Opening Arguments

OA1153 - It's good news Friday! Here are some stories about American fascists losing or otherwise showing their asses in court, including (among others): The Supreme Court comes through strong for immigrant justice at 1 AM on a Saturday morning Samuel Alito fails to properly interpret a book written at a fourth grade level after having his Easter ruined by immigrant justice DOJ accidentally files an embarrassing internal memo into the record Sarah Palin’s tries and fails to sue the New York Times for libel for the second time  one federal judge stops Trump's attempt to do the SAVE Act through an executive order, while another reverses an ICE kidnapping Neil Gorsuch does a genuinely good thing for non-citizens through a simple act of textualism DOJ pulls out one of the most ridiculous excuses for violating a court order in US legal history Finally, a meta-footnote on why Matt is ready to join the calls to impeach national hero James Boasberg for his radical views on the utility of (what else) footnotes. Samuel Alito’s dissent in A.A.R.P. v. Trump (4/19/25) SCOTUS’s decision in Monsalvo-Velasquez v. Bondi  (4/22/25) Vermont federal district court order returning Rumeysa Ozturk to Vermont Courtlistener docket for D.V.D. v. DHS Courtlistener docket for American Oversight v. Hegseth Check out the OA Linktree for all the places to go and things to do! To support the show (and lose the ads!), please pledge at patreon.com/law! This content is CAN credentialed, which means you can report instances of harassment, abuse, or other harm on their hotline at (617) 249-4255, or on their website at creatoraccountabilitynetwork.org.

T3BE67 - It's another bar question with Heather Varanini! First we get the answer to last week's very bad and ungrateful father question, and then it's time for our next one! We crown some new winners, and then thank the best winners of all - our patrons! 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! To support the show (and lose the ads!), please pledge at patreon.com/law! This content is CAN credentialed, which means you can report instances of harassment, abuse, or other harm on their hotline at (617) 249-4255, or on their website at creatoraccountabilitynetwork.org.

OA1152 - We are pleased to welcome Mike Lissner, the Executive Director and CTO of the Free Law Project to discuss his outstanding work in bringing federal court filings out from behind the PACER paywall, how just a few people with good ideas can fill in the gaps left by government services, and why he hasn’t created an Article III Hot or Not with his vast library of judicial portraits (but how you could). Free Law Project donation page CourtListener RECAP Check out the OA Linktree for all the places to go and things to do! To support the show (and lose the ads!), please pledge at patreon.com/law! This content is CAN credentialed, which means you can report instances of harassment, abuse, or other harm on their hotline at (617) 249-4255, or on their website at creatoraccountabilitynetwork.org.

Live from New York, the hosts dive into the chaotic world of Big Law amidst Trump’s administration, highlighting recent court developments and ethical challenges. They mix humor with serious discussions on major federal cases and the pressure for law firms to embrace pro bono work. A legal setback for Andrew Cuomo’s campaign adds excitement to the mix, while critiques of firm resilience and ethical dilemmas reveal a complex legal landscape. The lively banter keeps the insights engaging, blending political analysis with lighthearted anecdotes.

The hosts explore the humorous ups and downs of bar exam prep, sharing quirky stories and valuable insights. They dive into a legal case about First Amendment rights in a unique women-only waxing center, blending serious topics with lighthearted banter. A dramatic scenario involving a sacrificed camera showcases the tension between moral and legal obligations. Amusing reflections on nostalgic fears and playful political commentary add to the fun, all while emphasizing the importance of mental health support.

A law partner's shocking notice to self-deport from the U.S. sets off a deep dive into the absurdities of immigration communications. The discussion highlights the complexities of denaturalization and recent legal quirks, including an inadvertent legalization of THC in the 2018 Farm Bill. The hosts explore the evolving cannabis industry, the nuances of Delta-8 regulations, and the societal perceptions of marijuana. Humor and optimism shine through as they tackle serious issues with a light-hearted touch, showcasing the intersection of law and life.

The discussion kicks off with the hilariously absurd 'No Rogue Rulings Act' and a critique of a controversial right-wing lawyer. Insights into the chaos of judicial powers and Trump's executive actions provide a critical lens on democracy. The hosts celebrate the inspiring work of legal advocates in immigration and civil rights. They also navigate the tricky waters of AI and defamation law, posing the intriguing question of whether AI could sue itself. It's a blend of legal insight, humor, and a call for justice in today's tumultuous landscape.

In this riveting discussion, legal analyst Matt Cameron sheds light on the alarming realities of ICE enforcement, revealing how one of his clients mysteriously vanished before a crucial bond hearing. He also delves into a viral confrontation between an attorney and ICE agents attempting to apprehend a minor, unraveling the fraught dynamics of immigration law. Examining a Supreme Court ruling on non-citizens, Matt critiques systemic inadequacies and the urgent need for advocacy within the immigration system, all while weaving in personal insights and urgent calls for justice.

Dive into the gripping retrial of Karen Read, surrounded by public intrigue and legal complexities. Explore the flaws in the investigation of John O'Keefe's death and the mistrial that captured global attention. Discover the dynamics between the prosecution and defense, the impact of social media, and community activism rallying for justice. With a mix of humor and serious insights, this discussion unpacks the societal implications of high-profile trials, highlighting how local lore intersects with pressing legal questions.

Legal complexities take center stage as the hosts analyze the recent dismissal of charges against NYC Mayor Eric Adams. A harrowing story unfolds about a man wrongfully deported without intent of return, revealing systemic issues in immigration policies. The discussion also touches on the significant impact of political remarks on international relations, particularly with Venezuela. Finally, the contentious intersection of AI and the arts is explored, raising questions about creativity and the future of artistic expression.