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Opening Arguments

Latest episodes

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Jan 3, 2025 • 54min

SCOTUS Fast-Tracks TikTok Case; Trump Files Nonsense Amicus Brief

Chief Justice Roberts raises eyebrows with his views on judicial conduct amid luxury vacations and political turmoil. The hosts dissect the looming TikTok ban and its potential First Amendment implications, questioning the bipartisan consensus on its supposed national security risks. They humorously contemplate the political chaos surrounding a House Speaker and the absurdity of a former president's legal brief. The conversation intertwines legal complexities with the ongoing battle over social media regulations, all while pondering the role of youth engagement in politics.
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Jan 1, 2025 • 1h 4min

A Law for Christmas, and a Happy New Year!

OA1106 and T3BE53 The Law'd Awful Movies this month was so much fun, I wanted to give everyone the first ~30 minutes of it. After that, it's the usual Thomas Takes the Bar Exam answer to Q52 and the new Q53. If you are one of the lucky patrons who has already heard LAM1006, feel free to skip to 31:04. If you'd like to play along with T3BE, here's what to do: hop on Bluesky, follow Openargs, find the post that has this episode, and quote it with your answer! Or, go to our Subreddit and look for the appropriate t3BE posting. Or best of all, become a patron at patreon.com/law and play there! Check out the OA Linktree for all the places to go and things to do!
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10 snips
Dec 30, 2024 • 55min

Lawrence Lessig Thinks the Supreme Court Will End SuperPACs

Lawrence Lessig, a Harvard Law professor and vocal anti-corruption advocate, shares his insights on campaign finance reform and the influence of Super PACs. He reflects on his unique experiences with Aaron Swartz and Antonin Scalia, illustrating the stark contrasts between their legacies. Lessig discusses how Supreme Court rulings, particularly Citizens United, shape political corruption today. He remains optimistic about reform in the face of adversity, emphasizing the need to return to original meanings in constitutional law for a fairer political system.
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Dec 27, 2024 • 55min

Rudy Giuliani Has Lost Everything, Including His Own Lawyers

Dive into the comedic and chaotic world of Rudy Giuliani's legal misadventures as he faces a staggering $148 million judgment for defamation. Enjoy a humorous dissection of his bizarre courtroom strategies and the withdrawal of his own lawyers. The discussion also sheds light on political ethics, the surprising bipartisan support for a recent report, and a significant Supreme Court decision. Plus, don’t miss a peek into the exciting world of youth ice hockey with a rising star; it's a rollercoaster of legal absurdities and lighthearted moments!
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5 snips
Dec 23, 2024 • 51min

Ok, but Would AI Judges Really Be Any Worse?

Aziz Huq, a constitutional law professor at the University of Chicago, dives deep into the intersection of artificial intelligence and the legal system. He discusses whether AI can be rational and just, addressing the potential for AI judges and their implications for fairness. The conversation also touches on bias in predictive policing algorithms and the complex ethical dilemmas posed by automated decision-making in criminal justice. Aziz argues for a necessary balance between efficiency and humanity in our evolving legal landscape.
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6 snips
Dec 20, 2024 • 58min

Luigi Mangione Being Charged as a Terrorist Is Borderline Prosecutorial Misconduct

This discussion dives into the controversial terrorism charges against Luigi Mangione, raising questions about prosecutorial misconduct. The complexities of legal interpretations in a high-profile Trump case in Georgia are explored, along with the ethical implications of using AI in legal settings. The podcast humorously critiques unusual judicial behaviors, such as a judge’s meal-sharing directive and a negligence case involving 'boneless' wings. Expect insights on the evolving role of technology in law and the often quirky intersection of legal definitions and societal perceptions.
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9 snips
Dec 18, 2024 • 1h 11min

Pete Hegseth Is Finally Going to Make the US Military Less Woke

Heather Veranini, a legal expert, dives into the complexities of constitutional law surrounding violent video games and minors. She discusses a major Supreme Court case that affirms video games as protected speech. The conversation humorously tackles the implications of recent laws in Hawaii, balancing state interests with First Amendment rights. Throughout, Heather brings clarity to legal nuances while engaging with thought-provoking ideas about free speech and society’s evolving views on media.
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Dec 16, 2024 • 54min

Mass Deportation Is Much Harder Than Trump Thinks

Discover the complexities behind mass deportation promises and the realities of immigration enforcement under Trump. Delve into the misconceptions fueled by media narratives and learn how local laws shape the process. Examine the challenges of sanctuary jurisdictions in resisting federal actions. Explore the emotional toll of deportation and the importance of community engagement for activism. Unpack the misuse of emergency powers in immigration control and the vital need for legal representation for vulnerable populations.
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10 snips
Dec 13, 2024 • 54min

The Luigi Mangione Case: A NY Defense Attorney Breaks It Down

Liz Skeen, a New York attorney and Gavel Gavel contributor, dives into the high-profile Luigi Mangione case, discussing the implications of the charges against him for allegedly shooting United Healthcare CEO Brian Thompson. She highlights the challenges public defenders face in New York's legal landscape, emphasizing socio-economic disparities in legal attention. The conversation also touches on Biden's recent clemency actions and the intricacies of murder defenses, including the insanity plea, all while navigating the pressures of a media frenzy.
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9 snips
Dec 11, 2024 • 1h 4min

There’s Something Deeply Wrong With Stephen Miller (And There Always Has Been)

Dive into the bizarre world of Stephen Miller, Trump’s controversial immigration strategist. Discover how his early life and extremist views shaped his dangerous influence in politics. The podcast unpacks the disturbing connections between Miller and white nationalist agendas while exploring the role of companion animals in the healing process for abuse survivors. Additionally, enjoy a light-hearted quiz and insights on contract law, balancing serious discussions with clever humor.

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