Trial Tested

S9E3: Deepfakes and Hallucinations: AI, Evidence, and the Law with Professor Maura R. Grossman

Join host Terri Mascherin as she discusses generative artificial intelligence and its impact on trial law with Professor Maura R. Grossman, an expert in the field. Using recent examples, Professor Grossman explains why this rapidly evolving technology can’t be ignored, how to understand its usefulness and how to prevent misuse and “deepfake defense” In the courtroom.

 

S9E2: Susan Harriman on Speaking Up and Having Fun, Inside the Courtroom and Out

Join host Amy Gunn as she talks with ACTL Past President Susan Harriman about family, career, and her involvement with the College. Harriman recounts how a chance conversation with a stranger on a train led her to apply to law school after her service as a Peace Corps volunteer. She discusses her role in helping grow a firm from 10 to more than 120 attorneys, addressing the unique decisions and challenges facing women attorneys. Harriman shares her love of teaching while reflecting on her experiences with juries, opposing counsel and lessons learned from some of her most significant cases, including her defense of Electronic Arts.

S9E1: Learning by Doing: From AUSA to the West Wing with Secretary Jeh Johnson

From discovering his motivation as a student at Morehouse College to walking the halls of the West Wing, former Secretary of Homeland Security Jeh Johnson joins host Dave Thomas to recount his accomplished career. Secretary Johnson shares his experiences in public service, highlighting high-profile matters such as the repeal of the military policy “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell,” while emphasizing the complexities and challenges of balancing civil liberties with security measures. You’ll hear how his experience as an Assistant U.S. Attorney helped shape his approach as a public servant, which in turn influenced his leadership style upon returning to private practice, where he is now back to trying cases today.

Special Juneteenth Episode: “Slavery by Another Name” with Professor Douglas Blackmon

In this special Juneteenth episode, Professor Douglas Blackmon joins host Dave Thomas to delve into what drove Blackmon to write his Pulitzer Prize-winning book, "Slavery by Another Name," which details the manipulation of the criminal justice system to terrorize and inflict forced labor onto African American men in the South after the Civil War. Blackmon discusses how World War II catalyzed the dismantling of such practices while acknowledging the ongoing issue of mass incarceration and current societal disparities.

 

The Importance of Humor, Civility and Staying Focused on the Legal Issues with Jeff Leon

Past President of the College Jeff Leon joins host Dave Thomas to discuss his career as a leading Canadian litigator. He reflects on his role as co-lead counsel to the Public Order Emergency Commission following the Freedom Convoy protests, highlighting the challenges and importance of addressing issues regarding freedom of expression. Reflecting on notable cases, such as the sale of the Toronto Maple Leafs hockey team, Leon stresses the significance of focusing on the legal issues at hand, mentoring young lawyers, and promoting civility within the legal profession.

 

“Because You’re a Girl” – Jill Wine-Banks on Sexism and Serving as the Youngest Watergate Prosecutor

In this episode of Trial Tested, former Watergate prosecutor Jill Wine-Banks recounts her early career and the challenges she faced as a female lawyer, first in the Department of Justice's organized crime division and then as the youngest Watergate prosecutor. Wine-Banks joins host Terri Mascherin to discuss the obstacles faced by the Watergate prosecution team, including the infamous "Saturday Night Massacre" and the discovery of an 18-and-a-half-minute gap in the Watergate tapes. She discusses the parallels between the Watergate era and the contemporary erosion of democratic norms, reflecting on how her experiences during Watergate helped shape her views on current legal and political challenges.

Paul Meyer on Empathy, Dignity and Defending High-Profile Clients

Go to criminal defense attorney Paul Meyer of Orange County, California reflects on his career with host Dave Thomas.  Meyer emphasizes the importance of preparation and empathy.  He shares his criminal defense experiences with high profile clients such as Dennis Rodman, Merrill Lynch,  national sports figures, elected officials, and the Saudi Arabian Royal Family, as well as his years defending judges in misconduct allegation cases.  Meyer’s insight about managing both personalities and complex legal issues is compelling.  He advises young lawyers to focus on cases they enjoy and stresses the significance of compassion in navigating legal challenges, drawing from his work with clients such as Al Joyner coping with wife Florence Griffith Joyner's tragic death.

 

Criminal Defense Attorney David Oscar Markus on Trial Strategy and Putting Passion into Practice

In this episode, host Vince Citro interviews David Oscar Markus, criminal defense attorney and host of his own podcast, For the Defense. Markus emphasizes the importance of loving what you do while discussing themes and trial strategy. He reflects on the significance of client testimony and the unpredictability of trial outcomes. Through his experiences, he underscores the evolving nature of trial strategy and the importance of adaptability in pursuing one's passion for trial advocacy.

Verdicts and Values: Exploring Intellectual Property Litigation with William Lee

Join host Renee Rothauge as she discusses the intricate world of intellectual property and patent case litigation with Attorney William Lee. From the Iran-Contra Affair to the “smartphone wars” to navigating losses like the recent Supreme Court affirmative action case, Lee shares his insights and lessons learned from trying more than 200 cases to verdict. He also delves into personal encounters with discrimination and pride in his Chinese heritage. As an inductee into the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, Lee reflects on his career, prioritizing family, and the enduring values of integrity and mentorship.

Bridging Divides: Sharon McMahon on Civics, Democracy, and Civil Discourse in America

Sharon McMahon, renowned as 'America's government teacher' and host of the podcast ‘Here’s Where It Gets Interesting,' joins host Amy Gunn to discuss topics such as nonpartisan civics education, fostering respectful dialogue and the importance of democracy. Originally a high school government teacher, Sharon unexpectedly transitioned to a national platform, driven by a desire to combat political misinformation and promote civil discourse. She stresses the need for empathy and engagement to bridge ideological divides and promote an educated electorate.