Between the Briefs episode overview with headshot of guest Jesse-Justin Cuevas
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The Human-First Approach to Trial Excellence with Jesse-Justin Cuevas

There are many variables that determine the level of excellence a lawyer can reach. A big one is getting the right experience at the right time.

Adrian Cea and Joe Stephens welcome Jesse-Justin Cuevas, a Top 100 California trial lawyer and partner at Sussman Godfrey who proves the undeniable value of attorney development done right. Together, they unpack the evolution of trial practice, firm culture, and the importance of maintaining human connections in an increasingly digital legal landscape.

Backed by a stellar track record, Jesse-Justin offers unique, counterintuitive insights for lawyers across industries, driving home the fact that good lawyering goes hand-in-hand with good living.

Want to watch this episode of Between the Briefs instead? Get the full video on YouTube.

About the Contributors

Joe Stephens

Joe Stephens, J.D., is Steno's Director of Legal Solutions as well as a Clinical Lecturer at Texas Tech University School of Law. With over 15 years of experience in criminal defense and public service, he founded and led Texas' largest rural public defender office, which serves a 12-county area. A graduate of The University of Texas School of Law (cum laude) and Vanderbilt University (B.A.), Stephens currently serves as a Board Member of the Texas Criminal Defense Lawyer's Association (TCDLA) and sits on multiple State Bar of Texas committees. His expertise spans the intersection of legal practice and technological innovation in the justice system.

Adrian Cea

Adrian Cea is Steno's Social Media Manager, leading content strategy, audience engagement, and digital brand-building across platforms. He also produces and co-hosts Between the Briefs, Steno's podcast covering the intersection of legal technology, court reporting, and the future of litigation. With a background spanning content creation, field marketing, and sales at companies like Sell Better and Chili Piper, Adrian brings a multi-disciplined lens to making complex legal tech topics accessible and engaging.