Winning a $27 Million Verdict After YEARS of Fighting, with Tim Bechtold [Ep 151]

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October 22, 2025 • 26 mins

Tim Bechtold spent years fighting a a civil rights case involving a prisoner from the Montana State Prison System.

In today's conversation, we look at the intricacies of the case, detailing the client's wrongful conviction, subsequent assault in a private prison, and the challenges faced due to procedural delays and missed deadlines.

However, the perseverance of Tim and his team ultimately culminated in a favorable verdict and a reward of just over $27 million.

Tim explains the importance of a focus group in shaping their trial strategy and reflects on the quick-paced nature of their trial, as well as the broader implications of justice and advocacy for marginalized communities.

Tim Bechtold is a Montana-based trial lawyer known for his work in civil rights and environmental law.

In this episode, you will learn about:

How the case of Nate Lake highlights systemic issues in the justice system.
How the verdict of over $27 million underscores the importance of accountability.
Why justice for marginalized communities often requires persistence and dedication.
The role of storytelling in trials that is crucial for juror engagement.

You can also watch this episode on YouTube here: Winning a $27 Million Verdict After YEARS of Fighting, with Tim Bechtold [Ep 151]

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Supporting Resources:

Guest Tim Bechtold of Bechtold Law Firm, Montana.

Contact Tim directly at tim@bechtoldlaw.net

$27.75 million dollar verdict (KRTV news)

Northern Cheyenne v. BIA verdict (Daily Montanan)

Tim's Environmental Work: https://www.npr.org/transcripts/nx-s1-5416766

2025 Leonard Weinglass in Defense of Civil Liberties Award - AAJ: https://www.justice.org/membership/awards

2025 Montana Trial Lawyer of the Year Award: https://www.monttla.com/?pg=historical

Do you have an upcoming trial and want help writing your opening statement? Book a free call with Elizabeth to see how she can help.

Don't want to miss an episode? Join the Trial Lawyer Prep Newsletter for resources, tips and episodes by going here: www.larricklawfirm.com/connect

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.css-15opob5{left:0;position:absolute;top:0.8rem;} All Episodes

.css-14f5ked{margin:0;word-break:break-word;display:-webkit-box;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;box-orient:vertical;-webkit-line-clamp:2;overflow:hidden;}Winning a $27 Million Verdict After YEARS of Fighting, with Tim Bechtold [Ep 151]