Chad and Virginia Trammell, together with Melody and Judge Christopher Piazza, traveled to Switzerland to attend the esteemed International Association of Trial Lawyers (IATL) Annual Meeting on August 22, 2023. Their experience was remarkable, centered around an exclusive private visit and presentation at the Switzerland Federal Supreme Court in Lausanne.
The day’s highlight was a riveting presentation delivered by Federal Judge Nicolas von Werdt, a distinguished legal luminary from Bern. Born on September 15, 1959, Judge von Werdt’s legal journey started with a law degree earned in Bern in 1985. His thirst for knowledge led him to pursue a Master of Laws degree (LL.M.) in New York in 1987, followed by two years honing his skills at a prominent law firm. The year 1991 marked the achievement of his doctorate, and he subsequently served as a legal assistant at the Office of the Attorney General of Switzerland.
Judge von Werdt joined the esteemed law firm Kellerhals Hess Rechtsanwälte in 1991. Since 1997, he has been a stalwart partner there. In 2001, he assumed the role of Oberst i Gst, further solidifying his reputation as a legal authority. In 2008, he ascended to the role of a federal judge at the Switzerland Federal Supreme Court, a testament to his extensive legal experience. His presence as the IATL’s Annual Meeting’s keynote speaker was nothing short of fitting for such a prestigious gathering.
The Switzerland Federal Supreme Court is the ultimate sanctuary of justice within the Swiss legal landscape. It reigns supreme in civil, criminal, and administrative matters, ensuring the consistent application of federal law and interpreting the Swiss Constitution. With its multifaceted branches and chambers, each specializing in distinct areas of law, the court exemplifies the essence of legal integrity in Switzerland.
For Chad and Virginia Trammell, Melody Piazza, and her husband, Judge Christopher Piazza, this journey to the IATL Annual Meeting in Switzerland was unforgettable and enlightening. Their private visit and engagement at the Switzerland Federal Supreme Court, guided by Judge Nicolas von Werdt, offered invaluable insights into the Swiss legal arena and the intricate workings of a high-stakes court dedicated to preserving justice in the picturesque landscape of the Swiss Alps.