Raising the OC Bar

In this episode, we explore the fascinating history of some of Orange County’s most high-profile white collar criminal cases. OCBA Board Member/Stradling Attorney Sean Thomas Lobb and former Federal Prosecutor/Stradling Partner Jason de Bretteville interview former Federal Prosecutor/Manatt Partner Ken Julian and former Federal Prosecutor/Founder of the National Advocacy Institute Brett Sagel as they take us behind the scenes of the investigations and prosecutions that captured national attention. 

From the Sheriff Mike Carona aka “America’s Sheriff” corruption case to the Doug DeCinces/James Mazzo insider trading case and the Michael Avenatti fraud prosecution, our guests share firsthand insights into the people, investigations, strategies, and courtroom battles that shaped these landmark cases. Tune in for an insider’s look at the evolution of white collar criminal prosecution in Orange County—and the stories behind some of the cases that made headlines far beyond the OC.

Enjoy an inspiring conversation with Judge Karen L. Robinson, highlighting her life experiences in Kentucky, schooling, and distinguished legal career.  Judge Robinson reflects on her service as the first African American city council member and mayor of Costa Mesa and her path to becoming a Superior Court Judge.  She also discusses her biggest influences, her relationship with the OCBA and its legacy, and provides thoughtful advice for the next generation of attorneys and law students.  Tune in for an engaging conversation with a trailblazer.

In this episode, we dive into the bold origins of the University of California, Irvine School of Law, the first new public law school in California in over 40 years. Past OCBA President Christina Zabat-Fran and OCBA Board Member Sean Thomas Lobb interview founding Dean Erwin Chemerinsky and Judge Andrew Guilford (Ret.) as they share the inside story of how a “dream team” of faculty and community leaders reimagined legal education from the ground up. 

From navigating political hurdles to prioritizing public service, our guests reveal the grit and vision required to build a national model for innovation and impact. Tune in to discover how this transformative institution grew from a daring idea into a powerhouse that continues to redefine the legal profession.

California State Senator Tom Umberg shares some of the history of Orange County’s impact on the Legislature, as well as his personal journey, challenges, and triumphs including three tours in the military, being one of the first federal prosecutors in Orange County, and his long tenure in the California State Legislature.  Tune in for an enlightening exploration of Orange County’s impact and role in shaping important legislation and reform throughout the state.

A captivating conversation with United States Congressman Lou Correa. From his roots growing up in Orange County, to his long tenure in the California State Legislature and the United States Congress, Congressman Correa shares some of the history of Orange County’s impact on Congress, as well as his journey, challenges, and triumphs. Tune in for a candid exploration of Orange County’s impact and role in shaping important legislation and reform. 

Enjoy an engaging conversation with Trudy Levindofske, the 17-year Executive Director of the Orange County Bar Association who retired on July 5, 2024. From her roots in the suburbs of Minneapolis to her 35-year career with OCBA, Trudy shares her early days at OCBA and how she moved up the ranks to Executive Director. Hear from special guests in the legal community as they share their memories about Trudy, and discover how all her hard work paid off, shaping the organization into what it has become today. Tune in to Raising the OC Bar for a candid exploration of a remarkable career and Trudy’s advice to others who will lead the organization.

In this episode, Judge Stock shares her incredible journey through the legal profession, from her early days in the late 1970s to her 24 years on the superior court bench. Judge Stock reflects on the challenges and shifting perceptions of women in law. She also discusses her work as a private neutral at JAMS and offers valuable insights on the progress women have made in the legal profession and the road ahead.  Stay tuned to the end to hear about her work on the OJ Simpson Trial.

An engaging conversation with Justice Kathleen E. O'Leary as she reflects on her remarkable legal career. From her early days practicing law in the late 70s to her significant roles on the municipal, superior, and appellate courts, Justice O'Leary shares her experiences and insights. Enjoy a candid exploration of her legal journey and her thoughts on the future of women in the legal profession. 

Enjoy an engaging conversation with Justice Sheila Sonenshine, retired Associate Justice of the Fourth District Court of Appeal and current mediator at JAMS. From her roots in Montana and Las Vegas, to her pioneering career in law, Justice Sonenshine shares her journey, challenges, and triumphs. Discover her insights on overcoming gender bias, balancing career and parenthood, and her influential roles in the Orange County legal community. Tune in for a candid exploration of her remarkable career and thoughts on the evolving legal landscape.

This episode features the history of the Orange County Asian American Bar Association, going back to 1993. Mei Tsang interviews esteemed guests: Retired Judge Kirk Nakamura, Charles Wu, and Jessica Cha. The panelists highlight exciting stories from their past, including Judge Ito from the O.J. Simpson Trial, the formation and growth of OCAABA, and much more. Tune in to learn how far this great organization has come, and where it is headed.