Sandra Muñoz returns to the podcast after more than two years away. She opens by sharing a bit about the absence: the Supreme Court ruling against her and her husband in their immigration case, and the appeal which followed that didn’t go their way.

Her guest is Luis Alfaro, a playwright, performer, and MacArthur Fellow who directs the MFA in Dramatic Writing at USC. The two met in the East LA poetry scene in the 1990s and later wrote the play Black Butterfly together.

Luis lost his mother recently, and his father and brother in the years before that. Sandra has been carrying her own losses: her mother, her sister Olga, and a close friend, Rigo. What the two of them end up talking about is what grief actually does to your work, and to the version of yourself that still has to show up and do it. Neither one pretends to have it figured out, and neither one tries to wrap it up neatly.

Luis also talks about the director who told him his broken ankle was not an accident but a kind of self-sabotage, and about the lesson in discipline he took from it. He describes the class he teaches that meets somewhere different in Los Angeles every week instead of in a classroom. And he explains why, after decades of reviews, he stopped needing to be liked and started asking only to be understood.

We close the way we always do, with the question Sandra asks every guest: what are your three favorite tacos? Luis does not hesitate, and his answer says as much about how he grew up as anything else in the episode.

Get full show notes and more information at: https://law-and-order-me-some-tacos.captivate.fm/episode/you-dont-have-to-run-from-this-place

Law & Order Me Some Tacos is a podcast for anyone interested in the ins and outs of the legal system. Hosted by Sandra Muñoz, an employment attorney with over 20 years of experience on countless cases involving employment discrimination, harassment, and retaliation. On the show, Sandra takes you behind the scenes on some of her most interesting cases.

And hey, it's not all legal talk here. Sandra grew up in East LA, and she loves her neighborhood and her community. On this podcast, you’ll also get a flavor for her life as a Latina Lawyer, her culture, and, best of all, her taco recommendations.

If you enjoy the Law & Order Me Some Tacos podcast, we could use your support! Please consider leaving us a review or introducing us to your friends!

Now, if you enjoy today's podcast and you're thinking, "Hey, I think I need to speak to a lawyer." You should get in touch with me. You can do that by going to scmlawoffices.com and sending me a message there.

If you're not ready to do that. Definitely say hi anyway. You can connect with me on Twitter @scm_in_ela.

Thanks for tuning in, and we'll see you on the next episode.

Hi everyone, Sandra Munoz here, and welcome to the first episode of Season 3 of "Law Order meets some tacos." In this episode, I'm stepping into the spotlight to share a very personal story—my marriage to Luis Ernesto Asencio Cordero and our intense legal battle with the U.S. immigration system. Some of you might already know parts of our story from the media or legal rulings, but today, I want to give you a deeper, more personal perspective.

Joining me is my dear friend and respected attorney, Judy Perez. Judy has been by my side from day one, even attending our wedding. Together, we'll discuss our journey from the initial green card application to the unexpected and grueling challenges we faced, including a nerve-wracking interview at the American Consulate in El Salvador and the devastating denial that followed.

This episode is about more than just our legal struggles; it's about the emotional toll and the resilience required to navigate such an unforgiving system. I hope our conversation sheds light on the complexities of immigration in America and offers support to others in similar situations. Thank you for listening and joining me on this personal journey. I hope it brings awareness and understanding to an issue that affects so many. Enjoy the episode.

Get full show notes and more information at: https://law-and-order-me-some-tacos.captivate.fm/episode/the-unseen-struggles-my-personal-journey-through-the-u-s-immigration-system

Law & Order Me Some Tacos is a podcast for anyone interested in the ins and outs of the legal system. Hosted by Sandra Muñoz, an employment attorney with over 20 years of experience on countless cases involving employment discrimination, harassment, and retaliation. On the show, Sandra takes you behind the scenes on some of her most interesting cases.

And hey, it's not all legal talk here. Sandra grew up in East LA, and she loves her neighborhood and her community. On this podcast, you’ll also get a flavor for her life as a Latina Lawyer, her culture, and, best of all, her taco recommendations.

If you enjoy the Law & Order Me Some Tacos podcast, we could use your support! Please consider leaving us a review or introducing us to your friends!

Now, if you enjoy today's podcast and you're thinking, "Hey, I think I need to speak to a lawyer." You should get in touch with me. You can do that by going to scmlawoffices.com and sending me a message there.

If you're not ready to do that. Definitely say hi anyway. You can connect with me on Twitter @scm_in_ela.

Thanks for tuning in, and we'll see you on the next episode.

In this episode of "Law Order Me Some Tacos," host Sandra Munoz chats with Judy Perez as they close out Season Two and reflect on the journey of the podcast. Judy Perez, who was a guest on Season One, joins the discussion to share insights and thoughts about the podcast's impact. They discuss the success of the second season, the positive feedback received from listeners, and how the show has resonated with a diverse audience.

Sandra and Judy dive into the power of storytelling, recounting how each guest's unique journey has touched the hearts of many. Discover the impact of the podcast on aspiring lawyers, including young Latina students who found solace and encouragement in the stories shared.

Get a sneak peek into the upcoming California Rural Legal Assistance (CRLA) Tardeada event, where Sandra and Judy discuss the significance of championing the rights of farmworkers. Learn about the awards being presented to distinguished individuals and how you can get involved in this impactful fundraiser.

As Season Two wraps up, Sandra shares her exciting plans for the future. Brace yourself for a captivating Season Three as the podcast delves into even more captivating stories, not just from the legal world but also from other inspiring fields.

Get full show notes and more information at: https://law-and-order-me-some-tacos.captivate.fm/episode/stories-of-impact-season-two-finale-and-beyond

Law & Order Me Some Tacos is a podcast for anyone interested in the ins and outs of the legal system. Hosted by Sandra Muñoz, an employment attorney with over 20 years of experience on countless cases involving employment discrimination, harassment, and retaliation. On the show, Sandra takes you behind the scenes on some of her most interesting cases.

And hey, it's not all legal talk here. Sandra grew up in East LA, and she loves her neighborhood and her community. On this podcast, you’ll also get a flavor for her life as a Latina Lawyer, her culture, and, best of all, her taco recommendations.

If you enjoy the Law & Order Me Some Tacos podcast, we could use your support! Please consider leaving us a review or introducing us to your friends!

Now, if you enjoy today's podcast and you're thinking, "Hey, I think I need to speak to a lawyer." You should get in touch with me. You can do that by going to scmlawoffices.com and sending me a message there.

If you're not ready to do that. Definitely say hi anyway. You can connect with me on Twitter @scm_in_ela.

Thanks for tuning in, and we'll see you on the next episode.

Today, on Law and Order Me Some Tacos, we hear about the remarkable journey of Associate Justice Hernaldo J. Baltodano. From his roots as a Nicaraguan immigrant to his current role as an appellate judge, Justice Baltodano's story is a testament to determination, perseverance, and the pursuit of justice. Justice Baltodano's journey is an inspiring narrative of triumph over adversity. Born in Nicaragua, his family migrated to the United States when he was just a toddler. Overcoming the challenges of a foreign land, he pursued education and earned a Juris Doctor degree from UC Berkeley School of Law. He embarked on a legal career, demonstrating his prowess in complex employment and class action litigation, earning recognition for pro bono work, and founding his own law firm.

Justice Baltodano's commitment to justice and access to legal aid led him to serve as a Superior Court judge in San Luis Obispo County. His instrumental role in establishing pre-trial services, mental health diversion programs, and more paved the way for fair and compassionate judicial practices. In this episode, Justice Baltodano shares the defining moments that shaped his path, his journey from self-doubt to becoming a respected appellate justice, and his unique perspective on the law's gray areas. Discover how his personal experiences and values influence his decision-making on the bench, making civil discourse a cornerstone of his approach. Justice Baltodano's story isn't just about the law; it's a story of resilience, growth, and the pursuit of making a difference. Tune in to gain valuable insights and be inspired by his remarkable journey.

Get full show notes and more information at: https://law-and-order-me-some-tacos.captivate.fm/episode/embracing-diversity-on-the-bench-with-associate-justice-hernaldo-baltodano

Law & Order Me Some Tacos is a podcast for anyone interested in the ins and outs of the legal system. Hosted by Sandra Muñoz, an employment attorney with over 20 years of experience on countless cases involving employment discrimination, harassment, and retaliation. On the show, Sandra takes you behind the scenes on some of her most interesting cases.

And hey, it's not all legal talk here. Sandra grew up in East LA, and she loves her neighborhood and her community. On this podcast, you’ll also get a flavor for her life as a Latina Lawyer, her culture, and, best of all, her taco recommendations.

If you enjoy the Law & Order Me Some Tacos podcast, we could use your support! Please consider leaving us a review or introducing us to your friends!

Now, if you enjoy today's podcast and you're thinking, "Hey, I think I need to speak to a lawyer." You should get in touch with me. You can do that by going to scmlawoffices.com and sending me a message there.

If you're not ready to do that. Definitely say hi anyway. You can connect with me on Twitter @scm_in_ela.

Thanks for tuning in, and we'll see you on the next episode.

Welcome to another episode of "Law Order Me Some Tacos!" Today, we welcome Alma Puente, an immigration attorney and city council member for El Monte to the show. Alma's philosophy of keeping things "tidy" in political life and relationships shines through as she takes us on an enlightening journey through her life and career.

In this episode, Alma highlights her remarkable career as an immigration attorney and her deep-rooted dedication to her community. Alma shares her experiences as an only child in a monolingual Spanish-speaking home and her education in local schools. Alma also shares with us her relentless efforts against "notarios" who deceptively pose as legal professionals, wreaking havoc on the lives of their unsuspecting clients. As she recounts her experiences as an immigration attorney, we gain insight into her unwavering commitment to justice and the people she serves.

But that's not all - Alma's decision to run for city council is equally compelling. Influenced by the pandemic's impact on her city, she takes us through the process of becoming a candidate. Her journey as a council member hasn't been without its challenges, but Alma's determination to keep things "tidy" in the world of politics resonates deeply.

So, join us for an inspiring and insightful conversation with Alma Puente - an exceptional individual who embodies the true essence of public service and community engagement. Alma also shares with us her top 3 taco spot in LA. You won't want to miss it!

Get full show notes and more information at: https://law-and-order-me-some-tacos.captivate.fm/episode/community-justice-and-tacos-with-alma-puente

Law & Order Me Some Tacos is a podcast for anyone interested in the ins and outs of the legal system. Hosted by Sandra Muñoz, an employment attorney with over 20 years of experience on countless cases involving employment discrimination, harassment, and retaliation. On the show, Sandra takes you behind the scenes on some of her most interesting cases.

And hey, it's not all legal talk here. Sandra grew up in East LA, and she loves her neighborhood and her community. On this podcast, you’ll also get a flavor for her life as a Latina Lawyer, her culture, and, best of all, her taco recommendations.

If you enjoy the Law & Order Me Some Tacos podcast, we could use your support! Please consider leaving us a review or introducing us to your friends!

Now, if you enjoy today's podcast and you're thinking, "Hey, I think I need to speak to a lawyer." You should get in touch with me. You can do that by going to scmlawoffices.com and sending me a message there.

If you're not ready to do that. Definitely say hi anyway. You can connect with me on Twitter @scm_in_ela.

Thanks for tuning in, and we'll see you on the next episode.

Welcome to another insightful episode of Law and Order Me Some Tacos. Today, I am joined by a remarkable guest, Cindy Lopez. As two passionate attorneys, Cindy and I discuss the diverse paths that brought us to where we are today and the immense satisfaction we find in our work.

During our conversation, Cindy shares her awe-inspiring journey of dedicating over two decades to the State of California Attorney General's office, focusing on prosecuting doctors for sexual misconduct. Her dedication to protecting vulnerable patients and seeking justice in the face of power differentials between doctors and their patients is truly commendable. Cindy takes us through a gripping case involving a doctor sexually assaulting fellows in residence and how her team's efforts led to an interim suspension order that protected the victims.

Our conversation not only sheds light on the world of law and its significance but also provides valuable insights into the importance of advocating for clients and seeking justice in diverse legal arenas. If you are intrigued by the stories of two passionate attorneys and want to gain a deeper appreciation for the crucial work we do, this episode is a must-listen. Join us as we journey through the highs and challenges of our legal careers, and discover the power of justice and advocacy. 

Get full show notes and more information at: https://law-and-order-me-some-tacos.captivate.fm/episode/seeking-justice-inspiring-stories-from-attorney-cindy-lopez

Law & Order Me Some Tacos is a podcast for anyone interested in the ins and outs of the legal system. Hosted by Sandra Muñoz, an employment attorney with over 20 years of experience on countless cases involving employment discrimination, harassment, and retaliation. On the show, Sandra takes you behind the scenes on some of her most interesting cases.

And hey, it's not all legal talk here. Sandra grew up in East LA, and she loves her neighborhood and her community. On this podcast, you’ll also get a flavor for her life as a Latina Lawyer, her culture, and, best of all, her taco recommendations.

If you enjoy the Law & Order Me Some Tacos podcast, we could use your support! Please consider leaving us a review or introducing us to your friends!

Now, if you enjoy today's podcast and you're thinking, "Hey, I think I need to speak to a lawyer." You should get in touch with me. You can do that by going to scmlawoffices.com and sending me a message there.

If you're not ready to do that. Definitely say hi anyway. You can connect with me on Twitter @scm_in_ela.

Thanks for tuning in, and we'll see you on the next episode.

In this episode, I sit down with Workers' Compensation Attorney, Connie Pardo, a fascinating individual whose life story is filled with inspiring moments. We explore her love for reading and learning, ignited during her time in boarding school, where her father gifted her books about remarkable women from history. We also delve into the challenges faced by Connie's late husband, Frank Muñoz, as a Latino in the legal profession and his impactful career as a civil rights attorney. Join us for a captivating conversation that sheds light on their lives and the fight for justice.

Join me in an enlightening discussion with Connie Pardo, where we dive into her captivating life story. Together, we explore their impact on the legal profession, their involvement in activism, and the resilience they displayed in the face of adversity. Don't miss this inspiring episode that celebrates their journey and sheds light on important societal issues.

Get full show notes and more information at: https://law-and-order-me-some-tacos.captivate.fm/episode/the-inspiring-life-of-connie-pardo-activism-resilience-and-empowerment

Law & Order Me Some Tacos is a podcast for anyone interested in the ins and outs of the legal system. Hosted by Sandra Muñoz, an employment attorney with over 20 years of experience on countless cases involving employment discrimination, harassment, and retaliation. On the show, Sandra takes you behind the scenes on some of her most interesting cases.

And hey, it's not all legal talk here. Sandra grew up in East LA, and she loves her neighborhood and her community. On this podcast, you’ll also get a flavor for her life as a Latina Lawyer, her culture, and, best of all, her taco recommendations.

If you enjoy the Law & Order Me Some Tacos podcast, we could use your support! Please consider leaving us a review or introducing us to your friends!

Now, if you enjoy today's podcast and you're thinking, "Hey, I think I need to speak to a lawyer." You should get in touch with me. You can do that by going to scmlawoffices.com and sending me a message there.

If you're not ready to do that. Definitely say hi anyway. You can connect with me on Twitter @scm_in_ela.

Thanks for tuning in, and we'll see you on the next episode.

Welcome back to another episode of Law and Order Me Some Tacos. Today, we're diving deep into the impact of relationships and the strength of the human spirit. Get ready for an inspiring conversation that will leave you with a renewed sense of gratitude and determination.

In this episode, we explore the profound influence that our loved ones, colleagues, and mentors have on our lives and careers. Our guest, Silvia Argueta, Executive Director at the Legal Aid Foundation of Los Angeles, shares her personal stories highlighting the power of building strong connections and networks.

Resilience and perseverance are recurring themes throughout this conversation. Silvia opens up about the obstacles she faced, including prejudice and discrimination. Her stories are powerful reminders that we must stay committed to our dreams and keep pushing forward even in the face of adversity.

Join me as we explore the transformative power of community and connection, and discover the immense potential within each of us. So grab your favorite taco and prepare to be inspired. Remember, we're all in this together, and we can accomplish extraordinary things together.

Get full show notes and more information at: https://law-and-order-me-some-tacos.captivate.fm/episode/thriving-together-the-power-of-connections-and-perseverance-with-silvia-argueta

Law & Order Me Some Tacos is a podcast for anyone interested in the ins and outs of the legal system. Hosted by Sandra Muñoz, an employment attorney with over 20 years of experience on countless cases involving employment discrimination, harassment, and retaliation. On the show, Sandra takes you behind the scenes on some of her most interesting cases.

And hey, it's not all legal talk here. Sandra grew up in East LA, and she loves her neighborhood and her community. On this podcast, you’ll also get a flavor for her life as a Latina Lawyer, her culture, and, best of all, her taco recommendations.

If you enjoy the Law & Order Me Some Tacos podcast, we could use your support! Please consider leaving us a review or introducing us to your friends!

Now, if you enjoy today's podcast and you're thinking, "Hey, I think I need to speak to a lawyer." You should get in touch with me. You can do that by going to scmlawoffices.com and sending me a message there.

If you're not ready to do that. Definitely say hi anyway. You can connect with me on Twitter @scm_in_ela.

Thanks for tuning in, and we'll see you on the next episode.

Join me in this insightful conversation with Teresa Sánchez Gordon as we dive into her background and experiences. Teresa shares her journey from Mexico to the United States, highlighting her family's dedication to education and the opportunities they sought. We explore the influence of Catholic schools and the rebellious spirit that fueled Teresa's pursuit of higher education.

But Teresa's path took an unexpected turn when she found herself drawn to law school. We explore the chance encounter and her husband's encouragement that sparked this new direction. Teresa takes us through her experiences in law school, where social justice and progressive politics became central to her education. Protests, volunteering, and actively shaping her learning journey played pivotal roles in her transformation.

Throughout our conversation, we uncover the deep roots of Teresa's Mexican heritage, the unwavering support of her family, and the remarkable impact of her mother's community involvement. We gain insights into the personal and professional milestones that shaped Teresa's life, emphasizing the influences that guided her along the way.

Teresa's story is one of resilience, determination, and the pursuit of justice. Whether you're interested in education, law, or the power of personal background, this episode is a must-listen. Join us as we explore Teresa's unique journey and the lessons we can all learn from her experiences.

Get full show notes and more information at: https://law-and-order-me-some-tacos.captivate.fm/episode/breaking-barriers-teresa-sanchez-gordons-rise-as-a-latina-judge

Law & Order Me Some Tacos is a podcast for anyone interested in the ins and outs of the legal system. Hosted by Sandra Muñoz, an employment attorney with over 20 years of experience on countless cases involving employment discrimination, harassment, and retaliation. On the show, Sandra takes you behind the scenes on some of her most interesting cases.

And hey, it's not all legal talk here. Sandra grew up in East LA, and she loves her neighborhood and her community. On this podcast, you’ll also get a flavor for her life as a Latina Lawyer, her culture, and, best of all, her taco recommendations.

If you enjoy the Law & Order Me Some Tacos podcast, we could use your support! Please consider leaving us a review or introducing us to your friends!

Now, if you enjoy today's podcast and you're thinking, "Hey, I think I need to speak to a lawyer." You should get in touch with me. You can do that by going to scmlawoffices.com and sending me a message there.

If you're not ready to do that. Definitely say hi anyway. You can connect with me on Twitter @scm_in_ela.

Thanks for tuning in, and we'll see you on the next episode.

Get full show notes and more information at: https://law-and-order-me-some-tacos.captivate.fm/episode/season-1-wrap-up

Law & Order Me Some Tacos is a podcast for anyone interested in the ins and outs of the legal system. Hosted by Sandra Muñoz, an employment attorney with over 20 years of experience on countless cases involving employment discrimination, harassment, and retaliation. On the show, Sandra takes you behind the scenes on some of her most interesting cases.

And hey, it's not all legal talk here. Sandra grew up in East LA, and she loves her neighborhood and her community. On this podcast, you’ll also get a flavor for her life as a Latina Lawyer, her culture, and, best of all, her taco recommendations.

If you enjoy the Law & Order Me Some Tacos podcast, we could use your support! Please consider leaving us a review or introducing us to your friends!

Now, if you enjoy today's podcast and you're thinking, "Hey, I think I need to speak to a lawyer." You should get in touch with me. You can do that by going to scmlawoffices.com and sending me a message there.

If you're not ready to do that. Definitely say hi anyway. You can connect with me on Twitter @scm_in_ela.

Thanks for tuning in, and we'll see you on the next episode.