Joshua Wallis: Lessons Learned From the Stage for Court

Joshua Wallis presenting at the firm’s Lunch & Learn series.

On July 19, 2019 the Miles Mason Family Law Group welcomed Attorney Joshua Wallis of The Landers Firm for a compelling, informative, and enthusiastic discussion on courtroom presence and demeanor and its effect on the outcome of a case. This “Lunch and Learn” in house seminar explained how the details of someone’s appearance, verbal communication, and body language combine to create a character. Perception can be reality.  Josh’s talk emphasized that successful testimony should give the audience the perception of authenticity, which can be accomplished by trained speaking, body language, appropriate dress.

Josh offered interesting facts about body language and human perception that attorneys and their clients may not realize could make a negative impact in the courtroom – such as wearing a particularly offensive scent or over sized jewelry.  Josh’s impressive insights on this matter originate both from his litigation experience and his formal training as an actor. Josh demonstrated how the field of acting contains skills that transfer into the skills of effective attorneys, especially when coaching clients on the best way to portray their lives in a believable manner. We truly enjoyed the specialized knowledge that Joshua Wallis shared with us today, and we look forward to more of his presentations.  Thank you, Josh.

We also thank Jeff Fioranelli, Buckley’s owner, for catering our very tasty lunch fare.

By Rachel Jackson, Law Clerk