
Advisory Opinions
Advisory Opinions is a legal podcast by The Dispatch. Hosts David French and Sarah Isgur meet twice a week to talk about the law, the courts, their collision with politics, and why it all matters.
Latest episodes

10 snips
Jun 24, 2025 • 1h 9min
Hubris in Legal Movements
Legal experts dive into the significance of recent Supreme Court decisions, critiquing their impact on civil liberties and free expression. The conversation shifts to the ongoing TikTok ban debate and the role of selective law enforcement. Gender dysphoria takes center stage with discussions on healthcare access for minors and contrasting definitions in the legal context. A notable Ninth Circuit case on gender identity at a spa raises questions around anti-discrimination laws versus First Amendment rights, highlighting the intricate balance between personal freedoms and legal boundaries.

14 snips
Jun 19, 2025 • 1h 10min
Skrmetti and Certiorari
Tune in as hosts dissect the recent Supreme Court ruling on Tennessee's law banning transgender medical interventions for minors, exploring its implications for legal protections. They tackle the complexities of judicial interpretation, discrimination, and the intersection of age and gender identity in healthcare. The conversation also delves into the controversial ban on TikTok and unique alliances seen in recent court decisions. With a mix of serious analysis and witty commentary, listeners gain insights into the legal challenges surrounding transgender rights and healthcare access.

20 snips
Jun 17, 2025 • 1h 24min
Unprovoked War
Dive into the tense dynamics of the Israel-Iran conflict, as experts dissect the legal nuances of preemptive versus preventative warfare. Explore how international laws intersect with state actions in crisis situations. The conversation touches on historical parallels and ethical dilemmas surrounding civilian casualties. Trump’s deployment of the National Guard sparks debates on executive power and judicial scrutiny. Enjoy a lighter moment with a humorous courtroom anecdote about gum etiquette, bringing a unique blend of seriousness and levity.

8 snips
Jun 12, 2025 • 1h 5min
Right To Sue the Feds
Delve into the Supreme Court's latest rulings, including a unanimous death penalty opinion and the repercussions of an FBI raid gone awry. Unpack the legal labyrinth of suing federal agents and the significance of the Federal Tort Claims Act. Explore hilarious misunderstandings in legal jargon and the dynamics of press access under the First Amendment. Enjoy personal anecdotes about yoga and fitness, all while dissecting changing perspectives on sensitive legal topics. It's a fascinating mix of law, culture, and a touch of humor!

36 snips
Jun 10, 2025 • 1h 5min
Liberal Justices, Conservative Outcomes
The discussion dives into the legal merits of National Guard mobilization amidst civil unrest, highlighting federal authority issues. They tackle surprising unanimous rulings from liberal justices that led to conservative outcomes, emphasizing the intricate balance of power. Topics also include the legal complexities surrounding gun manufacturers and international responsibility, alongside debates on employment discrimination and the implications of IQ testing in death penalty cases. Humor weaves through their analysis of contemporary legal issues, making for an engaging exploration.

7 snips
Jun 5, 2025 • 48min
Abundance Judges
A pivotal legal case shakes up discussions around environmental regulations and the complexities of governance. The podcast dives into the role of cameras in courtrooms, revealing how they change judges' behavior. It also tackles the implications of using retired Supreme Court justices as substitutes and examines Steve Bannon's legal struggles amid political turmoil. With insights on the Abundance Democrats’ influence on judicial outcomes, the conversation is both thought-provoking and entertaining!

27 snips
Jun 3, 2025 • 1h 19min
Tariff-ic Meltdowns
Dive into the turbulent world of Donald Trump's tariffs and the legal wrangling surrounding them. Explore the implications of recent court rulings and the complexities of presidential authority during economic emergencies. Tensions rise within conservative ranks, especially regarding judicial influence and the Federalist Society. The podcast also delves into immigration policy, uncovering the contrasting approaches of the Trump and Biden administrations. Plus, a refreshing discussion on changes in legal citation practices adds a unique touch!

13 snips
May 29, 2025 • 1h 15min
Dead Man Walking Precedent
The discussion kicks off with the implications of the Supreme Court ruling on Trump v. Wilcox, focusing on presidential removal powers. Next, the future of religious charter schools takes center stage, assessing how recent decisions might impact funding for these institutions. The speakers then navigate complex issues of free speech in schools, sparked by a controversial T-shirt case, and examine the balance between free expression and harassment in education. Personal anecdotes about bar exam preparation add a humorous touch, highlighting the challenges of studying law.

30 snips
May 22, 2025 • 1h 16min
You’re Wrong About Originalism
William Baude, a Professor at the University of Chicago Law School and an expert in constitutional law, dives into the origins and evolution of originalism. He discusses how historical figures like Robert Bork influenced this legal approach, shedding light on the contrasting perspectives on constitutional interpretation. The conversation also touches on recent Supreme Court cases and their implications for civil rights, highlighting the intricate balance between law and language. Baude's insights reveal the ongoing debates and relevance of originalism in today's legal landscape.

10 snips
May 20, 2025 • 1h 49min
A Charge on Gettysburg
In a captivating discussion, Judge Kevin Newsom, known for his humility during his time clerking for Justice Souter, shares insights into Souter's independent judicial philosophy. Judges Chad Radler and Jeffrey Sutton recount their annual Legal Eagles trip to Gettysburg, unpacking the Civil War's impact on constitutional law. They delve into the often-overlooked tale of soldier Thomas Drummond, revealing how individual stories shape our understanding of history. Together, they explore themes of leadership, legacy, and the enduring relevance of the Civil War in today's legal landscape.