MCLE ThisWeek Podcast

Judges Peterson and Rivers join Bruce Richard to discuss their paths to the bench and what they value in attorneys appearing in Probate and Family Court. They share practical advice on preparation, narrowing disputed issues, and staying calm during difficult exchanges. The judges also discuss working with self-represented litigants and serving children and families with limited court resources.

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Important Note:
Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education, Inc. (MCLE) is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to providing high-quality, practical continuing legal education for the legal community. As part of its educational mission, MCLE presents a wide range of viewpoints and instructional content intended solely for educational purposes.

The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed by individual participants in this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of MCLE, its Board of Trustees, staff, or affiliated institutions. Inclusion of any material or commentary does not constitute an endorsement of any position on any issue by MCLE.

Massachusetts Black Lawyers Association President Theresa Wilson joins Bruce Richard to discuss her path from prosecutor to public defender and public servant. She explains why diverse perspectives matter on the bench and how mentorship, professional relationships, and community create new opportunities for lawyers. Wilson also shares the MBLA’s priorities for leadership development, attorney wellness, civic engagement, and lasting systemic change.

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Important Note:
Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education, Inc. (MCLE) is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to providing high-quality, practical continuing legal education for the legal community. As part of its educational mission, MCLE presents a wide range of viewpoints and instructional content intended solely for educational purposes.

The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed by individual participants in this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of MCLE, its Board of Trustees, staff, or affiliated institutions. Inclusion of any material or commentary does not constitute an endorsement of any position on any issue by MCLE.

The judges discuss the importance of preparation, professionalism, and maintaining a practical approach to advocacy. They explain why understanding your client's goals, treating all courtroom participants with respect, and focusing on clear communication can have a significant impact on both the court and your client's interests.

They also provide perspective on:

Throughout the conversation, Judges Mitchell-Munevar offer candid observations from the bench and practical guidance for attorneys seeking to improve their courtroom advocacy and better serve their clients.

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• X (Formerly Twitter): MCLENewEngland
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Important Note:
Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education, Inc. (MCLE) is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to providing high-quality, practical continuing legal education for the legal community. As part of its educational mission, MCLE presents a wide range of viewpoints and instructional content intended solely for educational purposes.

The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed by individual participants in this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of MCLE, its Board of Trustees, staff, or affiliated institutions. Inclusion of any material or commentary does not constitute an endorsement of any position on any issue by MCLE.

Korrin Peterson shares how her two decades with the Buzzards Bay Coalition shaped her unconventional environmental law career, blending litigation, policy advocacy, grant management, and hands-on wastewater infrastructure work before transitioning into private practice at Bowditch & Dewey. She explains how environmental law extends far beyond statutes and regulations, requiring attorneys to understand science, engineering, public policy, and the financial realities facing municipalities and developers.

With practical insight for attorneys across practice areas, Korrin discusses:

Throughout the conversation, Korrin emphasizes that environmental law is constantly evolving as communities adapt to changing environmental conditions, infrastructure limitations, and development pressures. She highlights the importance of long-term thinking, interdisciplinary problem-solving, and proactive legal strategy when navigating environmental challenges affecting businesses, municipalities, and property owners alike.

Featured Guest

Korrin Peterson — Environmental attorney at Bowditch & Dewey, Korrin advises clients on environmental permitting, wastewater infrastructure, brownfields redevelopment, compliance, and real estate matters. Prior to joining Bowditch, she spent more than 20 years as Chief Advocate for the Buzzards Bay Coalition, where she led litigation, policy initiatives, and environmental infrastructure projects across southeastern Massachusetts.

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• Instagram: mcle.newengland
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• X (Formerly Twitter): MCLENewEngland
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Important Note:
Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education, Inc. (MCLE) is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to providing high-quality, practical continuing legal education for the legal community. As part of its educational mission, MCLE presents a wide range of viewpoints and instructional content intended solely for educational purposes.

The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed by individual participants in this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of MCLE, its Board of Trustees, staff, or affiliated institutions. Inclusion of any material or commentary does not constitute an endorsement of any position on any issue by MCLE.

Mark shares a candid look at the nonlinear path that led him to become Executive Director of MCLE, highlighting how resilience, adaptability, and a willingness to pursue new opportunities shaped his career. From working in finance and higher education to building a solo law practice and teaching for over three decades, Mark emphasizes that professional growth often comes from unexpected turns rather than a single defined path. 

He also provides insight into the inner workings of MCLE, explaining how the organization relies on a vast network of dedicated volunteers to deliver high-quality programming and resources to the legal community. With thousands of years of collective experience contributed by volunteer attorneys, MCLE’s model is rooted in practical, experience-driven education rather than traditional academic methods.

With a focus on the future, Mark discusses:

He also reflects on the broader mission of MCLE, including efforts to expand access through scholarships and fundraising initiatives like the Founders Day campaign, which supports attorneys who may not otherwise have access to continuing legal education resources.

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• Facebook: MCLE New England

Important Note:
Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education, Inc. (MCLE) is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to providing high-quality, practical continuing legal education for the legal community. As part of its educational mission, MCLE presents a wide range of viewpoints and instructional content intended solely for educational purposes.

The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed by individual participants in this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of MCLE, its Board of Trustees, staff, or affiliated institutions. Inclusion of any material or commentary does not constitute an endorsement of any position on any issue by MCLE.

Mandy and Cameron break down what it actually takes to build a career in sports law and why there is no single path in. Mandy highlights the role of persistence, networking, and starting in a non-attorney position, while Cameron shares how a traditional law firm path and a strategic in-house pivot led her to Fenway Sports Group. They also challenge common misconceptions about the field, explaining that their work focuses on commercial contracts, sponsorships, intellectual property, and business operations rather than player deals, and closely mirrors a traditional in-house legal role.

With practical insight for attorneys and law students, Mandy and Cameron discuss:

They reflect on the evolving landscape of women in sports law, highlighting increased representation and leadership in recent years, as well as the collaborative nature of in-house work. Legal teams work closely with marketing, sales, HR, and operations to support broader business goals. Ultimately, Mandy and Cameron emphasize that success depends on being a well-rounded, business-savvy lawyer who can adapt, solve problems, and contribute beyond purely legal analysis.

Featured Guests

Mandy Petrillo — Assistant General Counsel at Fenway Sports Group, Mandy has spent nearly two decades with the organization, supporting the Boston Red Sox and related entities across a wide range of commercial, intellectual property, and business matters.

Cameron Hammel — Senior Counsel at Fenway Sports Group, Cameron brings experience from both a major law firm and in-house entertainment company, advising on commercial contracts, technology agreements, and business operations within the organization.

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• X (Formerly Twitter): MCLENewEngland
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• Facebook: MCLE New England

Important Note:
Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education, Inc. (MCLE) is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to providing high-quality, practical continuing legal education for the legal community. As part of its educational mission, MCLE presents a wide range of viewpoints and instructional content intended solely for educational purposes.

The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed by individual participants in this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of MCLE, its Board of Trustees, staff, or affiliated institutions. Inclusion of any material or commentary does not constitute an endorsement of any position on any issue by MCLE.

Mike shares how his firm’s transition to Bowditch & Dewey marked a strategic shift toward greater depth, stability, and long-term growth. He reflects on the realities of law firm mergers, the importance of cultural fit, and why thoughtful, deliberate decision-making matters when navigating professional change. At the same time, he explores what it truly takes to master trial advocacy — not just knowing the rules of evidence but developing the judgment to use them effectively in real time.

With practical insight and courtroom perspective, Mike discusses:

Mike emphasizes that becoming a strong trial lawyer is an iterative process — one that requires repetition, reflection, and real courtroom experience. He underscores that continuing legal education is not simply a requirement, but a professional obligation and opportunity to refine craft, build community, and elevate standards across the bar.

Featured Guest

Mike Sams — Litigation Practice Area Co-Leader at Bowditch & Dewey, Mike is a seasoned trial lawyer and business litigator serving companies throughout New England. He represents clients in complex construction and business disputes before state and federal courts and arbitration forums. A respected advocate and risk management advisor, Mike also chairs MCLE’s Making Objections Workshop and serves on MCLE’s Board of Trustees.

Connect with us on socials!

• Instagram: mcle.newengland
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• X (Formerly Twitter): MCLENewEngland
• Bluesky: mclenewengland.bsky.social
• Facebook: MCLE New England

Important Note:
Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education, Inc. (MCLE) is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to providing high-quality, practical continuing legal education for the legal community. As part of its educational mission, MCLE presents a wide range of viewpoints and instructional content intended solely for educational purposes.

The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed by individual participants in this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of MCLE, its Board of Trustees, staff, or affiliated institutions. Inclusion of any material or commentary does not constitute an endorsement of any position on any issue by MCLE.

Chris shares how the pandemic prompted a fundamental shift in how he viewed his role as a lawyer — from focusing primarily on results to becoming deeply intentional about how clients feel at every stage of representation. He explains why client service begins at intake, long before a fee agreement is signed, and why firms that ignore the client experience do so at their own risk.

With honesty, humor, and concrete examples, Chris discusses:

• Why client experience starts at the first phone call — and how tone, empathy, and responsiveness shape trust
• How over-communication beats silence, even when there are no case updates
• Using client portals, automation, and surveys to improve communication without increasing attorney workload
• Turning clients into “raving fans” who drive referrals long after a case ends
• Why unhappy clients rarely complain directly — but always remember poor communication
• How brutal honesty, delivered with care, strengthens client relationships
• The parallels between law firms and service businesses like restaurants and Amazon
• How improving client experience benefits not only clients, but also staff morale and firm culture

Chris emphasizes that most of the most impactful improvements to client experience are low-cost or free, requiring intention rather than technology — and that firms who prioritize service see fewer bar complaints, better reviews, and stronger reputations over time.

Featured Guest

Chris Earley, Esq. — Boston personal injury attorney and firm owner with nearly 20 years of experience. Chris focuses on client-centered practice design, communication systems, and building law firms that grow through trust, service, and referrals.

Links and Resources:

MCLE Online Pass

Earley Law Group Injury Lawyers

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Important Note:
Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education, Inc. (MCLE) is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to providing high-quality, practical continuing legal education for the legal community. As part of its educational mission, MCLE presents a wide range of viewpoints and instructional content intended solely for educational purposes.

The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed by individual participants in this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of MCLE, its Board of Trustees, staff, or affiliated institutions. Inclusion of any material or commentary does not constitute an endorsement of any position on any issue by MCLE.

In this episode:

Host Bruce Richard sits down with immigration attorney Robin Nice for an in-depth discussion about the legal and human realities of ICE enforcement in the United States. With over a decade of experience representing asylum seekers and families facing deportation, Robin explains how attorneys can better understand clients’ rights and the rapidly changing landscape of immigration policy.

With expertise and passion, Robin unpacks:

• What ICE actually is — and how its authority differs from local police
• Common misconceptions about warrants, detentions, and client rights
• How enforcement priorities have changed under different administrations
• What to do when a client is detained — from filing bond motions to habeas petitions
• Due process breakdowns inside the immigration system
• How federal district courts can serve as a safeguard against overreach
• The human cost of a system that leaves families in fear, uncertainty, and legal limbo

Robin also discusses the urgent need for legal reform, the impact of current policies on asylum seekers, and the moral and constitutional questions every lawyer should be asking about immigration enforcement today.

Featured Guest:
Robin Nice, Esq. — Partner at McHaffey & Nice, a Boston-based firm focused exclusively on immigration law, specializing in asylum and humanitarian relief. Robin brings 13 years of experience advocating for individuals and families navigating the U.S. immigration system.

Links and Resources:

MCLE Online Pass

McHaffey & Nice

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• Instagram: mcle.newengland
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• Facebook: MCLE New England

Important Note:
Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education, Inc. (MCLE) is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to providing high-quality, practical continuing legal education for the legal community. As part of its educational mission, MCLE presents a wide range of viewpoints and instructional content intended solely for educational purposes.

The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed by individual participants in this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of MCLE, its Board of Trustees, staff, or affiliated institutions. Inclusion of any material or commentary does not constitute an endorsement of any position on any issue by MCLE.

In this episode:

Host Bruce Richard interviews Tyler Summers, a Massachusetts family law attorney who has grown a strong social media following by producing engaging, informative, and often humorous content about divorce, prenups, and family law. Tyler offers practical advice for attorneys who are curious about using social media to expand their reach without compromising professionalism.

With openness, humor, and hard-earned experience, Tyler shares his thoughts on:

• Finding balance between professionalism and relatability on platforms like Instagram and TikTok
• The biggest misconceptions about social media marketing for lawyers — including the myth that followers instantly translate to clients
• Handling viral content responsibly, including lessons learned from controversial posts
• Producing high-quality, consistent content that reflects your brand and values
• Time management and team support — how outsourcing editing and production helped him stay focused on client work
• Doing due diligence before hiring a social media marketing company
• The long game of growth — how patience and persistence lead to genuine engagement and opportunities

Tyler’s insights offer attorneys practical takeaways for developing an authentic online presence that supports, rather than distracts their legal careers.

Featured Guest:
Tyler Summers, Esq. — Founder of Summers Family Law, based in Needham with a satellite office in Boston’s Back Bay. Tyler focuses exclusively on family law, including divorce and prenuptial agreements, and has built a following of over 50,000 on Instagram by blending humor, insight, and education in his legal content.

Links and Resources:

MCLE Online Pass

Tyler' Instagram

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Important Note:
Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education, Inc. (MCLE) is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to providing high-quality, practical continuing legal education for the legal community. As part of its educational mission, MCLE presents a wide range of viewpoints and instructional content intended solely for educational purposes.

The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed by individual participants in this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of MCLE, its Board of Trustees, staff, or affiliated institutions. Inclusion of any material or commentary does not constitute an endorsement of any position on any issue by MCLE.