Advisory Opinions

Sanford Levinson, a law professor at the University of Texas and visiting Harvard professor, along with his wife Cynthia, delve deep into constitutional complexities. They discuss the implications of President Trump's executive order on flag burning as a free speech issue, referencing Texas v. Johnson. The Levinsons also explore controversial topics like the flaws of the pardon power and the Electoral College's impact on modern democracy, urging a reevaluation of constitutional interpretations in light of current challenges.

Saikrishna Bangalore Prakash, a University of Virginia professor and author of "The Presidential Pardon: The Short Clause with a Long Troubled History," joins the discussion. He explores the legal ramifications of the FBI's raid on John Bolton, probing the tensions between political retribution and law enforcement. Prakash delves into the fragile nature of the American governance system, the complexities of presidential pardons, and their implications on justice. His insights highlight the precarious balance between mercy and the rule of law in contemporary politics.

Dive into the heated discussions around age verification laws and their impact on First Amendment rights, especially for minors. Analyze Justice Kavanaugh’s insights from a significant Supreme Court case while tackling the constitutional challenges of enforcing these laws. Explore the ongoing disputes in the Sixth Circuit and what they could mean for future judicial rulings. The hosts also tackle the clash between free speech and anti-discrimination, highlighting a canceled drag show at a university and its broader legal implications.

Patrick Boumette, a Judge on the Ninth Circuit and former federal prosecutor, shares his journey through career setbacks and the importance of resilience. The discussion examines the implications of federal oversight in D.C., the legal intricacies of National Guard deployment, and the complexities surrounding gun laws and the Second Amendment. Boumette reflects on the growth that comes from failure and emphasizes the need for self-awareness in the legal profession, blending personal anecdotes with legal insights.

Chris Christie, the former New Jersey Governor and U.S. Attorney, shares invaluable insights for young attorneys and those in legal fields. He recounts captivating behind-the-scenes stories from the 2016 presidential debates and offers reflections on his political career, including navigating complex cases like the Kushner family dispute. Christie also humorously discusses the dynamics of mentorship and the importance of preparation in law. The conversations blend personal anecdotes with poignant reflections, making for a delightful and informative listen.

Akhil Amar, Sterling Professor of law at Yale and author of 'Born Equal,' dives into the complexities of originalism and its role in shaping American identity. He discusses the evolution of constitutional interpretation, highlighting Lincoln's impact on equality and citizenship. The conversation also touches on the Second Amendment and its implications today. Amar sheds light on Harriet Beecher Stowe's significant influence on the discourse around slavery and feminism, revealing her as a pioneer in American literature.

J. Joel Alicea, a professor at Catholic University's Columbus School of Law, dives deep into race-conscious redistricting and the complexities surrounding it. He and hosts Sarah Isgur and David French discuss pivotal Supreme Court cases and the challenges of balancing racial demographics in congressional mapping. Alicea also critiques the evolution of originalism, humorously engages with listener questions, and emphasizes the importance of historical context in legal interpretations, shedding light on the dynamic nature of constitutional law.

Miriam Ingber, Associate Dean of Admissions & Financial Aid at Yale Law School, and Kristi Jobson, Dean of Admissions at Harvard Law School, share invaluable insights into law school applications. They discuss the impact of AI on admissions and the challenges posed by standardized testing like the LSAT. The duo highlights the increasing volume of applications and the importance of diverse backgrounds among candidates. They also touch on financial aid strategies, helping prospective students navigate their options while addressing the new realities faced by applicants today.

Dive into a lively discussion on Ninth Circuit cases about gender ideology and free speech, including the clash between foster care rights and religious beliefs. Explore California's ammunition law and its implications for competitive shooters, alongside a humorous take on Supreme Court justices compared to heavy metal bands. The conversation further tackles the complexities of gun laws and personal anecdotes that illustrate the challenges within the judicial system. Expect laughter and insightful commentary throughout!

Ghislaine Maxwell's bid for freedom on a technicality raises eyebrows, especially regarding a possible deal tied to Jeffrey Epstein. The hosts dive into the complex legal implications of her 2006 plea deal. They also discuss the evolving credibility of the Supreme Court, particularly amidst high-profile cases like Epstein's. The dialogue touches on the necessity of experienced judges in a rapidly changing legal landscape and scrutinizes the interplay of politics and justice, especially regarding accountability in sensationalized cases.