In this episode of Lawyers Without Billboards, Steve and Patty Shewmaker and Jimmy and Alexa Lewis break down one of the most misunderstood and high-risk issues in military divorce: the Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP).SBP can determine whether a former spouse continues receiving income after a service member’s death, but it is governed by strict federal statutes, unforgiving deadlines, and complex election rules. Miss one step or one window, and the benefit can be lost permanently.The panel explains how SBP works, when it must be elected, who can receive it, and the common traps that catch both attorneys and families off guard.Topics include:• What the Survivor Benefit Plan is and what it is not • How SBP differs from private pensions • Election windows for active duty and reserve service members • Why SBP can disappear after divorce if deadlines are missed • The one-year “deemed election” rule and why it matters • What happens when a former spouse remarries before age 55 • Why SBP is often the biggest malpractice risk in military divorce casesIf you or your client is dealing with a military divorce, this episode explains why SBP cannot be treated as an afterthought.⏱️ Chapter Markers00:00 – Podcast introduction and show overview 00:00:40 – Welcome to Lawyers Without Billboards 00:01:20 – Introducing the Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) 00:03:28 – Why SBP matters in military divorce 00:04:22 – How military pensions differ from private pensions 00:05:44 – What happens to pension benefits after death 00:06:47 – When and how SBP must be elected 00:07:52 – Active duty vs. reserve SBP election windows 00:09:27 – Why SBP is a “unitary benefit” 00:11:04 – Who can and cannot receive SBP 00:13:48 – SBP costs and premium structure 00:15:41 – Common pitfalls and malpractice risks 00:16:34 – The one-year deemed election deadline 00:18:04 – King v. King and real-world consequences 00:19:53 – When SBP is lost forever 00:21:57 – Remarriage before age 55 and SBP termination 00:24:29 – Final thoughts and closing remarks🔔 Subscribe for honest conversations about family law and the legal system without the billboards.🎙️ Hosts: Steve & Patty Shewmaker, Jimmy & Alexa Lewis 🎧 Listen or Watch Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/joBxzR8F6pQ or listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and more.📩 Contact: [email protected] or call (770) 939-1939 🌐 Website: https://www.shewmakerandlewis.com 🎧 Podcast Library: https://shewmakerandlewis.com/lawyers-without-billboards📺 Subscribe for new episodes and candid conversations about family law, custody, mediation, and conflict resolution.🎼 Music by Ben Hernandez at Dragonsong Productions 🎥 Produced by: Bleeding Edge, Inc. 🎬 Audio & Video Production: Rob Burgner 📍 Recorded at: Shewmaker & Lewis, Atlanta, GA

What does a County Solicitor actually do, and why does it matter if you’re charged with a misdemeanor?In this episode of Lawyers Without Billboards, Steve Shewmaker and Alexa  & Jimmy Lewis talk with Gwinnett County Solicitor Lisa Marie Bristol about her role, her office, and how misdemeanor cases are handled in Georgia courts.From traffic offenses to more serious misdemeanor charges, the Solicitor’s Office is often the first and most important stop in the criminal justice system. Lisa Marie Bristol explains how charging decisions are made, what discretion prosecutors have, and what defendants often misunderstand about misdemeanor cases.Topics include:The difference between a Solicitor and a District AttorneyWhat types of cases the Solicitor’s Office handlesHow prosecutors evaluate cases and negotiate resolutionsThe realities of high caseloads and courtroom decision-makingWhat people should know before walking into misdemeanor courtIf you want a clearer understanding of how misdemeanor prosecution works in Gwinnett County and beyond, this episode delivers real insight straight from the source.⏱️ Chapter Markers:00:00 – Podcast introduction and show overview00:00:40 – Welcome to Lawyers Without Billboards00:01:12 – Introducing a new podcast series: elected officials00:01:46 – Introducing Gwinnett County Solicitor General Lisa Marie Bristol00:02:10 – Gwinnett County background and scope of the Solicitor’s role00:03:14 – How Lisa Marie Bristol prefers to be addressed00:03:21 – Career lineage and Gwinnett Solicitor’s Office history00:04:18 – When Lisa Marie Bristol took office as Solicitor General00:04:33 – Her early career and full-circle moment in prosecution00:07:10 – What the Gwinnett County Solicitor’s Office prosecutes00:11:05 – Difference between the Solicitor and the District Attorney00:15:40 – Prosecutorial discretion and charging decisions00:20:10 – Common misconceptions about misdemeanor cases00:24:55 – What defendants should understand before court00:29:20 – Balancing fairness, accountability, and public safety00:33:45 – Advice for attorneys and defendants navigating misdemeanor court00:37:10 – Final thoughts and closing remarks🔔 Subscribe for honest conversations about law, courts, and the legal system without the billboards.🎙️ Hosts:Steve & Patty Shewmaker, Jimmy & Alexa LewisShewmaker & Lewis – Atlanta, GA🎧 Listen or WatchWatch on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/HEDdKvLpXlw or listen on your favorite podcast platform – Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and more.📩 Contact: [email protected] or call (770) 939-1939 🌐 Website: https://www.shewmakerandlewis.com🎧 Podcast Library: https://shewmakerandlewis.com/lawyers-without-billboards📺 Subscribe for new episodes and candid conversations about family law, custody, mediation, and conflict resolution.🎼 Music by Ben Hernandez at Dragonsong Productions 🎥 Produced by: Bleeding Edge, Inc.🎬 Audio & Video Production: Rob Burgner📍 Recorded at: Shewmaker & Lewis, Atlanta, GA

The holidays are supposed to be joyful - but in family law, they’re often a flashpoint for conflict.In this episode of Lawyers Without Billboards, Steve, Patty, Jimmy, and Alexa break down why holiday parenting time creates so many disputes, how courts actually divide holiday schedules, and the drafting mistakes that turn manageable situations into annual blowups.From Christmas and New Year’s to birthdays and school breaks, the team explains what judges expect, why overly complicated schedules fail, and how clear parenting plans can prevent years of unnecessary conflict.If you’ve ever wondered why “we’ll just figure it out” almost never works - this episode explains exactly why.⏱️ Chapter Markers00:00 – Welcome to Lawyers Without Billboards 01:45 – Why Christmas (and holidays) cause the biggest parenting fights 04:30 – How courts usually divide holiday parenting time 07:10 – Why vague or “flexible” holiday plans backfire 09:45 – The problem with splitting Christmas Eve and Christmas Day 12:30 – Why travel and future plans matter more than you think 15:10 – Real-world examples of holiday parenting disputes 18:30 – Defining “release of school” and other drafting pitfalls 21:40 – When parents agree… until they don’t 24:15 – Birthdays, parent birthdays, and why kids don’t care 27:10 – Final thoughts on preventing holiday conflict 28:00 – Closing and New Year's wishes🎙️ Hosts:Steve & Patty Shewmaker, Jimmy & Alexa LewisShewmaker & Lewis – Atlanta, GA🔔 Subscribe for real talk about law, courts, and culture.🎧 Listen or WatchWatch on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/WL6KDAJ8JaU or listen on your favorite podcast platform – Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and more.📩 Contact: [email protected]🌐 Website: https://www.shewmakerandlewis.com🎧 Podcast Library: https://shewmakerandlewis.com/lawyers-without-billboards📺 Subscribe for new episodes and candid conversations about family law, custody, mediation, and conflict resolution.🎼 Music by Ben Hernandez at Dragonsong Productions 🎥 Produced by: Bleeding Edge, Inc.🎬 Audio & Video Production: Rob Burgner📍 Recorded at: Shewmaker & Lewis, Atlanta, GA

In this episode of Lawyers Without Billboards, Steve, Patty, Jimmy, and Alexa kick off a new series on national cases of note with a deceptively simple question:Can you sue the person your spouse cheated with?The answer depends entirely on where you live.The team breaks down the rarely used - but very real - tort of alienation of affection, a law that still exists in only a handful of states and has produced some eye-popping jury verdicts.They unpack:What alienation of affection actually is and where it still appliesThe recent North Carolina case involving a social media influencer and a $1.75 million verdictWhy Georgia (and most states) abolished this claim decades agoWhether it makes sense to blame the third party instead of the cheating spouseHow damages are calculated - including the role of social media and monetizationWhy judges generally hate this cause of actionAlong the way, the episode delivers the usual Lawyers Without Billboards mix of legal insight, history, sarcasm, and brutal honesty.If you’re curious how an affair can turn into a full-blown lawsuit - or why most states decided this law should die - this episode explains it all.👇 CHAPTERS 👇 00:00 – Intro: Lawyers Without Billboards 00:45 – New series: National cases of note 01:25 – Pop quiz: “If you’re defending, you’re spending” 03:00 – Can you sue the person your spouse cheated with? 04:00 – What is alienation of affection? 05:00 – Which states still allow these lawsuits 06:15 – Is alienation of affection old law or new trend? 07:10 – The North Carolina influencer case explained 10:45 – What must be proven to win an alienation claim 12:30 – The $1.75 million verdict and damage breakdown 14:45 – Should the third party really be blamed? 16:30 – Why most states abolished alienation of affection 18:15 – Massive verdicts and jury behavior 19:45 – Final takeaways and lessons learned ?🎙️ Hosts:Steve & Patty Shewmaker, Jimmy & Alexa LewisShewmaker & Lewis – Atlanta, GA🔔 Subscribe for real talk about law, courts, and culture.🎧 Listen or WatchWatch on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/uEv-U-ZbT64 or listen on your favorite podcast platform – Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and more.📩 Contact: [email protected]🌐 Website: https://www.shewmakerandlewis.com🎧 Podcast Library: https://shewmakerandlewis.com/lawyers-without-billboards📺 Subscribe for new episodes and candid conversations about family law, custody, mediation, and conflict resolution.🎼 Music by Ben Hernandez at Dragonsong Productions 🎥 Produced by: Bleeding Edge, Inc.🎬 Audio & Video Production: Rob Burgner📍 Recorded at: Shewmaker & Lewis, Atlanta, GA

Is Legally Blonde a feminist legal masterpiece… or courtroom fiction?In this episode of Lawyers Without Billboards, real attorneys Steve Shewmaker and Alexa Lewis review Legally Blonde, breaking down what the movie gets right, what it gets wrong, and why it still resonates more than 20 years later.From law school stereotypes to courtroom theatrics, this episode blends legal insight with humor and honesty.👇 CHAPTERS 👇 00:00 – Intro: Why Legally Blonde Still Matters 02:15 – Elle Woods: Law School Myth vs Reality 06:40 – Courtroom Drama vs Real Litigation 12:05 – Confidence, Competence, and Credibility 17:30 – What Hollywood Gets Right (Surprisingly) 22:10 – What Would Never Happen in Real Court 28:45 – Final Verdict: Is Legally Blonde Good Law?🎙️ Hosts: Steve & Patty Shewmaker, Jimmy & Alexa Lewis Shewmaker & Lewis – Atlanta, GA🔔 Subscribe for real talk about law, courts, and culture.🌐 https://www.shewmakerandlewis.com🎧 Listen or WatchWatch on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/rj3djV1CbpI or listen on your favorite podcast platform – Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and more.📩 Contact: [email protected]🌐 Website: https://www.shewmakerandlewis.com🎧 Podcast Library: https://shewmakerandlewis.com/lawyers-without-billboards📺 Subscribe for new episodes and candid conversations about family law, custody, mediation, and conflict resolution.🎼 Music by Ben Hernandez at Dragonsong Productions 🎥 Produced by: Bleeding Edge, Inc.🎬 Audio & Video Production: Rob Burgner📍 Recorded at: Shewmaker & Lewis, Atlanta, GA

Phil McCurdy on Au Pairs, Divorce, and 37 Years of Family LawIn this episode of Lawyers Without Billboards, Steve, Patty, Jimmy, and Alexa sit down with longtime Georgia family law attorney Phil McCurdy, bringing more than 37 years of courtroom experience to one deceptively simple question:Is hiring a live-in au pair ever a good idea?From real divorce cases to power imbalances, courtroom consequences, and judgment calls that unravel marriages, Phil breaks down what actually happens when help at home becomes a legal nightmare.Along the way, the conversation takes its usual unscripted turns, blending sharp legal insight with humor, war stories, and a brand-new game.In this episode, we cover:Why au pairs are rarely the solution people think they areHow live-in help can accelerate divorce, custody fights, and financial disputesPower imbalance issues when employment, housing, and immigration overlapWhat courts actually care about when au pairs become part of the caseReal-world cases involving au pairs from the U.S. and abroadWhen poor judgment matters more than infidelityA new recurring segmentEpisode Chapters:00:00 - Welcome to Lawyers Without Billboards 02:29 - Introducing Phil McCurdy and 37 years of family law 08:58 - The au pair question and why it keeps showing up in divorce cases 12:36 - Power dynamics, employment, and legal risk 17:14 - When judgment matters more than adultery 20:26 - So should you ever hire an au pair? 22:52 - **** Jimmy Doesn’t Know (new segment debut) 26:41 - Final takeaways and closing thoughts🎧 Subscribe for more real-world family law conversations with no gimmicks, no legal jargon, and no billboards.🎧 Listen or WatchWatch on YouTube here; https://youtu.be/AhyULGK9keE or listen on your favorite podcast platform – Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and more.📩 Contact: [email protected]🌐 Website: https://www.shewmakerandlewis.com🎧 Podcast Library: https://shewmakerandlewis.com/lawyers-without-billboards📺 Subscribe for new episodes and candid conversations about family law, custody, mediation, and conflict resolution.🎼 Music by Ben Hernandez at Dragonsong Productions 🎥 Produced by: Bleeding Edge, Inc.🎬 Audio & Video Production: Rob Burgner📍 Recorded at: Shewmaker & Lewis, Atlanta, GA

In this episode of Lawyers Without Billboards, Steve, Alexa and Jimmy sit down with Erica McCurdy, a nationally recognized Master Coach, mediator, and founder of McCurdy Solutions - known for helping families, executives, and high-conflict individuals navigate some of life’s most complicated challenges.Erica brings decades of experience working with blended families, co-parents, divorcing spouses, entrepreneurs, and professionals in crisis. Her work centers on building emotional intelligence, restoring communication, and helping people take responsibility for their part in a conflict - even when they believe the other side is the problem.This powerful conversation pulls back the curtain on:• What emotional intelligence really means in family conflict • Why highly educated people still make disastrous decisions in divorce • How Erica helps clients move from “reactive mode” to clarity • The difference between therapy, coaching, and mediation - and when each is appropriate • How families sabotage themselves by outsourcing emotional work to lawyers • Raising resilient teens in a world that doesn’t teach resilience • Co-parenting mistakes that escalate cases (and how to stop them) • Why some people “won’t hear you” until they develop internal accountability • The psychology behind high-conflict personalities • The myths parents believe about custody battles • How to prepare a child emotionally for divorce without weaponizing them • Why doing the inner work often changes the entire legal trajectoryErica offers practical tools, honest insights, and a refreshingly direct approach to helping families break destructive patterns - and create healthier outcomes inside and outside the courtroom.🕒 Chapters00:00 – Intro00:43 – Welcoming Erica McCurdy02:00 – What Is a Master Coach?04:00 – The Most Common Emotional Roadblocks in Family Conflict06:00 – High-Conflict Behaviors: Why They Happen08:00 – Therapy vs. Coaching vs. Mediation11:00 – When Clients Outsource Emotional Work to Lawyers13:00 – Raising Resilient Kids in a Fragile Culture15:00 – Coaching Teens Through Change17:00 – Co-Parenting Mistakes & Emotional Sabotage20:00 – Accountability: Why Some Clients Get “Stuck”23:00 – Helping Clients Create a New Narrative26:00 – What to Do When Only One Parent Will Do the Work 29:00 – How Erica Prepares Families for Mediation 32:00 – The Surprising Role of Self-Awareness in Custody Outcomes 35:00 – What Erica Wishes Every Parent Knew Before Divorce 38:00 – Closing Insights🎧 Listen or WatchWatch on YouTube or listen on your favorite podcast platform – Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and more.📩 Contact: [email protected] 🌐 Website: https://www.shewmakerandlewis.com 🎧 Podcast Library: https://shewmakerandlewis.com/lawyers-without-billboards📺 Subscribe for new episodes and candid conversations about family law, custody, mediation, and conflict resolution.🎼 Music by Ben Hernandez at Dragonsong Productions 🎥 Produced by: Bleeding Edge, Inc. 🎬 Audio & Video Production: Rob Burgner 📍 Recorded at: Shewmaker & Lewis, Atlanta, GA

In this episode of Lawyers Without Billboards, Steve, Patty, and Alexa sit down with Judge Tangela Barrie of the DeKalb County Superior Court - the youngest judge ever elected in DeKalb and a former Prosecuting Attorney of the Year.Judge Barrie pulls back the curtain on what really happens behind the bench:• How judges navigate high-conflict custody cases • Why courtroom decorum matters more than you think • The rise of sovereign citizens in family and criminal cases • Pro se chaos: the wildest things she’s seen litigants do • Attorney professionalism and the quickest ways to get on a judge’s bad side • How judges decide what makes your case different from every other case • Why “respect” is the currency of the courtroom • When she chooses to rule from the bench vs. taking a matter under advisementJudge Barrie also shares personal stories from her path through private practice, criminal prosecution, and ultimately to the Superior Court bench - and what she wishes every party and every lawyer understood before they walk into her courtroom.This is one of our most insightful judge interviews yet, offering rare, candid advice for attorneys, litigants, and anyone trying to understand how family court really works.🕒 Chapters00:00 – Intro 00:43 – Welcoming Judge Tangela Barrie 02:00 – From Prosecutor to Judge 05:00 – What Makes a Case “Different” 07:10 – Handling High-Conflict Custody Cases 12:00 – Guardian ad Litem or Not? 13:50 – Wildest Pro Se Moments 15:10 – The Rise of Sovereign Citizens 17:00 – Attorney Behavior: The Good, The Bad & The Unprofessional 22:50 – Respect, Decorum & Courtroom Culture 27:00 – How Judges Want Lawyers to Present Cases 32:00 – Writing Orders & Behind-the-Scenes Work 34:00 – Chief Judge Duties & E-Filing Evolution 35:00 – Judge Barrie’s Favorite Movies 37:00 – Final Insights: Mediation, Resolution & Perspective 40:00 – Closing Thoughts🎧 Listen or WatchWatch on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_GruHuWgyWA or listen on your favorite podcast platform - Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and more.📩 Contact: [email protected]🌐 Website: https://www.shewmakerandlewis.com🎧 Podcast Library: https://shewmakerandlewis.com/lawyers-without-billboards📺 Subscribe for new episodes and candid conversations about family law, custody, and criminal defense.🎼 Music by Ben Hernandez at Dragonsong Productions🎥 Produced by: Bleeding Edge, Inc.🎬 Audio & Video Production: Rob Burgner📍 Recorded at: Shewmaker & Lewis, Atlanta, GA

What happens when a client hands Alexa a vintage 1978 issue of Playboy… complete with a “Divorce Manual for Men”? In this episode of Lawyers Without Billboards, Steve, Patty, Jimmy, and Alexa flip through the old-school advice and break it all down - the tips that aged well, the ones that aged terribly, and the ones that are so outrageous they’re genuinely hilarious.The team reacts to guidance like: • “Close all joint accounts.” • “Hide your financial records.” • “Don’t agree to alimony… ever.” • “Fight off sentimentality — you’re not a leper.”You’ll hear:why some of these 1978 strategies would get you scorched in court todayhow modern family law handles the same issueswhat judges actually look for nowhow attorney advice has changed (and hasn’t) across 47 yearsA funny, fascinating look at how far divorce law has come - and how much is still the same.🕒 Chapters00:00 – Intro00:42 – The surprising origin of the Playboy magazine02:10 – Enter: “The Divorce Manual for Men”03:11 – The first piece of terrible advice04:18 – Why closing joint accounts is a disaster today05:35 – “Hide your financial records” – legally absurd06:55 – The few pieces of advice that actually hold up08:30 – The team breaks down what lawyers really tell clients 10:05 – Don’ts from 1978 that still apply today 12:20 – The rise of modern divorce norms vs. 1970s expectations 14:30 – How the law shifted in the 1980s and forward 16:10 – Final thoughts: what’s timeless and what’s not 17:11 – Outro🎧 Listen or WatchWatch on YouTube or listen on your favorite podcast platform - Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and more.📩 Contact: [email protected] 🌐 Website: https://www.shewmakerandlewis.com 🎧 Podcast Library: https://shewmakerandlewis.com/lawyers-without-billboards 📺 Subscribe for new episodes and candid conversations about family law, custody, and criminal defense.🎼 Music by Ben Hernandez at Dragonsong Productions🎥 Produced by: Bleeding Edge, Inc.🎬 Audio & Video Production: Rob Burgner📍 Recorded at: Shewmaker & Lewis, Atlanta, GA

How do you actually pick the right lawyer without getting misled by billboards, online noise, or empty promises?In this episode of Lawyers Without Billboards, Steve, Patty, Jimmy, and Alexa walk through the smartest (and safest) ways to find an attorney who genuinely fits your case.From why “phone a friend” still works better than Google, to the danger signs of attorneys who guarantee outcomes, to what intake calls should sound like, this episode breaks down the real-world process of hiring a lawyer the right way.You’ll hear insider insights on referrals, reviews, pricing models, red flags, and the questions clients rarely ask - but absolutely should.🕒 Chapters:00:00 – Intro 00:42 – How Most People Start the Attorney Search 02:12 – Why “Phone a Friend” Still Works 04:02 – Google vs. Real Referrals 06:15 – Billboards & Advertising: Does It Matter? 08:05 – Using the State Bar to Find Lawyers 09:46 – What Happens When You First Call a Law Firm 11:34 – Red Flags: Promises, Guarantees & “I Never Lose” 14:58 – Flat Fees vs. Hourly Billing 17:15 – Professionalism: Talking Trash About Other Lawyers 19:50 – Fit Matters: Hiring the Attorney You Actually Connect With 22:30 – Online Reviews: What They Really Mean 25:00 – Great Questions Clients Should Be Asking 27:45 – The Strangest Intake Questions Attorneys Have Heard 30:40 – Final Thoughts: Hire Smart, Not Fast📌 Key Takeaways:Referrals from trusted people are still the most reliable way to find good counsel.Be wary of attorneys who guarantee results—they can’t.Flat fees in family law often create conflicts of interest; hourly billing is usually fairer.Reviews matter, but extremes (great or terrible) need context.Hiring a lawyer is personal—fit and communication style matter more than marketing.Smart clients ask about process, expectations, experience, and who will actually handle the case.Lawyers Without Billboards is hosted by Steve Shewmaker, Patty Shewmaker, Jimmy Lewis, and Alexa Lewis, partners at Shewmaker & Lewis — a family law firm based in Atlanta, Georgia.📺 Episode also available on YouTube: https://youtu.be/XcgYdFvusws📩 Contact: [email protected] 🌐 Website: https://www.shewmakerandlewis.com 🎧 Podcast Library: https://shewmakerandlewis.com/lawyers-without-billboards📺 Subscribe for new episodes and candid conversations about family law, custody, and criminal defense.🎼 Music by Ben Hernandez at Dragonsong Productions 🎥 Produced by: Bleeding Edge, Inc. 🎬 Audio & Video Production: Rob Burgner 📍 Recorded at: Shewmaker & Lewis, Atlanta, GA

What does it really mean to be held in contempt of court?In this episode of Lawyers Without Billboards, Steve, Patty, Jimmy, and Alexa break down one of the most misunderstood parts of family law - contempt.From unpaid child support to denied visitation and even showing up late with the kids, the team explains when a judge might send someone to jail, when a simple fine will do, and how lawyers can defend (or prove) a contempt case.You’ll hear real-world examples, courtroom stories, and practical advice about the difference between civil vs. criminal contempt, hard vs. nebulous contempts, and the kinds of mistakes that drive judges crazy.🕒 Chapters:00:00 – Intro 00:46 – What is Contempt of Court? 02:06 – Civil vs. Criminal Contempt 03:21 – Real-Life Case: Jail for Unpaid Payments 04:55 – Hard, Nebulous & “Bull****” Contempts 07:10 – Attorney’s Fees & Defenses 09:04 – The “Unclean Hands” Argument 12:01 – Willful vs. Accidental Violations 13:18 – Keeping Records & Building Evidence 15:41 – Parenting Time and Denial of Visitation 18:10 – What Judges Really Think of Contempts 21:00 – Interest, Sanctions & Money Judgments 25:10 – Letters, Compliance, and Fixing It Before Court 27:00 – Why Contempt Cases Can Backfire 30:20 – Final Thoughts: Fix It, Don’t Fight It📌 Key Takeaways:Civil contempt seeks compliance — criminal contempt punishes.“Hard” contempts (like unpaid support) are easier to prove than nebulous ones.Judges hate petty contempt cases — bring clear evidence and good faith.The best defense: show effort, ability limits, or unclean hands.Keep a journal of violations to build a solid case later.Lawyers Without Billboards is hosted by Steve Shewmaker, Patty Shewmaker, Jimmy Lewis, and Alexa Lewis, partners at Shewmaker & Lewis — a family law firm based in Atlanta, Georgia.📩 Contact: [email protected]🌐 Website: https://www.shewmakerandlewis.com🎧 Podcast Library: https://shewmakerandlewis.com/lawyers-without-billboards📺 Subscribe for new episodes and candid conversations about family law, custody, and criminal defense.🎼 Music by Ben Hernandez at Dragonsong Productions🎥 Produced by: Bleeding Edge, Inc.🎬 Audio & Video Production: Rob Burgner📍 Recorded at: Shewmaker & Lewis, Atlanta, GA

In this episode of Lawyers Without Billboards, the crew welcomes longtime friend and mentor - Attorney Kim Dymecki for a candid conversation about the blurred lines between family law and criminal law.From hacking emails to planting recording devices and tracking spouses with AirTags, the group dives into the messy intersection of privacy, technology, and relationships. Kim, who began her career in criminal defense before moving into domestic cases, shares stories that range from jaw-dropping to laugh-out-loud — including her first day visiting the Fulton County jail.They also unpack Georgia’s one-party consent recording law, discuss when recordings cross into illegality, and share real-world advice for clients tempted to “dig up dirt” the wrong way.🎙️ Highlights: 00:00 – Intro 02:00 – Kim Dymecki’s path from criminal defense to family law 05:00 – Her unforgettable first day at the Fulton County jail 09:00 – When family law meets criminal law: domestic disputes gone wrong 10:00 – Hacking, hidden cameras, and invasion of privacy in divorce 15:00 – Georgia’s one-party consent law explained 18:00 – Can you record FaceTime calls with your child? 20:00 – Tracking devices, AirTags, and where the line gets blurry 23:00 – Why judges rely on experts in abuse allegations 26:00 – Mentorship, growth, and staying grounded in a tough profession👩‍⚖️ About Kim Dymecki: Attorney Kim Dymecki has practiced law in Georgia for more than 35 years, spanning both criminal defense and domestic litigation. She’s known for her sharp insight, compassionate advocacy, and sense of humor that’s kept her grounded through some of the toughest cases imaginable.Lawyers Without Billboards is hosted by Steve Shewmaker, Patty Shewmaker, Jimmy Lewis, and Alexa Lewis, partners at Shewmaker & Lewis — a family law firm based in Atlanta, Georgia.📩 Contact: [email protected] 🌐 Website: https://www.shewmakerandlewis.com 🎧 Podcast Library: https://shewmakerandlewis.com/lawyers-without-billboards 📺 Subscribe for new episodes and candid conversations about family law, custody, and criminal defense.🎼 Music by Ben Hernandez at Dragonsong Productions🎥 Produced by: Bleeding Edge, Inc. 🎬 Audio & Video Production: Rob Burgner 📍 Recorded at: Shewmaker & Lewis, Atlanta, GA

What’s it really like to move from prosecutor to judge — and preside over Georgia’s toughest family law cases?In this episode of Lawyers Without Billboards, the Shewmaker & Lewis team sits down with Judge Alice Benton of the Fulton County Superior Court for a candid conversation about what really happens behind the bench. From evidentiary objections to unrealistic expectations, Judge Benton pulls no punches about what lawyers get wrong (and right) in her courtroom.She shares how her years as a prosecutor shaped her approach to fairness, why she’s passionate about courtroom preparation, and the one thing every family lawyer should do before trial. The team also dives into topics like affidavits of election, attorney’s fees, pre-trials, and the evolving role of judges in family court.Whether you’re an attorney looking for insight or just curious how judges see the process, this episode offers rare, real-world perspective from the other side of the bench.🎙️ Hosts: Steve Shewmaker, Patty Shewmaker, Jimmy Lewis, Alexa Lewis 👩‍⚖️ Guest: Judge Alice Benton, Fulton County Superior Court 👨‍💼 Hosted by: Shewmaker & Lewis — Atlanta-based attorneys helping families navigate divorce, custody, and criminal defense with zero billboards and zero BS.📍 Chapters00:00 — Welcome and introduction 01:00 — Meet Judge Alice Benton 03:00 — From prosecutor to judge: lessons from both sides 06:00 — Adjusting to life on the bench and ensuring fair trials 08:00 — Evidence, objections, and trial strategy 11:00 — Why family law attorneys need an evidence refresher 13:00 — Preparation, balance sheets, and managing client expectations 16:00 — When judges award attorney’s fees 17:00 — How and when to request a pre-trial 19:00 — Affidavits of election and co-parenting challenges 22:00 — Modern realities of alimony in Georgia 25:00 — The courtroom mistakes judges see most often 28:00 — Trial prep tips and final advice from Judge Benton 👉 Have a question or topic idea? Visit shewmakerandlewis.com 🔗 Podcast Library: https://shewmakerandlewis.com/lawyers-without-billboards 🎧 Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and more. 📺 Video version on YouTube: https://youtu.be/musFiCIGIaM 📩 Contact: [email protected] 🎼 Music by Ben Hernandez at Dragonsong Productions 🎥 Produced by Rob Burgner at Bleeding Edge in Atlanta, GA

What’s it really like to sit on the bench -and what do judges wish lawyers knew?In this episode of Lawyers Without Billboards, the Shewmaker & Lewis team sits down with Judge Kimberly Childs of Cobb County Superior Court for a candid, insightful, and often hilarious look at life from the other side of the courtroom.From her early days working as a jail guard during Freaknik to presiding over high-stakes domestic and criminal cases, Judge Childs shares how her journey shaped her approach to fairness, empathy, and keeping perspective on the bench.The conversation dives into:⚖️ What keeps judges up at night👩‍⚖️ How her time in jail inspired her to pursue law💼 Lessons from running her own firm before joining the bench🧠 The importance of letting clients feel heard💬 Her biggest pet peeves (and favorite traits) in lawyers 🎶 And yes — a few Taylor Swift references along the wayWhether you’re a lawyer, law student, or just curious what judges think when you’re arguing a case, this episode offers a rare glimpse into the mind (and heart) of a judge who truly cares about justice and humanity in the courtroom.🎙️ Hosts: Steve Shewmaker, Patty Shewmaker, Jimmy Lewis, Alexa Lewis 👩‍⚖️ Guest: Judge Kimberly Childs, Superior Court of Cobb CountyHosted by Shewmaker & Lewis — Atlanta-based attorneys helping families navigate divorce, custody, and criminal defense with zero billboards and zero BS.📍 Chapters 00:00 — Welcome and introductions 01:15 — Meet Judge Kimberly Childs 04:00 — From jail guard to Georgia State Law 08:00 — Lessons from the courtroom and beyond 13:00 — Running for judge (and winning) 18:00 — What judges wish lawyers understood 24:00 — Inside Cobb County Drug Court 28:00 — How judges really see your case 36:00 — Humor, humanity, and Taylor Swift 45:00 — Final thoughts👉 Have a question or topic idea? Visit shewmakerandlewis.com🔗 Podcast Library: shewmakerandlewis.com/lawyers-without-billboards🎧 Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and more. 📺 Video version on YouTube: https://youtu.be/6_DWxsH64wc 📩 Contact: [email protected]🎼 Music by Ben Hernandez at Dragonsong Productions 🎥 Produced by Rob Burgner at Bleeding Edge in Atlanta, GA

What exactly does a Guardian ad Litem do - and how do they shape custody cases in Georgia?In this episode of Lawyers Without Billboards, the Shewmaker & Lewis team sits down with longtime mentor, mediator, and guardian ad litem Jim Holmes to pull back the curtain on one of the most misunderstood roles in family law.From how guardians are selected to what “best interest of the child” really means, Jim shares decades of insight, humor, and hard-won experience from hundreds of cases. The team dives into what makes a great guardian, why judges trust certain ones over others, and how lawyers should (and shouldn’t) interact with them.Whether you’re an attorney, a parent, or just curious how custody decisions are made, this conversation sheds light on a crucial—but often unseen—part of the courtroom process.🎙️ Hosts: Steve Shewmaker, Patty Shewmaker, Jimmy Lewis, Alexa Lewis 👨‍⚖️ Guest: Jim Holmes, Guardian ad Litem, Mediator, and Of Counsel to Shewmaker & LewisHosted by Shewmaker & Lewis - Atlanta-based attorneys helping families navigate divorce, custody, and criminal defense with zero billboards and zero BS.📍 Chapters00:00 — Welcome and introduction 01:00 — Meet guest Jim Holmes 04:00 — What is a Guardian ad Litem? 08:00 — Representing the child’s best interests 10:30 — How guardians are chosen (and who really picks them) 13:00 — Judges, guardians, and credibility 16:00 — Why hearsay rules don’t apply to guardians 18:30 — When you need (and don’t need) a guardian 20:00 — Bias, experience, and collaboration in GAL work 25:00 — How guardians investigate cases 28:00 — When judges disagree with the guardian’s recommendation 30:00 — Tips for attorneys working with guardians 36:00 — Final thoughts from Jim Holmes👉 Have a question or topic idea? Visit shewmakerandlewis.com🔗 Podcast Library: https://shewmakerandlewis.com/lawyers-without-billboards🎧 Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and more.📺 Video version on YouTube: https://studio.youtube.com/video/aGUoteDzLUQ/edit 📩 Contact: [email protected]🎼 Music by Ben Hernandez at Dragonsong Productions🎥 Produced by Rob Burgner at Bleeding Edge in Atlanta, GA

Think My Cousin Vinny is just a comedy? Think again. In Part 2 of Legal Movies on Trial: My Cousin Vinny, the Shewmaker & Lewis team dives deep into one of the most entertaining, and surprisingly accurate, courtroom movies ever made. From opening statements to expert testimony, they unpack what Vinny gets right (and wrong) about real trial work.Learn why opening statements make or break a case, how cross-examinations can unravel witnesses, and what every lawyer can take from Vinny’s “grits” moment. It’s both hilarious and educational. Proof that sometimes Hollywood gets it right.🎙️ Hosts: Steve Shewmaker, Patty Shewmaker, Jimmy Lewis, Alexa Lewis 👨‍⚖️ Hosted by Shewmaker & Lewis, Atlanta-based attorneys helping families navigate divorce, custody, and criminal defense – with zero billboards and zero BS.🔍 You’ll Learn: • Why opening statements often decide the verdict before closing arguments ever happen • The “don’t ask what you don’t know” rule of cross-examination • How investigative work and evidence collection can change the course of a trial • Why tone and jury perception matter as much as facts • How expert witnesses, like Mona Lisa Vito, can save a case📌 Chapters: 00:00 – Welcome to Lawyers Without Billboards 01:00 – Picking Up Where Part 1 Left Off 03:30 – The Power of Opening Statements 06:10 – What NOT to Do in Court (Falling Asleep & Bad Openings) 09:00 – Cross-Examination Lessons: Know the Answer Before You Ask 10:30 – The Grits Scene: Vinny’s Moment of Brilliance 12:00 – On-the-Spot vs. Planned Impeachment 14:00 – Jury Perception and Tone: When Humor Hurts Your Case 15:50 – Identical! Tire Tracks and Expert Testimony 17:00 – Introducing Mona Lisa Vito: The Ultimate Expert Witness 20:00 – How She Saved the Case 22:00 – Realism in My Cousin Vinny vs. Real Courtrooms 24:00 – Favorite Moments from the Film 26:00 – What Lawyers Can Learn from Hollywood👉 Have a question or topic idea? Visit shewmakerandlewis.com🔗 Podcast Library: https://shewmakerandlewis.com/lawyers-without-billboards 🎧 Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and more. 📺 Video version on YouTube: https://youtu.be/YBW6MUsA8A4 📩 Contact: [email protected] 🎼 Music by Ben Hernandez at Dragonsong Productions 🎥 Produced by Rob Burgner at Bleeding Edge in Atlanta, GA

Think My Cousin Vinny is just a hilarious courtroom comedy? Think again. In this new mini-series from Lawyers Without Billboards, the Shewmaker & Lewis team puts Hollywood’s most iconic legal movies on trial—starting with My Cousin Vinny.From Joe Pesci’s unforgettable performance as Vinny Gambini to Marisa Tomei’s Oscar-winning turn as Mona Lisa Vito, this film has long been celebrated for its humor. But how much of it holds up when real lawyers break down the legal details?Join Steve, Patty, Jimmy, and Alexa as they dive into the movie scene by scene—exploring what’s realistic, what’s just Hollywood, and what unexpected legal lessons lawyers (and clients) can take away. From grits to arraignments, courtroom attire to cross-examinations, they uncover the surprising accuracy (and absurdity) of this 90s classic.🎙️ Hosts: Steve Shewmaker, Patty Shewmaker, Jimmy Lewis, Alexa Lewis 👨‍⚖️ Hosted by Shewmaker & Lewis, Atlanta-based attorneys helping families navigate divorce, custody, and criminal defense – with zero billboards and zero BS.🔍 You’ll Learn: • How realistic My Cousin Vinny is as a legal film • Why Vinny Gambini’s courtroom mistakes mirror real-life rookie errors • What lawyers can learn about listening, mentorship, and cross-examination • Why grits might be the most important legal lesson in the movie • How Hollywood sometimes gets closer to the truth than you think📌 Chapters: 00:00 – Welcome to Lawyers Without Billboards 01:00 – Kicking Off the Legal Movies Mini-Series 03:00 – Why My Cousin Vinny Still Resonates with Lawyers 07:00 – The Arrest, Arraignment & Rookie Mistakes 12:00 – Courtroom Attire and Contempt of Court 18:00 – Cross-Examination Lessons: The Grits Scene 22:00 – Public Defenders, Mentors & Misconceptions 28:00 – Preparation, Suits, and “Two is One, One is None” 32:00 – Wrapping Part 1 & Previewing Part 2👉 Have a question or topic idea? Visit shewmakerandlewis.com🔗 Podcast Library: Lawyers Without Billboards 🎧 Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and more. Search Lawyers Without Billboards. 📺 Video version on YouTube: https://youtu.be/3atPSkBj7fU📩 Contact: [email protected] 🎼 Music by Ben Hernandez at Dragonsong Productions 🎥 Produced by Rob Burgner at Bleeding Edge in Atlanta, GA.

Think military divorce is straightforward? Think again. In this episode of Lawyers Without Billboards, the Shewmaker & Lewis team kicks off a brand-new mini-series on military divorce by separating fact from fiction. From the infamous “10-year rule” to survivor benefits, pensions, and remarriage myths, they break down the most common misconceptions - and explain what really happens when military service and family law collide.🎙️ Hosts: Steve Shewmaker, Patty Shewmaker, Jimmy Lewis, Alexa Lewis 👨‍⚖️ Hosted by Shewmaker & Lewis, Atlanta-based attorneys helping families navigate divorce, custody, and criminal defense – with zero billboards and zero BS.🔍 You’ll Learn:Why the so-called “10-year rule” is one of the most misunderstood concepts in military divorceHow military pensions are actually divided (and when they’re not)The truth about entitlement: what a spouse can and can’t claimSurvivor Benefit Plans (SBP): why they matter and how courts handle themWhat happens when myths influence judges, lawyers, and even clientsThe difference between longevity pensions, medical retirements, and VA disabilityWhy military divorce cases require specialized knowledge most firms don’t have📌 Chapters:00:00 – Welcome & Opening Banter02:40 – Introducing the Military Divorce Mini-Series03:30 – Myth #1: The 10-Year Rule for Pensions07:40 – Why the Myth Persists (State Law & DFAS Direct Pay)12:00 – Myth #2: “I’m Entitled to Half”13:40 – Myth #3: “It’s My Pension, She Didn’t Earn It”16:30 – Myth #4: Pension Division Ends with Remarriage19:45 – Myth #5: Courts Can’t Order Survivor Benefit Plans (SBP)24:40 – Myth #6: All Military Retirements Are Divisible28:40 – Myth #7: If the Pension Drops, Courts Will Fix It29:50 – Myth #8: Separated Spouses Get Housing Allowance👉 Have a question or topic idea? Visit shewmakerandlewis.com 🔗 Podcast Library: https://shewmakerandlewis.com/lawyers-without-billboards🎧 Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and more. Search Lawyers Without Billboards. 📺 Video version on YouTube: https://youtu.be/8GZ8hbJNpu0 📩 Contact: [email protected]🎼 Music by Ben Hernandez at Dragonsong Productions 🎥 Produced by Rob Burgner at Bleeding Edge in Atlanta, GA.

Think temporary hearings are just a quick pit stop in divorce? Think again. In this episode of Lawyers Without Billboards, the Shewmaker & Lewis team digs into the rules, risks, and realities of divorce temporary hearings - and why they’re often the trial before the trial. From custody disputes to who stays in the house, these hearings set the ground rules for life while a case is pending, and can shape the final outcome more than you think.🎙️ Hosts: Steve Shewmaker, Patty Shewmaker, Jimmy Lewis, Alexa Lewis👨‍⚖️ Hosted by Shewmaker & Lewis, Atlanta-based attorneys helping families navigate divorce, custody, and criminal defense – with zero billboards and zero BS.🔍 You’ll learn:When a temporary hearing is necessary (and when it’s not)What issues can be decided temporarily - custody, support, housing, attorney’s fees, and moreWhy a strong showing at a temporary hearing often sets the tone for the final caseHow judges’ discretion, costs, and strategy can make or break outcomes📌 Chapters: 00:00 – Welcome to Lawyers Without Billboards 01:00 – What Is a Temporary Hearing in Divorce? 05:00 – Custody, Support & Housing: Issues Judges Decide 10:30 – Why Temporary Hearings Are Expensive (and Worth It) 15:00 – Affidavits: Quality vs. Quantity 20:00 – Judges’ Discretion: Rules vs. Reality 25:00 – Weaponizing Temporary Orders 30:00 – Should Every Divorce Have a Temporary Order?👉 Have a question or topic idea? Visit shewmakerandlewis.com 🔗 Podcast Library: https://shewmakerandlewis.com/lawyers-without-billboards 🎧 Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and more. Search Lawyers Without Billboards. 📺 Video version on YouTube: https://youtu.be/UTEpa7_K8lk 📩 Contact: [email protected] 🎼 Music by Ben Hernandez at Dragonsong Productions 🎥 Produced by Rob Burgner at Bleeding Edge in Atlanta, GA.

What does it mean to serve justice with compassion? In this episode of Lawyers Without Billboards, the Shewmaker & Lewis team sits down with Judge Angela Duncan of Gwinnett County. From her early military service and family law background to her commitment to accountability courts, Judge Duncan shares how discipline, empathy, and perspective shape her work on the bench.You’ll hear candid stories about emotional custody battles, courtroom pet peeves, and why alternative courts like drug court and parent accountability court can change lives. With insight, humor, and heart, Judge Duncan reveals why balancing justice and humanity is at the core of her judicial philosophy.🎙️ Hosts: Steve Shewmaker, Patty Shewmaker, Jimmy Lewis, Alexa Lewis 👩‍⚖️ Guest: Judge Angela Duncan 👨‍⚖️ Hosted by Shewmaker & Lewis, Atlanta-based attorneys helping familiesChapters (Timestamps) 00:52 – Introducing Judge Angela Duncan 02:23 – Military service and path to law school 08:44 – Learning from mentors and her father’s practice 12:00 – Deciding to become a judge 14:53 – Perspectives on domestic vs. criminal cases 16:19 – Emotional custody case with international implications 18:05 – Drug testing surprises in court 22:48 – Courtroom pet peeves and professionalism 27:14 – Dress code and respect in court 30:27 – Lessons from her father on practicing law 32:30 – Passion for accountability courts 34:46 – Stories of transformation in drug and parent accountability courts 39:02 – Addiction as a disease and the fight for recovery 41:06 – Remembering a participant’s journey and legacy 42:26 – Favorite films and pop culture confessions👉 Have a question or topic idea? Visit shewmakerandlewis.com🔗 Podcast Library: https://shewmakerandlewis.com/lawyers-without-billboards🎧 Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and more. Search Lawyers Without Billboards. 📺 Video version on YouTube: https://youtu.be/HkaEwuYAcH8📩 Contact: [email protected]🎼 Music by Ben Hernandez at Dragonsong Productions 🎥 Produced by Rob Burgner at Bleeding Edge in Atlanta, GA

Think a wedding license is the only way to be married in Georgia? Think again.In this episode of Lawyers Without Billboards, the Shewmaker & Lewis team unpacks what really constitutes a valid marriage under Georgia law. From the three essential requirements of marriage to surprising cases where “celebrations of love” turned into binding contracts, the conversation dives into quirky legal twists - including cousin marriage laws, destination weddings, and the end of common law marriage in Georgia.With their trademark mix of insight and humor, Steve, Patty, Jimmy, and Alexa break down what counts, what doesn’t, and why “live-in lovers” can sometimes end up more entangled than they realize.🎙️ Hosts: Steve Shewmaker, Patty Shewmaker, Jimmy Lewis, Alexa Lewis👨‍⚖️ Hosted by Shewmaker & Lewis, Atlanta-based attorneys helping familiesChapters (Timestamps)00:28 – What makes a valid marriage in Georgia?02:05 – Ability to contract: age, capacity, and no prior spouse03:47 – Cousin marriage laws (yes, Georgia allows it!)07:05 – Which states prohibit first-cousin marriages?08:45 – Do you actually need a marriage license?10:00 – Case study: Celebration of Love vs. Legal Marriage14:20 – Divorce case twist: Was the marriage valid in 2007 or 2016?16:30 – Judge Hutchinson’s ruling and appeal17:30 – Common law marriage abolished… but could it return?20:20 – Destination weddings and Georgia recognition22:20 – Don’t “play marriage”: funny family stories23:40 – Final takeaways: Live-in lovers, cousins, and contracts👉 Have a question or topic idea? Visit shewmakerandlewis.comshewmakerandlewis.com🔗 Podcast Library: https://shewmakerandlewis.com/lawyers-without-billboards🎧 Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and more. Search Lawyers Without Billboards.📺 Video version on YouTube: https://youtu.be/0zeuTCNaQV0📩 Contact: [email protected] 🎼 Music by Ben Hernandez at Dragonsong Productions 🎥 Produced by Rob Burgner at Bleeding Edge in Atlanta, GA

Think mediation is just shuttling offers back and forth like a courtroom carrier pigeon? Think again.In this episode of Lawyers Without Billboards, the Shewmaker & Lewis team sits down with legendary mediator and arbitrator Andy Flink - aka Flink Daddy, the Flinkster, and the Sultan of Flinkingness. From his unlikely start folding shirts in retail to building one of Atlanta’s leading ADR firms, Andy shares how mediation really works, when arbitration makes more sense, and why picking the right neutral can make or break a case.🎙️ Hosts: Steve Shewmaker, Patty Shewmaker, Jimmy Lewis, Alexa Lewis 🦸 Guest: Andy Flink, Mediator & Arbitrator, Founder of Flink ADR👨‍⚖️ Hosted by Shewmaker & Lewis, Atlanta attorneys helping families navigate divorce, custody, and criminal defense – with zero billboards and zero BS.🔍 You’ll learn:What makes a great mediator (hint: it’s more than carrying offers)The difference between mediation, arbitration, and “Med-Arb”How subject matter expertise can shape arbitration outcomesWhy preparation (and client control) matter before ADR beginsHilarious real-world stories from mediation and service gone sideways📌 Chapters: 00:00 – Meet the Flinkster 02:00 – From Divorce to Mediation: Andy’s Unlikely Path 05:00 – Building Flink ADR and Atlanta’s First Family Law ADR Firm 08:30 – Mediation Styles: More Than Just Passing Notes 12:00 – Arbitration Explained: Courtroom “Lite” 17:00 – In-Caucus Arbitration, Zoom Hearings & Pants Optional 20:00 – Funniest Mediation Stories (Dumpster Divers & Bar Bets) 25:00 – Med-Arb: When Mediation Turns into Arbitration 28:00 – Tips for Attorneys Before Entering ADR 31:00 – Closing Thoughts from the Flinkmeister👉 Have a question or topic idea? Visit shewmakerandlewis.com🔗 Podcast Library: https://shewmakerandlewis.com/lawyers-without-billboards 🎧 Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and more. Search Lawyers Without Billboards. 📺 Video version on YouTube:📩 Contact: [email protected] 🎼 Music by Ben Hernandez at Dragonsong Productions 🎥 Produced by Rob Burgner at Bleeding Edge in Atlanta, GA

What do high-speed chases, GPS lawsuits, jury picks worth millions, and dumpster stakeouts have in common? They’re all part of the wild and fascinating world of private investigation.In this episode of Lawyers Without Billboards, the Shewmaker & Lewis team sits down with Pat and Eric Echols of TFP Company - Georgia’s premier private investigative service. Married for over 30 years and partners in both life and business, the Echols share stories from national headline cases to the everyday grind of domestic surveillance and tough process service.🔍 From serving evasive witnesses at the airport to uncovering the truth behind suspicious deaths, Pat and Eric pull back the curtain on what it really means to be a PI. Along the way, you’ll hear why truth, fact, and protect isn’t just their motto - it’s their mission.🎙️ Hosts: Steve Shewmaker & Alexa Lewis 🕵️ Guests: Pat & Eric Echols, TFP Company (Truth, Fact, Protect)Find out more about Pat & Eric on their website here: http://www.tfpcompany.net/👨‍⚖️ Hosted by Shewmaker & Lewis - Atlanta attorneys helping families navigate divorce, custody, and criminal defense. No billboards. No BS.🔗 Podcast Library: https://shewmakerandlewis.com/lawyers-without-billboards🎧 Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and more📺 Video version on YouTube: https://studio.youtube.com/video/bwdNR3SvS9o/edit📩 Contact: [email protected]🎼 Music by Ben Hernandez at Dragonsong Productions🎥 Produced by Rob Burgner at Bleeding Edge –  in Atlanta, GA

Can you really have a jury trial in a Georgia divorce? Yes — but only in very specific circumstances. And it’s one of the rarest legal options in the country.In this episode of Lawyers Without Billboards, the Shewmaker & Lewis team pulls back the curtain on how jury trials work in Georgia family law — from what juries can decide (and what they can’t) to why you might want one… or why it could be the most expensive popularity contest you’ve ever entered.With humor, candid stories, and hard-won insights, Steve, Patty, Jimmy, and Alexa cover:Why Georgia is one of only two states that allow jury trials in divorce casesThe types of issues juries can decide (hint: not custody)Strategic reasons lawyers request juries — and when it’s a bad ideaHow jury selection works (and why you might end up with a Hollywood stuntman deciding your financial future)The cost, delays, and risks you need to weigh before rolling the dice🎙️ Hosts: Steve Shewmaker, Patty Shewmaker, Jimmy Lewis, Alexa Lewis 👨‍⚖️ Hosted by Shewmaker & Lewis — Atlanta attorneys helping families navigate divorce, custody, and criminal defense, with zero billboards and zero fluff.🔗 Podcast Library: https://shewmakerandlewis.com/lawyers-without-billboards🎧 Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and more📺 Video version on YouTube: https://youtu.be/CJWsWpwn6UU📩 Contact: [email protected]🎼 Music by Ben Hernandez at Dragonsong Productions🎥 Produced by Rob Burgner at Bleeding Edge –  in Atlanta, GA

What happens when a former prosecutor becomes a judge - and decides to launch a mental health accountability court? Or when someone shows up to court in shorts and flip-flops?In this candid and often hilarious episode of Lawyers Without Billboards, the Shewmaker & Lewis team welcomes their first-ever guest judge: the Honorable David Lyles of Paulding County. Judge Lyles opens up about the real challenges facing Georgia courts, from mental health evaluations to courtroom fashion violations.👨‍⚖️ It’s part practical advice, part courtroom confessional—with a few dogs, binders, and seersucker suits thrown in for good measure.🎙️ Hosts: Steve Shewmaker, Patty Shewmaker, Jimmy Lewis, Alexa Lewis 🦸 Guest: Judge David Lyles, Superior Court Judge, Paulding County👨‍⚖️ Hosted by Shewmaker & Lewis — Atlanta attorneys helping families navigate divorce, custody, and criminal defense. No billboards. No BS.🔍 You’ll Learn:What accountability courts actually do—and why they matterWhy most mentally ill inmates are stuck in limboThe strange logic behind Paulding County’s black pants closetWhat happens if you show up to court in shorts or flip-flopsHow judges really feel about fake crying on the standThe rules of evidence too many civil lawyers ignoreWhy Judge Lyles loves binders (and his clerk hates them)How he really feels about Zoom court and courtroom microphonesWhy he prefers “Your Honor”—but won’t hold it against you📌 Chapters: 00:00 – Welcome & Intro 01:22 – Meet Judge David Lyles 03:31 – What Are Accountability Courts? 05:11 – Mental Illness & Georgia’s Jail Crisis 06:57 – Resistance from Law Enforcement and Defendants 08:13 – The Long Game: Breaking the Jail Cycle 08:47 – Yes, There’s a Pants Closet 10:05 – Shorts in Court? Not a Good Look 12:21 – Women’s Court Attire: A Delicate Topic 13:13 – How Judge Lyles Handles Attorney Dress Code 14:45 – Form vs Function in the Courtroom 16:04 – “Your Honor” vs “Judge” – What’s in a Name? 17:35 – Why Zoom Court Can Be a Problem 19:45 – Courtroom Layout Challenges 21:04 – When Zoom Makes Sense (and When It Doesn’t) 22:24 – Pet Peeves: Evidence Handling & Binder Battles 26:52 – The Dog in the Parking Lot Custody Test 30:02 – Summarizing Financials the Right Way 32:16 – Don’t Lie—Especially Not to Judge Lyles 34:31 – Emotions, Attitude & Behavior in Court 36:13 – Going From Prosecutor to Family Court Judge 38:46 – The Joy of Creative Solutions🔗 Podcast Library: https://shewmakerandlewis.com/lawyers-without-billboards 🎧 Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and more 📺 Video version on YouTube: https://youtu.be/GbIMJ2G_mM0📩 Contact: [email protected] 🎼 Music by Ben Hernandez at Dragonsong Productions 🎥 Produced by Rob Burgner at Bleeding Edge –  in Atlanta, GA

What do military tax breaks, digital IDs, roadside pet sales, and Brunswick Stew have in common? They’re all part of Georgia’s latest legislative updates—and yes, they’re now law.In this episode of Lawyers Without Billboards, the Shewmaker & Lewis team dives into the new Georgia laws that took effect on July 1, 2025. With their signature humor and sharp insight, the team breaks down what’s new, what’s useful, and what’s just plain weird.📉 From income tax cuts to bans on cell phones in elementary schools, they cover it all—no legalese, no fluff, just real talk from real lawyers.🎙️ Hosts: Steve Shewmaker, Patty Shewmaker, Jimmy Lewis, Alexa Lewis 👨‍⚖️ Hosted by Shewmaker & Lewis — Atlanta attorneys helping families navigate divorce, custody, and criminal defense. No billboards. No BS.🔍 You’ll Learn:Why the state income tax rate dropped—and where it’s headed nextWho qualifies for Georgia’s new child tax credit (and the legal custody twist)What schools now must do about cell phones and truancyHow digital driver’s licenses affect your privacy during a traffic stopWhat new protections apply to IVF patients and adopted adultsWhy military retirees are celebrating this year’s tax changesThe role pets now play in protective ordersAnd yes… Brunswick Stew and Cornbread now have official legal status📌 Chapters: 00:00 – Welcome & Overview 01:24 – Georgia Income Tax Rate Drops 02:30 – New Child Tax Credit (Custody Implications) 04:55 – Why July 1 Matters for New Laws 05:03 – Truancy Reform: Can’t Be Expelled for Absence 08:22 – Cell Phone Ban for Grades K–8 10:59 – Adoptees Can Access Birth Certificates 11:45 – IVF Rights Defined in Law 12:18 – Digital Licenses and Your Right to Privacy 14:30 – Military Retirement Tax Exemptions 15:20 – Protective Orders Can Include Pets 17:00 – Ban on Roadside Sales of Dogs, Cats, Rabbits 20:54 – Blaze Pink Legal for Hunters 21:10 – Brunswick Stew & Cornbread Go Official 21:50 – Wrap-Up🔗 Podcast Library: https://shewmakerandlewis.com/lawyers-without-billboards 🎧 Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and more 📺 Video version on YouTube: https://youtu.be/hRM-gdr0thk📩 Contact: [email protected] 🎼 Music by Ben Hernandez at Dragonsong Productions 🎥 Produced by Rob Burgner at Bleeding Edge –  in Atlanta, GA

Think mediators just pass notes between lawyers all day? Think again.In this episode of Lawyers Without Billboards, legendary Atlanta mediator Louis Tesser joins the Shewmaker & Lewis team to pull back the curtain on what really goes down in a domestic mediation. From sausage-eating contests and Stanley Tucci impressions to emotional breakdowns and attorney egos, Louis shares the candid truth about the psychology, pressure, and performance art of high-stakes family law negotiation.🎙️ Hosts: Steve Shewmaker, Patty Shewmaker, Jimmy Lewis, Alexa Lewis 🦸 Guest: Louis Tesser, Mediator Extraordinaire (and possibly the Jewish Stanley Tucci)👨‍⚖️ Hosted by Shewmaker & Lewis, Atlanta-based attorneys helping families navigate divorce, custody, and criminal defense – with zero billboards and zero BS.🔍 You’ll learn:What really makes a good mediator (hint: it’s not neutrality)Why humor can make or break a mediationHow emotional rollercoasters shape negotiation outcomesWhy the best trial lawyers are often the best at settling casesWhat lawyers do that drive mediators crazy (and how to avoid it)📌 Chapters: 00:00 – Meet Louis: Mediator. Musician. Tucci Enthusiast. 06:00 – From Litigator to Mediator: Why He Switched 10:00 – The Long Day: How Mediation Really Works 15:00 – What Makes a Lawyer Mediator-Friendly? 18:00 – Real Talk: Are You Just Chasing a Pound of Flesh? 22:00 – Emotions, Egos & the Wisdom Bubble 28:00 – The “Super Officer” of the Court👉 Have a question or topic idea? Visit shewmakerandlewis.com🔗 Podcast Library: https://shewmakerandlewis.com/lawyers-without-billboards 🎧 Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and more. Search Lawyers Without Billboards. 📺 Video version on YouTube: https://youtu.be/5C_F77CB_qs📩 Contact: [email protected] 🎼 Music by Ben Hernandez at Dragonsong Productions 🎥 Produced by Rob Burgner at Bleeding Edge in Atlanta, GA

Think accountants are all spreadsheets and no drama? Think again.In this episode of Lawyers Without Billboards, forensic accountant Sherri Holder joins the Shewmaker & Lewis team to talk about what really happens when money, marriage, and mayhem collide. From strip club spending sprees to business valuations gone wild, this episode explores how forensic accounting can make or break a high-asset divorce case - and why a "hookers and horses" analysis might just be part of the job.🎙️ Hosts: Steve Shewmaker, Patty Shewmaker, Jimmy Lewis, Alexa Lewis👩‍💼 Guest: Sherri Holder, forensic accountant, CVA, ABV, CFF, CPA👨‍⚖️ Hosted by Shewmaker & Lewis, Atlanta-based attorneys helping families navigate divorce, custody, and criminal defense – with zero billboards and zero BS.🔍 You’ll learn:When you really need a forensic accountantWhat counts as dissipation of assets in divorceHow businesses are valued in court (and why it’s rarely simple)Why judges love visual aids—and expert witnesses who can explain them📌 Chapters: 00:00 – Meet Sherri: Super Accountant & Divorce Veteran 03:15 – What Do Forensic Accountants Actually Do? 10:00 – The Hookers and Horses Analysis Explained 14:45 – Valuing Businesses in Divorce: Jose’s Food Mart Case 19:20 – Asset, Market, and Income Approaches (Plain English!) 25:00 – Telling the Story for Judges vs. Juries 29:00 – What Makes a Business Valuation Difficult 33:00 – Working with Attorneys (and Avoiding Bad Cross-Exams)👉 Have a question or topic idea? Visit shewmakerandlewis.com🔗 Podcast Library: https://shewmakerandlewis.com/lawyers-without-billboards 🎧 Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and more. Search Lawyers Without Billboards. 📺 Video version on YouTube: https://youtu.be/13vb2cA1UsI📩 Contact: [email protected]🎼 Music by Ben Hernandez at Dragonsong Productions🎥 Produced by Rob Burgner at Bleeding Edge in Atlanta, GA.

Think divorce is all about houses, money, and custody? Think again. This episode of Lawyers Without Billboards goes deep into the world of personal property—the stuff inside the house—and the surprisingly intense (and sometimes ridiculous) battles that happen over it.The Shewmaker & Lewis team shares real courtroom stories of cookware conflicts, liquor collections, coin disputes, firearms, and even ashes of beloved pets. You’ll hear what judges really think about dividing the “stuff” and how to keep it from becoming a costly mess.🎙️ Hosts: Steve Shewmaker, Patty Shewmaker, Jimmy Lewis, Alexa Lewis👨‍⚖️ Hosted by Shewmaker & Lewis, Atlanta-based attorneys helping families navigate divorce, custody, and criminal defense – with zero billboards and zero BS.🔍 You’ll learn:What counts as “pots and pans” in divorceWhen judges will divide personal property - and when they won’tThe Target Rule and other tips to save time, money, and sanity👉 Have a question or topic idea? Visit shewmakerandlewis.com🔗 Podcast Library:  https://shewmakerandlewis.com/lawyers-without-billboards🎧 Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and more. Search Lawyers Without Billboards.📺 Video version on YouTube:👉 Visit us at https://www.shewmakerandlewis.com for legal resources, case consultations, and future podcast updates.📩 Contact: [email protected] by Ben Hernandez at Dragonsong ProductionsProduced by Rob Burgner at Bleeding Edge in Atlanta, GA.

Is it a red flag if your lawyer is chummy with opposing counsel? Or could it actually help your case?In this episode of Lawyers Without Billboards, the Shewmaker & Lewis team tackles a common client concern: attorney friendships across the aisle. Partners Patty Shewmaker, Steve Shewmaker, Jimmy Lewis, and Alexa Lewis discuss why knowing and even liking the opposing attorney might lead to faster resolutions, fewer court battles, and better outcomes for everyone involved.They share real-life stories from the courtroom - where friends sometimes fight fiercely, and where being too friendly can raise eyebrows. They also talk about when it’s not okay, how to handle optics in front of a client or jury, and even what happens when a judge is part of the inner circle.🎧 Whether you’re in the middle of a case or just curious about how law really works, this is a conversation you don’t want to miss.👉 Have a question or topic idea? Visit shewmakerandlewis.comChapters: 00:00 – Intro 01:00 – Is it OK to be friends with opposing counsel? 02:30 – Benefits of good working relationships 04:10 – The “fun” trifecta: good client, judge, and opposing counsel 05:30 – When friendliness crosses a line 07:00 – Balancing professionalism and perception 09:30 – Giving (and receiving) “nastygrams” 11:00 – What if you know the judge? 13:00 – Final takeaways: Don’t be alarmed🔗 Podcast Library:  https://shewmakerandlewis.com/lawyers-without-billboards👨‍⚖️ Hosted by Shewmaker & Lewis, Atlanta-based attorneys helping families navigate divorce, custody, and criminal defense – with zero billboards and zero BS.🎧 Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and more. Search Lawyers Without Billboards.📺 Video version on YouTube: https://youtu.be/-0sT77VOX5Q👉 Visit us at https://www.shewmakerandlewis.com for legal resources, case consultations, and future podcast updates.📩 Contact: [email protected] by Ben Hernandez at Dragonsong ProductionsProduced by Rob Burgner at Bleeding Edge in Atlanta, GA.

Can courthouse food really impact the outcome of your case? You’d be surprised.In this episode of Lawyers Without Billboards, the Shewmaker & Lewis team dives into the lighter (but very real) side of litigation — how food, snacks, and meal breaks play a crucial role in your court experience.Join Steve, Patty, Jimmy, and Alexa as they swap their favorite (and not-so-favorite) lunch spots across Georgia’s busiest courthouses, relive courtroom hangry moments, and debate the ultimate question: Should snacks be part of your trial strategy?🍔💼 From vending machines and Chick-fil-A sandwiches to courthouse cafeterias and the legendary Oink Joint, this is your unofficial food guide to Georgia's legal system.✅ Highlights include:Why your blood sugar matters more than your closing argumentSmart strategies for prepping clients (and yourself) for a long day in courtBest (and worst) courthouse food options in metro Atlanta and beyondFunny, real stories from military trials, domestic cases, and moreWhy DeKalb isn't De-Kal-b and Cobb is a culinary win🔗 Podcast Library: https://shewmakerandlewis.com/lawyers-without-billboards👨‍⚖️ Hosted by Shewmaker & Lewis, Atlanta-based attorneys helping families navigate divorce, custody, and criminal defense – with zero billboards and zero BS.🎧 Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and more. Search Lawyers Without Billboards.📺 Video version on YouTube: https://youtu.be/JYPh4L4a0Dw👉 Visit us at https://www.shewmakerandlewis.com for legal resources, case consultations, and future podcast updates.📩 Contact: [email protected] by Ben Hernandez at Dragonsong StudioProduced by Bleeding Edge in Atlanta, GA.

Ever wonder if what you wear to court really matters? (Spoiler: It absolutely does.)In this laugh-out-loud yet surprisingly serious episode of Lawyers Without Billboards, the team at Shewmaker & Lewis dives into real-life fashion fails in the courtroom — from sequined dresses and house slippers to “self-made millionaire” t-shirts and Crocs.Join Steve, Patty, Jimmy, and Alexa as they swap outrageous stories, give practical advice on courtroom attire (for litigants and lawyers), and explain why what you wear can influence how judges and juries perceive you. From Zoom court disasters to debates over heels vs. flats, this episode has it all — including a call for nominations for Georgia’s favorite Superior Court judge.👔💼 Court isn't a costume party. Dress like your case depends on it.✅ Highlights include:Real courtroom fashion disastersWhy attire influences legal outcomesWhat to wear (and avoid) as a litigant or attorneyZoom court dos and don'tsThe psychology of first impressions in courtA call for listeners to vote for their favorite Georgia Superior Court judge🔗Podcast Library: https://shewmakerandlewis.com/lawyers-without-billboards👨‍⚖️ Hosted by Shewmaker & Lewis, Atlanta-based attorneys helping families navigate divorce, custody, and criminal defense - with zero billboards and zero BS.🎧 Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and more. Check out the video version on YouTube: https://youtu.be/AXVxo_ZhL0Y👉 Visit us at https://www.shewmakerandlewis.com for legal resources, case consultations, and future podcast updates.📩 Contact: [email protected]🎙 Produced by Bleeding Edge in Atlanta, GA.

Ever wondered what really happens during divorce mediation - and whether you have to do it? This episode of Lawyers Without Billboards pulls back the curtain on one of the most misunderstood aspects of family law.Join attorneys Patty Shewmaker, Steve Shewmaker, Jimmy Lewis, and Alexa Lewis of Shewmaker & Lewis as they explore:What mediation actually is (and isn’t)Why most Georgia counties require itWhether you have to be in the same room as your exHow to pick a good mediatorWhat makes a bad one (hint: they’re called “ask clowns”)Why fighting over figurines might cost more than they’re worthHow to prepare for mediation so you don’t waste your time—or your retainerWith humor, candor, and war stories from the trenches, this episode breaks down mediation in a way that’s practical, funny, and brutally honest. Whether you're heading into a divorce or just curious how it all works, this episode will leave you informed and entertained.⏱️ Chapter Markers00:00 – Welcome and episode intro 01:20 – What is mediation, and is it required? 03:10 – Do you have to be in the same room? (Short answer: no.) 06:50 – War stories: When mediation goes sideways 11:15 – Mediation vs. court: what’s at stake 12:45 – Picking the right mediator 15:40 – Should mediators offer opinions? (Spoiler: yes.) 16:55 – What makes a case likely (or unlikely) to settle 18:00 – How to prepare for mediation like a pro 20:40 – Forged documents and figurine battles: Funny and bizarre mediation stories 26:50 – Why some counties won’t even hear your case until you mediate 30:20 – Wrap-up and final thoughts👨‍⚖️ Hosted by Shewmaker & Lewis, Atlanta-based attorneys helping families navigate divorce, custody, and criminal defense - with zero billboards and zero BS.✅ Available on all platforms — or visit https://shewmakerandlewis.com/lawyers-without-billboards📩 Contact: [email protected] by Ben Hernandez at Dragonsong Studio🎙 Produced by Rob Burgner at Bleeding Edge in Atlanta, GA.#FamilyLaw #DivorceMediation #LawPodcast #MediationMatters #GeorgiaLaw #ShewmakerAndLewis #LawyersWithoutBillboards #CustodyLaw #LegalAdvice #DivorceHumor #LegalInsights

Custody battles aren’t just about kids anymore - they’re about pets. In this episode, the team at Shewmaker & Lewis dives into the emotional and legal complications that arise when couples split up and both want the dog, cat… or parrot.Attorneys Steve and Patty Shewmaker are joined by Alexa and Jimmy Lewis for a candid (and sometimes hilarious) discussion about pet custody during divorce, how courts treat animals, and the surprising ways some couples weaponize their pets. Featuring the firm’s own rescue cat, Adeline, this episode blends compassion, strategy, and a little cattiness of its own.🧠 What You’ll Learn: • How Georgia law treats pets in divorce (hint: it’s not like kids) • Real-life stories of couples fighting over animals • Why pets can become emotional leverage in custody disputes • Tips for protecting your rights to a pet during separation • What to do if your ex keeps the pet out of spite • Adeline the cat’s origin story - and her opinion on all of this  ⏱️ Chapters: 00:00 – Intro: Adeline the Cat Makes an Entrance 01:15 – When Pets Become Pawns in Divorce 04:20 – What Georgia Law Says About Pet Custody 07:10 – Real Cases: Who Gets the Dog? 10:22 – Emotional Leverage: Using Pets to Get to a Spouse 13:45 – Should Pets Be Treated Like Property? 16:10 – Legal Tips for Pet Ownership in Divorce 19:25 – Adeline’s Story & Office Mascot Status 21:40 – Wrap-Up: Compassion, Courts, and Cats 👨‍⚖️ Hosted by Shewmaker & Lewis, Atlanta-based attorneys helping families navigate divorce, custody, and criminal defense - with zero billboards and zero BS.🎧 Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and more.👉 Visit us at https://www.shewmakerandlewis.com for legal resources, case consultations, and future podcast updates.📩 Contact: [email protected] by Ben Hernandez at Dragonsong StudioProduced by Rob Burgner at Bleeding Edge in Atlanta, GA. 

Ever wondered how parenting time actually affects child support in Georgia? This episode of Lawyers Without Billboards breaks down the new 2026 Parenting Time Adjustment rule - and why it's already showing up in courtrooms. Hosted by the legal minds at Shewmaker & Lewis, this episode offers a smart, honest, and occasionally hilarious look at the complex math behind custody and support.Join Steve Shewmaker, Patty Shewmaker, Alexa Lewis, and Jimmy Lewis as they unpack:What the new Parenting Time Adjustment is (and how it's different from a deviation)Why it’s already being used—even before the 2026 start dateHow overnights (and even daytime hours) now dramatically impact support amountsWhy the math can take 45 minutes or more to calculateHow parenting schedules like “Thursday to Monday” weekends can save (or cost) you hundredsWhat to expect when courts default to “standard parenting plans”Why this law is likely to increase litigation, not reduce itWhat happens when the custodial parent ends up paying youThis isn’t just a dry dive into legal math - it’s an essential look at how child support is evolving in Georgia, told with real cases, real consequences, and a few dad jokes for good measure.Chapters: ⏱️ 00:00 – Intro & Host Welcome ⏱️ 01:14 – What’s Changing in 2026? ⏱️ 04:44 – Shared Income Model vs. Old System ⏱️ 08:21 – Step 1: Calculating Parenting Time Overnights ⏱️ 14:08 – Online Tools & The Minnesota Calendar Hack ⏱️ 17:33 – Complexity & Burden of the New Law ⏱️ 22:00 – Default Parenting Plans in Georgia ⏱️ 23:11 – Real-World Example: How Much Parenting Time Affects Payments ⏱️ 26:08 – Can the Custodial Parent End Up Paying? ⏱️ 28:00 – Final Thoughts & Litigation Forecast 👨‍⚖️ Hosted by Shewmaker & Lewis, Atlanta-based attorneys helping families navigate divorce, custody, and criminal defense - with zero billboards and zero BS.🎧 Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and more.👉 Visit us at https://www.shewmakerandlewis.com for legal resources, case consultations, and future podcast updates.📩 Contact: [email protected] by Ben Hernandez at Dragonsong Studio🎙 Produced by Bleeding Edge in Atlanta, GA.#ChildSupport #ParentingTime #GeorgiaLaw #FamilyLaw #LegalPodcast #Custody #Divorce #ShewmakerAndLewis #LawyersWithoutBillboards #LegalAdvice #AttorneysInAtlanta

Ever wonder what really happens when someone files a Temporary Protective Order (TPO) in Georgia? This episode of Lawyers Without Billboards delivers an unfiltered, no-nonsense breakdown of the legal, emotional, and strategic realities of civil protective orders. Hosted by the seasoned legal team at Shewmaker & Lewis, this episode is as informative as it is entertaining—think courtroom meets Jerry Springer (yes, really).Join Steve Shewmaker, Patty Shewmaker, Alexa Lewis, and Jimmy Lewis as they explore:What qualifies as a TPO in GeorgiaThe legal definition of “family violence”Why intimate relationships (not just romantic ones) matterWhat kinds of evidence judges look forHow timing and context influence your chancesWhy ex parte hearings are constitutional (and controversial)What rights you may lose—including the right to possess firearmsHow TPOs impact child custody, housing, and employmentWhen a judge may deny a TPO—or grant one "just in case"This episode is full of real courtroom insight, legal strategy, and yes—dad jokes. Whether you're seeking a TPO, defending against one, or simply curious about how Georgia’s civil court system operates, this is the survival guide you didn't know you needed.👨‍⚖️ Hosted by Shewmaker & Lewis, Atlanta-based attorneys helping families navigate divorce, custody, and criminal defense - with zero billboards and zero BS.🎧 Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and more.👉 Visit us at https://www.shewmakerandlewis.com for legal resources, case consultations, and future podcast updates.📩 Contact: [email protected]🎙 Produced by Bleeding Edge in Atlanta, GA.#FamilyLaw #ProtectiveOrder #TPO #GeorgiaLaw #DomesticViolence #CivilCourt #LawPodcast #ShewmakerAndLewis #LegalAdvice #AttorneysInAtlanta