Lawyer 2 Lawyer Podcast - Legal Talk Network

Scams: What to Look Out For, Recovery, AI, and How to Protect Yourself

Ally Kvidt — Fri, 01 Aug 2025 11:00:57 +0000

From VA Imposter Scams to “Free Piano” Scams, scammers will stop at nothing to lure you in and take your money. With the introduction of AI into our everyday lives, scammers have used this as a tool to deceive individuals, leaving victims penniless or even stealing their identity. So how do you identify a scammer? And is there anything legally you can do to stop them?

In this episode, Craig welcomes Steve Weisman, a nationally recognized expert in scams, identity theft, and cybersecurity as well as a lawyer, college professor, and prolific author. Together, Craig and Steve discuss scams, what to look out for, how to navigate through a scam, recovery, AI & scams, and how to protect yourself from these various scams.

The Texas Floods: Warnings, Staffing Cuts, Climate Change, & How to Protect Ourselves from Extreme Weather

Ally Kvidt — Fri, 18 Jul 2025 11:00:33 +0000

On the 4th of July, extreme rainfall ripped through Central Texas, causing catastrophic flash flooding, leaving 119 dead and over 160 missing, with numbers climbing. The National Weather Service (NWS), which has recently experienced staffing cuts under DOGE & the Trump Administration, came under fire from local Texas officials who criticized the insufficient warnings ahead of the extreme weather.

In this episode, Craig welcomes Professor Jim Blackburn, environmental lawyer and co-director of the Severe Storm Prevention, Education and Evacuation from Disaster (SSPEED) Center at Rice University. Together, Craig and Jim discuss warnings, impact of staffing cuts, climate change, policy, and how we can protect ourselves from extreme weather.

The Law of War

Ally Kvidt — Mon, 07 Jul 2025 11:00:45 +0000

The law of war is a component of international law that regulates the conditions for initiating war. With the Israel-Iran conflict raging on, and in a significant escalation, on June 21st, the United States retaliated against Iran by striking three of their nuclear sites. In response, Iran launched a strike against a U.S. air base in Qatar. After the strikes, President Trump promoted peace and announced a ceasefire, only to be met with more strikes and a continuance of the Israel-Iran conflict. So what is the law of war? And how does it apply to the current conflict between Iran, Israel, and now the United States?

In this episode, Craig welcomes back Rachel E. VanLandingham, Lt Col. (ret.), Co-Associate Dean of Research & Irwin R. Buchalter Professor of Law at Southwestern Law School. Together, Craig and Rachel discuss the law of war and the potential impact on our military, our country, and our relations with other countries.

Why John Adams Defended the British Soldiers During the Boston Massacre Trials | An In Dispute Re-Broadcast

Ally Kvidt — Fri, 04 Jul 2025 11:00:55 +0000

This Fourth of July, we’re spotlighting one of the most iconic trials in American history. While the next regular Lawyer 2 Lawyer episode will drop on Monday, today we’re revisiting one of America’s earliest and most pivotal legal battles: the Boston Massacre trial. This episode comes from Craig’s recent miniseries In Dispute, exclusively on Legal Talk Network.

When an unruly crowd of angry colonists attacked a small platoon of British soldiers in 1770, five Bostonians were killed and several others wounded. John Adams, a then-34-year-old lawyer who would eventually become the second president of the United States, took on a bold and unpopular defense of the soldiers and orchestrated their trials in a way that defied conventional thinking. To better understand the historical context of the Boston Massacre, what actually went down, the aftermath of the tragedy, and the surprising takeaway trial lawyers should have after hearing John Adams’ closing arguments, Attorney J. Craig Williams invites you to bundle up and relive the astounding altercation that’s still talked about to this day.

LINKS:

Listen to all episodes of In Dispute: 10 Famous Trials That Changed History
Purchase the e-book.
Purchase the hardcover.

SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR VOICE ACTORS:

Scott Well as John Adams

Alan Chudnow as Samuel Quincy

Skyler C. as Josiah Quincy

Alan Parsons as Captain Thomas Preston

Robert Mattson as Samuel Adams

Dan Ring as Daniel Calef

Patrick Correia as Richard Palmes

Kate Kenney Nutting as the female witness

Neil Harvey as the British Soldier

Brian Driesen as Benjamin Lee

Andrew Clark as Thomas Handaside Peck

Robert “Terry” Terelak as Ebenerzer Bridgham

Jud Pierce as Dr. John Jeffries

Christopher Rogers as John Hogdson

Protests, the Military, Newsom v. Trump, the Insurrection Act, & Martial Law

Ally Kvidt — Fri, 13 Jun 2025 15:00:34 +0000

In response to the recent protests in Los Angeles, sparked by ICE raids, President Trump deployed 2,000 National Guard troops to L.A, and now 700 active duty Marines have joined, bypassing the authority of Governor Gavin Newsom and estimated to cost taxpayers an estimated $134 million. This stirred discussions over whether the President could use the Insurrection Act of 1807 & declare Martial law and whether these actions can be enforced.

In this episode, Craig is joined by Rachel E. VanLandingham, Lt Col. (ret.), Co-Associate Dean of Research & Irwin R. Buchalter Professor of Law at Southwestern Law School.

Together, Craig and Rachel discuss the use of martial law & the Insurrection Act in response to protests, the military’s role, Newsom v. Trump, and whether the deployment of troops to Los Angeles constitutes martial law.

Mentioned in this Episode:

Newsom v. Trump

Birthright Citizenship, Trump’s Executive Order, & a SCOTUS Showdown

Ally Kvidt — Fri, 06 Jun 2025 11:00:50 +0000

On January 20th, 2025, President Trump issued Executive Order (EO) 14160, limiting birthright citizenship. This was met with backlash, as the constitutionality of the order was questioned. On May 15, 2025 SCOTUS heard oral arguments regarding a challenge to the order and a decision is expected to be released by late June or early July 2025. The courts have temporarily blocked the implementation of the Executive Order while constitutional challenges proceed.

In this episode, Craig is joined by David C. Baluarte, Senior Associate Dean for Academic Affairs and a Professor of Law at CUNY School of Law. Together, Craig and Dean Balaurte discuss Trump’s executive order to end birthright citizenship, recent oral arguments before SCOTUS, the constitutional fight for birthright citizenship, and the potential impact of this upcoming decision.

Mentioned in this Episode:

United States v. Wong Kim Ark

The Fight Against Threats to Judicial Independence

Ally Kvidt — Fri, 23 May 2025 14:20:13 +0000

Chief Justice John Roberts recently called out the Trump administration for their threats to impeach judges who have ruled against them.

In response to these threats to the judiciary, the Keep Our Republic’s Article III Coalition, composed of over twenty former federal district and circuit judges appointed by Presidents Reagan, George H.W. Bush, Clinton, George W. Bush and Obama, defended the federal judiciary, as political impeachment attempts against judges increase and the federal courts system face heightened scrutiny.

In this episode, Craig is joined by Chief Judge Paul R. Michel, formerly of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit and member of Keep Our Republic’s Article III Coalition. Together, Craig and Judge Michel discuss the calls for impeachment of judges by the current administration, and how a coalition of judges is fighting back.

Mentioned in this Episode:

Keep Our Republic’s Article III Coalition

SCOTUS & the Separation of Church and State

Ally Kvidt — Fri, 09 May 2025 11:00:50 +0000

The First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution reads ‘Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion. In 1802, founding father Thomas Jefferson, wrote a letter to the Danbury, Connecticut Baptist Convention insisting that their legislature “make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof,” thus building a wall of separation between church and state.

On April 30th, 2025, SCOTUS heard arguments in the consolidated cases of St. Isidore of Seville Catholic Virtual School v. Drummond and Oklahoma Statewide Charter School Board v. Drummond which could redefine the fine line between religion and government in public education.

In this episode, Craig is joined by Frank Ravitch, professor of law & religion at Michigan State University’s College of Law. Together, Craig and Professor Ravitch delve into the significant legal topic of SCOTUS and the separation of church and state. Their discussion encompasses the details of these cases, Chief Justice Roberts’ prior involvement in similar matters, the complex question of whether faith-based schools should be part of the public charter system, the importance of safeguarding religious freedom, and the potential ramifications of this forthcoming landmark decision.

A Constitutional Crisis, Due Process, & the Rule of Law

Ally Kvidt — Fri, 25 Apr 2025 14:45:06 +0000

What is a constitutional crisis? For some, a constitutional crisis is when the president defies the Supreme Court, for others it is when a president simply defies a federal judge’s order. Under the reign of President Trump and his administration, the country has dealt with a number of incidents where judicial orders have been disregarded. Kilmar Abrego Garcia, Rümeysa Öztürk, Mahmoud Khalil are three individuals who have taken center stage in the battle between the courts and the Trump administration, and the quest for due process.

In this episode, Craig is joined by professor Kent Greenfield, the Dean’s Distinguished Scholar at Boston College Law School. Craig & Kent discuss whether the country is currently in a constitutional crisis, the Trump administration’s defiance of a Supreme Court order involving the return of Kilmar Abrego Garcia to the United States, the power of judicial vs. executive branches, and the consequences for defying the rule of law.

Mentioned in this Episode:

Bipartisan Letter Coordinated by Kent Greenfield, Professor and Dean’s Distinguished Scholar at Boston College Law School, and the American Constitution Society

The Rise of Deferred Contracts in Major League Baseball

Ally Kvidt — Fri, 11 Apr 2025 14:15:14 +0000

Deferred contracts are becoming a powerful tool in Major League Baseball, allowing teams to stretch massive payouts over decades — but what does that mean for the sport?

In this episode, Craig is joined by Jeremy M. Evans, attorney and CEO of California Sports Lawyer, to discuss the rise of deferred contracts and how they’re reshaping financial strategy in baseball. Craig and Jeremy break down how teams like the Dodgers are leveraging media revenue, why private equity is entering the conversation, and what lessons MLB might take from other leagues.

The Alien Enemies Act, Deportations, & Defying the Judiciary

Ally Kvidt — Fri, 28 Mar 2025 14:30:54 +0000

On March 15th, 2025, the Trump administration defied an oral order from U.S. District Court Judge James Boasberg to stop the flights of Venezuelan migrants headed to a Salvadoran prison, after the administration used the Alien Enemies Act of 1798 to deport more than 200 alleged members of the Venezuelan Tren de Aragua gang to El Salvador with no due process.

In this episode, Craig is joined by Virgil Wiebe, Professor of Law from the University of St. Thomas School of Law, as they discuss the recent deportation of Venezuelan migrants and federal Judge Boasberg’s ruling, blocking the Trump administration from deporting noncitizens. Craig & Virgil talk about the Alien Enemies Act, defying the judiciary, and next steps for individuals who are deported without due process.

Related Episodes

Inside Human Trafficking: Sex & Labor Trafficking, and the Fight to Protect Victims

Ally Kvidt — Fri, 14 Mar 2025 11:00:35 +0000

Every year, millions of men, women, and children are trafficked worldwide – including right here in the United States. According to the Department of Homeland Security, human trafficking is defined as “the use of force, fraud, or coercion to obtain some type of labor or commercial sex act.”

In this episode, Craig is joined by returning guest, Bridgette A. Carr, clinical professor of law and co-director of the Human Trafficking and Immigration Clinic at the University of Michigan Law School, as they spotlight human trafficking. Craig & Bridgette discuss the different types of human trafficking, how it happens, how to recognize it, and what is being done to combat trafficking.

The Case Against Incivility: Restoring Respect in Law

Ally Kvidt — Fri, 28 Feb 2025 12:00:07 +0000

Civility within the legal profession can be defined as the courteous and respectful behavior exhibited by legal professionals throughout their practice. Personal attacks, not agreeing to reasonable requests, writing inflammatory emails, briefs, or motions, are just a few examples of incivility within the profession. These actions have prompted calls for a return to civility. Where some states have adopted codes of civility, a fight for mandatory civility continues.

In this episode, Craig is joined by David A. Grenardo, a professor of law and associate director of the Holloran Center for Ethical Leadership in the Professions at St. Thomas School of Law. Craig & David spotlight civility in the legal profession, and take a look at mandatory civility and teaching the importance of civility to our law students and to those within the legal profession.

California Wildfires and the Insurance Crisis: What’s Next for Palisades, Altadena and the L.A. Area

Ally Kvidt — Fri, 14 Feb 2025 15:30:30 +0000

In January, communities in Los Angeles were devastated by wildfires, permanently displacing thousands and destroying property and lives. Prior to the fires, thousands of L.A. residents in fire-prone areas were dropped from their insurance, leaving them with no protection or safety net. After losing their homes, their businesses, and their schools, they were left with the harsh reality of picking up the pieces.

In this episode, Craig is joined by Hannah Perls, Senior Staff Attorney with the Harvard Environmental & Energy Law Program (EELP), as they take a look at the aftermath of the L.A. fires. Craig and Hannah discuss disaster preparedness and response, insurance recovery after big disasters like the fires, and next steps for those impacted by the fires.

Listen to our previous episodes about other California wildfires:

2018 Episode with Dan Wade, Tiela Chalmers and Michael Hart

2007 Episode with Mark C. Zebrowski, Katherine L. Parker and Dan Hull

Trump’s Executive Orders, Legality, Litigation, and Impact

Ally Kvidt — Fri, 31 Jan 2025 15:15:20 +0000

With a stroke of a pen, President Trump signed a record number of executive orders attempting to change the fabric of our nation, attempting to undo years of legislation, and challenge the Constitution of the United States. From birthright citizenship to the elimination of DEI programs, to a freeze on federal aid, these orders stand to impact millions.

In this episode, Craig is joined by Qasim Rashid, human rights lawyer, author, and a former Congressional candidate, as they spotlight Trump’s recent executive orders including: birthright citizenship, the elimination of DEI programs, and the freeze on federal aid. Craig & Qasim discuss reaction, the legality of these orders, the executive branch v. Congress, litigation, and the potential impact these orders could have on the people of our nation.

Will Trump Pardon January 6 Rioters? Here’s How the Pardon System Works.

Ally Kvidt — Fri, 17 Jan 2025 12:00:48 +0000

Four years ago, on January 6th, 2021, our U.S. Capitol was under siege by supporters of Donald Trump who tried to stop a joint session of Congress from certifying the electoral votes of the 2020 presidential election. Fast forward to 2025, Donald J. Trump is about to take office as President and the fate of those convicted of January 6th crimes lies in his hands.

In this episode, Craig is joined by Kimberly Wehle, professor of law at the University of Baltimore School of Law and author of the book, Pardon Power: How the Pardon System Works—and Why. Craig & Kim take a look back at January 6th, the possibility of Trump pardoning those convicted of federal crimes stemming from January 6th, and the implications this could have on our society and our legal system.

What Went Wrong–and Right–with 10 Famous Trials │ A Modern Law Library Re-Broadcast

Legal Talk Network — Fri, 03 Jan 2025 12:00:25 +0000

Whether you’re a legal history buff, a bookwork, or someone who just loves a great courtroom story, you’ll want to listen to this special episode, originally recorded for ABA Journal’s Modern Law Library with Lee Rawles. In this episode, What Went Wrong–and Right–with 10 Famous Trials, Lee sat down with Craig to discuss his book, How Would You Decide? 10 Famous Trials That Changed History, Book One. In this discussion, Craig talks about his research, what went into the selection of historic cases and trials for the book, and looks ahead to Book Two.

Craig will be back soon with all new episodes of Lawyer 2 Lawyer. As we await his return, you can also get caught up on In Dispute. Enjoy!

ABA Journal’s Modern Law Library invites top legal authors to discuss legal theories and historic events twice a month here on Legal Talk Network.

The Banning of TCE & PCE, and the Future of the EPA

Ally Kvidt — Fri, 20 Dec 2024 12:00:24 +0000

On December 9th, 2024, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced the banning of two chemicals found in products used primarily in the automobile, dry-cleaning, and manufacturing industries, but also found in some household products like cleaning wipes, paint removers, glues, and wig adhesives. The two solvents, Trichloroethylene, also known as TCE, and Perchloroethylene, also known as PCE or Perc, have been linked to cancer and other severe health issues.

With the banning of TCE & PCE, the future of the EPA will be under Trump rule come January 20th, 2025. So what will be the impact of the TCE & PCE ban? And will there be a major overhaul of the EPA and an undoing of Biden’s regulations under Trump? In this episode, Craig is joined by Professor Wendy Wagner from The University of Texas at Austin School of Law. Craig & Wendy discuss the recent banning of TCE & PCE by the EPA, and the future of the EPA under a second Trump presidency.

Abortion Rights & Challenges Ahead

Ally Kvidt — Fri, 06 Dec 2024 12:00:51 +0000

Back in 2022, the U.S. Supreme Court overturned 50 years of precedent, overruling Roe v. Wade. Leading up to the presidential election, abortion was a hot button issue and appeared on ballots across the states.

Since the election, former President Trump has publicly denied that he would support a national abortion ban, and has said that he believes abortion should be left to the states. So what happens now? In this episode, Craig is joined by Kimberly Mutcherson, Professor of Law and former Co-Dean at Rutgers Law School and currently the Phyllis W. Beck Chair in Law at Temple University Beasley School of Law. Craig & Kim reflect on what has transpired after the Roe v. Wade decision, and discuss abortion rights and the challenges ahead.

Mass Deportations Under a Second Trump Presidency

Ally Kvidt — Fri, 22 Nov 2024 12:00:02 +0000

With former President Trump slated to take office on January 20th, 2025, he has not wasted any time in his quest to deport millions of undocumented immigrants. Trump recently appointed Former Acting U.S. ICE Director Tom Homan, as “border czar,” and confirmed his plan to declare a national emergency once in office, using the military for mass deportations.

In this episode, Craig is joined by Professor Ediberto Román, Director of Immigration and Citizenship Initiatives at the Florida International University College of Law. Craig & Ediberto discuss mass deportations under a second Trump presidency, the legal issues, and the potential impact on immigrants, industries, and our nation.

The Legalities of Baseball: Fan Interference, Ball Ownership, & the Constitution

Ally Kvidt — Fri, 08 Nov 2024 12:00:33 +0000

Baseball. America’s favorite pastime. A wonderful game, with its share of controversy. On October 30th, 2024, the World Series wrapped with the LA Dodgers beating the NY Yankees 4-1 in the series. In the third game of the series, at Yankee Stadium, there was a controversial play involving LA Dodgers right fielder Mookie Betts and two New York Yankees fans, who tried to rip the ball out of the glove of Betts during a play- a prime example of fan interference. According to the Yankees, the fans were ejected from the game due to their “egregious and unacceptable physical contact.”

In this episode, Craig is joined by Dr. Paul Finkelman, a Distinguished Visiting Professor at the University of Cincinnati College of Law to spotlight baseball, the law, and regulation. Craig & Paul take a look at everything from fan interference to who owns a ball. We will also discuss baseball and how it all relates to the Constitution, and the American legal system.

Mentioned in this episode:

Baseball and the American Legal Mind by by Spencer W. Waller, Neil B. Cohen, and Paul Finkelman

In Dispute on Legal Talk Network-The Chicago Black Sox Trial: How 8 Players Went From the Dugout to the Courtroom

What San Juan’s Coal Power Plant Closure Means for The Future of Energy & The Navajo Nation

Ally Kvidt — Fri, 25 Oct 2024 11:00:09 +0000

For almost fifty years, coal dominated the Navajo economy. In April of 2017, the Public Service Company of New Mexico announced they planned to close the San Juan Generating Station, a coal-fired power plant in New Mexico, and replace it with other energy sources, including wind and solar. In 2022, the San Juan Generating Station in New Mexico closed, and on August 24, 2024, the station was demolished with a cleanup expected in 2025.

The demolition of the station received mixed reviews from the Navajo Nation. While some supported the demolition, others were tied to the history of the industry and how it provided for their families.

In this episode, Craig is joined by Dr. Andrew Curley, Assistant Professor at the School of Geography, Development & Environment at the University of Arizona. Craig and Andrew discuss coal, its history and use, the impact it has had on the Navajo Nation, the labor force, and the environment, and what the future holds.

How Much Power Vice Presidents Really Have & Why JD Vance’s Comments Are Alarming Lawyers

Ally Kvidt — Fri, 11 Oct 2024 11:00:53 +0000

The role of the Vice President of the United States is an important one, but what actual power does it hold? Recently, vice president candidate JD Vance spoke publicly about the power of the vice presidency, the role of presiding over the electoral count as President of the Senate, and what he would have done if he was in former Vice President Mike Pence’s shoes on January 6th 2021.

In this episode, Craig is joined by Matthew Seligman, a fellow at the Stanford Constitutional Law Center, as they discuss the power of the vice presidency, the presiding role over the electoral count, and clarify the role of the vice presidency.

Revisiting Space Law

Ally Kvidt — Fri, 27 Sep 2024 14:00:29 +0000

While Craig is on vacation, we’re re-airing one of our favorite episodes from the Lawyer 2 Lawyer library so you can re-listen or be introduced for the first time if you’re a new subscriber. As many of you know, NASA astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams are currently stranded in space due to a problem with the Boeing Starliner and will now be rescued in February of 2025! This brings up many questions pertaining to the legal arena of space law.

In this archived episode, originally recorded in September of 2019, titled, Space Law, Craig spoke with Attorneys Michelle Hanlon and Mark Sundahl as they discussed pertinent space case law, and other related legal issues in the space law arena.

Craig will be back soon with all new episodes of Lawyer 2 Lawyer. As we await his return, you can also get caught up on In Dispute, Craig’s new podcast, about 10 famous trials that changed history. Enjoy!

Using Music in Political Campaigns: Misuse, Copyright Infringement, & Litigation

Ally Kvidt — Fri, 13 Sep 2024 20:45:23 +0000

Over the years, the power of music has been an integral piece in energizing a crowd, whether through a specific song used at a political rally or in a campaign video on social media. However, there are legalities when it comes to the use of songs, especially when the musician doesn’t want to be tied to a specific political candidate or a candidate uses a song without the musician’s permission.

Back on August 29, 2024, deputy director of communications for the Trump campaign, Margo McAtee Martin, posted a short clip on X of Donald Trump boarding a plane, set to the opening riff of the widely popular song, “Seven Nation Army” by the band The White Stripes. In response to the post, guitarist and lead singer of the rock duo, Jack White, wrote on his Instagram page, “Oh….Don’t even think about using my music you fascists…“Lawsuit coming from my lawyers about this (to add to your five thousand others..)” On September 9th, Jack & his bandmate, Meg White, filed a copyright infringement lawsuit against Trump & company for the “flagrant misappropriation” of their song.

In this episode, Craig is joined by Joseph Fishman, Professor of Law at Vanderbilt University School of Law and Professor at the Blair School of Music, as they discuss The White Stripes’ recent lawsuit against Donald Trump for the unauthorized use of their song “Seven Nation Army”. Craig & Joe will talk about copyright infringement, and the legalities behind the use of songs in campaigns.

Mentioned in This Episode:

Donald Trump Infringed ‘Electric Avenue’ By Using Song In Campaign Video, Judge Rules

THE FTC, Noncompete Ban, and the Recent Ruling

Ally Kvidt — Fri, 30 Aug 2024 11:00:34 +0000

On April 23, 2024, the Federal Trade Commission issued a final rule to “ promote competition by banning noncompete agreements nationwide, protecting the fundamental freedom of workers to change jobs, increasing innovation, and fostering new business formation.” Noncompetes are agreements that prohibit workers from leaving their employers to join a competitor or start a rival business for a specific period of time.

However, the ban has been met with opposition. On August 14th, a federal judge in Florida ruled against the FTC’s proposed ban on most noncompete agreements. Back in July, a judge in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas temporarily blocked the FTC’s new rule. On August 20, 2024, U.S. District Judge Ada Brown found that the FTC lacked the statutory authority to issue the rule, set to go into effect on September 4th, 2024, blocking the rule nationwide.

In this episode, Craig is joined by Sandeep Vaheesan, the legal director at the Open Markets Institute, as they discuss the Federal Trade Commission’s ban of noncompete agreements. Craig & Sandeep look at the recent court rulings to block the FTC’s ban, the impact of the ban, and what this new ruling by Judge Brown means.

The 2024 Presidential Election: Policy, Party, or Personality

Ally Kvidt — Fri, 16 Aug 2024 11:00:39 +0000

Last month, President Biden announced that he would be dropping out of the 2024 presidential race, and endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris for the presidential nomination. The momentum shifted, creating an entirely new battlefield in the race for the presidency against former President Trump and his Vice President candidate, JD Vance.

Inflation. The economy. Women’s reproductive rights. Immigration. Education. These are just some of the policy & legal issues that we have covered over the years here on Lawyer 2Lawyer and will surely be on the minds of voters as they cast their ballot for president on November 5th, 2024.

In this episode, Craig is joined by Dr. Casey Burgat, an assistant professor and the director of the Legislative Affairs program at George Washington University’s Graduate School of Political Management, as they discuss the upcoming presidential election, the candidates, policy issues important to voters, and what we can expect on Election Day and beyond.

Mentioned in this episode:

We Hold These “Truths” Book

Mastering the Room Podcast

Governor Newsom’s Executive Order & the Impact on the Homeless

Ally Kvidt — Fri, 02 Aug 2024 11:00:11 +0000

On July 25, 2024, California Governor Gavin Newsom issued an executive order directing state officials to start removing homeless encampments across the state. This follows last month’s SCOTUS ruling in City of Grants Pass v. Johnson, where the high court ruled that they will allow cities to enforce bans on sleeping outside in public spaces. According to a 2023 homelessness assessment report to Congress from the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, California has the largest homeless population in the nation with more than 180,000 people out on the streets.

In this episode, Craig is joined by returning guest Gary Blasi, Professor of Law Emeritus at the UCLA School of Law, as they discuss Governor Newsom’s executive order for removal of homeless encampments in California. Craig & Gary discuss the order, the recent SCOTUS decision in City of Grants Pass v. Johnson, and the potential impact this could have on the homeless community.

Mentioned in this episode:

Governor Newsom’s Executive Order on Encampments

City of Grants Pass v. Johnson Scotus Ruling

The Legal Issues Surrounding Homelessness with Gary Blasi & Breanne Schuster on Lawyer2Lawyer

The Ten Commandments, Classrooms, & the Constitution

Ally Kvidt — Fri, 19 Jul 2024 15:00:25 +0000

The separation of church and state has always been a contentious topic in political circles. Now more than ever, we are seeing religion & our government collide in our classrooms and before our Supreme Court. On June 19, 2024, Louisiana governor Jeff Landry signed into law legislation requiring a poster-sized display of the Ten Commandments in “large, easily readable font” in all public classrooms, from kindergarten to state-funded universities.

In this episode, Craig is joined by Rebecca S. Markert, Vice President and Legal Director at Americans United for Separation of Church and State, as they discuss Louisiana’s Ten Commandments classroom law, the separation of church and state, and what this could mean for classrooms across the country.

Mentioned in this episode:

We Dissent Podcast

Justice Department Press Release on DOJ v. Live Nation-Ticketmaster Lawsuit

Revisiting Wrongfully Convicted: William Dillon and His Life in Prison

Ally Kvidt — Fri, 12 Jul 2024 11:00:03 +0000

While Craig is on vacation, we thought we’d bring back one of our favorite episodes from the Lawyer2Lawyer library so you can re-listen or be introduced for the first time if you’re a new subscriber. In this episode, Craig talks with William Dillon, a man who served 28 years of a life sentence for a murder he did not commit. William actually sings the music in one of our other shows on the Legal Talk Network called For the Innocent, where we talk to exonerees about their wrongful convictions.

Craig will be back soon with all new episodes of Lawyer2Lawyer. As we await his return, you can also get caught up on In Dispute, Craig’s new podcast, about 10 famous trials that changed history.

DOJ v. Live Nation-Ticketmaster

Ally Kvidt — Fri, 28 Jun 2024 11:00:46 +0000

According to a May 23rd U.S. Department of Justice press release, “the Justice Department, along with 30 state and district attorneys general, filed a civil antitrust lawsuit against Live Nation Entertainment Inc. and its wholly-owned subsidiary, Ticketmaster LLC (also known as Live Nation-Ticketmaster) for monopolization and other unlawful conduct that thwarts competition in markets across the live entertainment industry.” A high demand for tickets to Taylor Swift’s “Eras Tour” and a rise in ticket prices for a 2022 Bruce Springsteen concert, are just a few examples of how Live Nation-Ticketmaster’s actions angered consumers, and ultimately led the DOJ to step into action.

In this episode, Craig is joined by Lee Hepner, a California-based antitrust lawyer and Senior Legal Counsel for the American Economic Liberties Project, as they spotlight the Justice Department’s lawsuit against Live Nation-Ticketmaster. Craig & Lee will talk about the lawsuit, monopolies, antitrust law, and the potential impact this could have on the ticket sales giant and future ticket sales.

Mentioned in this episode:

Justice Department Press Release on DOJ v. Live Nation-Ticketmaster Lawsuit

Introducing: In Dispute: 10 Famous Trials That Changed History

Ally Kvidt — Wed, 19 Jun 2024 11:00:49 +0000

J. Craig Williams has a brand new show ‘In Dispute: 10 Famous Trials That Changed’ right here on Legal Talk Network! Join us as we take a journey through time to discover the most interesting and impactful court cases in world history. Go beyond the basic historical accounts recapped in law school textbooks and soak in every aspect of the trials with fascinating reenactments of actual conversations preserved through trial transcripts and court reporters. Then, receive an exclusive courtroom backstage pass to hear legal analysis and modern-day reflections from Seasoned Attorney J. Craig Williams. Get ready to dive into the trials of the Salem witches, Chicago Black Sox, OJ Simpson, McMartin preschool childcare providers, and more! The first episode ‘Salem Witch Trials: How The Hysteria Went Terribly Awry’ is available to listen to now.

LINKS:

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Purchase the e-book
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SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR VOICE ACTORS:

Meghan Steenburgh as News Reporter
Daniel Rover Singer as William Jennings Bryan
Scott Well as Clarence Darrow

The Hush Money Conviction & Sentencing Trump

Ally Kvidt — Fri, 07 Jun 2024 14:15:58 +0000

On May 31, 2024, a New York jury found former president Donald J. Trump guilty on all 34 counts in his highly watched hush money trial. He will be sentenced on July 11th by Judge Juan Merchan. Since the verdict, the former president has lashed out at the verdict and even turned to the Supreme of the Court of the United States, asking them to throw out his conviction. This is the first-ever criminal trial of a former U.S. president, and the first criminal conviction of a former president.

So will former President Trump see jail time? And how will this verdict influence voters as they place their ballot for president of the United States come November? In this episode, Craig is joined by Bennett L. Gershman, professor of law from Pace University’s Elisabeth Haub School of Law, as they discuss former President Trump’s hush money conviction, sentencing, and how a felony conviction of a former president may impact the presidency.

Civil Forfeiture in Culley v. Marshall

Ally Kvidt — Fri, 24 May 2024 11:00:10 +0000

Under the 14th Amendment, “No state shall…deprive any person of…property, without due process of law.” This principle was at the heart of the matter of the 2023 Supreme Court case of Culley v. Marshall, in which two women had respectively loaned their cars to others only to have the cars seized under an Alabama civil forfeiture law following each lendee’s arrest for drug offenses. The petitioners claimed that, absent a preliminary hearing, their 14th Amendment rights had been violated. Justice Kavanagh wrote for the majority stating that “In civil forfeiture cases, the Due Process Clause requires a timely forfeiture hearing, but does not require a separate preliminary hearing.”

In this episode, Craig is joined by Attorney Kirby Thomas West from the Institute for Justice to discuss the recent SCOTUS decision in Culley v. Marshall. Craig & Kirby spotlight civil forfeiture and the potential impact of this ruling.

The Reclassification of Marijuana

Ally Kvidt — Fri, 10 May 2024 11:00:51 +0000

In April of 2024, the United States Drug Enforcement Agency recently announced that they are proceeding with reclassifying marijuana as a less dangerous drug. The Justice Department proposal would move marijuana from the “Schedule I” group which includes heroin, LSD, quaaludes and ecstasy to “Schedule III” which includes ketamine and some anabolic steroids.

In this episode, Craig is joined by professor Robert Mikos from Vanderbilt University Law School to discuss the proposed reclassification of marijuana. Craig & Rob take a look at the history of the war on drugs, cannabis law, and what constitutional right an individual has when it comes to drug use.

The Importance of Jury Selection in Trump’s Criminal Cases

Ally Kvidt — Fri, 26 Apr 2024 13:35:25 +0000

One of former President Trump’s criminal cases, the hush money trial, is currently underway in a New York City courtroom. Jury selection for this case was a lengthy and controversial process which included Trump’s lawyers scrutinizing potential jurors’ social media, Judge Merchan giving Trump a warning for reacting to a potential juror in court, and the dismissal of one seated juror due to their concerns over the intense media coverage of the trial.

In this episode, Craig is joined by Betty L. Dunkum, Esq., Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Victory Trial Consulting, as they spotlight jury selection. Craig & Betty discuss the process, strategy, and what attorneys should look for in a juror.

The Baltimore Bridge Collapse: Admiralty Law, Liability, & Litigation

Ally Kvidt — Fri, 12 Apr 2024 11:00:10 +0000

In the early morning hours of March 26, 2024, Baltimore’s Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed after a Singapore-based cargo ship named the Dali, lost power and hit the bridge’s pillar. According to officials, eight people were on the bridge that morning when it fell: two were rescued, two bodies were recovered, and four are presumed dead. Crew members on the Dali were all safe.

In this episode, Craig is joined by LSU law professor and LSU President Emeritus, Tom Galligan, as they spotlight the Baltimore bridge collapse. Craig & Tom explore the incident through the lens of admiralty law, liability, litigation, impact, and how to prevent future disasters involving vessels.

Trump & His Appeal Bond

Ally Kvidt — Fri, 29 Mar 2024 11:00:10 +0000

In a ruling on Monday, March 25th, 2024,the New York appeals court gave Trump a major victory, cutting the bond needed in his civil fraud case from $464 million to $175 million, and also affording him an extra 10 days to find the money.

In this episode, Craig is joined by Will Thomas, Assistant Professor of Business Law at the Stephen M. Ross School of Business at the University of Michigan, as they discuss former president Trump’s current legal and financial issues. Craig & Will take a look at this recent ruling on the $464 million judgment, specifics on the inability to secure a bond, and what next steps will be taken to retrieve payment from Trump.

Women’s History Month, Policy Issues, and Fighting for Gender Justice

Ally Kvidt — Fri, 15 Mar 2024 11:00:13 +0000

March is Women’s History Month where we celebrate the contributions women have made to the United States throughout American history in a variety of fields. Charlotte E. Ray. Belva Lockwood. Sandra Day O’Connor. Ruth Bader Ginsberg. These are just some of the standout women who have shaped our legal history and fought for women and girls across the nation.

Unfortunately, in recent years women’s rights have come under attack. With SCOTUS’ overturning of Roe v. Wade, and many other policy issues like equal pay, Title IX, childcare, taxes, and equity in education, women continue to fight for their individual rights.

In this episode, Craig is joined by Amy Royce, Senior Counsel for Income Security for the National Women’s Law Center, as they will spotlight Women’s History Month by discussing the current policy issues involving women, highlighting the intersection of gender justice and tax policy. We will also take a look back at women throughout history who have paved the way, and what women across the nation can do to rise up against legislation and fight for their rights.

The Presidential Election & Saving our Democracy

Ally Kvidt — Fri, 01 Mar 2024 12:00:31 +0000

On November 5th, 2024, people across the nation will head to the polls and cast their vote for president of the United States. It is looking more and more like another battle between President Joe Biden & former President Donald Trump with policy and rhetoric indicating an even more divided nation than in the prior election. With policy issues like immigration, abortion, IVF, guns, employment, and the economy taking center stage in this race, this election could once again be a controversial one.

So, with a nation divided, can our democracy be saved? In this episode, Craig is joined by attorney David Pepper, as they discuss the upcoming presidential election, the state of democracy in the U.S., the current policy issues that could impact the election, and how we can save our democracy.

Mentioned in this episode:

Saving Democracy: A User’s Manual

Laboratories of Autocracy: A Wake-Up Call from Behind the Lines

Inside Trump’s Criminal Cases

Ally Kvidt — Fri, 16 Feb 2024 15:15:59 +0000

For the past two episodes of Lawyer2Lawyer, we have covered SCOTUS cases that have included ballot access and immunity with former President Trump at the forefront of these cases. Trump has also been charged in four criminal cases.

In this episode, Craig is joined by professor Tamara R. Lave, from the University of Miami, as they spotlight these upcoming criminal cases of Trump, whether these cases will go to trial before the presidential election, and possible punishment.

Mentioned in this episode:

Tracking the Trump Criminal Cases (Politico)

SCOTUS 2024: Conflict at the Texas Border, Bump Stocks, the NRA & Free Speech

Ally Kvidt — Fri, 02 Feb 2024 12:00:54 +0000

In our last episode, we discussed administrative law, abortion, guns, presidential immunity & ballot access— just some of the upcoming cases that will come before the High Court in 2024.

In this episode, we continue our conversation with Professor Steven D. Schwinn and spotlight some of the remaining standout SCOTUS cases on the docket. Additionally, we discuss a developing conflict at the Texas border with Mexico, where the State is openly defying a recent SCOTUS ruling.

SCOTUS 2024: Administrative Law, Abortion, Guns, Presidential Immunity, & Ballot Access

Ally Kvidt — Fri, 19 Jan 2024 12:00:35 +0000

Administrative law, abortion, guns, presidential immunity, & ballot access. These are just some of the upcoming cases that will come before the High Court in 2024. How will the justices rule? And how could their rulings change the course of our legal system for years to come?

In this episode, host Craig Williams joins returning guest Steven D. Schwinn from the University of Illinois Chicago School of Law, as they spotlight the standout SCOTUS cases of 2024 and the potential impact.

Lawyer2Lawyer Spotlight: The NextGen Bar Exam

Ally Kvidt — Fri, 05 Jan 2024 12:00:01 +0000

The first bar examination in the United States was administered in oral form in the Delaware Colony in 1783, and in 1885, Massachusetts became the first state to employ a written version of the bar exam. Over time, the bar examination process has become more standardized, but there’s no one test. One example of a standardized test is the Uniform Bar Examination (UBE), created back in 2011, and first administered that year by Missouri and North Dakota.

So what is NEXT in standardized tests? According to the National Conference of Bar Examiners’ website, the NextGen Bar Exam, set to debut in July 0f 2026, will “test a broad range of foundational lawyering skills, utilizing a focused set of clearly identified fundamental legal concepts and principles needed in today’s practice of law.”

Will the transition from a standardized test like UBE to NextGen be an easy one? And what can law students & faculty expect? In this episode, host Craig Williams is joined by guest Dennis C. Prieto, an Associate Professor and Reference Librarian at Rutgers Law School, who served on the National Conference of Bar Examiners’ NextGen Content Scope Committee and is a member of the NextGen Tasks and Rubrics Advisory Committee. Craig & Dennis explore the specifics of the exam, how law students and faculty can transition to preparing for the new exam, and what students can expect from the exam in 2026.

Mentioned in this episode:

NextGen Bar Exam

From My Perspective: Essays on the NextGen Bar Exam and Legal Education By Dennis C. Prieto, Susan Landrum, Timothy J. McFarlin, and Wanda M. Temm

Correction: In the podcast, Professor Prieto mentioned ‘NCBE member Beth Kennedy,’ but the correct name is Beth Donohue. We apologize for any confusion and appreciate your understanding.

Rhetoric, Hate Speech, Free Speech, Section 3 of the 14th, & an Insurrection

Ally Kvidt — Fri, 22 Dec 2023 12:00:38 +0000

Did former President Trump’s rhetoric lead to an insurrection on January 6th, 2021? A court in Colorado has said it did. So, what constitutes rhetoric? And how powerful are words?

In this episode, host Craig Williams is joined by guest Dr. Pete Simi, Professor of Sociology at Chapman University, to discuss the impact of rhetoric. Craig & Pete take a look at former President Trump’s history of violent rhetoric, free speech and hate speech, and how extreme rhetoric can lead to political violence.

The Political, Environmental, and Social Impact on U.S. Life Expectancy

Ally Kvidt — Fri, 08 Dec 2023 12:00:53 +0000

Last month, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), released a report on U.S. life expectancy. Keren Landman, senior reporter from Vox, wrote an excellent piece on this report, detailing the takeaways including the impact of COVID 19, the rise of infant mortality, and how the States compared to other countries on life expectancy.

In this episode, host Craig Williams is joined by guest Michael Ulrich, Assistant Professor of Health Law, Ethics, & Human Rights at Boston University’s School of Public Health and School of Law, to discuss the recent CDC Report on U.S. life expectancy. Craig & Michael explore the possible legal implications of this report, and the political, environmental, and social influence on U.S. life expectancy.

Environmental Law Series: The Marine Protection, Research and Sanctuaries Act & our Oceans

Ally Kvidt — Fri, 24 Nov 2023 12:00:04 +0000

As we near the end of our environmental law series, we turn to our beloved oceans. The Marine Protection, Research and Sanctuaries Act of 1972 also known as MPRSA, is one of several key environmental laws passed by the US Congress in 1972. The Act regulates the disposition of any material into ocean waters, unless expressly excluded under the MPRSA.

In this episode of our Environmental Law series, host Craig Williams is joined by Professor Robin Craig, the Robert C. Packard Trustee Chair in Law from USC Gould School of Law, as they discuss MPRSA, its origin & history, purpose, and impact.

Inside Art Law: Art Restitution, Stolen Art, & AI

Ally Kvidt — Fri, 10 Nov 2023 12:00:06 +0000

According to the Georgetown Law Library, Art Law can be defined as “the body of law, involving numerous disciplines, that protects, regulates and facilitates the creation, use and marketing of art. Those involved in the practice of art law look to a variety of disciplines, such as intellectual property, contract, constitutional, tort, tax, commercial and international law to protect the interests of their clients.”

In this episode, host Craig Williams is joined by guests, attorneys Gabrielle C. Wilson & Yaél M. Weitz from Kaye Spiegler, as they spotlight art law. They will discuss the emerging trend of colonial art restitution, stolen and misappropriated art, and how AI has impacted art and copyright law.

Environmental Law Series: Sackett v. EPA, Water, & Wetlands

Ally Kvidt — Fri, 27 Oct 2023 11:00:25 +0000

In this episode of our Environmental Law series, host Craig Williams is joined by Professor Jody Freeman, the Archibald Cox Professor at Harvard Law School and a leading expert on administrative law and environmental law. Jody & Craig spotlight SCOTUS’ Sackett v. EPA ruling, and its impact on the EPA’s powers, Clean Water Act protections, and the regulation of wetlands.

Sexual Exploitation Laws & Child Victims

Ally Kvidt — Fri, 13 Oct 2023 11:00:11 +0000

In a recent incident in Columbus, Ohio, an 11 year old girl was manipulated into sending explicit photos to an adult. After law enforcement was called by the girl’s father, a police officer told the father his daughter could face child porn charges for her actions.

So how do we protect our children who are victims of these kinds of crimes? And what needs to change within our laws? In this episode, host Craig Williams is joined by guest attorney Riya Saha Shah, Senior Managing Director of Juvenile Law Center, to explore the misuse of sexual exploitation laws against child victims, advocating for children’s rights, and what needs to change within our legal system and inside our police departments.

Environmental Law Series: Part Two: NEPA & CEQA: Courts, City Councils, Environmental Consequences, & Filing Lawsuits

Ally Kvidt — Fri, 29 Sep 2023 11:00:53 +0000

In this episode of our Environmental Law series, host Craig Williams is once again joined by Alisha M. Winterswyk, an attorney from Best Best & Krieger, LLP, as they continue their discussion on NEPA & CEQA. The conversation moves into the specifics of how courts deal with decisions by city councils that dealing with environmental consequences, and on the other side, how citizens deal with this whole process by filing lawsuits.

Trump vs. the Constitution: Exploring Section 3 of the 14th Amendment

Ally Kvidt — Fri, 01 Sep 2023 11:00:14 +0000

With primaries set to start in spring of 2024, an upcoming presidential election, and a number of federal & state indictments against former President Trump, including the January 6th indictment, section 3 of the 14th amendment has taken center stage. It reads “no person who has taken an oath as an officer of the United States can hold office if they “have engaged in insurrection or rebellion against the same, or given aid or comfort to the enemies thereof”. So, will Section 3 of the 14th Amendment actually impact the presidential election and eliminate Donald Trump from the running?

In this episode, host Craig Williams is joined by guest Ron Fein, the Legal Director for Free Speech For People. as they spotlight Section 3 and what this could mean for the upcoming presidential election.

Defending Against Domestic Violent Extremism: A Discussion with Brian Michael Jenkins

Ally Kvidt — Fri, 18 Aug 2023 11:00:43 +0000

While Craig is away on a well-deserved vacation, we wanted to do things a little bit differently, and share with you one of our favorite episodes from the Chicago Bar Association’s @the Bar podcast. This episode is Defending Against Domestic Violent Extremism: A Discussion with Brian Michael Jenkins. We hope you enjoy it!

In this episode, host Jonathan Amarilio speaks with one of the world’s leading authorities on terrorism and the man famously known for predicting 9/11, Brian Michael Jenkins of the RAND Corporation. They discuss Mr. Jenkins’ historical work as an advisor to many U.S. Presidents and governments on terrorism, as well as the current state of domestic political violence and terrorism in America. In this riveting discussion, Mr. Jenkins shares his advice for how we can develop a pragmatic strategy to combat the rising tide of violence in today’s tumultuous world.

Environmental Law Series: The National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and The California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA)

Ally Kvidt — Fri, 04 Aug 2023 14:30:41 +0000

In this episode of our Environmental Law series, host Craig Williams is joined by Alisha M. Winterswyk, an attorney from Best Best & Krieger, LLP, as they spotlight NEPA and CEQA, their impact, and purpose.

2023 End-of-Term SCOTUS Rulings & Long-Term Impact

Ally Kvidt — Fri, 21 Jul 2023 11:00:51 +0000

As SCOTUS wrapped in leadup to its annual summer recess, three controversial rulings, all with a 6-3 vote, created quite the stir: Biden v. Nebraska, Students for Fair Admissions, Inc. v. President & Fellows of Harvard College, and 303 Creative LLC v. Elenis.

So what sort of impact will these rulings have on society? In this episode, host Craig Williams is joined by guest Professor Steven D. Schwinn from the University of Illinois Chicago School of Law, as they spotlight the recent SCOTUS rulings regarding loan relief, affirmative action, & the website designer/first amendment ruling. Craig and Steve discuss SCOTUS, these rulings, and long-term impact of these decisions.

Environmental Law Series: The Clean Air Act

Ally Kvidt — Fri, 07 Jul 2023 11:00:11 +0000

The Clean Air Act also known as (CAA) is a comprehensive Federal law that regulates all sources of air emissions. The 1970 CAA authorized the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to establish National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) to protect public health and the environment.

In this episode of our Environmental Law series, host Craig Williams is joined by Trish McCubbin, a retired Professor of Environmental Law at the Southern Illinois University School of Law, as they spotlight CAA, its impact, progress, and how we as a society can reduce air pollution.

Police Decertification & SB 2

Ally Kvidt — Fri, 23 Jun 2023 11:00:09 +0000

On September 30, 2021, California Governor Gavin Newsom signed Senate Bill 2 (SB 2), also known as the Kenneth Ross, Jr. Police Decertification Act of 2021, establishing a statewide system to decertify or suspend officers who have committed serious misconduct.

So what constitutes police misconduct? And how is SB 2 shaping police departments? In this episode, host Craig Williams is joined by guest Marshal Arnwine, Jr., an Advocate for the Criminal Justice Program at the ACLU of Northern California. Craig and Marshal discuss SB 2, decertification due to police misconduct, transparency in police departments, and the impact on states’ decertification/revocation laws.

Environmental Law Series: The Endangered Species Act (ESA)

Ally Kvidt — Fri, 09 Jun 2023 11:00:08 +0000

The Endangered Species Act of 1973 (ESA) provided a framework to conserve and protect endangered and threatened species and their habitats both domestically and abroad. According to the Center for Progressive Reform, at an April 2023 hearing of the Water, Wildlife and Fisheries Subcommittee of the House Natural Resources Committee, the conservative majority pushed no less than three Congressional Review Act (CRA) resolutions aimed at blocking ESA protections.

In this episode of our Environmental Law series, host Craig Williams is joined by professor of environmental law, Robert L. Fischman from the Indiana University Maurer School of Law, as they spotlight ESA, its impact, and ESA reform.

Voting Rights & Gerrymandering

Ally Kvidt — Fri, 26 May 2023 11:00:25 +0000

According to the League of Women Voters, “Voting is a fundamental principle, and all Americans deserve the equal opportunity to make their voices heard in our democracy.” Yet over the years, various states have suppressed voters from reaching the ballot box through various methods like strict ID laws, purging voter rolls, and cutting early voting.

Gerrymandering, defined as “to manipulate the boundaries of (an electoral constituency) so as to favor one party or class” has taken center stage when it comes to voting in elections. Just recently, SCOTUS decided to take up a South Carolina racial gerrymandering case, a lower court decision that struck down a congressional district in South Carolina as an illegal racial gerrymander. This case will be heard by SCOTUS next term.

In this episode, host Craig Williams joins guest, professor Ruth Greenwood, Director of the Election Law Clinic at Harvard Law School. Craig and Ruth discuss election law, voting rights, gerrymandering, and SCOTUS and the South Carolina racial gerrymandering case.

Environmental Law Series: The Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA)

Ally Kvidt — Fri, 12 May 2023 11:00:19 +0000

According to the EPA, “The Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 — otherwise known as CERCLA or Superfund — provides a Federal “Superfund” to clean up uncontrolled or abandoned hazardous-waste sites as well as accidents, spills, and other emergency releases of pollutants and contaminants into the environment. Through CERCLA, the EPA was given power to seek out those parties responsible for any release and assure their cooperation in the cleanup.”

In this episode of our Environmental Law series, host Craig william joins Professor of environmental law at the Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University, Katrina F. Kuh, as they spotlight CERCLA and discuss the origin and history, purpose, and impact.

Justice Clarence Thomas, Judicial Ethics, & Calls for Reform

Ally Kvidt — Fri, 28 Apr 2023 14:00:47 +0000

On April 6th, 2023, ProPublica released a report titled, Clarence Thomas and the Billionaire, detailing Justice Clarence Thomas’ failure to report years of lavish trips paid for by Republican billionaire Harlan Crow. Justice Thomas’ actions led U.S. Senate Majority Whip and Chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee, Dick Durbin and other Senate Judiciary Committee Democratic members to send a letter to Chief Justice Roberts inviting him to appear before the Senate Judiciary Committee to testify at a public hearing regarding Supreme Court ethics reform. Chief Justice Roberts declined the invitation to appear.

So are we looking at major judicial ethics violations here at the hands of a Supreme Court Justice? Or was Justice Thomas simply complying with established norms?In this episode, host Craig Williams joins guest Dean James J. Alfini, professor of law from South Texas College of Law Houston, to spotlight Justice Clarence Thomas, his recent ethics scandal, judicial ethics, the potential investigation into his actions, and calls for new ethics rules for SCOTUS.

Environmental Law Series: The Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA)

Legal Talk Network — Fri, 14 Apr 2023 15:00:28 +0000

Back on Oct. 21, 1976, President Gerald Ford signed the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) into law, highlighting that this law “provides sound state and local programs to deal with ever increasing amounts of municipal solid wastes generated in this country.” In this episode of our Environmental Law series, we spotlight the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act better known as RCRA. We discuss regulations, goals, importance, impact, and how far we have come.

AI & the Law

Legal Talk Network — Fri, 31 Mar 2023 11:00:27 +0000

Artificial Intelligence has become one of the most discussed topics of our day. With the introduction of sophisticated chatbots like OpenAIs ChatGPT 3.5 and ChatGPT 4, many have predicted that we’re on the verge of a revolution in terms of how many industries operate, including the legal industry.

So what do firms and attorneys need to do to stay ahead of the incoming AI wave? In this episode, host Craig Williams joins guest John Villasenor, professor of electrical engineering, law, public policy, and management at UCLA, to discuss AI and the law, the impact, and what the future holds for the profession under this new AI revolution.

Environmental Law Series: NEPA, Wetlands Protection, & Habitat Conservation Plans

Legal Talk Network — Fri, 17 Mar 2023 11:00:22 +0000

This year, we have created a new Environmental Law series on Lawyer 2 Lawyer, where wewill cover cradle to grave treatment of chemicals and our laws on environmental biology.

In this episode, host Craig Williams joins Mark Squillace from the University of Colorado Law School, to discuss the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), wetlands protection, and habitat conservation plans.

The East Palestine, Ohio Train Derailment: Transporting Chemicals & the Environment

Legal Talk Network — Fri, 03 Mar 2023 12:00:17 +0000

On February 3, 2023, a Norfolk Southern freight train carrying hazardous materials derailed in East Palestine, Ohio starting a fire which spewed toxic fumes into the air, driving surrounding residents out of their homes. Since then, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency issued a legally binding notice ordering Norfolk Southern to handle and pay for all necessary cleanup after this freight train derailment led to an intentional release of vinyl chloride.

So what could be the long-term impact on residents? What about the air, soil, and water? And what needs to change in our laws to prevent another environmental disaster like this from happening again on our railroads? In this episode, host Craig Williams joins guest David Raack to discuss the train derailment in East Palestine, Ohio and the potential environmental legal issues that could stem from this disaster.

Environmental Law Series: Pollution, Clean Water & Clean Air

Legal Talk Network — Fri, 17 Feb 2023 15:30:22 +0000

This year, we have created a new Environmental Law series on Lawyer 2 Lawyer, where we will cover cradle to grave treatment of chemicals and our laws on environmental biology.

In this episode, host Craig Williams joins LeRoy (Lee) C. Paddock, former associate dean for environmental law studies at George Washington University Law School, as they discuss the Pollution Prevention Act, the Clean Water Act, & the Clean Air Act, their intended impact on our environment, and a look ahead to future legislation.

Attorney Misconduct & Discipline

Legal Talk Network — Wed, 08 Feb 2023 16:30:14 +0000

Rule 8.4 of the Model Rules of Professional Conduct, dealing with Misconduct, is subtitled with the phrase “Maintaining the Integrity of the Profession”. When attorneys engage in unethical behavior, it is believed that their actions harm the industry. As such, disciplinary procedures are a key feature to maintaining the legitimacy of not only the profession, but the legal system as a whole. Usually, attorney disciplinary matters don’t enter the broader public discourse, but, in the wake of the 2020 presidential election, we have seen an increase in high-profile attorney disciplinary matters.

Attorneys like Rudy Giuliani and John Charles Eastman, and the disciplinary charges brought against them in DC and California respectively, have been featured prominently in the news of late, and so it’s time we turn our attention to the issue of attorney misconduct and discipline.

In this episode, host Craig Williams joins guest Leslie C. Levin, professor of law at University of Connecticut School of Law to take an overall look at prominent attorneys who have come under fire for their violation of the rule of law, measures taken to regulate attorney’s actions, and the consequences that could stem from their actions.

Environmental Law Series: Inside The Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA)

Legal Talk Network — Fri, 20 Jan 2023 12:00:32 +0000

This year, we have created a new Environmental Law series on Lawyer 2 Lawyer, where we will cover cradle to grave treatment of chemicals and our laws on environmental biology.

In our first episode, we will spotlight the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) which addresses the manufacturing, processing, distribution, use, and disposal of commercial and industrial chemicals.

Host Craig Williams is joined by Managing Partner of Bergeson & Campbell, P.C, Lynn L. Bergeson who will give us an overview of the Toxic Substances Control Act, its history, impact, and the forecast for U.S. federal and international chemical regulatory policy.

Ethics, Congress, SCOTUS, & the Executive Branch

Legal Talk Network — Fri, 06 Jan 2023 18:20:16 +0000

As part of his bid to secure the position of Speaker of the House, House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy has made a series of proposals in an effort to garner party support. One notable proposal calls for the gutting of the Office of Congressional Ethics, an independent, non-partisan entity created in 2008 and tasked with reviewing allegations of misconduct against members, officers, and staff of the US House of Representatives.

In light of recent pressure to investigate some House Republicans in regards to January 6th, as well as recent high-profile allegations against incoming congressman George Santos, ethics has taken center stage. In this episode, host Craig Williams joins guest Richard W. Painter, former Chief White House ethics lawyer and the S. Walter Richey Professor of Corporate Law at University of Minnesota Law School, as they spotlight ethics and its role within Congress, SCOTUS, and the Executive branch.

SCOTUS & Originalism

Legal Talk Network — Fri, 23 Dec 2022 12:00:16 +0000

Originalism is a type of judicial interpretation of a constitution (especially the U.S. Constitution) that aims to follow how it would have been understood or was intended to be understood at the time it was written. With the addition of Justice Amy Coney Barrett to the High Court, there are now 4 avowed originalists on the Supreme Court including: Justices Thomas, Gorsuch, and Kavanaugh.

Originalism has been cited in recent landmark decisions including Dobbs & Bruen, but are these justices abiding by the true definition of the word? Are they truly originalists? Or are they picking and choosing their history based on their ideology?

In this episode, host Craig Williams joins guest David H. Gans, Director of the Human Rights, Civil Rights & Citizenship Program at the Constitutional Accountability Center to discuss SCOTUS’ move toward originalism, the impact, and the conflict between Justice Thomas’ and Justice Jackson’s views.

The Life of a Lawyer, Start to Finish: The Aging Lawyer & Exiting Gracefully

Legal Talk Network — Fri, 09 Dec 2022 18:00:04 +0000

On the last episode of our The Life of a Lawyer Start to Finish series, we discussed Retirement with Ida Abbott. In this episode, we move on to the final rung of the ladder: The Aging Lawyer: Exiting Gracefully.

Host Craig Williams is joined by Tish Vincent, LMSW, Esq., Chair of the ABA Commission on Lawyers Assistance Programs, as they spotlight the aging lawyer. Craig & Tish discuss senior lawyers, possible warning signs of cognitive decline to look out for if a co-worker is suffering, how to approach, and where to go for help if you or a colleague are experiencing warning signs.

The Life of a Lawyer, Start to Finish: Retirement

Legal Talk Network — Fri, 25 Nov 2022 12:00:23 +0000

On the last episode of our The Life of a Lawyer Start to Finish series, we discussed Money Management for Lawyers with L.J. Jones. In this episode, we move on to the next rung of the ladder: Retirement.

Host Craig Williams is joined byIda O. Abbot, founder of Ida Abbott Consulting, as they tackle retirement. Ida & Craig take a look at when to start thinking about retiring as a lawyer, steps attorneys can take to prepare for retirement, and ultimately life post-retirement.

Water Law: Droughts, Climate Change, & Policy

Legal Talk Network — Fri, 11 Nov 2022 12:00:53 +0000

Water is our most precious resource, but water, statewide and worldwide, is becoming scarce. According to the World Health Organization, an estimated 55 million people globally are affected by droughts every year, and water shortages are the most serious hazard to livestock and crops in nearly every part of the world. By 2025, two-thirds of the world’s population may face water shortages, and by 2030, as many as 700 million people are expected to be at-risk of being displaced.

In this episode, host Craig Williams joins guest Rhett Larson, the Richard Morrison Professor of Water Law at Arizona State University’s Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law, as we spotlight water law. We discuss droughts, erratic climate events, and what is being done to eradicate these water centric issues through laws and policy.

The Life of a Lawyer, Start to Finish: Money Management for Lawyers

Legal Talk Network — Fri, 28 Oct 2022 14:00:10 +0000

On the last episode of our The Life of a Lawyer Start to Finish series, we discussed Lifelong Learning with attorney Kelli Proia. In this episode, we move on to the next rung of the ladder: Money Management.

Host Craig Williams is joined by L.J. Jones, CPA, founder of Developing Financial to discuss money management for lawyers. Craig & L.J. explore common money management problems, and how lawyers can take steps to manage their money inside and outside of the law firm.

The Legitimacy of SCOTUS

Legal Talk Network — Fri, 14 Oct 2022 11:00:46 +0000

Last month at a judicial conference in Colorado Springs, two judges from the Denver-based 10th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals interviewed Chief Justice John Roberts on all things SCOTUS, in which he decried attacks on the court’s legitimacy following the Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health ruling. Roberts said “If the court doesn’t retain its legitimate function of interpreting the constitution, I’m not sure who would take up that mantle. You don’t want the political branches telling you what the law is, and you don’t want public opinion to be the guide about what the appropriate decision is…”

In a later response to Roberts comments, Justice Elena Kagan declared “Judges create legitimacy problems for themselves when they don’t act like courts” and “when they instead stray into places that look like politics.”

So does the Supreme Court of the United States have a legitimacy problem? In this episode, host Craig Williams joins guest Douglas Keith, counsel in the Brennan Center’s Democracy Program, as they spotlight the legitimacy of the Supreme Court. Craig and Doug take a look at the public’s reaction to recent SCOTUS decisions, the justices reaction to a legitimacy problem in the High Court, and what the new term will bring.

The Life of a Lawyer, Start to Finish: Lifelong Learning

Legal Talk Network — Fri, 30 Sep 2022 11:00:31 +0000

On the last episode of our The Life of a Lawyer Start to Finish series, we discussed Hobbies & Travel with attorney Steven Lefkoff. In this episode, we move on to the next rung of the ladder: Lifelong Learning.

Host Craig Williams is joined by attorney, entrepreneur, and teacher Kelli J. Proia, founder of Lawducate. Craig and Kelli explore lifelong learning, discuss the importance of a continuous learning plan through education and training, the impact on career and personal growth, and the perks of being a lifelong learner.

The DOJ Investigation & the Special Master Ruling

Legal Talk Network — Fri, 16 Sep 2022 17:00:43 +0000

On September 5th, 2022, U.S. District Judge Aileen Cannon, a Trump appointed judge, granted Trump’s request for a special master to review records seized by the FBI during its search of former President Donald Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate, thus delaying the DOJ’s investigation into the alleged actions of the former president and blocking their review of seized documents. In response, on September 8th, the DOJ appealed Judge Cannon’s order, citing the delay of review could be a threat to our national security. On September 15th, Judge Cannon declined to lift any part of the order, and a special master was appointed to review documents from the Mar-a-Lago search.

So what is a special master? Is a special master appropriate in this situation? In this episode, host Craig Williams joins guest, Stanford Law professor David Alan Sklansky, faculty co-director at Stanford Criminal Justice Center, as they discuss this ruling, its potential impact, and the role of a special master.

The Life of a Lawyer, Start to Finish: Hobbies & Travel

Legal Talk Network — Fri, 02 Sep 2022 11:00:22 +0000

On the last episode of our The Life of a Lawyer Start to Finish series, we discussed work-life balance with Molly Ranns. In this episode, we move on to the next rung of the ladder: Hobbies & Travel.

Host Craig Williams is joined by Steven Lefkoff, a business litigation and general practice attorney and host of the popular podcast, Lawyers with Lives. Craig and Steven dig deeper into hobbies and traveling, and how these activities can materially improve your practice, client relationships, and peace of mind.

Classified Documents & the FBI Search of Mar-a-Lago

Legal Talk Network — Fri, 19 Aug 2022 11:05:47 +0000

On August 8th 2022, FBI agents entered the Mar-a-Lago residence of former President Trump in search of classified documents, allegedly taken from the White House. According to the search warrant, the FBI removed 11 sets of classified documents, including some documents that were marked as top secret and meant to be only available in special government facilities. So what does this mean for the former President?

On this episode, host Craig Williams joins guest, Jason R. Baron, Professor of the Practice at the University of Maryland’s College of Information Studies, to discuss the FBI’s recent search for classified documents at Mar-a-Lago. Craig and Jason take a look at the Presidential Records Act, the role of the National Archives and Records Administration, and the penalty for the mishandling of these White House records.

Mentioned in this episode:

Search and Seizure Warrant

The Life of a Lawyer, Start to Finish: Work-Life Balance

Legal Talk Network — Fri, 05 Aug 2022 16:06:58 +0000

On the last episode of our The Life of a Lawyer Start to Finish series, we discussed The Business of Law with Attorney Christopher T. Anderson. In this episode, we move on to the next rung of the ladder: Work-Life Balance.

Host Craig Williams is joined by program director for the Lawyers and Judges Assistance Program at the State Bar of Michigan, and co-host of the State Bar of Michigan: On Balance Podcast, Molly Ranns.

Craig and Molly discuss the well-being of an attorney, addressing a lawyer’s workload, the stress of the profession, and how a lawyer can balance their personal and professional life.

Mentioned in this episode:

The State Bar of Michigan: On Balance Podcast

SCOTUS, Dobbs, & the Fate of the 4th

Legal Talk Network — Wed, 27 Jul 2022 11:01:26 +0000

With a ruling as momentous as we’ve seen in the recent Dobbs decision, one episode is just not enough to cover the extent of its significance. On our last episode with Cary Franklin, we discussed the ramifications of Dobbs in the context of abortion.

On this episode, host Craig Williams joins guest, criminal defense attorney Jon May, to discuss his recent article, Justice Alito’s Opinion on Abortion: Not Just the End of Reproductive Rights, But the Downfall of Fundamental Civil Liberties Guaranteed by the Fourth Amendment to All Americans. Jon and Craig look beyond the matter of abortion, and explore the possible wider impacts of Dobbs, specifically as to the civil liberties guaranteed by the Fourth Amendment.

SCOTUS & the Overturning of Roe v. Wade

Legal Talk Network — Fri, 08 Jul 2022 11:00:04 +0000

On May 13th, 2022, we released an episode entitled SCOTUS & the Future of Roe v. Wade. At that time, a leaked draft opinion in the matter of Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization indicated that the Court was preparing to overturn Roe. Our guest on that episode, Cary Franklin, spoke about the impact of the leak, the constitutional right to abortion, the role of stare decisis, and the anticipated impacts of overruling Roe v. Wade.

On Friday, June 24th, 2022, that leaked opinion became a reality. The U.S. Supreme Court officially reversed the half-century old precedent of Roe v. Wade, declaring that abortion is no longer a right guaranteed by the Constitution. Host Craig Williams joins returning guest, Cary Franklin, Professor of Law at UCLA School of Law, to discuss SCOTUS’ recent ruling on abortion and the potential impact this could have on the nation, as well as the ramifications for our highest court; specifically, its politics, its approval rating, and its trajectory.

Inside the January 6th Hearings

Legal Talk Network — Fri, 24 Jun 2022 11:00:03 +0000

The January 6th hearings, a series of five scheduled hearings investigating the January 6th insurrection at the U.S. Capitol, by the United States House Select Committee, is currently underway. So, what will these hearings uncover?

Host Craig Williams is joined by William C. Banks, law professor and an expert in constitutional law, national security law, and counterterrorism law, to discuss the January 6th hearings. Craig and Bill take a look at the purpose, goals of the January 6th Select Committee, potential criminal referrals to the DOJ by the committee, and whether there could be possible criminal prosecution due to the information revealed in these hearings.

The Life of a Lawyer, Start to Finish: The Business of Law

Legal Talk Network — Fri, 10 Jun 2022 11:00:13 +0000

On the last episode of our The Life of a Lawyer Start to Finish series, we discussed Reprogramming a Lawyer’s Brain. In this episode, we move on to the next logical step: The Business of Law.

Host Craig Williams is joined by attorney and law firm management consultant, and host of The Un-Billable Hour, Christopher T. Anderson from AndersonDodson, P.C..

Craig and Christopher discuss what goes into setting up a law firm, building a client base and positioning yourself to become a partner with a successful book of business, and ultimately how to become successful in the practice of law or however you’ve chosen to use your law degree.

Revisiting Roberts’ Rocky Road

Legal Talk Network — Fri, 27 May 2022 11:01:07 +0000

In light of recent developments at the U.S. Supreme Court, we’ve decided to offer a revisit to a classic episode of Lawyer 2 Lawyer— in fact, the very first episode of this show. Nearly 17 years ago, when this show began, many things were different. For one, this show wasn’t even called Lawyer 2 Lawyer; it was Coast to Coast.

Our first episode, entitled Roberts’ Rocky Road, discussed the nomination to the U.S. Supreme Court of John Roberts, then a DC Circuit Appeals Court Judge, now Chief Justice. Even then as now, a great deal of attention was focused on the possible overturning of Roe v. Wade. But as we approach that likely reality with the Dobbs case, and as we see more and more attention focused on both the legitimacy of the Supreme Court and the role of its Chief Justice, we here at Lawyer 2 Lawyer want to re-share this conversation from our archives to provide you a glimpse into the talking points surrounding his nomination in 2005.

SCOTUS & the Future of Roe v. Wade

Legal Talk Network — Fri, 13 May 2022 16:25:41 +0000

It has been nearly fifty years since the US Supreme Court’s ruling in Roe v. Wade established that the Constitution protects a woman’s liberty to choose to have an abortion. But in the last two weeks, the issue has once again become the center of nationwide controversy as a leaked draft opinion in the matter of Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization indicates the Court is prepared to overturn Roe.

While questions remain as to how closely the final ruling will track the draft opinion, the public has wasted no time in expressing its anger, with those advocating for abortion staging protests and demonstrations, and those advocating against taking issue with the leak itself.

On this episode of Lawyer 2 Lawyer, host Craig Williams is joined by professor Cary Franklin, Professor of Law at UCLA School of Law, to discuss this recent leak of a draft Supreme Court opinion that would overturn abortion rights, the constitutional right to abortion, the role of stare decisis, and the impact this will have if Roe v. Wade is overruled.

Special thanks to our sponsors, Posh Virtual Receptionists and Embroker.

The Life of a Lawyer, Start to Finish: Reprogramming a Lawyer’s Brain

Legal Talk Network — Fri, 29 Apr 2022 10:00:37 +0000

On the last episode of our The Life of a Lawyer Start to Finish series, we discussed How to Find a Job After Law School. In this episode, we move on to the next logical step: Reprogramming a Lawyer’s Brain.

Host Craig Williams is joined by Debra S. Austin, JD, PhD, Professor of the Practice of Law at the University of Denver Sturm College of Law. Craig and Debra discuss the impact law school and a heavy law practice have on a lawyer, how to manage the everyday stresses of the legal profession, and how to ultimately improve overall well-being.

Special thanks to our sponsors, Posh Virtual Receptionists and Embroker.

War Crimes

Legal Talk Network — Fri, 15 Apr 2022 16:40:27 +0000

A war crime is defined as a violation of the laws or customs of war as established by international customary law and treaties.

On February 24, 2022, Russia invaded Ukraine, pushing for control in the east and south of Ukraine. Days later, on February 28th, Karim Khan,the International Criminal Court’s chief prosecutor, said he had opened a war crimes investigation following this invasion. And on April 4th, President Biden called for “ the prosecution of Russian President Vladimir Putin for war crimes over the discovery in Bucha, Ukraine, of mass graves and bodies of bound civilians shot at close range.”

On this episode of Lawyer 2 Lawyer, host Craig Williams is joined by professor Jonathan Hafetz from Seton Hall Law, to discuss the Russia/Ukraine war, what constitutes a war crime, and the potential war crime charges against Putin and his associates.

Special thanks to our sponsor, Posh Virtual Receptionists.

The Life of a Lawyer, Start to Finish: How to Find a Job After Law School

Legal Talk Network — Fri, 01 Apr 2022 11:00:36 +0000

On the last episode of our The Life of a Lawyer Start to Finish series, we discussed How to Succeed in Law School. In this episode, we move on to the next logical step: How to Find a Job After Law School.

We’re pleased to be joined by someone who wrote the playbook on how to do just that! Host Craig Williams is joined by trial attorney Rachel Gezerseh, author of The Law Career Playbook: The Guerrilla Guide to Getting a Legal Job You Actually Like, which is the leading networking guide for law students and new lawyers.

Special thanks to our sponsor, Posh Virtual Receptionists.

The CIA and the Life of a Covert Warrior

Legal Talk Network — Fri, 18 Mar 2022 11:00:51 +0000

The Central Intelligence Agency, better known as the CIA, is the principal foreign intelligence and counterintelligence agency of the U.S. government. The CIA’s primary job is collecting and analyzing foreign intelligence and conducting covert action, and U.S. policymakers, including the President of the United States, make policy decisions based on the information provided by the CIA.

On this very special episode of Lawyer 2 Lawyer, host Craig Williams is joined by Ric Prado, a decorated hero and CIA shadow warrior, who spent years fighting to protect the nation and home that welcomed him as a child from a communist repression. Craig and Ric discuss Ric’s book, BLACK Ops: The Life of a CIA Shadow Warrior, what the CIA does, how our laws as a country apply, and how they apply in foreign situations.

Special thanks to our sponsor, Posh Virtual Receptionists.

The Life of a Lawyer, Start to Finish: How to Succeed in Law School

Legal Talk Network — Fri, 04 Mar 2022 20:50:25 +0000

As you may recall, we’re running a new series we call The Life of a Lawyer, Start to Finish, where we explore the experience of becoming and being an attorney, from applying to law schools through retirement and everything in between. On our last episode in this series, we discussed How to Get Into Law School with the Deans of Admissions from both Harvard & Yale Law.

In this episode, we move on to the next step and discuss “How to Succeed in Law School”, and we’re pleased to be joined by someone who wrote the book on how to do just that! Host Craig Williams is joined by attorney Isaac Mamaysky, author of Letter to a One L Friend: A Little Guide to Seeing the Big Picture and Succeeding in Law School, which helps students navigate the challenges of law school.

Special thanks to our sponsor, Posh Virtual Receptionists.

Affirmative Action in Higher Education

Legal Talk Network — Fri, 18 Feb 2022 12:00:26 +0000

Affirmative action has found its way to the Supreme Court. Last month, SCOTUS agreed to hear two cases brought by the Students for Fair Admissions: Students for Fair Admissions v. President & Fellows of Harvard College and Students for Fair Admissions v. University of North Carolina. These cases were reviewed by SCOTUS and because of their similarities, consolidated.

So what could these cases mean for the future of affirmative action? Host Craig Williams is joined by Rachel F. Moran, a Distinguished Professor of Law at UCI Law, to spotlight affirmative action in higher education. Craig and Rachel discuss the history and origins, the two cases set to go before SCOTUS, and the impact these SCOTUS’ decisions could have on college admissions and affirmative action.

Special thanks to our sponsor, Posh Virtual Receptionists.

The Life of a Lawyer, Start to Finish: How to Get into Law School

Legal Talk Network — Fri, 04 Feb 2022 12:00:27 +0000

As part of a new feature on Lawyer 2 Lawyer, we are releasing something a little different. While we will be maintaining our regular practice of providing you high-quality commentary on the biggest subjects in the law today, every other episode for the next few months, we’ll be running a series we call “The Life of a Lawyer, Start to Finish”. This series will explore the experience of becoming and being an attorney, from applying to law schools through retirement and everything in between. We’re excited to use this series to offer some great advice for lawyers at all stages of their careers.

In our first episode, we will start, logically enough, with “How to Get into Law School.” Host Craig Williams is joined by Miriam Ingber, Associate Dean of Admissions & Financial Aid at Yale Law School, and Kristi Jobson, Assistant Dean for Admissions and Chief Admissions Officer at Harvard Law School, to cover their popular podcast for future law students, Navigating Law School Admissions, the admissions process, standing out in the crowd, and preparing for your first year.

Special thanks to our sponsor, Posh Virtual Receptionists.

The Filibuster: MLK, Voting Rights, and Constitutionality

Legal Talk Network — Fri, 21 Jan 2022 12:00:25 +0000

It’s no coincidence that this week, as we honored the legacy of Martin Luther King, Jr., the Democrats had hoped to make progress on passing the Freedom to Vote Act and the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act. However, the Democrats’ efforts have been stymied by a Republican filibuster, resulting in a strategic shift from voting rights legislation to filibuster rule reform. Yet, with the rule change on the table, the Democrats failed to even secure sufficient party support, let alone the additional Republican support necessary to pass the change.

So why is there so much controversy over the filibuster? How is it impacting legislation? And is reform the answer? On Lawyer 2 Lawyer, host Craig Williams is joined by professor Michael J. Gerhardt, from UNC School of Law, as we spotlight the past, present, and possible future of the filibuster, and its impact on voting rights legislation.

January 6th: One Year Later

Legal Talk Network — Fri, 07 Jan 2022 16:30:54 +0000

A year has passed since Pro-Trump protestors attacked the U.S. Capitol on January 6th, 2o21. So, one year later, what has resulted from that dark day in 2021? And what progress have we made?

On Lawyer 2 Lawyer, host Craig Williams is joined by Gregory P. Magarian, professor of law at Washington University School of Law in St. Louis, to reflect on the January 6th Capitol insurrection. Craig and Greg will take a look at the investigation by the January 6th committee, the impact of the insurrection, the people involved, and where we go from here.

Divorce & the Holidays

Legal Talk Network — Fri, 24 Dec 2021 12:00:39 +0000

The holidays can be tough for so many, and after a divorce or separation, it can be very hard on children. So how can divorcing or divorced couples better manage the holiday season?

On Lawyer 2 Lawyer, host Craig Williams is joined by attorney Kelly Chang Rickert to discuss divorce and the holidays. They take a look at co-parenting, putting children first, and how to make your child’s holiday the best one yet.

Judicial Ethics, Misconduct, and Reform

Legal Talk Network — Fri, 10 Dec 2021 12:00:25 +0000

In many recent high profile cases, the courtroom conduct of judges has been in the spotlight. In 2020, Reuters journalists Michael Berens and John Shiffman did an investigative series on judicial misconduct titled The Teflon Robe. In this series, Berens and Shiffman reviewed 1,509 cases from 2008 through 2019 in which judges resigned, retired or were publicly disciplined following accusations of misconduct.

In Tennessee, juvenile court Judge Donna Scott Davenport has come under fire after a ProPublica and Nashville Public Radio investigation revealed that she allegedly oversaw a juvenile justice system which disproportionately and illegally jailed Black children for the crime of “criminal responsibility,” a crime that doesn’t exist. Judge Donna Scott Davenport remains on the bench.

On Lawyer 2 Lawyer, host Craig Williams is joined by Dean James J. Alfini, professor of law from South Texas College of Law Houston to discuss the ethical guidelines judges need to abide by, what should happen to these judges if these guidelines are violated, and whether there should be some type of reform to prevent future misconduct.

Thanksgiving: Vaccines, Family, & Conflict Resolution

Legal Talk Network — Wed, 24 Nov 2021 11:30:41 +0000

Has the topic of vaccines become the new “no talk of politics, sex, or religion at the dinner table?” As we approach the Thanksgiving holiday, the topic of who is or is not vaccinated is sure to come up ahead of the big day. According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 58.5% of the United States is currently fully vaccinated against Covid-19. So, if you’re faced with a conflict with your family and friends this holiday season, how do you avoid a squabble of epic proportions?

On Lawyer 2 Lawyer, host Craig Williams is joined by psychologist and therapist Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge to discuss hosting Thanksgiving and how to peacefully broach the controversial topic of vaccines with your family members. Craig and Dr. Roseann take a look at the reality of COVID during the holidays, public health, conflict resolution, negotiation, and the best approach to ensure safety at your home.

The Trial in the Killing of Ahmaud Arbery

Legal Talk Network — Fri, 12 Nov 2021 11:30:29 +0000

In Glynn County, Georgia, the trial of three white men charged in the death of Ahmaud Arbery has selected a jury, however the makeup of that jury has raised some controversy. With eleven White members and only one Black member, the prosecution has accused the defense of eliminating qualified Black jurors from serving.

In response to a motion filed by the State, presiding Judge Timothy Walmsley said, “This court has found that there appears to be intentional discrimination.” However, after hearing arguments by the defense, the judge ultimately denied the state’s motion, and gave the greenlight to move forward, ruling that there were in fact valid reasons that went beyond race for why the jurors were dismissed.

On Lawyer 2 Lawyer, host Craig Williams is joined by Christopher Slobogin, director of the Criminal Justice Program at Vanderbilt Law School, as they spotlight the trial in the killing of Ahmaud Arbery. Craig and Chris discuss the racial breakdown of the jury, the “intentional discrimination” in jury selection, the citizen’s arrest law, and the potential impact all of this could have on the case.

The Award Industry and the Constraints for Legal Marketing

Legal Talk Network — Fri, 29 Oct 2021 10:30:25 +0000

Many attorneys have received an offer of an award recognizing them as a distinguished lawyer in your city or state. Perhaps the message, coming as an email or a message on Facebook, offers a custom plaque, an inscribed crystal, and/or an appearance in a publication, and all for the low, low price of the membership fees to the awarding organization. Who would ever pass up such a rare opportunity?

So are we looking at a pay-to-play here? A scam? What is the application process? And should lawyers beware?! On Lawyer 2 Lawyer, host Craig Williams is joined by Conrad Saam, founder of Mockingbird Marketing, to talk about the award industry, the constraints for legal marketing, and what lawyers should do if they receive a solicitation promising an award for a price.

Watch this channel next week for a special bonus Lunch Hour Legal Marketing episode. But there’s no need to wait! Click here to find all the great content from Lunch Hour Legal Marketing.