In this episode of Circle City Conversations, Alex Limontes and co-host James Bell welcome Judge Tricia McMath of Marion Superior Court, Ana Hohn of the Paganelli Law Group for a special conversation focused on mentorship, networking, and building a successful legal career. The discussion follows the format of the Indy Bar Podcast Asked and Answered, hosted by Tricia and Ana, where legal professionals answer questions from young attorneys and law students seeking guidance.

Judge McMath serves on Marion Superior Court, handling cases involving eviction, foreclosure, ordinance violations, and traffic matters. Ana Hohn is an attorney at Paganelli Law Group focusing on medical malpractice litigation while also teaching litigation drafting. Together, they bring decades of combined experience navigating different paths within the legal profession.

In this episode… What does it take to build a successful legal career? For many young attorneys and law students, the answer goes beyond grades and legal knowledge, it comes down to relationships, mentorship, initiative, and a willingness to embrace opportunities. Judge McMath, Ana Hohn, Alex Limontes, and James Bell share practical advice on how aspiring lawyers can stand out and create meaningful connections throughout their careers.

The group discusses the importance of internships, encouraging students to take initiative, ask questions, seek additional responsibilities, and demonstrate reliability. They explain how small moments, such as volunteering for projects, attending community events, and building genuine professional relationships, can lead to mentorship opportunities, career growth, and unexpected paths forward.

Judge McMath and Ana reflect on their own journeys through clerkships, public service, private practice, and judicial careers, sharing how persistence and networking helped shape their professional lives. They also discuss the changing culture of the legal community, the value of courthouse relationships, and why maintaining connections with mentors and colleagues remains essential.

In this episode of Circle City Conversations, Alex Limontes, Judge Tricia McMath, Ana Hohn, and James Bell explore the realities of working in law, balancing professional demands with personal life, and finding the right path within the profession. The conversation offers valuable lessons for future lawyers: stay curious, say yes to opportunities, invest in relationships, and continue learning throughout your career.

Michele Lorbieski is an attorney at Lewis Wagner & Trimble whose practice focuses on probate, trust, and estate litigation. Originally from San Antonio, Texas, Michele's journey to Indiana began when she attended DePauw University, becoming the first in her family to travel by plane and experience life outside her home state. What started as a dream of becoming a broadcast journalist eventually led her to Georgetown Law, a career in Big Law during the 2008 financial crisis, and ultimately a rewarding practice helping families navigate some of life's most difficult transitions.

In this episode… Estate disputes often involve much more than legal documents, they involve family relationships, grief, expectations, and deeply personal conflicts. How can thoughtful estate planning help families avoid costly litigation and preserve relationships during difficult times?

Michele Lorbieski shares her path from journalism to law and explains how she found her niche in probate and trust litigation. She discusses will contests, guardianships, estate disputes, and the emotional realities that often accompany these cases. Michele breaks down common misconceptions about probate, explains when probate can be beneficial, and highlights how tools such as trusts, beneficiary designations, and thoughtful planning can help families avoid future conflict. She also emphasizes the importance of clear communication and proactive planning to ensure loved ones understand a person's wishes before disputes arise.

Beyond her legal career, Michele opens up about family, personal loss, and the experiences that have shaped her outlook on life. She reflects on how spending time outdoors through hiking, camping, mountain biking, and other adventures has helped her find perspective, resilience, and healing. Michele also shares her passion for Indiana sports, particularly the Indiana Fever and the WNBA, and discusses the importance of strong role models like Caitlin Clark and Aaliyah Boston for future generations.

In this episode of Circle City Conversations, Alex Limontes interviews Michele Lorbieski about probate litigation, estate planning, family dynamics, and the life experiences that have influenced both her legal career and personal philosophy. Michele shares lessons on resilience, gratitude, personal growth, and why intentional planning, both in law and in life, can make all the difference.

Judge Tim Oakes' story begins in the hills and lakes of Kentucky, where his family's roots run deep near Lake Cumberland. Raised between Kentucky traditions and Indianapolis life, Judge Oakes reflects on a childhood shaped by fishing trips, houseboats, family stories, and the hardworking communities that emerged alongside the development of Lake Cumberland in the 1950s. Those early experiences, combined with lessons learned from his father and the close-knit culture of rural Kentucky, helped shape the values that would later guide him into a life of public service and law.

In this episode… For many people, Lake Cumberland is more than a destination, it is a way of life tied to family traditions, storytelling, and generations of shared memories. Judge Tim Oakes reflects on growing up surrounded by Kentucky culture, from regional sayings and small-town folklore to long summers spent boating, fishing, and exploring the deep coves and wooded shorelines of one of the region's most iconic lakes. He explains how the peacefulness of the water and the strong sense of community continue to provide balance amid the pressures of legal and professional life.

Judge Oakes also discusses his journey from Tech High School in Indianapolis to Wabash College and eventually into the legal profession, sharing the challenges of adjusting academically while discovering a deeper calling toward justice and service. Influenced by personal experiences, mentors, and his upbringing, he describes how law became a path to help others and better understand fairness within the communities he cared about most.

Throughout the conversation, Judge Oakes shares humorous family stories, reflections on Kentucky dialect and culture, and vivid memories of road trips between Indiana and Kentucky that reinforced the connection between the two regions. Whether discussing fishing at the lake, relaxing on a houseboat at sunset, or navigating winding back roads through small Kentucky towns, he paints a picture of Lake Cumberland as both a retreat and a cornerstone of his identity.

In this episode of Circle City Conversations, Alex Limontes interviews Judge Tim Oakes about his Kentucky roots, the traditions and culture surrounding Lake Cumberland, and the life experiences that ultimately led him into the legal world. The discussion highlights the importance of community, heritage, and finding peace in nature while balancing the demands of public service and the law.

Ned Mulligan is an Indiana trial lawyer with more than 15 years of experience handling mass torts, personal injury, medical malpractice, and complex litigation. Originally from New Hampshire, Ned built his legal career in Indiana after beginning practice during the 2008 recession, eventually finding his passion in plaintiff advocacy and courtroom litigation. His work has included major pharmaceutical and medical device cases, as well as high-stakes trials involving catastrophic injuries and wrongful death claims.

In this episode… Mass tort litigation presents unique challenges that differ significantly from class action lawsuits. From multidistrict litigation procedures and consolidated discovery to the complexities of individual damages, attorneys handling these cases must navigate years of litigation while balancing strategy, preparation, and client advocacy. How do lawyers manage large-scale cases against major corporations while still focusing on the individual stories behind every injury?

Ned Mulligan shares his path into trial law, discussing his early years working long hours while gaining courtroom experience through personal injury and medical malpractice cases. He explains the structure of multidistrict litigation and how defendants often use delays and procedural leverage in mass tort cases involving pharmaceutical companies, medical devices, and emerging social media litigation. Ned also reflects on his first major trial involving an improperly placed IV that led to an amputation and an $11 million jury verdict that was later significantly reduced due to Indiana's statutory damages caps.

Throughout the conversation, Ned passionately discusses the impact of tort reform and his opposition to arbitrary damages limitations, arguing that juries are capable of fairly assessing harm and understanding the true human impact of catastrophic injuries. He explains why trial preparation, exhaustive case knowledge, and credibility before a jury are critical to successful advocacy, while also emphasizing the importance of integrity, trust, and community within the legal profession.

In this episode of Circle City Conversations, Alex Limontes interviews Ned Mulligan about mass tort litigation, trial strategy, medical malpractice cases, and the evolving landscape of complex plaintiff litigation. Ned also shares lessons from balancing family life with demanding legal work, the value of mentorship, and why helping injured clients remains at the center of his career.

The Marc Lopez Law Firm served as the final stop on the Circle City Conversations Cinco de Mayo our, where the team visited law offices across Indianapolis to spotlight attorneys, firm culture, and the work being done throughout Indiana's legal community. Joining the conversation are attorneys Marc Lopez, Matt Kroes, and Anthony Benitez, alongside host Alex Limontes, for a discussion centered on criminal defense, trial advocacy, and the sacrifices required to fight for clients every day.

In this episode… Behind every criminal defense case is a team working long hours, making personal sacrifices, and carrying the pressure of protecting someone's future. The attorneys at Marc Lopez Law Firm discuss the realities of criminal defense litigation, their commitment to trial readiness, and why holding the government accountable is essential to preserving fairness within the justice system.

The group reflects on the culture within the firm which is built around hard work, camaraderie, and a shared competitiveness in the courtroom. From jury selection and storytelling strategies to the emotional dynamics of trial advocacy, the attorneys explain how preparation and teamwork influence both trial outcomes and plea negotiations. The discussion also explores the differences between jury and bench trials, the pressure surrounding felony cases, and the firm's philosophy that criminal defense is ultimately about protecting freedom, opportunity, and constitutional rights.

The conversation further examines DUI prosecutions and procedural issues that can significantly impact clients' lives, particularly when delayed evidence or pending charges affect employment and livelihoods. The attorneys share frustrations with systemic inefficiencies while emphasizing the importance of forcing the state to meet its burden of proof through evidence and proper procedure.

In this episode of Circle City Conversations, Alex Limontes and the Marc Lopez Law Firm team discuss courtroom strategy, the importance of accessibility within the legal system, and the dedication required to advocate for clients facing difficult circumstances. The episode also highlights the firm's close-knit culture, commitment to the Hispanic and Latino community, and the passion that drives criminal defense attorneys to continue fighting for justice every day.

The Indianapolis Motor Speedway is one of the most iconic sporting venues in the world and a defining symbol of Indiana culture. As the 110th running of the Indy 500 approaches, anticipation builds across the state with traditions like porch parties, Carb Day festivities, and family gatherings that bring fans together in celebration of racing history.

Jimmy McMillian serves as Vice President of External Affairs for Penske Entertainment and Senior Corporate Counsel, where he oversees a wide portfolio of racing events and legal operations across multiple major motorsport properties, including the Indy 500, Long Beach Grand Prix, and the upcoming DC Grand Prix honoring America's 250th anniversary.

In this episode… The Indianapolis 500 is more than a race, it is a cultural event that brings together generations of fans, families, and communities. Behind the scenes, however, a massive organizational and legal effort ensures that each race weekend operates smoothly, from sponsorship agreements and liability planning to fan engagement and facility management. How does one of the world's largest sporting events balance tradition, innovation, and logistics on such a massive scale?

Jimmy McMillian shares insight into his role managing legal, operational, and external affairs for Penske Entertainment, explaining how coordination with partners such as the Dallas Cowboys and Texas Rangers helps ensure seamless event execution. He discusses the shift from contract-heavy preparation in the lead-up to race season to a more community-focused approach during race weekends, where thousands of fans are welcomed through educational programs, museum tours, and interactive experiences designed to make the Speedway accessible to all.

The conversation also highlights major investments in the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, including a multi-million-dollar renovation of the museum, upgraded facilities, expanded seating and parking, and enhanced fan experiences that reflect Roger Penske's vision for continuous improvement. Jimmy and Alex explore how the Speedway has evolved into a year-round entertainment destination, hosting events beyond the Indy 500, while still preserving its historic identity as the world's largest single-day sporting event.

In this episode of Circle City Conversations, Alex Limontes interviews Jimmy McMillian about the legacy of the Indianapolis 500, the operational and legal complexity behind major sporting events, and the importance of maintaining accessibility and tradition for future generations. The discussion also reflects on the Speedway's role in Indiana's identity, its commitment to fan experience, and the enduring excitement that continues to draw hundreds of thousands of spectators from around the world each year.

Katie Karres is an attorney with extensive experience handling nursing home neglect and injury cases, focusing on protecting vulnerable populations and holding facilities accountable. Her work highlights the growing need for advocacy in an area of law that is often overlooked, particularly as the aging population continues to expand and long-term care systems face increasing strain.

In this episode… Nursing home neglect cases present unique legal and emotional challenges for families and attorneys alike. From understaffing and safety failures to complex legal procedures and limited financial recoveries, pursuing justice in these cases can be a long and difficult process. How can families protect their loved ones and recognize the warning signs of neglect before it's too late?

Katie Karres breaks down the legal framework behind nursing home cases, explaining why many claims fall under premises liability rather than traditional medical malpractice. She discusses common issues such as pressure ulcers, falls, and inadequate staffing, while also shedding light on systemic concerns, including how funding structures and profit-driven models can impact the quality of care residents receive. Katie also outlines the lengthy legal process in Indiana, including medical review panels and statutory damage caps, which can make these cases particularly challenging for plaintiffs.

In this episode of Circle City Conversations, Alex Limontes interviews Katie Karres about the realities of nursing home litigation, the importance of family involvement, and the steps loved ones can take to protect residents. Katie shares practical advice on monitoring care, requesting records, and acting quickly when concerns arise, while reinforcing the critical role attorneys play in advocating for accountability and improving standards of care.

In this episode of Circle City Conversations, Alex Limontes is joined by Faith Alvarez to break down the highly publicized legal battle involving rapper Afroman, whose real name is Joseph Edgar Foreman. The case stems from a 2022 police raid on his Ohio home that resulted in no criminal findings, but sparked a complex legal dispute involving allegations of excessive force, property damage, and constitutional violations.

In this episode… When law enforcement actions collide with free speech and social media, the legal issues can quickly become complicated. After a warrant-based raid on his home yielded no evidence of drugs or kidnapping, Afroman turned to satire in the form of releasing music and videos that mocked the officers and documented the search using his home security footage. Those creative responses quickly went viral, drawing public attention and raising questions about accountability, parody, and the limits of protected speech.

Alex and Faith break down the lawsuit filed by the officers, which included claims such as defamation, invasion of privacy, and misappropriation, as well as Afroman's legal response and counterclaims. They explore the role of qualified immunity, the challenges of proving defamation involving public officials, and how courts evaluate First Amendment protections in cases involving satire and criticism of law enforcement. The discussion also touches on the involvement of the ACLU, post-trial motions, and the potential for Rule 11 sanctions related to alleged frivolous claims.

In this episode of Circle City Conversations, Alex and Faith analyze the broader implications of the case, including the balance between police authority and civil liberties, the growing influence of social media in shaping legal narratives, and how parody and artistic expression can intersect with constitutional law. The case highlights the ongoing tension between accountability and authority, and how modern litigation increasingly plays out both in courtrooms and in the public eye.

Jason Shartzer is a trial attorney based in Indiana with more than two decades of experience handling personal injury, civil rights, and complex litigation cases. Raised in Brownsburg on the west side of Indianapolis, Jason's passion for justice began early in life and ultimately led him to pursue a legal career. After graduating from Loyola University in New Orleans, he attended law school at Thomas Jefferson School of Law before returning to Indiana.

In this episode… The path to becoming an effective trial lawyer often requires resilience, humility, and a willingness to take on the toughest cases. Jason Shartzer shares how his early legal experience working with attorney Buddy Yosha helped shape his courtroom approach, often stepping in to handle challenging cases others were hesitant to take. Those formative years taught him the importance of authenticity, preparation, and connecting with juries through honesty and humility.

Jason also dives into the complexities of civil rights and police misconduct cases, explaining the legal hurdles attorneys face when pursuing claims against government entities due to sovereign immunity and other legal barriers. He discusses a recent civil rights verdict involving a police shootout at a homeowner's residence, where careful investigation and ballistic evidence played a key role in challenging the officers' account of events. Along the way, he reflects on broader issues within tort law, including the limitations of the medical malpractice system and the critical role civil litigation plays in holding powerful institutions accountable.

In this episode of Circle City Conversations, Alex Limontes interviews Jason Shartzer about his journey from Brownsburg to building his own practice, the mentors who shaped his career, and the lessons he's learned from decades in the courtroom. Jason also shares advice for young lawyers on perseverance, humility, and pursuing meaningful work, emphasizing that despite the challenges of litigation, helping clients through difficult moments makes the profession deeply rewarding.

Nick Baker is a longtime Indiana trial lawyer and lifelong Hoosier who has practiced law for more than two decades. Raised in Bloomington and a graduate of Indiana University, Nick was influenced early on by his father, Indiana's longest-serving judge, and his stepfather, a respected medical malpractice defense attorney. Throughout his career, he has focused on challenging government overreach and corporate misconduct, including taking cases involving Ku Klux Klan-era laws to the United States Supreme Court.

In this episode… Judicial independence and democratic participation remain cornerstones of the American legal system—but what happens when historical laws and modern politics collide? Nick Baker joins the podcast to discuss his current pro bono lawsuit challenging Indiana's judicial selection framework, tracing its origins back to the 1920s and examining how those laws shaped voting rights and judicial appointments in counties such as Lake, St. Joseph, and Marion.

Nick explains the broader legal and constitutional questions surrounding judicial transparency, appointment systems, and the importance of maintaining public trust in the courts. He and Alex explore civic engagement, voter participation—particularly among younger generations—and the role primary elections play in shaping leadership. The conversation also touches on larger national policy issues, including healthcare costs, insurance industry profits, corporate consolidation, taxation, and federal debt, all through the lens of accountability and representative government.

In this episode of Circle City Conversations, Alex Limontes interviews Nick Baker about his legal career, his campaign, and his perspective on preserving democratic institutions. Nick shares why he believes pragmatic leadership, civic involvement, and community engagement are essential to protecting the rule of law and ensuring that government reflects the will of the people.