In this gripping episode of Cup of Justice... investigative journalists Mandy Matney and Liz Farrell, and attorney Eric Bland — dive deep into the second Jane Doe lawsuit against JP Miller, revealing shocking details of alleged sexual abuse in an unaccredited religious school. 

The lawsuit details how Miller's father, Wayne Miller, mishandled the initial report, placing the victim with the alleged assailant. The conversation also touched on the broader issues of church and school regulation, the challenges of pursuing civil and criminal cases, and the impact of media coverage on public perception.

The team explores the systemic failures that allowed predatory behavior to continue, discussing the challenges victims face when reporting assault and the complex legal landscape of pursuing justice.

Highlights include:

• Explosive new allegations against JP Miller

• Insights into the challenges of reporting sexual abuse

• Behind-the-scenes details of the upcoming Murdaugh Murders Hulu series

• Expert legal analysis from Eric Bland on civil litigation strategies

With their trademark blend of investigative reporting and candid conversation, this episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in true crime, legal insights, and equal justice for all.

Also! Big Congrats to Liz who appeared on Julie Grant's CourtTV show Friday, and catch EB on Anderson Cooper discussing a separate legal matter involving Nancy Mace.

☕ Cup's Up! ⚖️

Episode Resources

Murdaugh Murders Hulu Show IMDB Page

Mandy & David on Hulu Set - Instagram

Jane Doe No. 1 Lawsuit & Article on LUNASHARKMedia.com

Jane Doe No. 2 Lawsuit & Article LUNASHARKMedia.com

IRS 501(c)(3) Tax Guide for Churches & Religious Organizations

“What is a ‘Church’ for Federal Tax Purposes?” - Congressional Research Service, Oct 25, 2023

Justice for Mica protestor asks police officer about definition of harassment - TikTok, March 4, 2025

Upcoming Events:

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*The views expressed on the Cup of Justice episodes do not constitute legal advice. Listeners desiring legal advice for any particular legal matter are urged to consult an attorney of their choosing who can provide legal advice based upon a full understanding of the facts and circumstances of their claim. The views expressed on the Cup of Justice episodes also do not express the views or opinions of Bland Richter, LLP, or its attorneys.

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Investigative journalists Mandy Matney and Liz Farrell, and attorney Eric Bland — talk about Mandy and David’s visit to the Hulu set of the Murdaugh TV show in Atlanta right as filming starts. Also on the show Myrtle Beach Pastor John-Paul Miller makes a mockery of the court system. Why isn’t anyone stopping him?

Plus, Mandy and Liz talk about what went into their reporting of the Jane Doe No. 1 lawsuit that was filed last week, accusing JP Miller of raping a 15-year-old in 1998 and assaulting her again in 2023 and accusing his father Wayne Miller and their churches of looking the other way.

Eric weighs in on his experiences with Jane Doe’s attorney Randy Hood and talks about the legal considerations when filing a civil complaint related to childhood sexual abuse...

☕ Cup's Up! ⚖️

Episode Resources

Liz Farrell’s FB Post on Mark Tinsley joining Jane Doe No. 1’s legal team - Feb 25, 2025

“Two of three missing Jasper teens reported found; human trafficker possibly also living in home” - The Island Packet, June 25, 2017

“WATCH: John-Paul Miller appears in court after rape claims” - WSPA, Feb 26, 2025

Mandy Matney’s FB Post on JP Miller’s supporters in Magistrate Court - Feb 26, 2025

Overview of JP Miller’s “Pastor Disaster” on TSP 89

HBO’s “The Righteous Gemstones”

“Pastors JP Miller and Wayne Miller Accused Of Sexual Abuse Targeting Minors In New Lawsuit” - LUNASHARK Media, Feb 25, 2025 & Jane Doe’s Lawsuit

“'Accountability and responsibility': Lawsuit accuses Fort Mill church of turning blind eye to sex abuse” - WCNC, Sept 16, 2024

“Fort Mill church claimed religious freedom in sex abuse lawsuits. SC judge says no.” - The Herald, Feb 3, 2025

Limitations of Civil Actions - SC Code of Laws

“How occurrence vs. claims-made insurance protects your business” - Next Insurance, June, 20, 2020

Statute of Elizabeth - LSD Law

Brian & Jen Musgrave interview on CNN with EB & Ronnie Richter

An Evening with Eric Bland: A Legal Legacy of Justice Synagogue Speaking Event

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*The views expressed on the Cup of Justice episodes do not constitute legal advice. Listeners desiring legal advice for any particular legal matter are urged to consult an attorney of their choosing who can provide legal advice based upon a full understanding of the facts and circumstances of their claim. The views expressed on the Cup of Justice episodes also do not express the views or opinions of Bland Richter, LLP, or its attorneys.

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Investigative journalists Mandy Matney and Liz Farrell, and attorney Eric Bland — talk about Mandy and David’s trip to Charleston for yet another federal sentencing hearing of a rich South Carolina attorney. This time it was for Hilton Head attorney Peter Strauss, whose license to practice is on interim suspension... as of Monday, February 24, 2025.... Strauss pleaded guilty in fall 2023 to a single count of removal of property to prevent seizure to help his client — a man who later pleaded guilty in a billion-dollar Ponzi scheme. 

Catch up on Peter Strauss with TSP episodes 29 & 38

Also on today’s show, what the latest decision in Buster Murdaugh’s defamation case might mean for the investigation into Stephen Smith’s death. 

Plus, according to court documents, JP Miller and a TikToker tried to negotiate a deal with Melissa Mancari, the paralegal JP is suing in a $6 million defamation case, to testify as a witness in his cases against the protesters. 

Why did the judge say this didn’t set off alarm bells for him? And what can protesters do to protect themselves in court? 

☕ Cup's Up! ⚖️

Episode Resources

“Support Zoe's Family with Medical Debts” - GoFundMe for Erin Lee Carr’s friend

“The real injustice happening in Beaufort County? No cellphones in the courthouse | Opinion” - Liz Farrell, Updated Sept 9, 2019

“Hilton Head lawyer sentenced to 9 months for hiding millions for clients running Ponzi scheme” - The Post & Courier, Feb 21, 2025

IOLTA Overview - American Bar Association

Liz’s Tweet on JP Miller Update - Feb 20, 2025

“Casino mogul Wynn asks US Supreme Court to revisit Times v. Sullivan defamation rule” - Reuters, Feb 7, 2025

Premium Episode Resources

JP Miller’s Defamation Lawsuit against Melissa Mancari & her Motion to Dismiss

JP Miller’s Invasion of Privacy filings in Myrtle Beach Magistrate Court

Buster Murdaugh’s Defamation Lawsuit - June 14, 2024

Order to Sever & Remand in Buster Murdaugh’s Defamation Lawsuit - Feb 19, 2025

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*The views expressed on the Cup of Justice episodes do not constitute legal advice. Listeners desiring legal advice for any particular legal matter are urged to consult an attorney of their choosing who can provide legal advice based upon a full understanding of the facts and circumstances of their claim. The views expressed on the Cup of Justice episodes also do not express the views or opinions of Bland Richter, LLP, or its attorneys.

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Investigative journalists Mandy Matney and Liz Farrell, and attorney Eric Bland — talk about Bowen Turner’s return to jail after allegedly day-drinking at a public golf course last week. South Carolina’s thrice-accused rapist — and the crowned prince of trying to buy his way out of accountability — is once again being accused of violating the terms of parole … and breaking yet another promise to a justice system that continues to reward him with just one more chance. 

How many more times will we all be forced to talk about Bowen? When will there be accountability for those who gave him the sweetheart plea deal? And what do his prison calls tell us about his parents? 

Also on the show, lawmakers refuse to elect a qualified woman to a judgeship. Why is that? We think we know … 

Plus, Mandy, Liz and Eric share their thoughts about Congresswoman Nancy Mace’s unprecedented speech on the floor of the US House of Representatives in DC last week accusing four men of sex trafficking, making secret video recordings and raping her, along with other unconscious women. 

Tri-County S.P.E.A.K.S. & How to Donate to the Center

☕ Cup's Up! ⚖️

Episode Resources

“SC agents arrest Orangeburg man for alleged violations of conditional release” - Live5 WCSC, Feb 13, 2025

TSP #71 - “Top 10 Systemic Failures That Benefited Bowen Turner . . . “

“SC legislature rejects candidate for York County judge after Republicans opposed her” - The Herald, Feb 5, 2025

“Mace makes allegations of sexual abuse against multiple men from the House floor” - CNN, Feb 11, 2025

Overview of Speech or Debate Clause

“Nancy Mace says her victim tip line was flooded with calls. Advocates warn it could cause harm.” - The Post & Courier, Feb 11, 2025

Who is Schleprock...? 

Premium Resources

Bowen Turner’s Arrest Warrant - Feb 11, 2025

Bowen Turner Jailhouse Calls discussed in TSP #87

Sarah Ford’s Affidavit against David Miller’s Judicial Nomination - Nov 8, 2023

Dash Cam: Thrice Accused Rapist Bowen Turner Arrested AGAIN After DUI Crash

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*The views expressed on the Cup of Justice episodes do not constitute legal advice. Listeners desiring legal advice for any particular legal matter are urged to consult an attorney of their choosing who can provide legal advice based upon a full understanding of the facts and circumstances of their claim. The views expressed on the Cup of Justice episodes also do not express the views or opinions of Bland Richter, LLP, or its attorneys.

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Get ready for a jam-packed episode where we dive deep into the ridiculous, the infuriating, and the downright fascinating! This week, we're covering it all, from the bizarre energy of the Super Bowl to the petty world of legal filings and everything in between.

Investigative journalists Mandy Matney and Liz Farrell, and attorney Eric Bland — talk about the latest filing from Alex Murdaugh’s twice-alleged co-conspirator Russell Laffitte as he seeks a jury pool that goes beyond the Lowcountry. Turns out the big doofus doesn’t like being called a “doofus” … or a “cockroach.” At least not by Mandy and Liz. 

Russell’s attorney Mark Moore finally got the opportunity to flex his petty muscle as he unloaded years of pent-up rage into what Eric says might be a $25,000 motion — once you account for all the time Team Doofus spent listening to Cup of Justice and True Sunlight podcast and scrolling through Mandy’s, Liz’s and Eric’s social media. 

But the last laugh is — as always — on Team Doofus. There is no bigger compliment to pay than seeing your jokes about the Murdaugh villains appear in a federal court filing. Also on the show, the latest in JP Miller’s frivolous lawsuit scheme.

☕ Cup's Up! ⚖️

Episode Resources

Serena Williams’ Instagram Post about Super Bowl Halftime Show

“Taylor Swift ‘feels used’ by Blake Lively, wishes actress didn’t drag her into Justin Baldoni lawsuit” - Page Six, Feb 6, 2025

“Drake & Kendrick Lamar’s Rocky Relationship Explained” - Billboard, Feb 10, 2025

Russell TV Episodes

Mandy’s Doofus Tweet - Nov 14, 2024

Liz’s Cockroach Tweet - Aug 11, 2023

“Alleged Murdaugh accomplice Laffitte requests statewide jury selection or change of venue” - Greenville News, Feb 5, 2025

“Former Myrtle Beach lawyer Brunty pleads guilty to conspiracy charge” - The Island Packet, June 16, 2014

Beth Braden’s FB Post about JP Miller’s Magistrate Court Lawsuits - Jan 31, 2025

Premium Resources

Russell Laffitte’s Motion for District-Wide Jury Panel - Feb 3, 2025

Sam Rickman’s Counterclaim - Jan 27, 2025

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*The views expressed on the Cup of Justice episodes do not constitute legal advice. Listeners desiring legal advice for any particular legal matter are urged to consult an attorney of their choosing who can provide legal advice based upon a full understanding of the facts and circumstances of their claim. The views expressed on the Cup of Justice episodes also do not express the views or opinions of Bland Richter, LLP, or its attorneys.

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Investigative journalists Mandy Matney and Liz Farrell sat down with Mica Francis’ divorce attorney Regina Ward of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, to talk about Mica’s case and the dozens of lawsuits JP Miller has now filed against protesters and content creators.

In the interview, Regina talked about Mica’s request for a restraining order against JP and why it was dismissed — PLUS she revealed that at the time of Mica’s death Mica was awaiting her second restraining order hearing to stop JP from allegedly harassing and stalking her. Also on the show, Regina discussed her newest case … representing former Solid Rock Ministries church member Sam Rickman in his countersuit against JP. 

Last week, Regina filed an EXPLOSIVE response to one of the dozens of lawsuits now filed by JP and his cohorts. In his typical chaotic way, JP Miller has opened a Pandora’s Box and he’s not going to like what awaits him in court… 

Premium Members get additional discussions on the inadequate support for domestic violence victims in Horry County, South Carolina, highlighting the defunct Casa organization and the insufficient funding for a new shelter despite abundant resources allocated elsewhere. We'll also pivot to the legal strategies deployed by Regina in Rickman's defense and counterclaim, specifically in magistrate court, to challenge the pastor's claims of financial damages and the questionable evidence presented. Regina is bringing a full bore legal battle exposing the pastor's potentially frivolous lawsuits, emphasizing the importance of proper evidence and procedure within the legal system... JP is in for a rude awakening.

☕ Cup's Up! ⚖️

Learn More About Attorney Regina Ward Here:

@lawfirmofreginabward

attorneyreginaward.com

facebook.com/lawfirmofreginabward

Episode Resources

Magistrate Court Restraining Order Info from SCVAN

Petition for Order of Protection in SC Family Court

Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA)

“What is Coercive Control?” - Laura Richards

Premium Resources

JP Miller’s Invasion of Privacy Suit Against Sam Rickman - Jan 10, 2025

Sam Rickman’s Countersuit Against JP Miller - Jan 27, 2025

Notice of Deposition for JP Miller - Jan 27, 2025

Horry County PD’s Investigation into Theft Reports for Dare2Care Bank Accounts - March 2024

Mica Francis’ Restraining Order Complaint Against JP Miller - March 11, 2024

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Investigative journalists Mandy Matney and Liz Farrell get a lesson in all things Magistrate Court from co-host attorney Eric Bland. After Myrtle Beach Pastor JP Miller files more than a dozen complaints against protesters and creators seeking Justice for Mica, we were left scratching our heads but not at all surprised. What is JP up to and why did he choose Magistrate Court, where the most damages he could win tops out at $7,500? How can the protesters/creators defend themselves? 

And will Judge Christopher John Arakas — who isn’t a member of the South Carolina Bar Association and doesn’t appear to have ever been a lawyer — be fooled by JP’s claims? 

For Luna Shark Premium Members, we'll discuss the Parker Law Group's questionable snowman ☃️ and how JP Miller may be attempting to use the magistrate court to harass while the legal system might not offer adequate protection to the people being sued…

🥽 Let's Dive In... 🦈

Episode Resources

Parker Law Group’s Snowman

Magistrate Court in South Carolina

Magistrate Court Rules

“Exclusive: John-Paul Miller speaks about wife Mica Miller’s death” - NewsNation, July 22, 2024

Horry County Ordinance for Special Event Permitting

Good Morning America Mica Miller Update on TikTok - May 14, 202

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*The views expressed on the Cup of Justice episodes do not constitute legal advice. Listeners desiring legal advice for any particular legal matter are urged to consult an attorney of their choosing who can provide legal advice based upon a full understanding of the facts and circumstances of their claim. The views expressed on the Cup of Justice episodes also do not express the views or opinions of Bland Richter, LLP, or its attorneys.

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Just over a year ago, investigative journalists Mandy Matney and Liz Farrell from “True Sunlight Podcast,” watched the hit Netflix documentary “American Nightmare” about Denise Huskins and Aaron Quinn, the California couple who were immediately dubbed “LIARS” by police — and the media — after reporting a home invasion and the subsequent kidnapping and rape of Denise in 2015.

Mandy and Liz were blown away by the documentary, and especially by the work of a woman named Misty Carausu. After months of being scolded and vilified in the headlines — which affected their careers and relationships — Denise and Aaron found vindication in the form of Misty, who at the time was a brand new criminal investigator from a police agency 40 miles south of where they lived. Misty wowed audiences of “American Nightmare” with her tenacity and devotion to her job. And she showed what can happen when police come from a place of BELIEVING victims instead of treating victims like suspects.

After helping investigate a home invasion in her jurisdiction, Misty discovered a connection between the suspect in her case and Denise and Aaron’s case, proving that Denise and Aaron were telling the truth all along. Today, we're diving deeper to discover more beneath the surface of this harrowing story and how we can inspire more women like Misty to Protect and Serve. 

🥽 Let's Dive In... 🦈

Find More From Misty Here:

instagram.com/misty_carausu

Real Crime Profile: Victim F Part 8 - Sergeant Misty Carausu

Episode Resources

Lt. Misty Carausu featured in Netflix's documentary American Nightmare

“Meet the detective who solved 'American Nightmare' case, victims credit her for 'saving us'” - KCRA 3, Jan 19, 2025

“Detective Who Cracked Vallejo ‘Hoax' Kidnap Case a ‘Bulldog,' Dublin Police Lieutenant Says” - NBC Bay Area, July 14, 2015

“Timeline: Matthew Muller and the ‘American Nightmare’ Vallejo kidnapping case” - KRON 4, Jan 7, 2025

“How the "American Nightmare" victims helped get kidnapper Matthew Muller to confess to more crimes” - CBS News, Jan 8, 2025

“Convicted ‘American Nightmare’ rapist pleads guilty to two more home invasions” - Los Angeles Times, Jan 17, 2025

Reid Technique Article from ScienceDirect

“Alameda sergeant improves lactation space and support in county” - Our Milky Way, Nov 28, 2021

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Investigative journalists Mandy Matney and Liz Farrell and attorney Eric Bland talk about the horrors of the Los Angeles wildfires and how Big Insurance, as well as systemic failures in government preparation have made a catastrophic situation even worse. 

Closer to home, the three talk about the success of Luna Shark's billboard blitz in the hopes of seeking answers in the Stephen Smith case (not to mention Sandy Smith’s decision to increase the reward to $50,000 for information leading to arrests in her son’s murder case). 

Also on the show, a federal jury found Cory Fleming liable for his part in Alex Murdaugh’s scheme to steal millions from Gloria Satterfield’s family, but is HE the biggest loser to emerge from the Nautilus trial? Or did the insurance company waste untold amounts of time and money in launching an easily predictable losing battle over something that may ultimately be their own fault? 

Plus, the latest in the Mica Francis case: Emails and texts show that JP MIller — and his right hand woman Tricia Ross — accused an Horry County Police Department officer of being at fault for Mica’s death. AND Wayne Miller’s odd real estate connection to Mica’s divorce attorney Regina Ward — who also represented Mica’s family in the fight over who would be personal representative for Mica. 

🥽 Let's Dive In... 🦈

Episode Resources

“Photos: Satellite images of wildfires burning in Southern California” - NBC Los Angeles, Updated Jan 11, 2025

Stephen Smith

“Billboards, Reward Focus New Attention on Stephen Smith Case” - Court TV interview with EB, Jan 10, 2025

Mandy’s Instagram post celebrating Court TV sharing billboards - Jan 10, 2025

“SC billboards seek information about Stephen Smith’s killing. Here’s the latest on the case” - The State, Updated Jan 7, 2025

Cory Fleming

“Jury decides Cory Fleming is liable for role in Murdaugh insurance scheme, owes $1.25M” - The Post and Courier, Jan 8, 2025

Nautilus’ Updated Increased Damages Award from Cory Fleming - Jan 9, 2025

Nautilus’ Better Business Bureau’s Complaints

JP Miller

Listen to True Sunlight episode 82 for latest updates on Regina Ward connection to Wayne Miller

Premium Members also get access to episode videos, case files, live trial coverage and exclusive live experiences with our hosts. CLICK HERE to learn more: https://bit.ly/3BdUtOE.

Check out Luna Shark Merch With a Mission shop at lunasharkmerch.com/

What We're Buying...

Eric Bland's New Book!!! - Mandy's Book in Paperback!! - Marcia Clark's New Book - Amanda Knox's New Book - Tamron Hall's New Book - Erin Lee Carr's Book

Boll & Branch Sheets - http://bollandbranch.com/mandy Change the way you sleep with Boll & Branch. Get 15% off, plus free shipping on your first set of sheets.

Here's a link to some of our favorite things: https://amzn.to/4cJ0eVn

Find us on social media:

bsky.app/profile/mandy-matney.com   |   bsky.app/profile/elizfarrell.com   |   bsky.app/profile/theericbland.bsky.social

Twitter.com/mandymatney | Twitter.com/elizfarrell | Twitter.com/theericbland

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*The views expressed on the Cup of Justice episodes do not constitute legal advice. Listeners desiring legal advice for any particular legal matter are urged to consult an attorney of their choosing who can provide legal advice based upon a full understanding of the facts and circumstances of their claim. The views expressed on the Cup of Justice episodes also do not express the views or opinions of Bland Richter, LLP, or its attorneys.

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Investigative journalists Mandy Matney and Liz Farrell — and attorney Eric Bland — are BACK and ready to take on the New Year. 

This 112th episode of COJ covers a range of topics, starting with a look back at the holidays. Premium members get a special discussion on Liz's snow day adventures, Mandy's aversion to winter, and Eric's past commuting woes in Philadelphia…and we’ll touch on the dangers of public transportation in New York.

This week Alex Murdaugh’s best friend and co-conspirator Cory Fleming is back in federal court for the Nautilus case … but why? What defense could he possibly offer the insurance company that says Alex and Cory swindled them out of $3.8 million in the Satterfield scheme? Last week, Alex ended Nautilus’ claim against him with a confession of judgment worth $14.8 million … meaning, things could get really bad for Cory. And yet he’s still going for it. We also delve into the confusing aspects of the case, such as the role of the insurance companies and their handling of the initial claim and the potential for other co-conspirators to be revealed, especially if Cory Fleming or Alex Murdaugh provides testimony.

Finally, the hosts shift gears to discuss the controversy surrounding Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni, including Lively's initial complaint and Baldoni's defamation lawsuit. We’ll dive into where the three land on who “the bad guy” is here. 

Plus, Sandy Smith plans to increase the reward in the search for her son’s killers as more people take notice of the Stephen Smith billboards that LUNASHARK has funded throughout South Carolina. More to come on that and a new event planned for July soon so stay tuned!

🥽 Let's Dive In... 🦈

Episode Resources

The New York Times’ Dec 21, 2024 article at the center of Justin Baldoni’s libel lawsuit

“Blake Lively accuses 'It Ends With Us' co-star Justin Baldoni of sexual harassment and retaliation” NBC News, Dec 22, 2024

“Blake Lively accuses movie director of smear campaign to ‘destroy’ her” - Court TV, Jan 3, 2025

Mandy’s Instagram post on Stephen Smith Billboards!

Premium Members also get access to episode videos, case files, live trial coverage and exclusive live experiences with our hosts. CLICK HERE to learn more: https://bit.ly/3BdUtOE.

Check out Luna Shark Merch With a Mission shop at lunasharkmerch.com/

What We're Buying...

Eric Bland's New Book!!! - Mandy's Book in Paperback!! - Marcia Clark's New Book - Amanda Knox's New Book - Tamron Hall's New Book - Erin Lee Carr's Book

Peloton - onepeloton.com Find your push. Find your power with Peloton at onepeloton.com.

Here's a link to some of our favorite things: https://amzn.to/4cJ0eVn

Find us on social media:

bsky.app/profile/mandy-matney.com   |   bsky.app/profile/elizfarrell.com   |   bsky.app/profile/theericbland.bsky.social

Twitter.com/mandymatney | Twitter.com/elizfarrell | Twitter.com/theericbland

https://www.facebook.com/cupofjustice/ |  https://www.instagram.com/cojpod/

YouTube  | TIKTOK

SUNscribe to our free email list to get alerts on bonus episodes, calls to action, new shows and updates. CLICK HERE to learn more: https://bit.ly/3KBM

*** Alert: If you ever notice audio errors in the pod, email [email protected] and we'll send fun merch to the first listener that finds something that needs to be adjusted! ***

*The views expressed on the Cup of Justice episodes do not constitute legal advice. Listeners desiring legal advice for any particular legal matter are urged to consult an attorney of their choosing who can provide legal advice based upon a full understanding of the facts and circumstances of their claim. The views expressed on the Cup of Justice episodes also do not express the views or opinions of Bland Richter, LLP, or its attorneys.

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