Advisory Opinions

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!

Joined by Erin Hawley, a senior counsel at the Alliance Defending Freedom with a rich background in appellate law and the DOJ, the conversation dives into the control of executive agencies. Topics include the constitutional implications of tariffs, the complexities of presidential power during emergencies, and the often turbulent relationship between Congress and executive authority. Hawley also shares insights on the accountability of independent agencies and the pathway to Supreme Court cases, adding a dash of humor along the way.

Jack Goldsmith, a Harvard Law Professor and authority on the unitary executive theory, joins the hosts to unpack the complexities of presidential power. He discusses the implications of this theory for President Trump's administration, including executive orders and oversight limits. The conversation dives into the evolving interpretations of presidential authority by the Supreme Court and critiques the impact of law reviews on legal scholarship. Goldsmith raises concerns about the erosion of checks and balances amidst a growing reliance on executive discretion.

Dive into intriguing discussions on a Supreme Court case challenging the Moment of Threat Doctrine and the complexities of police accountability in high-stress scenarios. Explore the legal battles of Brenda Andrew, the only woman on death row in Oklahoma, and the implications of evidence in controversial trials. Delight in light-hearted musings about Justice Jackson's fashion choices and the significance of legal jargon like 'holding' vs. 'dicta.' Finally, unravel the nuances of DEI policies and how they shape the legal landscape.

The hosts dive into the expanding powers of the executive branch and the implications of Trump's controversial executive orders. They explore the role of technology and social media on teen well-being, highlighting the need for balance in education and parental rights. Historical complexities surrounding citizenship under the 14th Amendment are discussed, alongside the intricacies of presidential pardons. The episode reflects on the evolving American Dream and stresses the importance of civic education in understanding today's political challenges.

Joelle Alasea, an Associate Professor of Law at Catholic University, and Trevor McFadden, a D.C. court Judge, dive into vital discussions about constitutional law education. They highlight originalism's role and advocate for a diverse ideological landscape in legal academia. The duo explores corpus linguistics in interpreting legal texts and shares personal anecdotes, including a unique lawsuit against Satan. They emphasize balancing theory with practice in law schools while discussing career paths that prioritize skills over prestige.

Dive into the latest legal wranglings surrounding TikTok as the hosts dissect the Supreme Court's ruling on its national security implications. They explore the fine line between data privacy and free speech rights while navigating the chaotic political landscape. Plus, an unexpected twist: Biden's move on the Equal Rights Amendment sparks a passionate reaction. As TikTok's future hangs in the balance, the discussion critiques lawmakers' responses and examines the broader consequences for tech regulations.

A lively debate unfolds about whether limiting access to porn constitutes a free speech violation. Engaging discussions revolve around the nuances of legal language in cases like Thompson v. United States. The hosts tackle the complexity of age verification laws, weighing children's protection against adult access. They also explore the ethics of recording conversations in legal practice and recent challenges in immigration legislation. With humor and insight, they navigate the intersection of law, ethics, and contemporary issues.

The discussion kicks off with Justice Alito's revealing phone call with Trump, sparking debates on legal immunity. Topics shift to Texas' new age-verification laws, raising questions about protecting minors versus First Amendment rights. The hosts navigate the intricacies of legal battles over online content restrictions and the impact of Title IX regulations. Engaging interactions with GWU students add a fresh perspective, while insights into historical free speech conflicts highlight the ongoing struggle between national security and personal liberties.

In a gripping discussion, the hosts unpack the legal intricacies surrounding TikTok's challenges at the Supreme Court. They explore First Amendment rights and the implications of TikTok's data-sharing practices, questioning the reliability of its algorithm. The podcast also dives into the contentious ties between TikTok and the Chinese government, alongside national security concerns. With witty anecdotes about judicial mispronunciations, the conversation highlights significant societal questions stemming from this ongoing legal saga.