Advisory Opinions

Dive into the heated political landscape as the hosts tackle Trump's executive orders targeting controversial figures. They explore First Amendment rights for non-U.S. citizens and the chilling effects of political dissent. Learn about the interplay of immigration law and free speech, plus amusing anecdotes about hula hooping and injury tales. The discussion further critiques judicial minimalism through Justice Amy Coney Barrett's philosophy and reflects on discrimination standards in current cases. It's a thought-provoking ride through law, politics, and ethics!

David Stras, appeals judge for the 8th Circuit, shares his insights on Supreme Court dynamics with Sarah Isgur and David French. They delve into the decline in cases reviewed by the Court and the implications of recent rulings, including a denial of Trump’s request. Stras discusses the role of bias response teams in universities and reflects on the impact of his grandparents' Holocaust experiences on his views of free speech. The conversation highlights the evolving landscape of judicial decision-making and the importance of clarity in legal opinions.

Rod Rosenstein, former Deputy Attorney General, and Robert Hur, a special counsel who investigated President Biden's classified documents case, share insights on the role of special counsels in U.S. history. They explore the evolution of special counsel regulations since the Nixon era, discussing key cases and the impact of political pressures on investigations. The duo highlights the critical need for public trust and accountability, delving into the complexities of maintaining integrity amidst politically charged inquiries and ensuring thorough, focused investigations.

Join Judge Charles Eskridge, a judge with a keen insight on executive power, and Judge Brantley Starr, an expert on constitutional matters, as they dissect the evolution of executive authority in America. They explore the philosophical influences of Locke, contrasting today’s presidency with monarchical rule. Delve into the implications of presidential term lengths and the balance of power with Congress. Get ready for a lively discussion on accountability, the intricacies of political appointments, and historical reflections that shape contemporary governance.

Stacey Schiff, a Pulitzer Prize-winning author known for her deep dives into history, shares insights on the Salem witch trials. She discusses the flawed judicial process that led to a miscarriage of justice and how societal beliefs shaped these tragic events. The conversation uncovers the use of spectral evidence and highlights the lasting impact of the trials on modern narratives. Schiff also connects historical fears to contemporary issues, making a compelling case for reflecting on past injustices.

David Lat, a legal journalist and author of Original Jurisdiction, joins Sarah Isgur and David French to discuss the intriguing motion to dismiss the case against NYC Mayor Eric Adams. They dive into the ethical dilemmas of political prosecution, examining how loyalty often trumps the rule of law. The trio tackles the complexities of legal representation amidst personal beliefs, alongside the turbulent dynamics between the Department of Justice and the Office of Legal Counsel during the Trump administration, illuminating the shadows of political influence in legal practice.

Dive into the tension between loyalty and the law as a revealing resignation letter sheds light on legal ethics in the Trump administration. Explore the implications of Trump's tweets on legal authority and the challenges faced by the DOJ. A discussion of Eric Adams' indictment highlights the ethical dilemmas in politically charged environments. Reflect on the power struggle between individual authority and constitutional governance, and discover the complexities of integrity in legal practice amid external pressures.

The discussion dives into whether President Trump is breaking or reshaping the Justice Department amid resignations. It explores the nuances of what constitutes lawlessness versus unwise actions and the critical role of language in political discourse. Examining presidential power, the hosts consider prosecutorial discretion and how historical context influences modern interpretations. They also critique the rise of populism and the effectiveness of presidential speeches in shaping public opinion.

The hosts delve into campus tensions at Cooper Union, discussing antisemitism and free speech rights. They tackle government employee speech regulations and analyze legal implications of social media reactions to recent court rulings. The podcast critiques civic ignorance and explores the impact of public figures on constitutional understanding. Judicial dynamics and political ideologies are examined, highlighting the balance of power in government. Finally, they celebrate five years of partnership, reflecting on their collaborative journey.

Dive into a lively conversation about whether churches can be sued and the intricacies of tithing in the context of church autonomy. The hosts tackle the implications of a recent Supreme Court ruling regarding young adults' gun rights, arguing for individual freedoms. They also dissect the legal complexities surrounding executive power and the government's role in religious practices. It's a fascinating blend of faith, law, and rights that sparks a robust discussion on civic responsibilities in America!