Access to Justice Podcasts - Legal Talk Network

The SAVE America Act: Mission, Constitutionality, & Potential Impact

Ally Kvidt — Fri, 27 Feb 2026 12:00:06 +0000

The Safeguard American Voter Eligibility, better known as the SAVE America Act, is a 2026 bill designed to tighten federal election integrity by requiring proof of U.S. citizenship for voter registration, and photo proof when voting in federal elections. Recently passed by the House, this bill has created quite the stir, igniting debates in the Senate with bipartisan opposition to registering and voting through documentation requirements.

So if passed, will the SAVE America Act change elections going forward? And how will this impact who votes in future elections? On this episode of Lawyer 2 Lawyer, Craig joins John J. Martin, Assistant Professor of Law at Quinnipiac University School of Law, as they explore the SAVE America Act and voter ID requirements. Craig & John discuss the origin, constitutionality, and potential impact on the people of the United States.

Mentioned in this Episode:

Citizenship Voting Requirement in SAVE America Act Has No Basis in the Constitution – and Ignores Precedent that Only States Decide Who Gets to Vote by John J. Martin

Fellowships that Turn Young Lawyers’ Passion into Service

Ally Kvidt — Tue, 24 Feb 2026 12:00:25 +0000

Equal Justice Works CEO Verna Williams discusses her prior experience as a law dean, her work engaging law students and young lawyers in public interest and the inspiration she draws from their passion. As the nation’s largest post-graduate legal fellowship program, Equal Justice Works deploys students and lawyers to legal services organizations across the country. Since its founding in 1986, Equal Justice Works has supported more than 2,700 fellows.

Religious Employers and Employment Law: Whose Rights?

Ally Kvidt — Tue, 17 Feb 2026 16:30:17 +0000

Religious organizations and their employees fall into a murky and often-overlooked area of labor and employment law. Guests James “Jim” Paul and Michael Subit practice in employment and labor law and are versed in the world of religious employers and their workers.

Title VII of the Civil Rights Act carves out some interesting exemptions in employment law regarding religion-based businesses, but some recent court rulings seem to conflict with each other. Paul and Subit join host Matt Greer to delve into what constitutes a “religious employer” and where religious beliefs and practices challenge existing employment laws.

A recent appeals court ruling spells out nine questions regarding religion-based retailers, religious hospitals, and other businesses. Is it created for profit? Does it make a secular product? Do articles of incorporation state a religious purpose? All of these considerations may matter.

This issue goes way beyond practicing a religion. Consider same sex marriage, certain behaviors, and reproductive rights. Hear how quickly employer and employee rights can conflict. Is a Supreme Court showdown on the horizon?

How a 22-Stop “Listening Tour” Improves Justice Across Colorado

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 12 Feb 2026 18:30:23 +0000

The leader of the Colorado Access to Justice Commission discusses their “Listening Tour” initiative on the latest episode of Talk Justice. Elisa Overall shares about the wide-reaching 22-stop tour and its findings, which were published in a December 2025 report.

The Help: What labor rights do domestic workers have

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 05 Feb 2026 12:00:58 +0000

A foundational principle of Anglo-American law is that “a man’s house is his castle.” It establishes rights ranging from privacy to justifiable homicide. But what about when your castle is another person’s workplace? What rights do they have?

In Bringing Law Home: Gender, Race and Household Labor Rights, Katherine Eva Maich examines the history of labor protections for nannies, housecleaners and other household employees, and compares how domestic workers fare under the laws in New York City and Lima, Peru.

In this episode, Maich and the Modern Law Library’s host Lee Rawles discuss human trafficking, worker rights and responsibilities, the impacts of slavery and colonialism on the Global South, and the real human relationships that develop between employees and employers within the home.

South Dakota Chief Justice on State Courts’ Challenges, Public Service and Rural Access

Ally Kvidt — Tue, 27 Jan 2026 12:00:39 +0000

Chief Justice Steven R. Jensen appears on Talk Justice with LSC President Ron Flagg. They speak about his path to South Dakota’s Supreme Court, the national Conference of Chief Justices, efforts to promote public interest law, access to justice initiatives and the challenges facing state courts. Jensen, who is currently serving his second term as chief justice, was first appointed to the South Dakota Supreme Court in 2017.

Why Being Right Won’t Set You Free — Hard Knox with Amanda Knox

Ally Kvidt — Tue, 27 Jan 2026 12:00:01 +0000

In this episode of Hard Knox, now airing on For the Innocent, Amanda Knox sits down with Michael Semanchik and exoneree Scott McMahon. Scott is an American who endured more than five years of imprisonment in the Philippines for a crime he did not commit. Together, Amanda, Mike, and Scott confront the deep flaws of the Philippine justice system, examining how delay and corruption turned an unfounded accusation into a years-long, life-altering ordeal for Scott and his family.

Listen to more of Amanda’s episodes: Hard Knox with Amanda Knox

Learn more about Scott’s case: Scott McMahon – The Innocence Center

Presumed Guilty: The Framing of William Michael Dillon

Ally Kvidt — Tue, 13 Jan 2026 20:15:02 +0000

We trust the justice system to protect the innocent and prosecute the guilty, but what happens when it gets things catastrophically wrong? In 1981, 21-year-old William Michael Dillon became the focus of a murder investigation in Canova Beach, Florida. Though Dillon maintained his innocence, police coercion and unreliable witnesses rapidly steered the case toward what appeared to be a predetermined outcome. Dillon was arrested, convicted, and sent to prison for a crime he did not commit.

More than 27 years later, DNA testing finally proved his innocence and set him free. In this episode, Dillon explains how he was swept into the murder investigation, how coercive interrogations and untrustworthy testimony shaped the verdict—and how his love of music helped him survive the darkest years of his incarceration.

Be sure to read the full account of Dillon’s story in FRAMED, written by his wife, Ellen Moscovitz. And, listen to his album on YouTube: Black Robes and Lawyers.

What’s Next in Justice Tech: ITC and LSC’s New Tech Report

Ally Kvidt — Tue, 13 Jan 2026 15:45:24 +0000

Guests discuss hot topics expected at the upcoming 26th Innovations in Technology Conference (ITC) and findings from a new justice tech report. Themes of navigating the changing tech landscape, expanding self-help resources, innovating with artificial intelligence (AI) and knowledge-sharing between organizations emerged in the guests’ discussion of ITC and the report, “The Next Frontier: Harnessing Technology to Close the Justice Gap.”

What place do prisons have in democracies?

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 08 Jan 2026 16:00:28 +0000

The idea that prisoners should be treated humanely was discussed by Enlightenment Era aristocrats, “but the idea that they are people who are peers is new,” says Yale Law professor Judith Resnik.

“As Democratic norms turned us all into equal citizens, equal persons in a jurisdiction, the question of government’s relationships in courts, policing, schools and prisons changed over the last hundred years,” says Resnik, author of Impermissible Punishments: How Prison Became a Problem for Democracy.

In this episode of the Modern Law Library, Resnik walks host Lee Rawles through centuries of discussion about how punishments are deemed to be permissible, from a trial about whipping prisoners in Arkansas to the League of Nations’ effort to develop minimum standards of treatment in prisons worldwide.

“People who run prisons have a very challenging time, and there’s a body of data growing that people who work in prisons, like people who live in them, have higher stress, heart attacks, blood pressure, suicide rates,” Resnik tells Rawles. “These are terrible environments of concrete and metal and noise and often dirt and violence. In the United States, many people who are in detention have had mental health issues and behavioral issues of significant kinds. And when you take people with limited training, often with staffs that are too thin, interacting with overcrowded facilities of metal and concrete, with limited resources, you end up generating scary places for everybody.

“So one of the kind of puzzles, if you step back, is how a thing called corrections, that promises safety, has generated institutions that are deeply unsafe for the people who live and work in them.”

Connecting with Faith Communities to Serve Those in Need

Ally Kvidt — Tue, 23 Dec 2025 12:00:32 +0000

Leaders from faith organizations and mission-driven nonprofits discuss the connections between faith communities and legal services on Talk Justice. For many, faith provides guiding principles, like the instruction to help those in need. The Salvation Army recently launched their Faith and Community Based Organizations’ Disaster Training. LSC developed a Faith Community Outreach Toolkit to help faith leaders understand the role of legal services.

Survivors Guide to Prison: Examining a Broken System with Matthew Cooke

Ally Kvidt — Wed, 17 Dec 2025 12:00:02 +0000

The failure rate of our prison systems is staggering, with recidivism exceeding 70% in nearly every state. What should this tell us about the success—or lack thereof—of our criminal justice system? And, how can those who are incarcerated survive the harshness of prison and avoid becoming part of the large percentage who seem to inevitably return?

This time on For the Innocent, Michael Semanchik welcomes Matthew Cooke, writer and director of Survivors Guide to Prison, a documentary exploring life in United States prisons from the perspectives of two wrongfully convicted men, Bruce Lisker and Reggie Cole. Drawing from his extensive research, Matthew reveals a system plagued with fundamentally misaligned incentives that do little to create pathways for inmates to succeed on the outside.

Michael and Matthew discuss new shifts in criminal justice reform and offer their thoughts on how to continue to bring this issue to the forefront of public discourse. The system is broken, but change is possible.

Listen to our episode about Bruce Lisker’s story: A Deceitful Detective & Manipulated Evidence – The Wrongful Conviction of Bruce Lisker.
Learn more about Matthew Cooke and his film projects on IMDB: Matthew Cooke – IMDb

Creating New Pathways for DV Survivors to Access Legal Help

Ally Kvidt — Tue, 09 Dec 2025 12:00:22 +0000

Innovative programs that leverage unlicensed practice of law reform to create new pathways to justice for domestic violence (DV) survivors are featured in this episode of Talk Justice. Community Justice Advocates of Utah manages the Certified Advocate Partner Program, which trains Victim Advocates at organizations throughout Utah to provide limited-scope legal help to DV survivors as they pursue civil protective orders or civil stalking injunctions. In Arizona, Innovation for Justice partners with community-based organizations to train, support and mentor domestic violence legal advocates. Since 2021, the Domestic Violence Legal Advocate Program has trained trauma-informed legal advocates at DV service providers to deliver limited-scope legal help on protective orders and certain family law matters.

Building the Next Generation of Rural Lawyers

Ally Kvidt — Tue, 25 Nov 2025 12:00:06 +0000

A recent report from LSC’s Rural Justice Task Force, “Justice Where We Live: Promising Practices from Rural Communities,” dives into a multitude of programs and approaches that address the biggest challenges to accessing civil justice in rural America. One issue is the scarcity of attorneys in rural areas, often called “legal deserts.” This episode highlights three programs working to create a pipeline of new rural lawyers.

From Prison to the Oscars: The True Story Behind Sing Sing and Rehabilitation Through the Arts

Ally Kvidt — Tue, 18 Nov 2025 18:00:20 +0000

A maximum-security prison may not seem like the natural setting for a homegrown theater program. But at Sing Sing Prison in New York, just such a project has inspired scores of incarcerated men to learn and grow through the stories they step into—offering them the chance to be part of a supportive community and equipping them with life skills to carry home when they return to the world outside.

People in prison are more than just prisoners, and the Rehabilitation Through the Arts (RTA) program continues to help participants discover new strengths through creative expression. In today’s episode, Michael Semanchik welcomes John “Divine G” Whitfield and Clarence “Divine Eye” Maclin—both former inmates, RTA members, and actors in the Oscar-nominated film Sing Sing—to talk about their experiences on the inside. They discuss the film project and its ability to teach the outside world about the transformative power of community, art, vulnerability, and purpose.

Creativity and storytelling can restore dignity, bridge divides, and reveal the humanity that is too often overlooked within the prison system.

Please visit www.FreeDivineG.org to learn the details of John “Divine G” Whitfield’s fight for exoneration.

John “Divine G” Whitfield is an Oscar-nominated adapted screenplay writer, executive producer, and the compelling inspiration behind the critically acclaimed, multiple Oscar-nominated film, Sing Sing.
Oscar Nominee Clarence Maclin starred in the feature film Sing Sing, inspired by his life story as a graduate of Sing Sing’s Rehabilitation Through the Arts program.

Divine G and Clarence are friends to another former Sing Sing and RTA-involved inmate, Jon-Adrian “JJ” Velazquez, whose long and arduous exoneration was shared in our last episode. Listen to JJ’s story here: A Murdered Cop and a Mishandled Mugshot – JJ Velazquez’s Wrongful Conviction

Advocating for the Wrongfully Convicted with Michael Semanchik | ClioCon 2025

Ally Kvidt — Fri, 14 Nov 2025 16:00:01 +0000

Despite our nation’s commitment to justice, the system sometimes falters, allowing the innocent to be wrongfully convicted. In this episode, Ed Watts sits down with Michael Semanchik, Executive Director of The Innocence Center, for a compelling conversation about the fight to free those unjustly imprisoned. Michael sheds light on how these miscarriages of justice occur, the human stories behind them, and the vital role attorneys play in supporting innocence projects.

Learn more on the For the Innocent podcast, and visit Michael’s organization online: The Innocence Center – Securing Freedom For The Innocent.

Why is Legal Aid Embracing AI Faster than Other Legal Professionals?

Ally Kvidt — Tue, 11 Nov 2025 12:00:15 +0000

Legal technologists discuss a recent survey that found that legal aid attorneys are adopting AI at a faster rate than other legal professionals on Talk Justice. In May of 2025, Everlaw partnered with the National Legal Aid & Defender Association, Paladin and LawSites to conduct a survey of 112 legal aid professionals. The survey formed the basis of the report, “The AI Advantage: How Technology Can Help Bridge the Justice Gap,” which was published in September. It found that 74% of the legal aid organizations surveyed are already using AI in their work, which is double the generative AI adoption rate of the wider legal profession.

Inside ICE: Immigration Law, Constitutionality, and the Impact on Our Communities

Ally Kvidt — Fri, 07 Nov 2025 12:00:23 +0000

The actions of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, better known as ICE, have divided the country. Many believe that the Trump administration’s crackdown on illegal immigration and violent crime is making the country safer. On the other side, there has been a resistance across the United States with communities standing up to ICE’s intimidating tactics, which include anything from unmarked vehicles, masks concealing ICE agents’ identities, to arrests outside courtrooms, and a lack of due process. This has led to controversy and legal challenges.

So do ICE’s actions go too far? Or is ICE making our country a safer place to live? And are these ICE raids protected and legal? On this episode of Lawyer 2 Lawyer, Craig joins Professor Daniel Kanstroom, founder of the Boston College Immigration and Asylum Clinic, as they spotlight immigration law and ICE. Craig & Dan take a look at the legalities behind the actions of ICE, the constitutionality of ICE raids, the lack of due process, and the impact ICE is having on citizens and non-citizens of the United States.

No One Left Behind – The Future of Legal Aid for Veterans

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 06 Nov 2025 12:00:15 +0000

The Take One campaign is a statewide initiative encouraging Texas lawyers to take on one pro bono case a year for a veteran in need. Rocky Dhir sits down with Major General Alfred Valenzuela and past State Bar President Terry Tottenham to discuss the campaign’s mission to bridge the gap between lawyers and veterans. Their conversation highlights the challenges veterans often face when transitioning back to civilian life and the vital role legal support can play in that process. Through Take One, attorneys in every practice area can use their expertise to handle cases that align with their specialties while meeting the diverse legal needs of those who have served our nation.

To learn more about serving our veterans, visit the Texas Lawyers for Texas Veterans website, and read about the Take One campaign in the November Issue of the Texas Bar Journal.

Yale Law’s Owen Fiss talks about threats to democracy and ‘Why We Vote’ | Rebroadcast

Ally Kvidt — Wed, 05 Nov 2025 12:00:30 +0000

It’s election week in the U.S., and while many eyes are on the polls, we’re revisiting a conversation that reminds us why voting matters in the first place. In this rebroadcast, Yale Law professor Owen Fiss reflects on his work enforcing the Civil Rights and Voting Rights Acts, the courts’ role in protecting democracy, and why casting a ballot remains both a privilege and a duty.

After 50 years as a professor at Yale Law School, Owen Fiss says his students are still idealistic and passionate about the rights won in the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and Voting Rights Act of 1965. As a young lawyer in the late 1960s, Fiss worked with the Department of Justice to implement those laws. A classroom discussion in the spring of 2020 prompted him to draw upon his legal expertise and decades of experience to produce his new book, Why We Vote.

In this episode of The Modern Law Library podcast, Fiss speaks with the ABA Journal’s Lee Rawles about the paradox of the court system–the least democratic branch of government–having the responsibility of safeguarding the right to vote. He looks back on his work with the DOJ in southern states, and his time as a clerk for Justice Thurgood Marshall (then on the 2nd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in New York) and Justice William Brennan.

Rawles and Fiss also discuss recent threats to the electoral system and right to vote, including the insurrection on Jan. 6, 2021. Fiss shares his thoughts about Section 3 of the 14th Amendment, and whether former President Donald Trump should be removed from the ballot on that basis.

While every book he writes is for his students, Fiss says, he hopes Why We Vote can impress upon a broader audience the privilege and duty of voting and participating in a democracy.

A Murdered Cop and a Mishandled Mugshot – JJ Velazquez’s Wrongful Conviction

Ally Kvidt — Tue, 04 Nov 2025 16:40:38 +0000

In 1998, a retired NYPD officer was shot and killed inside an illegal gambling parlor. Angry cops wanted speedy justice for one of their own, and an overzealous, incautious investigation ensued. A witness to the shooting with a criminal past was put under intense pressure to deliver a suspect. After hours of questioning and over 1800 mugshots, he picked one at random—one that should never have been on the table in front of him.

The man in the photo, Jon-Adrian “JJ” Velazquez, was accused, arrested, and labeled a cop killer—despite the fact that there was a complete lack of physical evidence linking him to this terrible incident. JJ was convicted of murder and sentenced to life in prison for a crime of which he had no knowledge or connection.

JJ, along with friend and investigative journalist Dan Slepian, tells the story of his 27-year fight to gain his freedom and clear his name. They dig into the failures of the system that led to JJ’s conviction and how his tenacious advocacy finally led to his exoneration.

Jon-Adrian “JJ” Velazquez is an American actor and activist who exemplifies resilience and dedication to legal reform. JJ is the founder of MONUMENTAL MEDIA based in NYC, a mission-driven creative agency and talent incubator dedicated to reshaping the narrative around incarceration and social justice issues. JJ now serves his community locally as the Co-founder and Executive Director of Voices from Within based in New York, and nationally as the Program Director at the Frederick Douglass Project for Justice.
Dan Slepian is a Pulitzer Prize finalist and Emmy winning investigative journalist at NBC News whose reporting has helped solve cold cases, exonerate the innocent, and spark legal reform.

Beyond Politics: Standing for the Rule of Law, with Bill Bay

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 30 Oct 2025 11:00:25 +0000

In episode 586 of Lawyerist Podcast, learn how lawyers can help safeguard democracy by defending the rule of law and protecting judicial independence. In this episode, Stephanie Everett talks with Bill Bay, Immediate Past President of the American Bar Association, about why these issues transcend politics and define the integrity of the legal profession. Together, they discuss how every lawyer can lead with grace, model civil discourse, and stand up for fairness, equality, and due process.

Learn how you can join the ABA’s fight for the rule of law here: https://www.americanbar.org/groups/public_education/resources/rule-of-law/

Listen to our previous episodes about Leadership & Advocacy in Law:

Episode 490: “How to Build a Powerhouse Firm with Internal Talent, with Ryan McKeen” Apple | Spotify | LTN

Episode 560: “Stop Doing Everything Yourself! Unlock Your Law Firm’s True Potential, with Leticia DeSuze” Apple | Spotify | LTN

Episode 576: “How Sponsorship, Empathy, and Failure Shape Great Leaders, with Michael Cohen” Apple | Spotify | LTN

Have thoughts about today’s episode? Join the conversation on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and X!

If today’s podcast resonates with you and you haven’t read The Small Firm Roadmap Revisited yet, get the first chapter right now for free! Looking for help beyond the book? See if our coaching community is right for you.

Access more resources from Lawyerist at lawyerist.com.

Chapters / Timestamps:

0:00 – Introduction

1:00 – Law as Political, Not Partisan

4:40 – Sponsor Break: Tabs3

11:13 – Meet Bill Bay

12:20 – What the Rule of Law Means

14:40 – Threats to Justice & the Profession

21:55 – How Lawyers Can Take Action

23:40 – Grace & Civility in Practice

29:05 – Hope for the Next Generation

34:20 – Call to Action & Closing Thoughts

Compassionate Services for Struggling Veterans – Rebroadcast

Ally Kvidt — Tue, 28 Oct 2025 11:00:30 +0000

This rebroadcast of the November 26, 2024 episode of Talk Justice features a panel discussion about wraparound services for veterans who are struggling with substance use disorders, mental and behavioral health challenges, brain injuries and cognitive impairment, or who have been charged with nonviolent offenses. The guests share about a rehabilitative treatment court program, civil legal services for veterans and how the Americans with Disabilities Act protects these former service members.

Workers’ Comp, Politics, and the Economy: A Concerning Mix

Ally Kvidt — Tue, 21 Oct 2025 11:00:54 +0000

It’s not you, the Workers’ Compensation system has changed over time, and not always for the best. Guest Christopher Godfrey, with a long career in Workers’ Comp, including his current role as research director at the Workers’ Injury Law & Advocacy Group (WILAG) and a lengthy stint running the office of Compensation Programs at the U.S. Department of Labor, offers some insights.

Where a non-adversarial atmosphere used to prevail within Workers’ Comp, Godfrey worries it has been driven toward a confrontational system with a struggle for unilateral control. That isn’t how a program aimed at making injured workers whole and getting them back to work started out.

Also concerning Godfrey is a lack of funding for the Federal Employees’ Compensation Program, making it difficult for injured federal workers to even find a doctor willing to accept them as patients.

In both state and federal systems, Workers’ Comp is being buffeted by politics. Godfrey notes the government shutdown, a slowing employment environment, and even the potential for a stock market bubble threaten the system. Economics and politics can build hurdles that trickle down to how insurance companies and Workers’ Comp plans operate. Godfrey shares his personal concerns and describes what WILAG is doing today to protect the rights of injured workers.

If you have thoughts on Workers’ Comp law or an idea for a topic or guest you’d like to hear, contact us at JPierce@ppnlaw.com or APierce@ppnlaw.com.

The Collapse of a Conviction: How an LAPD Cop and Two Journalists Unraveled the Case Against Bruce Lisker

Ally Kvidt — Tue, 21 Oct 2025 11:00:44 +0000

At just 17 years old, Bruce Lisker was branded a murderer after being accused and convicted of the violent killing of his mother. He would go on to spend the next 26 years of his life in prison, until a federal judge finally overturned his conviction in 2009. Bruce’s exoneration might never have happened without the investigative efforts of LA Times journalists Scott Glover and Matt Lait and LAPD officer Jim Gavin.

In this episode, Michael Semanchik speaks with this trio of truth-seekers about their involvement in the Lisker case. Initially skeptical, each of them set out to poke holes in Bruce’s claims, but as their investigations progressed, the evidence increasingly pointed to his innocence. They share details of their research, explaining how discoveries of both ignored and manipulated evidence in the decades-old case raised red flags in the original investigation, ultimately bringing the truth to light.

Matt Lait is Vice President of CNN’s investigative team. Previously, he worked at the Los Angeles Times where he was an investigative reporter, city editor and ran the local investigations team.
Scott Glover is a reporter on the CNN Investigates team. Glover came to CNN with 20 years of experience at the Los Angeles Times where he covered the LAPD, federal courts and law enforcement agencies.
Jim Gavin retired from the Los Angeles Police Department in August 2020, as the head of Operations Valley Bureau Homicide. He served 32 years with the LAPD in a wide variety of assignments.

Rebuilding Lives After Disaster

Ally Kvidt — Tue, 14 Oct 2025 13:30:19 +0000

Leaders of nonprofit law firms discuss their disaster response work for major storms and floods in Texas, North Carolina and Louisiana on Talk Justice. The conversation was recorded at a briefing for the U.S. House of Representatives, where these local leaders educated Congressional staff on the importance of providing legal services in the aftermath of natural disasters. Robert Doggett, Executive Director of Texas RioGrande Legal Aid (TRLA), joined to talk about the July floods in central Texas; Ashley Campbell, executive director of Legal Aid of North Carolina (LANC), spoke about the ongoing response to Tropical Storm Helene; and Laura Tuggle, executive director of Southeast Louisiana Legal Services (SLLS), discussed her state’s history of dealing with major storms like Hurricanes Ida and Katrina.

A Deceitful Detective & Manipulated Evidence – The Wrongful Conviction of Bruce Lisker

Ally Kvidt — Tue, 07 Oct 2025 14:00:12 +0000

In 1983, Bruce Lisker’s mother was violently attacked in their family home. After responding to his frantic 911 call, police quickly drew assumptions from the chaotic crime scene. Dorka Lisker was bludgeoned, stabbed several times, and near death in her Sherman Oaks home. Seventeen year-old Bruce embodied the era’s “stoner” look, he was highly agitated, and his hands were covered in his mother’s blood. The distraught teen, rather than being allowed to accompany his mother to the hospital where she died, was arrested and interrogated as the prime suspect in her murder.

Bruce Lisker tells the story of how presumptions, the actions of a dishonest detective, and failures to examine critical evidence led to his wrongful conviction. After years seeking justice through every conceivable avenue, Bruce was finally exonerated through the determined efforts of LAPD Sgt. Jim Gavin and LA Times articles by Matt Lait and Scott Glover that shed light on the mistakes and manipulations that led to his false conviction.

The Shifting Sands of Immigration Law and AI: What to Know Now

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 25 Sep 2025 11:00:07 +0000

We’re at an interesting and dynamic point in time for immigration law, with Supreme Court rulings and presidential executive orders reshaping the field and challenging the system’s status quo.

The administrative area of immigration law is especially difficult for legal professionals. In an immigration hearing, the judge is essentially on the same “team” as the prosecutor, and because immigration policies are largely under the federal executive branch, the rules seem to shift every four years with a new presidential term.

Guest Nikki Mehrpoo is a former judge, a scholar, and the first and only California dual certified legal specialist in immigration and Workers’ Compensation law. She is a lawyer as well as a professor of law at West Los Angeles College. She recently created the MedLegal Professor, a project dedicated to the ethical use of AI technologies in the field of law and medicine.

In this timely episode of Paralegal Voice, Mehrpoo unpacks recent Supreme Court rulings, executive orders, and even the use of AI facial recognition that are reshaping the field of immigration law. As a legal professional, what we think we know may be subject to change day by day, ruling by ruling.

Breaking Down the Amanda Knox Case: Facts vs. Frenzy

Ally Kvidt — Tue, 23 Sep 2025 11:00:50 +0000

To this day, some still believe Amanda Knox is guilty of the horrific murder of Meredith Kercher in 2007. However, this belief appears to stem entirely from the wildly sensational media coverage surrounding her supposed involvement. Thorough examination of the facts of the case have clearly shown that Amanda was wrongfully convicted of this terrible crime.

This time on For the Innocent, Michael Semanchik welcomes a panel of experts to explore how Amanda Knox’s case gained such incredible notoriety and how the truth was obscured by a series of mistakes, assumptions, and media distortion.

Michael is joined by Martina Cagossi, Justin Brooks, and Mark Olshaker to walk listeners through the facts of the case, explain the prevalence of false confessions in high-stress situations, and discuss how Amanda’s “trial by media” ultimately overshadowed clear evidence that should have set her free.

Martina Cagossi is a criminal lawyer based in Milan, Italy. She is the co-founder and Program Manager of the Italy Innocence Project.
Justin Brooks is a Professor at University of San Diego School of Law. He is a board member of The Innocence Center and co-founder of the California Innocence Project.
Mark Olshaker is a writer and Emmy-award winning filmmaker. He authored the international bestseller MINDHUNTER, the basis for the acclaimed Netflix series.

Listen Amanda’s Story on Apple, Spotify, Youtube, or your favorite podcast app.

What is Human-Centered Legal Help in the Age of AI?

Ally Kvidt — Tue, 23 Sep 2025 11:00:47 +0000

Lawyers discuss how to keep legal services human-centered in the age of artificial intelligence (AI) on Talk Justice. In May, Amanda Brown authored the piece “Using Technology to Maximize Human Interaction.” She wrote that while legal services organizations are increasingly looking to AI to lower the burden of certain tasks, human interaction between attorneys and clients must not be lost for the sake of efficiency. She also discusses the new Louisiana Legal Navigator website.

The Amanda Knox Story: Her Fight for Justice on the Global Stage

Ally Kvidt — Tue, 09 Sep 2025 11:00:42 +0000

Suffering is part of the human experience, but most of us are granted the dignity of processing our pain and healing in private. For Amanda Knox, that has never been an option. As she herself puts it, “The worst experience of my life is the thing that most people know about me.”

Amanda recounts the harrowing story of her wrongful conviction for the murder of her roommate while studying abroad in Perugia, Italy. The 2007 crime sparked a global media frenzy that vilified Amanda at an international scale, branding her as guilty despite the absence of evidence connecting her to the crime. A combination of her own naiveté, coercive police interrogations, language barriers, and critical errors in the investigation process led to Amanda’s wrongful imprisonment.

And yet, since her eventual acquittal, Amanda has found a way to live in hope and transform her painful experience into a force for good. She now focuses on finding meaning in the aftermath, using her story to expose the realities of wrongful convictions and to advocate for others who have been falsely accused.

Learn more about Amanda through her books, “Waiting to Be Heard” and “Free”, and her podcast, “Hard Knox”.

Watch the Twisted Tale of Amanda Knox on Hulu.

Legal Help Opens Doors for Small Businesses like this Teen Entrepreneur’s

Ally Kvidt — Tue, 09 Sep 2025 11:00:08 +0000

Small business owners and a lawyer discuss how free legal services can create opportunities for entrepreneurs on Talk Justice. Joshua Danrich, the 16-year-old entrepreneur behind the brand Mr. Fresh, had the idea at just 10 years old. His mother, Shay, had a business background and decided to help her son pursue his dream. Now, Mr. Fresh products are being sold by Walmart. Along the way, they needed help with legal processes like trademarking their brand. They received help through Legal Services of Eastern Missouri’s Microenterprise Program.

Amanda Knox, JJ Velasquez, and More | For The Innocent Season 3 Trailer

Ally Kvidt — Tue, 02 Sep 2025 18:30:36 +0000

Hosted by Michael Semanchik, For the Innocent exposes the shocking reality of wrongful convictions through raw, first-person stories from the exonerated. Season 3 returns September 9th featuring powerful accounts from Amanda Knox, JJ Velasquez, Bruce Lisker— three exonerees whose names have become synonymous with injustice—and more.

Through their voices, uncover how the justice system failed them, what it took to win back their freedom, and the lifelong impact of being branded guilty while innocent. Plus, hear legal and criminal experts break down the systemic flaws from false confessions and eyewitness misidentifications to flawed forensic science and corrupt police officers. This season uncovers the truth behind America’s most haunting wrongful convictions.

Season One and Two are now available.

Katrina’s Lasting Impact on Legal Aid 20 Years Later

Ally Kvidt — Tue, 26 Aug 2025 14:30:32 +0000

Twenty years after the disaster, a Louisiana lawyer tells how Hurricane Katrina changed civil legal services forever on Talk Justice. Southeast Louisiana Legal Services is the largest nonprofit civil legal aid provider in the state, serving 22 parishes from seven offices, with the largest office in New Orleans. In 2005, before tragedy struck, Laura Tuggle had been a staff attorney in SLLS’ housing law unit. At the time, legal services related to natural disasters were not a part of the conversation at all. Now, she is Executive Director at SLLS and disaster legal services have come a long way.

Community-Based Legal Solutions for Everyday Problems, with Rebecca Sandefur & Matthew Burnett

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 21 Aug 2025 11:00:45 +0000

Most people facing legal problems don’t see them as legal at all—they see them as life problems with landlords, employers, or benefits agencies. That disconnect leaves millions without meaningful help, even when lawyers or courts are available.

In this episode, Zack Glaser talks with Professor Rebecca Sandefur (Arizona State University, American Bar Foundation) and Matthew Burnett (Georgetown Law, ABF) about their research on community justice workers and why people-centered solutions may be the key to closing the justice gap.

They explore how community justice workers operate in Alaska and beyond, why legal help doesn’t always have to come from lawyers, and how rules around unauthorized practice of law are evolving. You’ll hear evidence that trained non-lawyers can be just as effective—sometimes more so—than attorneys in resolving critical issues like housing or benefits.

Rebecca and Matthew also discuss what “success” really means: scalable, sustainable programs that meet people where they are, in their own communities, in their own language. And they argue that broadening access to justice isn’t just about legal services—it’s about strengthening democracy itself.

This episode is for lawyers, policymakers, and innovators who want to reimagine how legal help is delivered—and build a justice system that actually works for the people it’s meant to serve.

Additionally, Zack and Stephanie talk about the upcoming ClioCon 2025 in Boston, MA. Check out the conference and get your tickets at cliocon.com. Use the code “LawyeristxClioCon” for a $300 discount on your ticket.

Listen to our other episodes on Access To Justice:

#129: The Business of Public Access to Law, with Tim Stanley

Apple | Spotify | LTN

#228: The Real Access-to-Justice Problem and How We Might Solve It, with Rebecca Sandefur

Apple | Spotify | LTN

#423: Bridging the Access to Justice Gap with Technology, with Sateesh Nori

Apple | Spotify | LTN

#440: A Path to Meaningful Regulations, with Rebecca Sandefur

Apple | Spotify | LTN

Access more resources from Lawyerist at lawyerist.com.

Chapters/Timestamps:

00:00 – Fall & ClioCon in Boston
05:24 – Meet Rebecca Sandefur & Matthew Burnett
06:50 – A People-Centered Justice Approach
11:08 – Community Justice Workers Explained
15:55 – Legal Help Without Lawyers
20:31 – What Success Really Looks Like
25:23 – State Models & Next Steps
34:30 – Scaling Justice & Strengthening Democracy
38:49 – Final Takeaways

Why Corporate Lawyers are Invested in the Legal Services Corporation

Adam Lockwood — Tue, 12 Aug 2025 11:00:14 +0000

Corporate counsels discuss the private sector’s role in expanding access to civil legal services for Americans who cannot afford an attorney on Talk Justice. This conversation was recorded at LSC’s Detroit forum on July 15. The guests discuss how collaboration, innovation and leadership are key to expanding access to justice, and how private businesses can contribute to efforts to provide civil legal assistance for everyday Americans.

Aging With Dignity: How Legal Services Keep Seniors Safe

Ally Kvidt — Tue, 22 Jul 2025 14:15:13 +0000

Legal experts discuss the critical role civil legal services play in addressing the legal needs of older Americans on Talk Justice. Last year, LSC-funded legal organizations assisted more than 312,000 Americans age 60 and up with their legal problems. Issues surrounding wills, power of attorney and advance directives are common for aging Americans, and seniors are often targeted for scams and fraud. These legal crises can exacerbate other stressors, such as rising housing costs and medical issues that can undermine seniors’ safety, stability and ability to age in their home with dignity and autonomy.

Immigration and Employment Law, Today’s Tangled Web

Ally Kvidt — Tue, 22 Jul 2025 11:00:15 +0000

When it comes to foreign workers inside the United States today, the world of immigration law has seemingly been upended. It can be hard to keep up with rapidly evolving events and rulings, but with clients and employers at risk, professionals who represent them can’t afford to fall behind.

When do employers check work authorization, and how often can they? What do employers need to be looking for? And what industries are most affected?

While the Trump v. Casa case may not have brought the clarity many in labor and employment law sought, it was simply a procedural move that limits jurisdiction, it’s not the final word. This gets confusing in a hurry as the labor and employment professionals grapple with protective status, refugees, temporary status, and workforce eligibility issues.

Hear insights from accomplished guests Jonathan Grode and Ingrid Nava into where shifting immigration policies may affect labor and employment law and what some of these decisions mean across the country and across labor sectors. In today’s uncertain times, it’s important to understand the limits of what employers can do, even when they are trying to do the right thing, as well as the rights of employees. Confused? You’re not alone.

Historic Justice: Investigating Cruelty and Death at Florida’s Dozier School for Boys

Ally Kvidt — Wed, 16 Jul 2025 16:30:02 +0000

For over a century, The Dozier School for Boys held dark secrets behind its gates. Allegations of abuse, forced labor, and unexplained deaths had often come up throughout its history, but the full reality of what happened during its time in operation was largely unknown. Maggie Mendenhall-Casey talks with forensic anthropologist Erin Kimmerle about her mission to bring justice to the forgotten children of Dozier. Erin shares the story of her investigation, including her processes for locating unmarked graves, the community backlash and political resistance she faced, and the continuing efforts for justice and reunification with victims’ families.

Read the full account in Erin’s book: We Carry Their Bones: The Search for Justice at the Dozier School for Boys

Erin H. Kimmerle, Ph.D., is the Executive Director of the Florida Institute for Forensic Anthropology and Applied Science at the University of South Florida

Exploring Voting Behavior and Civic Engagement with Mindy Romero

Ally Kvidt — Tue, 15 Jul 2025 11:00:51 +0000

Mindy Romero is the founder and director of the Center for Inclusive Democracy that is part of the USC Sol Price School of Public Policy based in Sacramento, California. Romero is a political sociologist whose research focuses on political behavior and race/ethnicity. The research and reports of the Center seek to explain patterns of voting and political underrepresentation, particularly among youth and communities of color in California and the U.S.

Unlocking the Power of Medical-Legal Partnerships

Ally Kvidt — Tue, 08 Jul 2025 11:00:15 +0000

A doctor and lawyer discuss the success of medical-legal partnerships (MLPs) on Talk Justice. They describe how MLPs support communities, improve patient outcomes and help to alleviate the burden on the health system. By allowing medical and legal professionals to collaborate and address the root causes of health problems that have legal solutions, MLPs promote a holistic approach to healthcare.

Protecting Whistleblowers with Louis Clark

Ally Kvidt — Tue, 01 Jul 2025 11:00:44 +0000

For over 40 years, Louis Clark has led the Government Accountability Project (GAP), an organization dedicated to protecting whistleblowers and ensuring government accountability. During the Trump administration, GAP is overwhelmed with the number of government employees seeking support in disclosing illegal, unethical, and fraudulent conduct. It is also addressing a new form of retaliation against whistleblowers, physical harm, and death threats. Learn more about the organization and its work at https://whistleblower.org.

EP 613- Fighting for Constitutional Rights Part 3

Ally Kvidt — Wed, 25 Jun 2025 11:00:25 +0000

Do you know how the government can define away your property rights? Or the basis for the Lemonade Freedom Movement? Through public interest litigation, Attorney David Roland fights for our mutual humanity.

New Data on Arizona and Utah’s Innovations After 5 Years of Legal Reform

Ally Kvidt — Tue, 24 Jun 2025 17:30:30 +0000

Stanford researchers discuss new data on legal services innovations in Arizona and Utah on Talk Justice. Five years ago, Arizona and Utah launched unprecedented experiments in legal services delivery. Now Stanford has published a report, “Legal Innovation After Reform: Five Years of Data on Regulatory Change,” which provides comprehensive data on what worked, what didn’t and what it means for expanding access to justice. These findings build on a previous report that the Rhode Center published after the first two years these regulatory reforms were enacted.

Women of Color: The MVPs of the Social Justice Movement with Vanessa Daniel

Ally Kvidt — Tue, 17 Jun 2025 11:00:12 +0000

Vanessa Priya Daniel’s first book, Unrig the Game: What Women of Color Can Teach Everyone About Winning, centers the work of women of color in social justice movements. Daniel discusses her personal journey from community organizer to the founder and Executive Director of Groundswell, a philanthropy organization committed to intersectional organizing. She shares the three superpowers of successful WOC leaders that we can all adopt: a 360 vision, boldness, and generosity.

EP 612- Fighting for Constitutional Rights Part Two

Ally Kvidt — Wed, 11 Jun 2025 11:00:11 +0000

Our conversation with Constitutional lawyer David Roland continues as he discusses recent challenges to your rights and how you can hold task forces and government accountable.

The True Impact of Eliminating LSC for Everyday Americans

Ally Kvidt — Tue, 10 Jun 2025 15:30:29 +0000

A judge, legal aid director and legal aid client come together to discuss the potential impact of the White House’s proposal to eliminate the Legal Services Corporation (LSC) on the latest episode of Talk Justice. On May 30, the Trump Administration announced its proposed federal budget for 2026, calling for the elimination of LSC. In light of this, Flagg guides the guests through a conversation about the tangible impacts of defunding civil legal services, explaining how the impact will be felt at every level.

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

How a Florida murder and an unlikely justice created a ‘criminal procedure revolution’

Ally Kvidt — Wed, 04 Jun 2025 11:00:29 +0000

In Chambers v. Florida and the Criminal Justice Revolution, historian and former ABA Journal reporter Richard Brust lifts the veil on a case that laid the groundwork for some much more famous civil rights victories.

On May 13, 1933, shopkeeper Robert Darsey was robbed and murdered in Pompano, Florida. Four Black migrant farm workers—Izell Chambers, Walter Woodard, Jack Williamson and Charlie Davis—were seized and pressured by the local sheriff into confessing to the murder under threat of lynching. Their appeals eventually reached the U.S. Supreme Court through the efforts of some dedicated African American attorneys, and succeeded in 1940.

In Justice Hugo Black’s written opinion for the majority, the justice drew parallels between the Jim Crow regime in the American South and the rise of authoritarianism and fascism in Europe. Chambers v. Florida forbade the use of psychological coercion—such as threatening to turn prisoners over to lynch mobs—as well as physical abuse to extract confessions. The court’s ruling declared that the protections of the Bill of Rights extended into states’ criminal cases, and began to change the kinds of cases that made it onto the Supreme Court docket.

Brust sees it as part of a trio of cases, which includes Moore v. Dempsey (1923) and Brown v. Mississippi (1936), that led to a “criminal procedure revolution,” he tells the ABA Journal’s Lee Rawles.

In this episode of The Modern Law Library, Brust discusses the lawyers who worked on the case, most prominently Simuel D. McGill, a Black attorney in Jacksonville. He delves into the generational differences between the Floridian defense lawyers and the attorneys of the NAACP’s Legal Defense Fund who would go on to win key civil rights battles. He explains why Justice Black would have been considered an unlikely author for this opinion. And he shares what he could discover about the fates of Chambers, Woodard, Williamson and Davis after the trial.

Making It Easy to Give Back with Anna Chu

Ally Kvidt — Tue, 03 Jun 2025 11:00:13 +0000

We The Action has a simple premise – lawyers have the power to do good. The organization started in 2017 to help connect lawyer with pro bono causes, from immigration and domestic violence representation to non-profit governance and tax issues, from voting rights to copyright. Anna Chu, the Executive Director, describes how nimble organization started the Federal Workers Defense Network to provide pro bono support for the thousands of federal workers who were fired from their positions in violation of law and without legal process. You can find pro bono opportunities at https://wetheaction.org/lawyers

Exclusive Remedy: The “Great Bargain” (and the Exceptions)

Ally Kvidt — Mon, 02 Jun 2025 11:00:10 +0000

Let’s talk about the “exclusive remedy,” what it means, why Workers’ Comp matters, and the exceptions. The concept of exclusive remedy is based on the principle that in exchange for care and benefits, a worker injured on the job may surrender some options for additional remedies.

If you’re covered by Workers’ Comp, the ability to challenge the employer in court for injuries and pain and suffering may be limited. Workers’ Comp is the remedy. We are covered by Workers’ Compensation because that can be a good thing, but we may give up the right to sue. Ideally, it’s a fair deal for workers and employers. “The Great Bargain.”

But there are twists and turns. Negligence, bad faith, family medical leave needs, disabilities, “double compensation,” and third-party interests all add to the puzzle. When does an injured worker get the “green light” to seek compensation outside of the exclusive remedy?

And what about non-injury damages like defamation, malicious prosecution, slander, or mental anguish? Or what if a “leased” employee (think temp agencies) is hurt? While the exclusive remedy simplifies the management of workplace injuries in many cases, it’s not always as clear as it seems, and it’s important to know where the exceptions lurk. The goal is always to make injured workers whole. Every case matters.

If you have thoughts on Workers’ Comp law or an idea for a topic or guest you’d like to hear, contact us at JPierce@ppnlaw.com or APierce@ppnlaw.com.

EP 611- Fighting for Constitutional Rights Part One

Ally Kvidt — Wed, 28 May 2025 11:00:30 +0000

David Roland founded the Freedom Center of Missouri to pursue legal protection of our constitutional rights to economic liberty and free speech. Our three-part series is a vital refresher on landmark cases and our ongoing responsibility to litigate for freedom.

Civil Legal Aid’s Strong Return on Investment

Ally Kvidt — Tue, 27 May 2025 16:00:01 +0000

In April, LSC published a research brief, “The Economic Case for Civil Legal Aid,” which shows the results of a systematic review of 56 economic impact studies conducted between 2003 and 2023. The independent evaluations examined 39 different states. Every study found a positive return on investment (ROI) for civil legal aid spending, with an average return of $7 for every $1 invested in these legal services. Hear one compelling example from a medical-legal partnership between Amerihealth Caritas D.C. and Children’s Law Center.

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

Protecting and Providing Due Process with Erika Pinheiro

Ally Kvidt — Tue, 20 May 2025 11:00:55 +0000

Erika Pinheiro serves as the Executive Director of Al Otro Lado providing holistic legal and humanitarian support to refugees, deportees, and other migrants in the US and Tijuana through a multidisciplinary, client-centered, harm reduction-based practice. The organization provides direct, free, legal services on both sides of the US-Mexico border and beyond through zealous individual representation, medical-legal partnerships, and impact litigation to protect the rights of immigrants and asylum-seekers.

Revisiting Texas’ Mental Health Court Programs

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 15 May 2025 11:00:42 +0000

In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, we’re revisiting this powerful conversation about how Texas courts are addressing mental health challenges through reform and rehabilitation.

Should our criminal courts exist to punish or reform those who have broken the law? Rocky Dhir talks with Judge Brent Carr about his years of service in the Tarrant County Mental Health Court and the broader efforts across Texas to support people with mental illness in the justice system. They explore programs tackling issues from sex trafficking to drug offenses, veterans’ cases, and more.

When Private Businesses Partner for Pro Bono Good: Koch and Kansas

Ally Kvidt — Tue, 13 May 2025 14:15:33 +0000

Guests from a Kansas pro bono partnership discuss how private businesses and in-house attorneys can support legal aid initiatives in their communities on Talk Justice. In 2017, Koch was interested in making pro bono work an official part of the company, but learned that Kansas rules did not allow in-house attorneys who are licensed by outside states to provide local pro bono services. Koch worked with KLS to get the rule changed, demonstrating that the demand for free legal help greatly exceeded the supply of legal aid lawyers. Ever since, Koch attorneys have engaged in an ongoing partnership with KLS to provide pro bono expungement and driver’s license restoration clinics.

Reclaiming Civility with Cassandra Dahnke and Tomas Spath

Ally Kvidt — Tue, 06 May 2025 11:00:06 +0000

Thirty years ago, Cassandra Dahnke and Tomas Spath founded the Institute for Civility with the goal to promote civility—in government, workplaces, schools—and to catalyze change. They describe their journey, how they define civility, what they have learned about reducing polarization, and why they have hope for the future. https://www.instituteforcivility.org/.

When Undocumented Immigrants Are Hurt at Work

Ally Kvidt — Tue, 29 Apr 2025 11:00:12 +0000

These are unprecedented times for the rights of immigrant workers in the United States. The current political climate has thrown a wrench into the Workers’ Compensation system when it comes to workers without documentation. Understanding the system can help.

Guest Enrique Flores is the founder of the Flores Law Group in Indianapolis, Indiana, and a leader in immigrant workers’ rights. The son of immigrant parents, he says immigrant workers have always sought to live and work unnoticed, “invisible.” But in today’s charged political climate, the fear is real.

When an undocumented worker contacts you for legal assistance, understanding the Workers’ Comp laws in your state is vital. Times may change, but the law and protections haven’t. The law provides benefits for people who are injured at work. What’s changed for workers is the importance of living a lawful life. Clients should stay out of legal trouble, ensure their car is legally registered and in working order, and avoid giving anyone a reason to question them.

At the workplace, if immigration services show up (ICE), clients should know to stay calm and carry what are called “red cards” detailing their rights along with the card of an attorney they can call. The law still works for injured workers, no matter their immigration status. For attorneys, a little proactive outreach to the community could go a long way.

If you have thoughts on Workers’ Comp law or an idea for a topic or guest you’d like to hear, contact us at JPierce@ppnlaw.com or APierce@ppnlaw.com.

‘Secrets of the Killing State’ exposes realities of lethal injection

Ally Kvidt — Wed, 23 Apr 2025 11:00:04 +0000

Execution by lethal injection is seen by many Americans as a less barbaric alternative than older methods like hanging, firing squads and electrocution. It is easy to assume that the process must resemble euthanasia procedures for terminally ill people or pets. The reality is very different, says Corinna Barrett Lain, a law professor and death penalty expert.

Lain didn’t initially intend to make the death penalty her primary area of study, she tells the ABA Journal’s Lee Rawles in this episode of the Modern Law Library. A former prosecutor in Virginia, Lain did not begin her work out of opposition to the death penalty. But the more she discovered about the realities of the administration of lethal injections, the more she was compelled to demystify the process.

In Secrets of the Killing State: The Untold Story of Lethal Injection, Lain upends a lot of conventional wisdom about lethal injections. For example, the three-drug protocol used by most states was not a drug cocktail arrived at through scientific research. Rather, in 1977, after the U.S. Supreme Court allowed executions to resume after a 10-year hiatus, Oklahoma medical examiner Dr. Jay Chapman was asked by a state legislator to come up with an alternative to the state’s rickety electric chair. Though Chapman admitted he was “an expert in dead bodies but not an expert in getting them that way,” he proposed combining sodium thiopental, pancuronium bromide and potassium chloride. “You wanted to make sure the prisoner was dead at the end, so why not add a third drug,” the book quotes Chapman as saying. “Why does it matter why I chose it?” In contrast, an overdose of a single drug, pentobarbital, is what is commonly used by veterinarians in animal euthanasia.

“Lethal injection is not based on science,” Lain writes. “It is based on the illusion of science, the assumption of science.”

In this episode, Lain and Rawles also discuss botched executions, shady sources used by states to procure the drugs used for lethal injections, and how Lain’s scholarship has impacted her views of capital punishment as a whole.

Moving from Conflict to Collaboration to Prevent Evictions

Ally Kvidt — Tue, 22 Apr 2025 14:15:42 +0000

Experts discuss improving housing stability through collaboration between landlords, legal aid and other partners on Talk Justice. This panel discussion was recorded at LSC’s April 9 Access to Justice forum. LSC recently released a research brief on this topic, “Beyond Eviction: Landlords as Essential Partners in Housing Stability.”

Respecting and Protecting our Seniors with Christine Winge

Ally Kvidt — Tue, 15 Apr 2025 11:00:29 +0000

Meals on Wheels does more than just provide home delivery of healthy food for Seniors. President Christine Winge reminds us that maintaining human connection is a critical and essential part of physical and mental health as we grow older and risk becoming more isolated.

The AI Legal Impacts All Lawyers Should Know

Ally Kvidt — Mon, 14 Apr 2025 11:00:43 +0000

With the explosion of AI products, apps, software integrations, and more, many attorneys have no small amount of nervousness about whether they should trust this technology and, if so, how to use it to their advantage. To discuss AI’s current place in legal work and its future potential, Molly Ranns and JoAnn Hathaway welcome Sateesh Nori, legal innovation strategist and professor at NYU School of Law. They examine the many helpful uses for AI in everyday legal work, discuss AI in access to justice, and address the ethical and regulatory questions surrounding this technology. Later, Sateesh looks ahead to consider what legal professionals and law students should do to prepare themselves for a future with increasing AI use in the practice of law.

Sateesh Nori is a lawyer, law professor, senior non-profit executive, legal strategist, and author of “Sheltered: Twenty Years in Housing Court”.

Preventing Harm Amidst the AI Hype

Ally Kvidt — Tue, 08 Apr 2025 11:00:21 +0000

Legal and tech experts come together on Talk Justice to discuss what generative AI is, how the growth of algorithmic decision-making can harm low-income people, and the need for people and institutions implementing AI to develop robust methodologies.

The Moral Call to Protect Children with Beth Wilbur

Ally Kvidt — Tue, 01 Apr 2025 11:00:37 +0000

After a long career in the corporate world, Beth Wilbur decided she would serve children as the Executive Director of Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of Monterey County. She discusses the incredible work that CASA volunteers do to support children in the foster care system and how they change lives through their efforts. She describes her motivation as a moral call to protect children.

Empowering Individuals with Legal Tune Up

Ally Kvidt — Tue, 25 Mar 2025 15:20:19 +0000

Guests from a Wisconsin program creating web platforms that help users solve legal problems discuss their Legal Tune Up tools on Talk Justice. LIFT, or Legal Interventions for Transforming Wisconsin, was formed by lawyers and nonprofit leaders who wanted to create resources to address the access to justice crisis in their state. Leveraging the state’s public databases like Wisconsin Circuit Court Access, commonly referred to as CCAP, they have developed free, web-based tools that allow users to identify and solve some of their civil legal issues without assistance from a lawyer.

Where do You Go When the Taxman Calls? with Lisa Sperow

Ally Kvidt — Tue, 18 Mar 2025 11:00:53 +0000

Lisa Sperow is the Executive Director of the Cal Poly Low Income Taxpayer Clinic. The clinic provides free representation to low-income taxpayers in disputes with the IRS. Many of the clinic’s clients have nowhere else to seek help when they receive frightening notices from the IRS. It is even more alarming for taxpayers who do not speak English and who are completely unfamiliar with the process and documents necessary to respond to government claims, even if the claims are in error. As Lisa says, “this program helps ensure the fairness and integrity of the tax system by educating low-income taxpayers about their rights and responsibilities and by ensuring that their individual rights are protected.”

Scaling and Improving Legal Tech Projects

Ally Kvidt — Tue, 11 Mar 2025 14:20:34 +0000

Legal tech innovators discuss how they are working to scale and improve their successful projects on Talk Justice. FosterPower and Legal Aid Content Intelligence (LACI) leverage technology to make high-quality legal information available to people for free online. Both also received Technology Initiative Grants (TIG) from the Legal Services Corporation to launch their projects. Then, in 2024 they were both selected for a different TIG, called the Sustainability, Enhancement and Adoption (SEA) grant. This funding supports TIG projects that have demonstrated excellent results as they improve their tools and work to increase uptake.

A Conversation with Cook County State’s Attorney Justice Eileen O’Neill Burke

Ally Kvidt — Wed, 05 Mar 2025 12:00:50 +0000

A surefire place to learn the ins and outs of being a trial attorney is at the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office. The CCSAO prosecutes tens of thousands of cases each year and is deeply committed to the pursuit of justice to provide greater safety and well-being to Cook County residents. Tracy Brammeier and Maggie Mendenhall-Casey welcome new Cook County State’s Attorney Justice Eileen O’Neill Burke to learn about her plans for the CCSAO. In their wide-ranging discussion, they dig into plans for strengthening the office through new training and hiring initiatives; talk through major crime issues including gun crimes, theft, and domestic violence; discuss the need for more connected systems and communications in the county’s justice system; and much, much more.

Empowering Young People to Reach Their Potential with Cathy Sakimura

Ally Kvidt — Tue, 04 Mar 2025 12:00:08 +0000

Cathy Sakimura has spent her entire professional life empowering young people, first as a youth organizer, then as the Deputy Director at the National Center for Lesbian Rights, and now as Executive Director of Legal Services for Children (LSC) in San Francisco. In this episode, Cathy describes why she has dedicated her life to serving children and families, how she manages the challenges, and what each of us can make a difference in a child’s life, including donating money to LSC because it lost its federal funding that allowed it to serve immigrant children in detention. https://secure.everyaction.com/cVYzZjzhqkC12TIE2v3q7A2

Texas’ Longest-Serving Supreme Court Justice Nathan Hecht on Improving Access to Justice and the Courts

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 27 Feb 2025 15:00:18 +0000

The 27th Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Texas, the Honorable Nathan L. Hecht retired from the bench at the end of 2024 as the longest-serving member in the history of the Texas Supreme Court. In this conversation, Hecht reflects on how his time on the bench shaped his perspective on access to justice. He describes the current challenges that civil courts face and shares what recent innovations he finds most exciting.

Partnering to Protect Human Rights by Protecting Our Planet with Brad Adams

Ally Kvidt — Tue, 18 Feb 2025 12:00:38 +0000

Brad Adams and Climate Rights International believe that progress on climate change cannot succeed without protecting human rights – and the fight for human rights cannot succeed without protecting our planet against climate change. Brad and CRI work in partnership with local and international groups, activists, and affected communities to demand justice and accountability from powerful interests.

100 Episodes of Talk Justice—What We’ve Learned So Far

Ally Kvidt — Tue, 11 Feb 2025 15:15:14 +0000

In celebration of its landmark 100th episode, Talk Justice hosts join in a special conversation about the most memorable guests, moments and lessons from the show. In addition to show highlights, they also consider the larger discourse around the civil justice system. Talk Justice originally launched in August of 2020. The podcast has brought together legal experts, technologists, business leaders, community organizers and government officials for thoughtful conversations about ending the access-to-justice crisis.

A new media kit and resource page about the show is now available online.

Pro Bono Passion Perseveres Pre- and Post-Pandemic with Fawaz Bham

Ally Kvidt — Tue, 04 Feb 2025 12:00:35 +0000

Providing pro bono service to small businesses in Dallas, Texas not only persevered through the pandemic – it expanded. The innovative program developed by attorney Fawaz Bham coordinated more than 40 law firms and community organizations through a transition from in-person to remote clinics to sustain a program that has served over 25,000 clients. Bham’s efforts were recognized by the 2024 American Bar Association’s Pro Bono Publico Award for exceptional volunteer public service.

Talking AI for Access to Justice at the 25th Innovations in Technology Conference

Ally Kvidt — Tue, 28 Jan 2025 12:00:34 +0000

Recorded live from the 25th annual Innovations in Technology Conference (ITC), legal tech experts discuss their artificial intelligence (AI) projects and AI’s future potential for expanding legal services on Talk Justice. The live podcast recording at ITC took place in Phoenix, Arizona on January 14. At the conference, more than 700 professionals from legal, tech and other backgrounds gathered to attend panels and join conversations about access to justice, legal aid, courts and the evolving role of technology. AI was a major theme at the conference, where more than 300 people also attended a pre-conference AI Summit.

Advocating for Native American Rights, A 50+ Year Journey Still Underway with John Echohawk

Ally Kvidt — Tue, 21 Jan 2025 12:00:20 +0000

John Echohawk has served as Executive Director of the Native American Rights Fund (NARF) since 1977. Under John’s inspired and continuing leadership, NARF has successfully asserted and defended the most important rights of Indians and tribes in hundreds of major cases, and has achieved significant results in such critical areas as tribal sovereignty, treaty rights, natural resource protection, voting rights, and Indian education.

Self-Help Legal Kiosks Create Adaptable Access

Ally Kvidt — Tue, 14 Jan 2025 12:00:23 +0000

Legal aid and tech experts discuss self-help kiosks on the latest episode of Talk Justice. The under-resourcing of legal aid makes it impossible to provide meaningful legal help to every person who needs it. Many providers build and share educational materials and self-help resources online to help fill the gaps, but those without access to a personal computer or smartphone may not be able to access these resources. Self-help legal kiosks offer adaptable access.

Transgender Prisoner Rights with Alan Mills

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 09 Jan 2025 12:00:22 +0000

Throughout the history of our justice system, transgender prisoners’ issues have largely been ignored. Is that intentional indifference still predominant in the current landscape of our prisons? Nikki Marcotte and Trisha Rich talk with Alan Mills of the Uptown People’s Law Center about his career in prisoner rights litigation, including his work in the Monroe case and his opinions on the recent decision made by the 7th Circuit US Court of Appeals in Monroe v. Bowman. They discuss the issues surrounding gender affirming care in Illinois prisons, the impacts of politics and media, and how attorneys can get involved in prisoner rights issues.

Alan Mills is Executive Director at Uptown People’s Law Center in Chicago, Illinois.

Dream.org Sets the Tone for Optimism in Action with CEO Nisha Anand

Ally Kvidt — Tue, 07 Jan 2025 12:00:34 +0000

Nisha Anand, the Chief Executive Officer of Dream.org, joins SideBar to discuss how she builds bridges across political divides to find real solutions. Nisha employs the “radical act of finding common ground” with unlikely allies while still staying true to her progressive values. She provides a hopeful message that collaboration can achieve change and overcome polarization and political divides.

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.

Can Tech Simplify Pro Bono?

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 19 Dec 2024 16:30:23 +0000

Legal experts share the impactful tech projects they have contributed to, and the struggles and successes of getting volunteer lawyers to engage with tech tools on Talk Justice. Oswald’s project at Legal Aid Society uses automation and AI to handle record expungements more efficiently. Seely has seen great success from a project that allows people with medical debt from Chattanooga’s Erlanger Hospital to engage in alternative dispute resolution fully online.

The Modern General Counsel: New Roles, Rules and Responsibilities

Ally Kvidt — Tue, 17 Dec 2024 12:00:28 +0000

In this episode of the Legal Report from Robert Half, host Jamy Sullivan (executive director, legal, Robert Half) and guest Amy Yeung (legal executive and board member) focus on the evolving role of the modern general counsel. From chief legal officer to strategic business leader, they discuss the new rules and responsibilities of today’s general counsel, the role technology plays and best practices for success.

New Season and New Format – SideBar: Optimism in Action with Jackie Gardina and Mitch Winick

Ally Kvidt — Tue, 17 Dec 2024 12:00:15 +0000

Seasons one and two of SideBar featured discussions with authors, lawyers, and academics discussing challenges to our individual constitutional and civil rights. Each of our episodes ended with our featured guests providing recommendations on how each of us can contribute to solutions for the common good. Season three of SideBar is going to flip the narrative. We are featuring lawyers, nonprofit leaders, activists, and community members who are already accomplishing extraordinary work that is improving the humanitarian, public policy, and charitable needs of our local, national, and global communities. We hope that you will join us for this season of SideBar as we meet individuals and organizations who prove through their actions that opportunities to influence positive change exist for each of us. We are calling this season of SideBar — “Optimism in Action”.

New Report Builds a Framework for Civil Justice Innovation

Ally Kvidt — Tue, 10 Dec 2024 15:15:51 +0000

Legal scholars discuss the American Academy of Arts & Sciences’ new report, “Achieving Civil Justice: A Framework for Collaboration,” on Talk Justice. Since 2014, the Academy’s Making Justice Accessible project. has highlighted the scale of the civil justice gap by recognizing its social, economic and human costs, and calling for improved data collection. The project is also looking ahead to set standards for civil justice and to ensure all Americans have meaningful access to justice.

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.

A Justice’s Legacy: A Conversation with Chief Justice Nathan Hecht

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 05 Dec 2024 12:00:34 +0000

Chief Justice Nathan L. Hecht is the longest serving member in the history of the Supreme Court of Texas and the longest tenured Texas judge in active service. As he nears his well-deserved retirement, Rocky Dhir welcomes Chief Justice Hecht to the podcast to learn about his many years in service to the Texas legal system. They discuss his career path, the behind-the-scenes work judges do within courts, his efforts to improve access to justice, his advice for lawyers, and much more.

Nathan L. Hecht is the 27th Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Texas. He has been elected to the Court seven times, first in 1988 as a Justice and then in 2014 and 2020 as Chief Justice.

Space Law Really is the New Frontier with Chris Hearsey

Ally Kvidt — Tue, 03 Dec 2024 12:00:33 +0000

SideBar guest Chris Hearsey has spent over ten years working in international space collaborations, space exploration technologies, and other aerospace applications. His work has contributed to advancements in space law, policy, and technology. Chris is known for his visionary approach and commitment to pushing the boundaries of space capabilities, developing sustainable space technologies, and fostering an economic ecosystem conducive to innovation and growth.

Justice and Support for Veterans with Substance Use Disorders

Ally Kvidt — Tue, 26 Nov 2024 12:00:01 +0000

Veterans and legal experts discuss wrap-around services to address the needs of veterans with substance use disorder on Talk Justice. Many veterans live with mental or behavioral health challenges, including traumatic brain injury, post-traumatic stress disorder and substance use disorder. Approximately 1 in 10 veterans returning from Iraq and Afghanistan suffers from some form of substance abuse. And according to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, the rate of opioid use disorder among veterans is almost double that of the general population. Civil legal aid, the U.S. Department of Justice and Veterans Courts provide vital assistance for veterans facing a substance use disorder, from obtaining health care benefits to securing treatment. This discussion originally took place at LSC’s November 19 event, “Honor in Justice: Supporting America’s Veterans.”

Recent Legal Developments in Pay Equity and Transparency

Ally Kvidt — Tue, 12 Nov 2024 23:00:02 +0000

Unpack the complexities of pay equity and transparency with esteemed attorneys Erin M. Connell, representing employers, and Anne B. Shaver, representing employees. Throughout the episode, we’ll explore the legal nuances of fair pay practices, explain the difference between “pay equity” and the “pay gap,” and examine how new pay transparency laws are transforming workplaces across the U.S. and beyond.

Erin and Anne also discuss recent trends, including why leveling the job before hiring is crucial, the impact of salary disclosure laws in states like Colorado and California, and how companies are adapting to increased pressure for fairness from both employees and shareholders. Together, they provide practical insights for navigating these changes, whether you’re an employer or employee. Plus, they touch on the growing influence of AI in hiring and compensation decisions and highlight what’s on the horizon for labor and employment law.

Erin M. Connell is Co-chair of Orrick’s EEO & OFCCP Compliance Group, representing employers in high-stakes employment litigation and leading in equal employment law, pay equity, and compliance.

Anne B. Shaver, a partner specializing in employment and antitrust class actions, represents certified classes of female employees in equal pay and gender discrimination cases against Google and Goldman Sachs, and workers impacted by no-poach agreements in fintech and franchise industries.

How Collaboration Powers Legal Aid’s Hurricane Response

Ally Kvidt — Tue, 12 Nov 2024 15:30:01 +0000

Legal aid staff in Florida, Georgia and North Carolina discuss their wide-ranging hurricane response efforts on Talk Justice. In the wake of devastating hurricanes in the southeast, legal aid organizations are mobilizing to provide emergency assistance and recovery services. The legal aid providers stress the importance of legal services becoming engrained in the disaster response ecosystem so that other recovery organizations know to refer people to legal aid, and legal aid knows where to refer clients with non-legal issues.

Pharma Fallout: How Harrington v. Purdue Pharma Will Impact Bankruptcy Law

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 07 Nov 2024 12:00:07 +0000

In the wake of the incredible harm caused by the opioid crisis, the outcome of the Purdue Pharma case argued in the United States Supreme Court garnered national attention. What impacts might this case have in bankruptcy court proceedings in the future? To unpack the details and gain understanding of the bankruptcy issues at play, Rocky Dhir talks with attorneys Elias Yazbeck and Michael Wombacher. They discuss the backstory of Purdue Pharma and the Sackler family, the journey of the case through the courts, and insights into the reasoning behind the Supreme Court’s decision, with a particular focus on the conflict over nonconsensual third-party releases.

Learn more about the case here: 23-124 Harrington v. Purdue Pharma L.P. (06/27/24)

Elias M. Yazbeck is an associate attorney in the Houston office of McGinnis Lochridge, LLP.

Michael Wombacher is an associate attorney at McDermott Will & Emery in Dallas, Texas.

Michael represented the Committee of Unsecured Creditors in the Robertshaw case: Case number: 8:23-bk-80004 – Ebix, Inc. – Texas Northern Bankruptcy Court.

‘Watchdogs’ author has no regrets about choosing civil service over the NBA

Ally Kvidt — Wed, 06 Nov 2024 12:00:35 +0000

Glenn Fine’s career-long crusade against corruption might have its roots in his college days. As a point guard for the Harvard basketball team, Fine had his personal best game on Dec. 16, 1978, the same day he interviewed for–and received–a Rhodes scholarship. He put up 19 points against Boston College, including eight steals, and the team nearly eeked out a win against the favored Boston players. A remarkable day.

What Fine would later discover was that mobsters had bribed Boston College players to play worse to keep the game tight and not cover the point spread. Henry Hill and Jimmy Burke–later portrayed by Ray Liotta and Robert De Niro in the movie Goodfellas were part of the point-shaving scheme.

Fine would later be drafted in the 10th round of the NBA draft by the San Antonio Spurs, but it was the anti-corruption law that stuck, not basketball.

Fine took a job out of law school as a prosecutor in Washington, D.C., and joined the Office of the Inspector General at the Department of Justice in 1995. He would go on to serve as Inspector General at the DOJ from 2000 to 2011, then at the Department of Defense from 2015 until 2020. He was one of the five inspectors general fired by then-President Donald Trump in what the Washington Post referred to as the “slow-motion Friday night massacre of inspectors general.”

But what do inspectors general do? It’s a question Fine wants to answer with his book, Watchdogs: Inspectors General and the Battle for Honest and Accountable Government. In this episode of the Modern Law Library, Fine and the ABA Journal’s Lee Rawles discuss the function, history and importance of the position, along with ways Fine believes government oversight can be improved.

As of the book’s publication in 2024, there are 74 inspector general offices at the federal level, with more than 14,000 employees. As the IG for the Department of Defense, Fine oversaw the largest office, with some 1,700 employees. Inspectors general conduct independent, non-partisan oversight investigations into waste, fraud, misconduct and best practices, and deliver their reports and recommendations to Congress and the agencies involved. The IGs cannot enforce the adoption of recommendations, but their work acts as the “sunshine” for disinfection, Fine says.

One major recommendation Fine makes in Watchdogs is that an inspector general be established for the U.S. Supreme Court and the federal judiciary, who could perhaps file their reports to the chief justice or the head of the Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts. Fine points to judicial ethics concerns and polls finding public trust in the Supreme Court at historic lows, and argues one way to increase public trust is through the transparency provided by an inspector general.

Also in this episode, Fine offers advice for anyone considering a career in public service. Rawles and Fine discuss stories of his own investigations, including evaluating the claims of a whistleblowing scientist at the FBI laboratory and looking into how the infamous double-agent spy Robert Hanssen was able to fool his FBI superiors and pass intel to Soviets and Russians.

The Future of the Legal Profession Impacts Democracy with Ray Brescia

Ally Kvidt — Tue, 05 Nov 2024 12:00:46 +0000

Since colonial days, the legal profession has been proud of its role in the founding of the republic, the adoption of the U.S. Constitution, and the defense of democracy and the rule of law. However, the profession faces an existential crisis on which the American democratic experiment hinges, says law professor Ray Brescia, author of Lawyer Nation: The Past, Present, and Future of the American Legal Profession. If attorney unethical behavior surrounding the 2020 election repeats without disciplinary repercussions in 2024 . . . democracy itself is at risk.

Who Picks Your Presidential Candidate, Anyway? — A Conversation with DNC Delegate Aurora Austriaco

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 24 Oct 2024 11:00:15 +0000

In August, the city of Chicago welcomed the 2024 Democratic National Convention, and delegates formally selected Kamala Harris as the nominee for President following President Biden’s departure from the race. But, let’s back up a second. Where exactly did those nominating delegates come from? Chicago attorney Aurora Austriaco joins Maggie Mendenhall Casey and Tracy Brammeier to discuss her experience serving as an elected delegate at the 2024 DNC. Aurora outlines the process and responsibilities involved in becoming a delegate and shares highlights and impactful moments from the convention.

Aurora Austriaco is a Shareholder with Valentine Austriaco & Bueschel P.C., an all women owned law firm concentrating in the areas of commercial litigation, business litigation and real estate.

The Benefits of Professionalizing Pro Bono

Ally Kvidt — Tue, 22 Oct 2024 11:00:07 +0000

Experts discuss the professionalization of pro bono legal services on Talk Justice. Pro bono work is often thought of as a side project that lawyers perform, but legal aid organizations that can rely on full-time staff have increased opportunities to expand services and provide more intensive client service through pro bono. A growing number of people and firms are making pro bono their full-time occupations and bringing professionalism to this area of legal practice.

New Technology, New Regulation — Clio Cloud Conference 2024

Ally Kvidt — Mon, 21 Oct 2024 15:00:10 +0000

Are current tech regulations adequately keeping pace with rapid changes in the area of technology? Working together, what can lawyers and regulators do to move forward ethically—always with access to justice in mind? Speakers Jayne Reardon, Chris Bentley, and Phil Brown share highlights from their discussion on the current landscape of this area, with a particular focus on the justice gap. They share their ideology on improving legal service delivery with technology and encourage fellow legal professionals to be innovators and advocates for leveraging technology in the fight for greater access to justice.

Jayne R. Reardon is a Partner and Deputy General Counsel at FisherBroyles LLP, a distributed global law firm.

Chris Bentley is the Managing Director of the Legal Innovation Zone and the Law Practice Program, both housed at Toronto Metropolitan University.

Phil Brown is the Acting Director of Practice Supports and Resources at the Law Society of Ontario.

Equal Justice for All is Possible with Robert Tsai

Ally Kvidt — Tue, 15 Oct 2024 11:00:51 +0000

Stephen Bright made it his life’s work to unleash social change by representing unpopular clients–namely those on death row. Remarkably, he succeeded, winning all four cases he argued before the Supreme Court. Robert Tsai chronicles Stephen Bright’s decades long fight to ensure equality under the law that is still being challenged at the Supreme Court today.

How Can Legal Aid Hold On to Good Attorneys?

Ally Kvidt — Tue, 08 Oct 2024 15:30:52 +0000

Legal aid directors from Minnesota and Arkansas discuss their multi-faceted efforts to attract and retain high-quality attorneys and other staff on Talk Justice. It’s no secret that legal aid does not lead to the highest potential salaries in the profession. While legal aid has much to offer in terms of opportunities for high-impact, rewarding work, program directors must be creative to attract and retain staff with their limited resources.

The Return of Legal Vigilantism with David Noll and Jon Michaels

Ally Kvidt — Tue, 01 Oct 2024 11:00:35 +0000

David Noll and Jon Michaels, authors of Vigilante Nation, discuss the reemergence of state-supported vigilantism. Noll and Michaels explain the vigilante methods, from anti-abortion bounties to book bans to the January 6 attack on the Capitol. They also provide a path forward, outlining what needs to be done to stop these efforts.

Evidence Preservation: Who’s Responsible and What Happens When It’s Lost or Destroyed

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 26 Sep 2024 11:00:13 +0000

At the moment of conviction, the incentive to safeguard evidence diminishes in the eyes of the Criminal Justice System. That’s why it is critically important to act quickly to ensure evidence remains available for future appeals. Without it, your fight for freedom could be over before it even begins. In this episode, host Michael Semanchik is joined by Raquel Barilla, former Staff Attorney and Volunteer Coordinator at the California Innocence Project; Alissa Bjerkhoel, former Litigation Coordinator at the California Innocence Project; and Alex Simpson, former Associate Director and Resident Expert for Evidence Preservation at the California Innocence Project. Together, they discuss methods for preserving evidence. Tune in to learn what to do if the unthinkable happens.