

Opening Arguments
Opening Arguments Media LLC
Opening Arguments is a law show that helps you make sense of the news! Comedian Thomas Smith brings on legal analysts to help you understand not only current events, but also deeper legal concepts and areas!
The typical schedule will be M-W-F with Monday being a deep-dive, Wednesday being Thomas Takes the Bar Exam and patron shoutouts, and Friday being a rapid response to legal issues in the news!
The typical schedule will be M-W-F with Monday being a deep-dive, Wednesday being Thomas Takes the Bar Exam and patron shoutouts, and Friday being a rapid response to legal issues in the news!
Episodes
Mentioned books

Aug 28, 2024 • 35min
OA Bar Prep With Heather! T3BE38
The answer for T3BE37 is coming your way, and we launch our next Bar Prep question with Heather! Right now, the best place to play (if you aren't a patron...) is at reddit.com/r/openargs! If you’d like to support the show (and lose the ads!), please pledge at patreon.com/law!

Aug 27, 2024 • 31min
LAM1003: Over Ruled FREE PREVIEW
Dive into the hilariously complex world of legal accountability, where influential figures face absurdities in the law. Explore Neil Gorsuch's bland book, the rivalries among Supreme Court justices, and the critique of misleading narratives in judicial writing. Discover the implications of concurring opinions and the underlying arrogance during nomination battles. Finally, unpack the theatricality of recent confirmation hearings and the misalignment between public perception and legal realities. Get ready for a humorous and insightful legal analysis!

Aug 26, 2024 • 59min
The Future of Marriage Rights
Diana Adams, an attorney and a vocal advocate for non-traditional families, shares insights on evolving marriage rights. They delve into the historical biases of the 'nuclear family' concept and explore legal developments since the 2015 marriage equality ruling. The conversation highlights the challenges faced by queer and polyamorous families within the legal system, emphasizing the need for inclusive legislation. Diana also discusses the implications of an immigration system that recognizes a broader range of family structures beyond white heteronormative norms.

Aug 23, 2024 • 49min
Did Trump Just Violate the Logan Act?
A whimsical dive into a Disney legal debacle involving allergy-friendly dining options kicks off the discussion. The hosts dissect the absurdities of Hunter Biden's tax challenges and a GOP impeachment report against President Biden. Spotlighting Trump's possible Logan Act violations tied to a Gaza ceasefire talks, they humorously navigate the complexities of this 225-year-old law. The show also critiques the political landscape, sparking curiosity about accountability and the implications of unauthorized diplomatic negotiations.

Aug 21, 2024 • 44min
OA Bar Prep With Heather! T3BE37
Heather, a knowledgeable figure in Bar Prep discussions, joins to dive deep into fun and insightful legal topics. They share entertaining anecdotes about preparing for the bar exam and spotlight the Alec Baldwin legal case. The conversation shifts to landlord-tenant responsibilities through a humorous scenario involving a hot water heater. They also dissect a homeowner's dilemma with a builder, examining contract law intricacies. Plus, listeners get a taste of community engagement and light-hearted banter around gardening and fashion!

Aug 19, 2024 • 49min
A 9/11 Lawsuit No One Is Talking About Reveals Deep Saudi Complicity
A recent lawsuit reveals troubling connections between Saudi Arabia and the 9/11 hijackers, challenging long-held beliefs about the attacks. The complexities of legal proceedings bring attention to accountability and justice for affected families. Declassified evidence, including a controversial video, suggests deeper ties that warrant a reevaluation of established narratives. The discussion also critiques Saudi influence on U.S. politics and explores the implications of the Justice Against Sponsors of Terrorism Act. Could this push for a new investigation into long-hidden truths?

Aug 16, 2024 • 49min
At Least One Disney Lawyer Needs to Be Launched Into the Sun
Donald Trump, a prominent political figure and current presidential candidate, joins the discussion to dive into his $100 million lawsuit against the U.S. over alleged privacy violations from an FBI search. The hosts humorously dissect the implications of his lawsuit during his campaign. They also explore a bizarre Disney case where corporate legal strategies are questioned after a tragic allergy incident, and they discuss the ongoing battles artists face regarding the unauthorized use of their music in political contexts.

Aug 14, 2024 • 34min
OA Bar Prep With Heather! T3BE36
Heather, an expert in bar prep discussions, joins to unravel complex legal concepts like marital privilege. They humorously explore a fictional custody battle, highlighting spousal privileges and their courtroom implications. The conversation also emphasizes the significance of understanding these concepts in divorce proceedings. Additionally, the hosts touch on practical resources like meal kit deliveries to simplify life while studying, alongside useful insights into tenant rights through a fictional landlord dispute.

Aug 12, 2024 • 52min
You Can Run for Office. Yes, You! Just Ask RI Sen. Meghan Kallman!
Meghan Kallman, a sociology professor at UMass Boston and Rhode Island state senator, shares insights on grassroots political engagement. She discusses the unique challenges women face in politics, especially those without traditional backgrounds. The conversation delves into how state-level legislation can drive social change, even when federal action stalls. Kallman also highlights the power of door-to-door campaigning and the importance of authenticity in leadership, illustrating how diverse experiences can enrich policymaking.

Aug 9, 2024 • 52min
Is It Illegal To Make Elon Musk Sad
Neil Gorsuch, a Supreme Court justice known for his unconventional media appearances, discusses the controversial intersection of the judiciary and politics. He raises eyebrows by critiquing Biden’s court reform proposals. Meanwhile, tech mogul Elon Musk dives into his antitrust lawsuit against advertisers on X, questioning their refusal to support a platform criticized for content moderation. The conversation touches on Google’s anticompetitive practices and the implications for advertising standards, weaving humor into the serious world of legal dynamics.


