keith belzer| Episode 06

Today’s conversation sits at the heart of what we do as defenders: story. I’m joined by my friend Keith Belzer, a master of courtroom storytelling who has spent years studying not just what makes a story persuasive, but why it moves people.

If you’ve been with us since episode one, you’ll know story is a frequent topic. We’ve explored finding our clients’ stories with Michele Lavigne and using story to build empathy with Matt Hefti — today, we go even deeper. Keith unpacks the roots of storytelling, the power of archetypes, and the fine line between authentic connection and empty acting. With a background in theater, he brings a rare blend of heart, attention to detail, and an understanding of performance.

Because while law school trained us to think logically, the courtroom is still a human space — and people are persuaded by emotion and meaning, not just mechanics.

Read more from Keith Belzer: 

Storytelling in the Courtroom 

Archetypal Cross Examination

NACDL Lecture: Telling the Story of Innocence at Trial Through the Use of Narrative Format