Episode 53 – Righting Wrongs With Nick Moraitakis: Trial Law, Mediation, and Defining Justice

In this episode of See You In Court, hosts Robin Frazer Clark and Lester Tate sit down with legendary Atlanta trial lawyer and mediator Nick Moraitakis. With nearly five decades in civil litigation, Nick shares stories from the courtroom, insights from the mediation table, and reflections on what justice truly means in practice.

From high profile civil rights cases to complex catastrophic injury litigation, this conversation explores how the civil justice system works when it matters most.

A Career Built on Both Sides of the Courtroom

Nick began his legal career on the defense side, representing insurance companies and corporate clients. Over time, he transitioned to plaintiff work, representing individuals and families who had suffered serious harm. That dual perspective shaped how he evaluates cases, credibility, and risk.

Now serving as a full time mediator, Nick brings that experience to settlement discussions across Georgia. He explains why understanding both sides is essential to reaching fair resolution.

The Evolution of Mediation

Mediation is now a routine part of civil litigation, but Nick reflects on how the process has changed. He discusses why direct lawyer to lawyer negotiation has diminished, why patience is often the key to settlement, and how mediators must balance empathy with realism.

He also shares what it takes to “take off the advocate hat” and step into the neutral role.

Landmark Cases and Accountability

The episode revisits major cases that tested the system, including the Katherine Johnston shooting and the Midtown Marriott collapse. Nick walks through the legal obstacles, investigative challenges, and institutional resistance that had to be overcome.

These stories demonstrate how civil litigation can uncover truth, demand accountability, and drive meaningful change.

Public Service and the Rule of Law

Nick also reflects on his time serving in the Georgia General Assembly and how his early interest in politics influenced his legal career. The conversation turns to the importance of protecting the rule of law and maintaining public confidence in the judiciary.

For Nick, justice is not abstract. It is grounded in fairness, equality, and the willingness to stand up when powerful institutions fail.

Episode Highlights

• Why starting on the defense side made him a stronger plaintiff lawyer
• The most misunderstood aspect of mediation
• What complex cases require behind the scenes
• How civil litigation can expose systemic failure
• Why professionalism in law still matters

Why This Conversation Matters

This episode is a reminder that the civil justice system is not just about verdicts. It is about accountability. It is about fairness. It is about ensuring that when harm occurs, there is a path to resolution.

Nick Moraitakis’ career reflects the power and responsibility that comes with being a trial lawyer and mediator in Georgia.

Listen now to hear how experience, perspective, and patience shape the pursuit of justice.

Related Links & Resources

• Robin Frazer Clark – Georgia Trial Lawyers
• Lester Tate – Akin & Tate
• Georgia Civil Justice Foundation
• See You In Court Podcast

Connect with the Hosts

• Follow Robin Frazer Clark
• Connect with Lester Tate

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About See You In Court

See You In Court is Georgia’s leading civil justice podcast, brought to you by the Georgia Civil Justice Foundation. Our mission is to educate, inform, and empower citizens about their rights and the importance of an independent civil justice system.

The podcast is free and available anytime—because understanding justice is a right every Georgian deserves.

⚖️ Please note: The information provided on this website and within our episodes is for educational purposes only. For legal advice on your specific situation, please contact a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction.

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