

Serious Trouble
Josh Barro and Ken White
An irreverent podcast about the law from Josh Barro and Ken White. www.serioustrouble.show
Episodes
Mentioned books

11 snips
Dec 23, 2025 • 37min
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The release of Epstein files is stirring controversy, with heavy redactions fueling conspiracy theories. A tow-truck driver was acquitted after temporarily towing an ICE vehicle, while a Milwaukee judge faces conviction for obstructing federal agents. Sam Bankman-Fried's new role as a jailhouse lawyer raises eyebrows, as Caroline Ellison is released from Danbury. Meanwhile, the Pulitzer Board seeks Trump's medical and financial records, and questions linger about a questionable terrorism indictment driven by informants.

9 snips
Dec 16, 2025 • 22min
What Part of 'No Bill' Don't You Understand?
A grand jury just declined to indict Letitia James for the second time, raising questions about legal strategies and the implications of repeated failures. They dive into Trump's controversial pardon of Tina Peters and why it doesn't affect state convictions. The discussion also covers a challenging lawsuit by the National Trust regarding new construction at the White House and Gavin Newsom's legal battles against Trump. Lastly, they explore Costco's unexpected lawsuit over tariff payments and the complexities of digital evidence in legal cases.

Dec 10, 2025 • 42min
You Can Take the Girl Out of New Jersey
This week: more news in the Letitia James and James Comey cases. DOJ tried to re-indict James, but they got a no-bill, and in the Comey case, the government is a bit held up by a motion from Comey's sometime-lawyer and friend. Meanwhile, Lindsey Halligan is still running around, acting like she’s the U.S. Attorney (even though the fact that she isn’t is why these cases got dismissed), but Alina Habba has thrown in the towel, moving to main Justice to advise Pam Bondi and declaring “you can take the girl out of New Jersey, but you cannot take the New Jersey out of the girl.”Also this week: charges against Brian Cole Jr., who’s accused of the attempted pipe bombings at the RNC and DNC nearly five years ago; shadow docket action that saved Republicans’ Texas remap; super troll Charles C. Johnson’s latest misadventures that have landed him in jail for contempt of court; and why an embarrassing policy report about Rep. Nancy Mace's airport meltdown became public.Find links and a transcript of this episode and sign up for our newsletter at serioustrouble.show. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.serioustrouble.show/subscribe

Dec 5, 2025 • 23min
Cases Dismissed
The dismissal of criminal cases against James Comey and Letitia James sparks a deep dive into the legitimacy of interim U.S. Attorney appointments. Exciting legal intricacies are revealed, including a rare favorable ruling for Trump and ongoing lawsuits like Eric Swalwell's against Bill Pulte. Megan Thee Stallion scores a significant defamation win, while Jacob Wohl and Jack Burkman face probation. The conversation blends detailed legal analysis with pop culture, making it both informative and entertaining.

Nov 21, 2025 • 18min
Here Come the Epstein Files
Congress has mandated the release of Epstein files, stirring discussions about what information will actually come to light. There's concern over the administration's potential to withhold documents using national security claims. The podcast dives into political motivations behind the push for disclosure and the implications of recent leaked emails involving notable figures. Moreover, it sheds light on procedural issues surrounding the Comey indictment, raising questions about legal integrity and enforcement challenges. An intriguing mix of politics, law, and scandal unfolds.

Nov 14, 2025 • 19min
Sandwiches For All
A sandwich-throwing incident leads to a surprising jury acquittal, raising questions about jury nullification and justice. The podcast explores procedural issues in the Comey case and the challenges facing the Justice Department, from staffing shortages to prioritizing simpler prosecutions. Listeners also hear about Fannie Mae investigations and Bill Pulte's controversial political accountability efforts. The hosts dissect these intriguing topics, leaving you with plenty to ponder.

9 snips
Nov 4, 2025 • 19min
Snap Decisions
Two significant court rulings mandate the Trump administration to continue SNAP funding, stirring up political complexities amid a potential government shutdown. The podcast dives into the challenges of nationwide injunctions and litigation speed regarding food assistance. Additionally, it explores new motions in the James Comey case, analyzing the intricacies of testimony and legal defenses. There’s also an insight into ICE enforcement tactics in Chicago, revealing the messy intersection of law and politics.

4 snips
Oct 30, 2025 • 27min
Literal Truth and Theoretical Conflicts
This week, the discussion revolves around James Comey and Letitia James challenging criminal charges. The hosts explore the implications of Halligan’s role in grand jury proceedings and draw parallels to Barry Bonds' legal troubles. They also dive into controversy over press communication by the DOJ, examine a weak defamation lawsuit, and consider the D.C. bar's proposed restrictions on law firm settlements. Plus, there's an in-depth analysis of Ninth Circuit actions on national guard cases and debates over judicial misuse of AI.

Oct 25, 2025 • 23min
Insider Betting
This week delves into the intriguing indictment of John Bolton, highlighting the differences from Comey's case. Trump demands $230 million from the DOJ, stirring up debates on prosecution motives. The podcast also uncovers two outrageous NBA-related indictments involving rigged poker games and insider betting scandals. With mafia ties and complex legal issues, these cases are full of jaw-dropping details. Additionally, the hosts discuss developments in lawsuits regarding National Guard deployments and updates on Hunter Biden litigation.

Oct 17, 2025 • 19min
Drake's Not Like Us (Familiar With Defamation Law)
The hosts dive into the indictment of Letitia James, exploring its political implications and questionable legal interpretations. They discuss the fallout of Ghislaine Maxwell's transfer to Club Fed and how it affects fellow inmates. In a surprising turn, Drake loses his defamation lawsuit against his label, with the court emphasizing that rap lyrics are opinion. Plus, a controversial ruling on school apparel catches attention, and U.S. Attorney replacements reveal political pressure in prosecutorial decisions.


