Program Details
2026-11-20 14:30:00
Over 1,000+ webinars
Course Overview
2026-11-20 14:30:00
2h CLE Credits
Intermediate
2
2:30 pm - 3:30 pm ESTThis session equips defense attorneys to identify and counter Reptile Theory and its successor, the Keenan Trial Institute’s ‘Edge’ strategy, as deployed during depositions. Attendees will learn to recognize the three-stage Setup–Linking–Fault questioning funnel, train witnesses to avoid absolute-agreement traps, and execute a three-component psychological preparation protocol before the deposition begins. Attorneys leave with specific scripted witness responses, real-time in-deposition intervention techniques, and a framework for scouting opposing counsel for Edge training before any witness sits down.
Todd G. LezonSuzanna R. Harman 3:40 pm - 4:40 pm ESTThis session teaches defense attorneys how to identify, challenge, and contain Reptile-style safety-rule questioning through targeted pre-trial motion practice, disciplined trial objections, and recordpreservation strategy. Attorneys will examine the evidentiary foundations for motions in limine under FRE 401, 402, 403, and 702, analyze the Griffin/Tijerina split to understand why specificity determines motion outcomes, and learn how the McCarthy appeal illustrates the consequences of incomplete record preservation. Attendees leave with a replicable framework for drafting anti-Reptile motions, surviving partial denials, and building an appellate record that can overturn nuclear verdicts.
Todd G. LezonSuzanna R. HarmanTodd G. Lezon is a partner at Walsworth LLP who concentrates his work in transportation and general liability defense. A seasoned trial attorney, he handles every phase of civil litigation, from case strategy development and discovery planning through depositions, arbitrations, mediations, and trial. He has presented on defending against nuclear verdicts, including the programs “Defending Against Nuclear Verdicts: Strategies to Counter Reptile Theory, Litigation Funding, and Juror Bias” and “Penalties, Damages, and Nuclear Verdicts: Containing Exposure and Capping Risk.”
Suzanna R. Harman is Senior Counsel at Walsworth LLP, where her practice centers on law and motion work for general liability and casualty matters, including bad faith and fraud claims. Drawn to the challenge of motion practice, she treats each case as an opportunity to untangle complex legal questions and turn intricate issues into clear, practical strategies that move matters toward resolution.
Todd G. Lezon is a partner at Walsworth LLP who concentrates his work in transportation and general liability defense. A seasoned trial attorney, he handles every phase of civil litigation, from case strategy development and discovery planning through depositions, arbitrations, mediations, and trial. He has presented on defending against nuclear verdicts, including the programs “Defending Against Nuclear Verdicts: Strategies to Counter Reptile Theory, Litigation Funding, and Juror Bias” and “Penalties, Damages, and Nuclear Verdicts: Containing Exposure and Capping Risk.”
Suzanna R. Harman is Senior Counsel at Walsworth LLP, where her practice centers on law and motion work for general liability and casualty matters, including bad faith and fraud claims. Drawn to the challenge of motion practice, she treats each case as an opportunity to untangle complex legal questions and turn intricate issues into clear, practical strategies that move matters toward resolution.
Requirements
The Alabama State Bar MCLE Commission requires attorneys to complete 12 credits, including 1 ethics, by December 31 of each year. All credits must be reported by February 15 of the following year. A maximum of 12 credits, including 1 ethics credit, may be carried over for 1 year only.
Formats
