Richard Waites, born on July 10, 1951 in Georgia, had a unique and fascinating childhood. Growing up in both Florida and Georgia, he was exposed to the legal world at a young age. At just eleven years old, he was introduced to a Georgia judge by his father, sparking his interest in court proceedings. He began regularly attending local trials, setting the foundation for his future career as a lawyer.
Waites pursued his academic interests by studying psychology and sociology at the University of West Georgia. He then went on to earn his J.D. from the University of Houston, laying the groundwork for his legal career. After working as a trial lawyer for over a decade, he decided to further his education by earning a doctorate in psychology from Walden University.
Waites is known for his groundbreaking work in the field of psychology and law. His expertise in both trial advocacy and social psychology led him to pioneer the study of the psychology of decision-making among courtroom juries. In 2004, he published the influential book "Courtroom Psychology and Trial Advocacy," which has since become a key resource for legal professionals.
Waites' expertise has not gone unnoticed by the media. He has provided legal analysis for major news outlets such as PBS, CNN, ABC, Fox News, MSNBC, and Court-TV. His insights and commentary have helped to shed light on complex legal issues and high-profile court cases.
Despite his busy career, Waites maintains strong ties to his family. He credits his father with introducing him to the legal world at a young age, as well as instilling in him a passion for justice. His childhood experiences attending trials with his father laid the foundation for his successful career in law.
Throughout his career, Richard Waites has made a lasting impact on the fields of psychology and law. His innovative research on the psychology of decision-making in courtrooms has helped to shape the way legal professionals approach trials and advocacy. His work continues to be studied and cited by experts in both fields, solidifying his place as a trailblazer in the intersection of psychology and law.