FindLaw's Don't Judge Me: Recent Episodes
Andy, Joe, Laura, and Vaidehi
FindLaw’s Don’t Judge Me has a lot of opinions, jokes, insightful guests, and in-depth discussions about hot topics in the law. What we don’t have is a lot of pretention or corporate oversight. We hope you have as much fun listening as we have making it. Our hosts are lawyers and writers at FindLaw, the primary online destination for all things legal. Hosts: Laura Temme Andy Leonatti Joe Fawbush Vaidehi Mehta
That’s a wrap on this show, folks. After three years and well over 100 episodes, Andy, Joe, Laura, and Vaidehi are off to chase their dreams. Laura is excited to have the time to fully pursue spelunking. Andy finally convinced Larry David to do that Seinfeld spinoff he’s been pitching for years. Joe is starting his side hustle on Cameo with his good friend Rudy, and Vaidehi joined a secret government project developing telekinesis. Oops, we shouldn't have told you that.
In this atypical final episode our hosts yak it up one last time about favorite show moments and compare ourselves to the Beatles. As always, please check out findlaw.com for information on a wide variety of legal topics, current events, and great audio and visual content. And in all sincerity, thank you for listening.
Joining us to talk about how contractors, lawyers, and insurance companies are becoming increasingly litigious is Cassie Calisti of Premium Group Insurance. This episode Cassie explains why disputes over home repairs after storms, floods, and other damage to homes are increasingly common, and how homeowners can be left out in the aftermath. We also discuss recent laws in Florida that aim to stem the tide of lawsuits over insurance claims.
Two of the most anticipated Supreme Court cases this term involve student loan forgiveness. This episode our hosts break down the issues in the case, which include standing and the major questions doctrine.
At some point all of us have been charged a "service" fee when no services were rendered (we're looking at you, Ticketmaster). Or perhaps you've been charged a surprise "resort" fee after staying at a run-of-the-mill hotel. How is this legal? Both state attorneys general and the Biden Administration are looking to curb so-called junk fees. Will it work? Meanwhile, do us regular consumers have any options? We take a look on this episode.
The Norfolk Southern train derailment in East Palestine, Ohio, deservedly captured media attention nationwide. As residents continue to worry about air and water quality, some have already filed lawsuits.
This episode our hosts discuss toxic torts, the area of law that deals with this sort of man-made environmental disaster. Class action lawsuits stemming from toxic pollutants are more common than you might think.
The time between the new year and spring is also known as divorce season. This episode our hosts talk about why couples tend to separate more between January and March. We also give a few examples of what not to do if you find yourself facing a divorce.
Chances are you don't have Mission:Impossible level security clearance. But that doesn't mean you don't have access to information your employer considers confidential. This episode our hosts discuss what can happen to you if you intentionally or accidentally reveal confidential company information, including trade secrets. The potential consequences might be greater than you'd think. We also talk about when you are protected for revealing secrets as a whistleblower.
By now you're almost certainly aware that Alec Baldwin is facing criminal charges relating to the on-set shooting of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins. You can find details of the charges and penalties just about anywhere on the internet. But missed in much of this is the old but often ignored advice regarding how to act during a police investigation - even if it isn't immediately apparent you are in danger of being charged with a crime.
Are robot lawyers really just around the corner? If you go by internet chatter surrounding ChatGPT and other AI chatbots, it would seem so. But it's not that easy for lawyers to be replaced. This episode our hosts discuss the problems with AI-assisted legal advice and what brave new world the legal industry is headed toward.
Is your idea for a new true crime podcast about to be the next big thing? Before you get too excited, remember a few rules about what you can say about your suspect(s). Otherwise, you could risk being sued for defamation, as self-described psychic Ashley Guillard found out when creating Tik Tok videos regarding her beliefs about the horrific murders of four University of Idaho students in 2022.
What do Miss Marple, Sherlock Holmes, and Winnie the Pooh have in common? They've all entered the public domain (at least to some extent). The original Mickey Mouse will join them next year. But that's not the end of the story, public domain and copyright law can be complex. Our hosts walk you through the basics of public domain law and how the soon-to-be released slasher film Winnie the Pooh: Blood and Honey depicts the once gentle and lovable bear. Why isn't Disney doing anything about it?
It’s the most wonderful time of the year! No, not because of well-deserved time off and holidays spent with family – because now it’s time for the hosts of Don’t Judge Me to discuss their favorite professional bungles committed by lawyers this year. So even if you’re stressed about hosting a holiday dinner or buying gifts, at least you’re not one of these folks. Happy New Year!
Who do you root for in a legal fight between an overeager homeowner with 200,000 Christmas lights and a homeowner's association? Can you be fired for refusing to go to a company holiday party? And just how many laws does Santa Claus break every year? Join our hosts for a merry discussion of Christmas and holiday-related legal issues. Happy holidays and have a great new year!
You know what's a good idea? Not running onto the field when you attend a football game. This sidebar episode our hosts discuss Alex Taylor, the animal rights protestor and trespasser who ran onto the field during the 49er-Rams game with a device trailing pink smoke. He evaded security only to be laid out by all-pro linebacker Bobby Wagner. Taylor filed a lawsuit hours later, alleging assault. We discuss the penalties for trespassing at a football game (or any other sports event), the rules regarding assault, and what Bobby Wagner's lawyer may have told him in the wake of the news.
What is the deal with airlines?? It seems like canceled flights have gotten more and more frequent in recent years. And is it just us, or are airplane seats getting smaller? This episode, our hosts discuss what airlines can and can’t do - and when travelers might be entitled to compensation.
Cheaters never win, goes the saying. But some cheaters lose really, really badly. Like the competetive fishermen who were caught stuffing fish with weights and fillets to win a $30,000 prize in a walleye tournament. Other times, just being accused of cheating can be equally devastating, as American chess grandmaster Hans Niemann found out when a joke about an allegedly suspcious win went viral.
Cheating is wrong, sure. But is it ever illegal? Can you sue over cheating or being accused of cheating? Our hosts discuss on this sidebar episode.
The Biden Administration’s recent executive order pardoning those convicted of federal marijuana possession made big news. But what does this mean for their criminal records? Our hosts discuss the history of presidential pardons, what they do and don’t do, and how expungement fills in the gaps.
The Biden Administration’s recent executive order pardoning those convicted of federal marijuana possession made big news. But what does this mean for their criminal records? Our hosts discuss the history of presidential pardons, what they do and don’t do, and how expungement fills in the gaps.
America has a long legal history with voting rights. This episode we discuss some of the notable state and federal voting laws that have been passed, repealed, amended, and declared unconstitutional. Our hosts also touch on time, manner, and place restrictions, as well as past and current attempts at limiting or expanding who has the right to vote.
For information on voting laws in your state, please visit findlaw.com/voting for a comprehensive look at the laws and rights in your state.
Sorry, anglers, not that kind of catfish. This episode we tackle the topic of online catfishing, the practice of duping single people into thinking they are forming a relationship with a non-existent person. It's certainly immoral, but depending on the behavior involved it can also be illegal or lead to lawsuits. Learn all about catfishing and how to spot it so you don't fall victim to catfishing or romance scams, as over 21,000 people did in 2021.
For more information, check out these resources from FindLaw.com:
Can I Sue Someone for Catfishing Me?
Is Sexting Illegal for Teens?
What Is Catfishing?
Sorry, anglers, not that kind of catfish. This episode we tackle the topic of online catfishing, the practice of duping single people into thinking they are forming a relationship with a non-existent person. It's certainly immoral, but depending on the behavior involved it can also be illegal or lead to lawsuits. Learn all about catfishing and how to spot it so you don't fall victim to catfishing or romance scams, as over 21,000 people did in 2021.
For more information, check out these resources from FindLaw.com:
Can I Sue Someone for Catfishing Me?
Is Sexting Illegal for Teens?
What Is Catfishing?
Can you sue if you're injured at a haunted house attraction? Is it legal to consume human flesh? Do you have to tell a potential home buyer that your house is haunted? The answers might surprise you. Our hosts delve into these hair-raising legal issues and more on Don't Judge Me's first-ever Halloween episode! Listen, if you dare...
Can you sue if you're injured at a haunted house attraction? Is it legal to consume human flesh? Do you have to tell a potential home buyer that your house is haunted? The answers might surprise you. Our hosts delve into these hair-raising legal issues and more on Don't Judge Me's first-ever Halloween episode! Listen, if you dare...
We're back to discuss more head-scratching personal injury lawsuits this week! First, a man successfully sues his parents for throwing out his extensive collection of "adult" films. Then, we discuss a prank gone wrong where the legal result would likely make Kevin McCallister and Dennis the Menace a little nervous. But it's not all pesky kids and porn stashes; we've got some legal insight too.
We're back to discuss more head-scratching personal injury lawsuits this week! First, a man successfully sues his parents for throwing out his extensive collection of "adult" films. Then, we discuss a prank gone wrong where the legal result would likely make Kevin McCallister and Dennis the Menace a little nervous. But it's not all pesky kids and porn stashes; we've got some legal insight too.
Join us for a fun discussion of some of the most notable, lambasted, and misunderstood personal injury lawsuits in American history. There will be coffee, beer, and sandwiches (talked about, of course, this is a podcast. But we'd treat you if we could).
Join us for a fun discussion of some of the most notable, lambasted, and misunderstood personal injury lawsuits in American history. There will be coffee, beer, and sandwiches (talked about, of course, this is a podcast. But we'd treat you if we could).
To what extent does the First Amendment protect obscenity (i.e. pornography). What is pornography and what is artistic expression? Learn all about this titillating subject on this episode of DJM.
To what extent does the First Amendment protect obscenity (i.e. pornography). What is pornography and what is artistic expression? Learn all about this titillating subject on this episode of DJM.
DJM is going back to school this week as we discuss the movement around increasing parental involvement in public schools. Can lawmakers ban books? Can parents dictate curriculum choices? And how does the First Amendment fit into all of this? We don’t have a magic school bus, but we do have an interesting discussion of new legislation and previous Supreme Court cases related to education.
DJM is going back to school this week as we discuss the movement around increasing parental involvement in public schools. Can lawmakers ban books? Can parents dictate curriculum choices? And how does the First Amendment fit into all of this? We don’t have a magic school bus, but we do have an interesting discussion of new legislation and previous Supreme Court cases related to education.
If you're a home gardener or live in an area where there's a lot of farming going on, you've probably heard of Roundup. In this Sidebar, Joe and Vaidehi discuss the ongoing lawsuits based on Roundup weed killer's potentially harmful side effects and why its maker, Monsanto, has a 50/50 record in these disputes so far.
Does pleading the Fifth make you look guilty? Should you plead the Fifth even if you're innocent? This week our hosts discuss the Fifth Amendment's protection against self-incrimination, also known as "pleading the Fifth." Come for information about constitutional rights, stay for Joe's impression of a certain interior decorator who probably should have refused to answer questions from the FBI.
For more information, check out Joe's blog post about pleading the Fifth.
In 2021, we covered the stranger-than-fiction case of Alex Murdaugh, the attorney from a prominent family who was charged with planning his own murder for the insurance money.
Now, he's charged with murdering his wife and son. Our hosts discuss the circumstances and allegations against Murdaugh, who if charged and convicted of these and other allegations is approaching serial killer territory.
Join us in the Wayback Machine to talk about the ever-timely issue of the separation of church and state. This episode we discuss the Enlightenment, the Wars of Religion, and what was going on in the minds of Thomas Jefferson & Co. when the Founders drafted the Bill of Rights. And because we don't want to be so serious all the time, we also talk about Rhode Island's troublemaking youth and invite you to play a drinking game.
WNBA star Brittney Griner was detained in Russia in February after airport authorities found a marijuana vape cartridge in her luggage. The Biden administration is working on a prisoner exchange to bring her home, but what happens if you're arrested abroad and not quite as well-connected?
This episode, our hosts discuss Griner's case, extradition, and international criminal law.
Doing anything to protect your children is understandable. But when "anything" involves attempted murder, don't be surprised when you face consequences. This sidebar episode our hosts discuss the criminal and civil cases involving Cain Velasquez, the WWE wrestler and two-time UFC Heavyweight Champion, who is now suing his child's alleged molester from behind bars.
We're back to wrap up the end of the U.S. Supreme Court's frantic 2021-2022 term. With no shortage of impactful decisions to choose from, this time we cover West Virginia v. EPA (taking power away from federal agencies), Oklahoma v. Castro-Huerta (how state governments handle criminal matters with tribal authorities), and two First Amendment cases that emphasize the free exercise of religion (Carson v. Maikin and Kennedy v. Bremerton School District).
Read more on FindLaw:
- A Touchdown for Religious Expression
- SCOTUS Again Extends Religious Expression
- Supreme Court Gives States Expanded Power Over Native Tribes
- SCOTUS Limits EPA Emission Control Powers
The U.S. Supreme Court's 2021-2022 session wrapped up in June. And while the decision that overturned Roe v. Wade arguably grabbed the most headlines, there were quite a few groundbreaking opinions from the court this term. In this episode, our hosts discuss Vega v. Tekoh (limiting Miranda rights), Biden v. Texas (ending "Remain in Mexico"), and New York State Rifle and Pistol Association v. Bruen(expanding Second Amendment rights).
Learn more about these topics on FindLaw:
Miranda v. Arizona Case Summary
Despite SCOTUS Ruling, New York Aims to Restrict Gun Carrying
Supreme Court Allows Biden Administration to End "Remain in Mexico"
Truth is stranger than fiction, which is why Netflix's "Our Father" documentary left the DJM hosts shaking their heads. This sidebar episode our hosts tackle the legal issues involved in artificial insemination and the inexplicable actions of Donald Kline, a fertility doctor from Indianapolis who . . . well, listen to the episode. A short description doesn't do it justice.
For more on paternity law, visit https://www.findlaw.com/family/paternity/
From legal wrangling in states over gender-affirming care to several Biden Administration executive orders, there's a lot to discuss regarding LGTBQ+ laws. And is Bostock v. Clayton Countysafe in light of recent Supreme Court decisions? This episode our hosts walk through a few things to note.
For more comprehensive coverage, check out FindLaw's new section devoted to LGBTQ+ rights and legal issues: www.findlaw.com/lgbtq-law.html
Happy Pride Month!
No, it is not. But in a recent indictment against Jeffery Lamar Williams, a.k.a. Young Thug, Fulton County prosecutors submitted lyrics as evidence indicating Williams' involvement in a criminal organization. He is being prosecuted under RICO.
Is Young Thug the head of an Atlanta street gang? We have no idea. But Laura has a thing or two to say about using rap lyrics as evidence of criminal intent.
Come for the celebrity gossip, stay for the interesting legal aspects of the defamation case heard ‘round the world. Our hosts discuss the elements of defamation, the actual malice standard, and why the Heard vs. Depp trial got so messy and salacious.
We're back with Part 2 of our discussion of the Dobbsleaked draft opinion. Check out Part 1 for a full discussion of Roe v. Wadeand a history of abortion jurisprudence.
This week, we're discussing other "privacy" cases that could be impacted by the Dobbsdecision, a list that includes birth control, private sexual acts, same-sex and interracial marriage, and others.
Justice Alito's leaked draft opinion in Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Healthmade worldwide news. In response, we're revisting the history of abortion jurisprudence in the U.S. Join us to get a fuller understanding of Roe v. Wade,how courts have historically viewed the constitutional right to privacy in regard to pregnancy and abortion, and Justice Alito's arguments in the draft opinion.
For more in-depth analysis of abortion law, check out the following FindLaw articles:
Roe v. Wade Case Summary: What You Need to Know
Explaining Alito's Leaked Draft Opinion Overturning Roe v. Wade
Could Roe v. Wade Be Overturned?
Walt Disney World is truly a special place. Not just because of Mickey, but also because the Reedy Creek Improvement District upon which Disney World rests is a one-of-a-kind special district under Florida law. Disney is responsible for almost all of the public services in the district, including trash disposal and issuing property taxes (which it pays to itself). At least, that’s how it was until now. The special district status is in jeopardy after Florida legislators took umbrage at Disney’s public opposition to Florida's HB 1557, commonly known as the “Don’t Say Gay” bill.
Will Disney World lose its Vatican-like status? What happens if it does? Are there First Amendment issues to consider? We discuss on this sidebar episode.
We're back in the First Amendment saddle this week to talk about recent cases dealing with content-based (and on the flip side, content-neutral) restrictions on speech. Plus, we discuss a case where a high school football coach's post-game prayer became a big problem. If you can't get enough of this topic, check out these articles from FindLaw's Supreme Court Insights: Schenck v. United States: Case Summary
Brandenburg v. Ohio: Permissible Restrictions on Violent Speech
Student First Amendment Rights
The Separation of Church and State: Everson v. Board of Education
We're back talking about Amazon, this time in regard to the recent dismissal of a proposed class action involving three Amazon warehouse applicants who had their job offers revoked upon testing positive for cannabis.
As more states and municipalities loosen restrictions on cannabis use, how will employers react? We discuss on this sidebar episode.
We love our jobs hosting DJM, but the pandemic has exposed many issues faced by workers across various industries. In this episode, we're talking about the history and law behind unions, efforts to unionize at Amazon, and what happens when workers go on strike.
Visit FindLaw's Learn About the Law to learn more about right-to-work laws.
Former Representative Jeff Fortenberry found himself in hot water after "trying to help" the FBI get to the bottom of a campaign finance scheme...that he was involved in. In this Sidebar, we talk about great hair, the importance of having a lawyer present when talking to law enforcement, and just a sprinkling of political corruption.
Visit FindLaw's Learn About the Law to learn more about your constitutional right to an attorney.
Legal developments continue for those involved in the events of January 6, 2021. This episode our hosts discuss the trial and conviction of Jan. 6 rioter Guy Reffitt, whether the Supreme Court will face increased pressure to create ethics rules in the wake of Ginni Thomas' texts to Mark Meadows, and explain the significance of a federal judge's decision that former President Trump "more likely than not" committed federal crimes in his attempts to overturn the 2020 election results.
President Biden has been discussing the 9th Amendment, but what exactly is it? In Part 2 of our series on the 9th Amendment, constitutional law scholar and Professor Brian C. Kalt discusses how Congress—not the courts—can use unenumerated rights. If you missed Part 1, you can listen to an intro on the 9th Amendment.
Visit our sponsor at www.turnsignl.com
What is the 9th Amendment? Why does President Biden keep referencing it? How should courts interpret this often-overlooked part of the Bill of Rights? Joining us to answer these questions is Randy E. Barnett, the Patrick Hotung Professor of Constitutional Law at the Georgetown University Law Center and a leading scholar on the Ninth Amendment.
For more insight from Professor Barnett, check out his latest book, The Original Meaning of the Fourteenth Amendment: Its Letter and Spirit.
Learn more about our sponsor at www.turnsgnl.com.
SCOTUS has taken up an interesting case involving the constitutionality of the Indian Child Welfare Act, a federal law that gives priority to tribes when adopting Native American children. Non-native foster and adoptive parents have sued for various violations including Equal Protection. We give you the run-down on this sidebar episode.
The U.S. Constitution, federal law, and state laws all protect the civil rights of Americans. Violations can be both criminal and civil in nature.
This episode our hosts discuss how you can enforce your civil rights against both state and private actors. We discuss this in the context of recent developments in the cases against the defendants involved in the murders of George Floyd and Ahmaud Arbery.
This sidebar episode we break down Brian Flores' class action lawsuit alleging racial discrimination in the NFL. Is the NFL following the spirit - or even the substance - of the Rooney Rule, the widely-mimicked NFL policy requiring teams to interview candidates of color for open head coaching positions?
Read more on FindLaw:
Can Brian Flores Win His Race Discrimination Lawsuit Against the NFL?
Class Action Complaint Against NFL Teams Seeks To Reduce Bias In Hiring and Firing Decisions
Some companies may now store your fingerprints (to unlock your phone) vocal cadence (to speak with your smart device in your home) and pictures of you and your loved ones.
But keeping this data comes with high risk. This episode our hosts discuss biometric privacy laws and Texas' new lawsuit seeking billions in penalties against Facebook over its facial recognition program.
This episode we look at the tax consequences of selling crypto, which can get very complicated very quickly. We also briefly discuss proposed regulations coming soon and why money laundering is a bad idea.
There is yet another Supreme Court opening with Justice Stephen Breyer retiring. This episode our hosts look back on Justice Breyer's legacy on the court. Then, we discuss the backgrounds and resumes of the potential nominees on President Biden's shortlist.
Fast Facts: Biden's Short List to Replace Supreme Court Justice Stephen Breyer - FindLaw
FindLaw Supreme Court Center: Supreme Court: Justices Without Prior Judicial Experience - FindLaw
We talk indirectly about the filibuster quite often on this show. This episode, we finally take the filibuster head-on.
Our hosts discuss why we call it a filibuster (it involves pirates!), how it started (Aaron Burr, sir?), and the actual procedure involved to invoke the so-called "nuclear option" (it's complicated).
Virginia Giuffre's civil lawsuit against Prince Andrew is proceeding despite a non-disclosure agreement the British royal argued protected him from the lawsuit.
On this Sidebar our hosts give a brief overview of the case and explain why the NDA was not the life preserver Prince Andrew was hoping for.
With drastic shifts in America's workplaces in recent years, it can be hard to stay on top of labor and employment laws.
From increases in the minimum wage in many states and cities to big policy plans from the Biden Administration, learn what you need to know about the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), worker classification, and overtime changes for the coming year.
We accept tips, so if you have a topic you'd like us to discuss email findlawpodcasts@tr.com (we probably wouldn't refuse money, either).
Our new favorite holiday tradition is back! The DJM hosts share stories of lawyers who . . . well, could have made better decisions this past year. From a lawyer who really just wanted a career in the adult entertainment industry to even more head-scratching behavior from dear old Rudy, we relay a few of the most gobsmacking attorney follies, foibles, and flat-out criminal behavior of the past year.
Two recent cases provide good examples of how arguing self-defense works in homicide cases. Andy, Laura, and Joe go through the Rittenhouse trial step-by-step, highlighting key reasons the jury found that Rittenhouse acted in self-defense. Then, we contrast that case to the trial of Gregory and Travis McMichael, and their neighbor William Bryan, who were convicted for killing Ahmaud Arbery despite their self-defense claims.
There are a lot of hemp products out there. If you haven't quite figured out which ones are legal, you aren't alone. State legislatures and the federal government haven't quite decided yet, either. This episode Washington Assistant Attorney General Sierra McWilliams, who helped author the Cannabis Law Deskbook (available from Thomson Reuters) helps us understand this complex and emerging area of law.
Love the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure? We sure don't. Still, that doesn't mean lawyers can ignore them.
Hosts Laura and Vaidehi give the play-by-play on recent developments in federal court over whether Trump can prevent the National Archivist from handing over documents to the House Select Committee investigating the January 6 riots. This includes some creative arguments that treat the FRCP more as suggestions than actual rules.
It's that time of year again when you shrug of the turkey-induced coma to go shopping on Black Friday. Is this year going to be different? Or will we see a fresh batch of clips on YouTube showing consumers' criminal behavior? On this very special holiday episode we discuss the ways people get into legal trouble on Black Friday.
Already a multi-billion dollar industry, sports betting - including online sports betting and daily fantasy sports - is growing by the day. What are the legal implications? And how did online gambling become legal?
This episode we look at the messy history of sports betting and what to expect in the future.
We often tackle big topics on this show. Not this time.
Laura recently finished watching Seinfeld for the first time, so we figured now would be a good time to yada yada about the most famous trial of the 90s. No, not OJ, but the trial that sent Jerry, Elaine, George and Kramer to prison in Seinfeld's last episode. We recommend listening with some soup and a muffin top.
Would-be presidential assassin John Hinckley, Jr. won his unconditional release in September. Now 66, Hinckley was found not guilty by reason of insanity in 1982 and spent decades at St. Elizabeth's hospital, a psychiatric facility in Washington, D.C.
This episode we talk about Hinckley's fascinating case and explain what you need to know about the controversial insanity defense.
Chances are you already know all about the new Texas law that all but prohibits abortions in the state and puts enforcement in the hands of any civilian who has $300 to risk for the chance to recover $10,000. We take a few minutes to talk about the first plaintiffs seeking this bounty - both of whom are disbarred and out-of-state former attorneys.
There's been a lot of talk about judicial review lately. That the Supreme Court decides whether a law violates the Constitution is now largely unquestioned. But it wasn't always this way. This episode we go back and revisit the contentious election of 1800 and Marbury v. Madison, the decision that set the precedent for judicial review.
Read a summary of the case on FindLaw's Supreme Court Insights.
Alex Murdaugh has been criminally charged for planning his own death so his son could get the proceeds of his insurance policy. But the plan backfired, leading to more trouble for an already beleaguered family. Insurance fraud is just the tip of the iceberg.
Andy and Laura tell you the hard-to-believe story of the Murdaugh family in this sidebar episode.
Experienced Washington landlord/tenant attorney Jesse Matsukawa sits down with Andy and Vaidehi to discuss the end of the rent moratorium. What does it mean for struggling renters? What are their legal options if behind on rent? A must-listen for anyone worried about eviction.
Local governments, large employers, and now the federal government are instituting vaccine mandates even as some states are taking the opposite approach. We examine the current state of vaccine mandates and discuss Supreme Court precedent on their constitutionality.
The White Earth Band of Ojibwe recognized the rights of wild rice under tribal law in 2018. Now, wild rice is the plaintiff in a lawsuit in tribal court against the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, claiming a proposed oil pipeline violates its rights. Other tribes, communities in the U.S., and countries have given legal rights to waterways and ecosystems. Will a river or edible plant ever have standing to sue in U.S. courts?
We're back at the U.S.-Mexico border, this time to discuss firearms smuggling. Mexico is suing multiple prominent U.S. gun manufacturers in federal court, alleging negligence and other torts. Does the lawsuit have a chance at succeeding on the merits? We discuss the background of the case, what Mexico's aims are with the lawsuit, and the PLCAA, the federal law that has historically prohibited nearly all lawsuits against gun manufacturers.
Court sanctions were not enough to prevent attorney Richard Liebowitz from filing lawsuit after lawsuit on behalf of photographers alleging copyright infringement. The problem is Liebowitz also routinely falsely claimed his clients registered their copyrights prior to filing lawsuits, lied to the court, and violated several court orders, ultimately leading to his disbarment.
Is Liebowitz a crusader for justice (at least in his own mind) or just another copyright troll?
SCOTUS has been handing down summary decisions without public deliberation (sometimes in the middle of the night) regularly for the last several years. Law professor William Baude coined these procedurally variant decisions the Supreme Court's "shadow docket." FindLaw's new Sr. Editor Vaidehi Mehta joins the show for the first time to offer a look at what the shadow docket is and how the increasing use of the practice is raising questions.
Laura's blog on the Supreme Court's 2020 term is here: https://bit.ly/2XnuVxH
We're back with Paul Hjellming, our former sound engineer, who has some . . . interesting legal takes he pulled from Twitter. We talk about why juries don't get transcripts of witness testimony and other court proceedings and whether it's legal for retailers to deny cash payments. All this while doing an admirable job of withholding judgment of the Twittersphere. For the most part.
In the wake of the pandemic a lot of people are starting their own businesses and side hustles. We talk to prominent IP attorney and Super Lawyers Rising Star Francesca Witzburg about the basics of trademark, copyright, and why it's important for businesses large and small to protect their intellectual property.
You can get more info directly from Francesca by visiting her on Instagram @thetrademarkattorney
Turns out, Britney Spears' conservatorship arrangement really is as bad as some of the internet thought it was. On this sidebar episode we revisit developments in the case.
College sports is evolving rapidly. Catch up with us on the latest legal developments, including the latest SCOTUS decision on education-related benefits and the debate over players profiting off of their name, image and likeness.
Andy fills us in on Kim K's struggles with the so-called "baby bar." We discuss what progress she's making and how the process works when you try to become a lawyer without going to law school.
We're back with another controversial topic, this time discussing the recent Supreme Court case holding that people in the U.S. granted Temporary Protected Status cannot seek green cards. We also discuss the ever-changing policies regarding asylum seekers at the U.S.-Mexico border.
Paul Hjellming, our previous sound engineer, stops by with a pressing legal question about the Fairness Doctrine. We dust off the 50 year-old legal encyclopedias from our bookshelves and discuss what it was, why journalists hated it, and how much fun it is to read #BadLegalTakes on Twitter.
When it comes to HIPAA, we're not sure that word means what a lot of people think it means. This episode we talk about what HIPAA actually protects you from and how most business' current COVID policies don't violate federal law.
Scott Peterson's conviction for the murder of his wife and unborn son's in 2004 is in doubt. In 2020, the California Supreme Court overturned his death sentence. Now, he may get another opportunity to prove his innocence in an entirely new trial. For background information on the case read Laura's blog.
A trial underway against AmerisourceBergen, Cardinal Health and McKesson for their roles in the opioid crisis could have a significant impact on settlement negotiations and future trials. We discuss, plus we give a quick primer on what multi-district litigation (MDL) is.
If you're listening because a loved one died from opioid addiction, here is a list of attorneys in your area you can talk to about pursuing a claim.
Strange things happen around Robert Durst, including three murders. Now, the heir to a real estate fortune is once more on trial for murdering Susan Berman. You can also get some background on the case by reading Laura's blog.
Wondering what Derek Chauvin's sentence is going to be? What is a Blakely motion, and how will it impact Chauvin's sentence? We discuss and provide some background on Minnesota sentencing laws.
Is posting nude photos of a member of Congress protected speech? We discuss updates to Katie Hill's lawsuit against The Daily Mail.
The Supreme Court has not weighed in much on the extent of the rights granted under the 2nd Amendment. That may soon change.
Join us for a discussion on the hugely important and grammatically challenging 2nd Amendment. We talk about established law, upcoming cases, and potential legislation in the works.
If you are a 26 year-old quarterback phenom in the NFL with a contract worth hundreds of millions, life's pretty good. Unless you are also facing dozens and dozens of lawsuits alleging sexual misconduct, in which case you might lose your money, your job, and your fans.
We outline the lawsuits against Watson and the NFL's likely response considering the league's player conduct policy.
Why the controversy over Georgia's recently passed voting law? We discuss in the context of historical attempts at voter regulation, including Jim Crow laws, and what other state legislatures are contemplating in the near future.
You can also read a brief explanation of the law by FindLaw's Richard Dahl: Georgia's New Voter Restriction Law Prompts Angry Response
Fans of the show will remember our discussion of Lenny Dykstra, the MLB player with so poor a reputation he could not be defamed. Now, we have Sidney Powell, the attorney who makes such untrustworthy statements she cannot possibly be a defamer. At least, that's her argument in court after she was sued for over one billion dollars for her claims regarding election fraud.
The nation is focused on the trial of Derek Chauvin, the former Minneapolis police officer on trial for the death of George Floyd. What are the specific charges facing Derek Chauvin under Minnesota law? What's the difference between first, second, and third degree murder charges?
Join us as we make sense of this complex area of criminal law in the context of one of the most notable criminal trials in some time.
What better way to get through the isolation of social distancing than through a pet? Pet ownership and adoption are on the rise. But while that new dog or cat may be your legal property, you still have legal obligations toward them.
This episode, we discuss the phenomenon of pandemic pets, as well as what to do if you've bitten off more than you can chew in getting a dog, a cat, or something more exotic during the pandemic.
Read more about the phenomenon of abandoned pandemic pets on our blog.
All you need is love . . . and food, water, electricity, plumbing, and a number of other essentials. When one of these are in short supply, such as during the recent winter storm in Texas, suppliers can take advantage. This episode is all about price gouging and the laws against it. Extra points if you listen during a run to stock up on toilet paper.
Is Britney Spears practically a prisoner? Or are concerns over her conservatorship being blown out of proportion? The only thing we know for sure is that her fans remain passionate about the singer's life - including her latest courtroom drama.
There's a lot of talk about Section 230 on the internet. Unfortunately, much of it is nonsense. Here's a concise summary of Section 230 and what reform might actually mean for those political rants on social media.
More reading:
Federal Court Rejects Challenge to Online Censorship Executive Order
After Executive Order Condemning Online Censorship, Should Social Media Companies Fear Liability?
We're not actually going to give you advice on how to get away with murder. We'll leave that to a Nashville attorney who was recently suspended for advice left on Facebook on how to make a premeditated murder look like self-defense.
It's a free country, you can't stop us from saying whatever we want. Except for Facebook, YouTube, and every single other social media platform if we violate their terms of service.
We're confident that after this episode no one will ever again complain about their First Amendment rights on social media.
The antics didn't end with the Netflix special. Laura catches us all up on Joe Exotic's legal shenanigans, which are going about as well as his other endeavors did.
States are taking drug policy into their own hands. Meanwhile, federal policy refuses to shift along with public opinion on marijuana legalization and the decriminalization of controlled substances. Can we anticipate federal changes with a new administration?
For more information about the Third Circuit case holding that a proposed drug safehouse in Philadelphia violates federal law, check out the article on FindLaw.
Welcome to Sidebar, a Don't Judge Me bite-sized episode. This time we discuss New Year's resolutions and some promises regarding the podcast you are free to hold us accountable for.
Imagine living in a dystopian future world where technology has created more problems than it has solved. Yeah, wasn't hard for us, either.
Still, people were looking forward to playing the highly anticipated video game Cyberpunk 2077 before its disastrous launch. Now, the developer is being sued for disappointing fans and shareholders alike. That's only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to litigation in the gaming industry.
That's right, since nothing else of note is going on, we figured we'd discuss what gaming industry giants are doing in court with all that money you gave them over the holidays.
Related Reading:
Justice Dept. Decides It's Finally Time to Enforce Antitrust Laws After 20-Year Hiatus
Will Upcoming Battle Royale Against Google and Apple Finally Lead to App Store Changes?
On this very special episode, the last of 2020, our hosts look back on lawyer shenanigans throughout the year. We discuss everything from Rudy Giuliani's "Four Seasons" press conference to . . . other things Rudy Giuliani did. But don't worry, there are plenty of attorney follies and foibles to go around. Then, Andy gives us all a surprise gift with a Thumbs Down segment that reviews a legal movie classic.
Why do we have so many names for lawyers? Our hosts answer this pressing question and discuss the least (and most) pretentious way to introduce yourself as a member of the bar. Plus: Is it worth it to get an L.L.M.?
Hosts:
Laura Temme, J.D.
Ally Marshall, Attorney-at-Law
Joe Fawbush, Esq.
Andy Leonatti, who is secure enough to not need a fancy suffix
It's likely we'll continue to see executive orders play a large role in the Biden Administration. How wide a latitude do presidents have when issuing EOs? We discuss all things relating to executive orders on this episode, plus Ally provides some helpful tips for getting a gift for the lawyer in your life.
For more information on Youngstown Sheet & Tube, the Supreme Court case that established the parameters under which EOs could be deemed unconstitutional, visit findlaw.com.
Questions? Comments? Suggestions for topics? Let us know at findlawpodcasts@tr.com. Thanks for listening!
With everything going on you may not have had time to celebrate the best holiday of the year - Love Your Lawyer day! We're here to rectify that with Alameda County criminal defense attorney Louis Goodman. His own podcast "Love Thy Lawyer" takes an in-depth look at how attorneys experience the practice of law.
Also, if you haven't already please check out WestLaw's Quick Check Judicial, which gives you access to the same powerful tool that courts across the country use to analyze and compare multiple documents from a single matter.
Tired of the . . . everything? Getting away sounds nice. We hear Venus has a tropical environment.
That's right, we're boldly going to space this episode. We talk all about space law, the Space Force, and, of course, Star Trek. Join us for a little much-needed fun about this emerging area of the law.
Ever plan out how you would run things if given the chance? Our hosts engage in this fantasy of agency by giving elevator pitches for our dream SCOTUS setup. These range from proposals that have actually been floated to ones that . . . well, are beyond the ability of even the most forceful of generalissimos. Plus, our very own time-traveling lawyer Laura tells us how it really went down when FDR tried to pack the Supreme Court.
Information on the pros and cons of legitimate plans being floated can be found on FindLaw's Supreme Court blog.
Even if the Supreme Court doesn't get involved it will be the most heavily litigated election in U.S. history. And SCOTUS may well get involved. We discuss Bush v. Gore, recent notable cases, and speculate on what's sure to be an exciting and terrifying next few months.
Read more about the cases discussed on FindLaw's website. While you're there check out the numerous resources we have for voters, including state-specific information on how to vote. It's a stressful and scary time. Confusion abounds. Still, your vote matters, so please do vote.
Courts have adapted admirably to current circumstances. But questions over whether litigants and defendants are getting fair access to justice remain. Our hosts discuss how courts are doing in the age of COVID-19.
Then, hear about a town in Virginia where folks are taking "law and order" into their own hands - by filing criminal charges against elected officials. What could go wrong?
Read more about the Virginia case on our blog. Contact us at findlawpodcasts@thomsonreuters.com.
Our hosts finally indulge in their greatest wish: To turn Don't Judge Me into a true crime podcast. Get ready for wild stories, including an unsolved murder in which some Founding Fathers play a role and a murderer who stole his plan from an Agatha Christie novel. Join us to celebrate a genre in which lawyers are often featured fighting for justice.
Reach us at findlawpodcasts@thomsonreuters.com. If you like the show, please don't forget to rate and review us.
We have a special guest interview to share with you. Professor David Schultz speaks with FindLaw Sr. Writer Kellie Pantokoek about the Electoral College: How it started, how it has changed over time, and the issues presented by our unique way of electing a president.
You can find more information about voting rights and election law issues at https://www.findlaw.com/voting.html, including information on the Electoral College.
Enjoy!
Oregon and the feds have reached a tentative, if vague agreement for the DHS to withdraw from Portland. Still, a federal presence may be felt in American cities for some time. What are the legal issues?
On a much lighter note, Joe also highlights the work the "Yada Yada Law School" is doing to raise money for charity. It's law professors teaching the basics of the law using old episodes of Seinfeld as examples. Visit http://yadayadalawschool.com/ to get some serenity now.
This episode we wrap up coverage on the Supreme Court's historic term. Will we see Donald Trump's tax returns in our lifetimes? Did the Chief Justice recently watch Hamilton? Are religious conservatives resting easier after several recent decisions? We discuss these issues and more.
Laura then gives an update on how states are re-evaluating bar exams, including switching to online exams.
Read recaps of the decisions discussed on https://blogs.findlaw.com/supreme_court. Comments or suggestions on topics? Email us at findlawpodcasts@thomsonreuters.com.
June is the best time of the year for Supreme Court buffs. While we are still waiting for a few important cases, the Justices have already delivered some momentous - and surprising - decisions. We discuss.
Then Andy reviews Perry Mason, the prestige HBO legal drama, in the popular "Thumbs Down" segment.
You can find more information on all of the decisions discussed in this episode at https://blogs.findlaw.com/supreme_court/.
If you have comments or suggestions for future topics, write to us at findlawpodcasts@tr.com. If you enjoy the show and would like to support us, please leave us a review. Thanks for listening!
Making any real sense of qualified immunity may be beyond the ability of any lawyer - or judge, for that matter. But our hosts do explain the doctrine, how and why it was created, how it's applied today in civil rights cases involving police use of excessive force, and the reason some are calling for its end.
Then, since we're on the topic of inscrutable trainwrecks anyway, we figure it's a good time to talk about a recent libel claim former MLB player Lenny Dykstra made that went badly awry.
Access to justice has again become a part of the national conversation in the wake of the death of George Floyd. Unfortunately, systemic inequality is not limited to the criminal justice system.
Elizabeth Sauer and Lilo Schluender are supervising attorneys at Central Minnesota Legal Services, which provides legal help and representation for people and communities in need.
Elizabeth and Lilo join us to talk about how the pandemic is affecting access to justice for victims of domestic violence, in landlord/tenant law, and other topics.
What do toilet flushes, the grim reaper, and recent law school graduates have in common? Well, this year it's several things, but mostly they are all being discussed on today's episode. Now that graduates are facing the worst job market for new attorneys in over a decade, what can they do to get their legal careers started? Our hosts discuss what difficulties face law students and what they can do to keep their dreams of practicing law alive.
We also talk about a Florida attorney (where else?) who is taking social distancing enforcement into his own cloaked hands.
Joan Bibelhausen, Executive Director of Minnesota Lawyers Concerned for Lawyers, joins us to talk about attorney wellness, including what services are available to lawyers working to manage mental health during the pandemic and when to reach out for help.
For links to lawyer assistance programs by state, as well as other information on attorney wellness, visit us at practice.findlaw.com/attorney-wellness. We have also reproduced there the "Components of Well-Being" infographic Joan refers to in the interview.
Fantastic resources are also available at www.mnlcl.org, including a link to information on Lawyer Well-Being Week (May 4-8).
Take care of yourselves.
Know that feeling when you show up to court without a shirt on? Or just had a Zoom meeting with a potato? On this episode, our hosts discuss real-life video fails that are hard to believe but now appear to be a regular part of this strange new world we live in. Andy also shares his own epic teleconferencing fail.
We talk with Chris Frank, of Frank Law Offices in Wilmar, MN, about the benefits and challenges of practicing law in a small town.
Andy does another "Thumbs Down" review, this time of "For Life," the new legal drama from ABC.
You can also listen to Joe nerd out about a legal argument that was obsolete by 1774, but it does involve Katana swords.
If you like the show, please rate and review us wherever you listen. You can also visit us on Facebook at facebook.com/FindLawLP.
Thanks for listening! Stay safe, everyone.
It's . . . a little stressful right now. Law firms are anticipating sustained lowered revenue. Lawyers will be asked to do more to keep their law firms afloat, and all legal professionals will need to be flexible. In this episode, we discuss law firm operations during the outbreak and how to spot and avoid burnout. Stay safe and stay strong, everyone.
(Note: Portions of the podcast were recorded prior to the exponential growth of COVID-19 cases in several states).
Responding to negative online reviews is one thing. But what about when someone just plain lies? Is a defamation suit ever appropriate? We discuss, then play a game we're calling SLAPP-Happy.
As always, more information is available on lp.findlaw.com. You can also check us out on YouTube. Here's the link to the Last Week Tonight piece mentioned in the episode.
Our hosts discuss online reviews, particularly how to handle the ones that are less than glowing. Andy then does a negative review of his own, of NBC's recent legal drama Bluff City Law.
Check out more content for legal professionals on lp.findlaw.com, including content on online reviews and defamation. You can also listen and subscribe to FindLaw for Legal Professionals on YouTube.
FindLaw’s Don’t Judge Me has a lot of opinions, jokes, insightful guests, and in-depth discussions about hot topics in the law. What we don’t have is a lot of pretention or corporate oversight. We hope you have as much fun listening as we have making it. Our hosts are lawyers and writers at FindLaw, the primary online destination for all things legal.