

Advisory Opinions
The Dispatch
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.
Episodes
Mentioned books

20 snips
Jun 17, 2025 • 1h 21min
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 2min
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 2min
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 • 45min
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 16min
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 12min
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 13min
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 46min
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.

28 snips
May 15, 2025 • 1h 6min
LIVE: SCOTUS Hears Birthright Citizenship Case
Amy Howe, a Supreme Court journalist, joins legal commentator David Lat and Zachary Shemtob of SCOTUSblog to examine the recent Supreme Court case on birthright citizenship. They discuss the implications of Trump’s executive order and the surprising skepticism from justices about the government's arguments. The trio dives into the complexities of universal injunctions and class actions, revealing how judicial philosophies impact future legal decisions. Expect insights on political dynamics and the unpredictability of the Court's rulings.

15 snips
May 13, 2025 • 55min
The Clash of Culture and Employment Rights
In a riveting discussion, the hosts tackle the contentious intersection of free speech and employment rights, sparked by a case involving a pro-life airline employee. They dive into legal complexities surrounding student expression, examining a t-shirt controversy that raises questions about First Amendment rights in schools. Historical perspectives from Gettysburg lend depth to their analysis of America's dual foundations and the ongoing cultural wars. Plus, they explore the implications of workplace discrimination laws and the significance of the Women's March within union dynamics.


