1. Parting Words
• Several years ago, I had the unique
opportunity of training under the late Donald
Fiedler, a legendary criminal defense attorney
in his own right who was also an actor. He
shared with me a story that has inspired me
throughout my career.
2. Parting Words
• It came from a play written by Gerald Uelman,
entitled, “Bryan.” The play explores the life of
William Jennings Bryan, Clarence Darrow’s
adversary in the Scopes Monkey Trial. In the
play, there is a scene when William discovers
the magic he has over audiences. William told
his beloved wife his secret:
3. Parting Words
• “ … Mary, last night I found I have power over
an audience. I can move them as I please. It
was an incredible feeling. The whole room was
focused on me, waiting for my next word. I
spoke from my heart, and realized my
audience was listening with their hearts.
Knowing what is in a person’s heart gives you
enormous power. It is a power that can move
people and inspire them.”
4. Parting Words
• Just as William recognized the power
that he had over his audience when he
spoke from his heart, a trial lawyer who
is not afraid to be emotionally vulnerable
possesses that very same power over a
jury.
7. Advice to those wanting to try out
acting
Acting is NOT a spectator sport. Preparation and
“learning by doing” are critical elements of
honing this craft.
