The Advocate Next Door®

Aaron Krigelski, a pioneer in Enhanced Electronic Filing (EEF) (aka "eBrief") technology for legal documents shares his unconventional journey—from studying electrical engineering and screenwriting at the University of Miami to co-owning Strut Legal, a company specializing in eBrief training and services. With over 20 years of experience and thousands of interactive filings prepared for courts and tribunals worldwide, Aaron has played a pivotal role in transforming how legal professionals manage and present complex information.

He discusses the evolution of electronic filing, the efficiencies gained through automation and high-speed internet, and the challenges of launching a business while balancing family life. The conversation also dives into the broader applications of hyperlinking in legal documents, the often-overlooked importance of proper file naming conventions, and his passion for teaching through his platform, ProfessorPDF.com.

STORY:

00:00 Introduction

00:45 Aaron’s Career Journey

02:26 The Evolution of Legal Technology

04:20 Aaron's Educational Background

07:02 Starting Strut Legal

13:20 Client Acquisition and Business Expansion

17:14 Balancing Work and Personal Life

17:46 Streamlining The Workflow

18:12 Challenges and Issues

19:22 Balancing Work and Life

20:41 Optimizing Document Management

25:14 Special Difficulties

30:13 Teaching and Sharing Knowledge

32:02 Conclusion

BIOGRAPHY:

Aaron Krigelski is a leading expert in eBrief creation, with over two decades of experience preparing thousands of interactive filings across nearly all U.S. federal jurisdictions, state courts, and arbitration panels. His expertise extends to specialized venues such as the International Trade Commission (ITC), the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), and the International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID).

For 11 years, Aaron served as the lead eBrief designer at TrialGraphix, one of the largest litigation consulting firms in the country. Today, as the co-owner of Strut Legal, Inc., he continues to advance the legal industry through eBrief training, education, and high-quality eBrief production. Dedicated to streamlining legal filings and enhancing advocacy through technology, Aaron remains at the forefront of innovation in legal presentation and document accessibility.

LINKS:

Website: StrutLegal.com and ProfessorPDF.com

Email: [email protected]

Strut Legal: [email protected]

Phone: 1-888-503-0339

We interview Kevin Brzozowski, the first non-lawyer guest on the show, who works in legal tech. Kevin shares insights into his career journey from litigation paralegal to legal tech professional, emphasizing the importance of networking and continuous learning in the field. He elaborates on his experience in the discovery space and the value of making legal services more human-centric. Kevin also discusses the challenges and benefits of eDiscovery, the role of AI and cloud technology in legal work, and practical tips for effective networking. The episode provides a comprehensive look into how legal tech can optimize legal processes and improve efficiency.

STORY:

0:00 Introduction Struggles

1:27 Non-Lawyer Advocate

2:47 Career Journey and Experience

4:06 Understanding Antitrust and Competition Law

4:48 Life as a Washingtonian and Overseas Experience

7:01 Networking and Professional Development

14:46 Balancing Work and Personal Life

20:20 Path to Legal Tech and eDiscovery

24:44 Early Collaboration and Seeking Advice

25:52 The Importance of Relationships in Sales

27:04 Admitting Mistakes and Learning from Them

28:55 Navigating Legal Tech and eDiscovery

33:44 Challenges and Opportunities in Legal Tech

40:17 The Role of AI and Cloud in Legal Tech

46:05 Networking Tips and Personal Journeys

48:13 Final Thoughts

BIOGRAPHY:

Director of Business Development at Level Legal (at the time of this recording), Kevin is currently Regional Director (US) at Legatics

LINKS:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-brzozowski-54094875/

Ben Leff, a Tax Professor at American University Washington College of Law, who has made it his mission to make tax law accessible, engaging, and even fun. Ben shares his unique journey—from studying religious studies to practicing in big law and eventually finding his calling in academia. He discusses the challenges and rewards of teaching tax law, the role of nonprofits, and how technology and AI might reshape tax preparation. Plus, we dive into his podcast, “Tax Class”, where he breaks down tax concepts without overwhelming listeners with numbers and CPA jargon.

Beyond tax law, Ben opens up about his personal experiences, including career shifts, sabbaticals, and his love for singing and hiking. His passion for education and making complex topics approachable shines through in this insightful and engaging conversation.

STORY:

00:00 Introduction

01:50 Background and Career Journey

03:17 Transition to Law and Teaching

04:49 Interest in Tax Law and Nonprofit Work

15:02 Understanding Income Tax

17:37 Technology and Tax Preparation

24:14 Tax Law in Practice

31:51 Advice for Aspiring Tax Lawyers

36:24 Ben's Hobbies and Closing Remarks

BIOGRAPHY:

Ben Leff teaches courses on U.S. federal tax law and the law of charitable and non-profit organizations. His scholarship focuses on the regulation of nonprofits. Prior to joining the faculty, Professor Leff was a visiting assistant professor at Harvard Law School, practiced tax law in Austin Texas, and clerked in Federal District Court. He is a graduate of Yale Law School, holds an M.A. in religious studies from the University of Chicago and a B.A. from Oberlin College.

LINKS:

Tax Class (Spotify): https://open.spotify.com/show/0xvV8nihogJp1RK8LP88W1?si=9889d77de6bc4ad9

Tax Class (Apple): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tax-class/id1764093187

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjamin-m-leff-b331657/

Victoria Hamscho, is an associate at K&L Gates and an advocate for the voiceless in the healthcare sector. Victoria shares her journey from growing up in Mexico to working in Washington, D.C. as a healthcare lobbyist. She describes her early interest in healthcare reform, her educational path through Columbia University, and her career in healthcare policy. Victoria discusses the importance of advocacy, the role of lobbying, and the complexities of the U.S. healthcare system. She emphasizes the value of asking questions, seeking mentorship, and helping others within the Hispanic community.

STORY:

00:00 Introduction

01:18 Background and Career Beginnings

02:42 Journey from Mexico to the U.S.

05:05 Healthcare Reform and Advocacy

12:35 The Role and Impact of Lobbying

23:11 Mentorship and Community Involvement

33:02 Final Thoughts

BIOGRAPHY:

Victoria Hamscho is an associate of the Public Policy and Law practice at K&L Gates. Victoria focuses her practice on legislative and regulatory matters impacting large employers and stakeholders in the healthcare, higher education, and technology sectors. Victoria works on legislative matters before the House Ways and Means Committee, House Energy and Commerce Committee, Senate Finance Committee, and Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee, as well as regulatory matters before the US Department of Health and Human Services and US Department of Education. Victoria works closely with the Congressional Hispanic Caucus and serves on the Advisory Council of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute. Victoria is President-elect of the Hispanic Bar Association of the District of Columbia and is an active member of the Hispanic National Bar Association. Prior to joining the firm, Victoria was a legal extern at the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. Victoria received her J.D. from New York University School of Law, where she was co-president of the NYU Latinx Law Students Association. She has an M.P.H. in Health Policy and Management from Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health.

LINKS:

Firm Bio: https://www.klgates.com/victoria-k-hamscho

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/victoria-hamscho-b0ab1312/

Gessie Belizaire is an author, teacher, life coach, and speaker. Gessie shares her journey from studying African American and African Studies, influenced by her cultural heritage and experiences as an immigrant from Haiti, to becoming an advocate for people finding their life's purpose.

She discusses the importance of understanding one's history and self-identity, the challenges of modern dating and societal expectations, and how she helps people through life coaching and writing. Jesse emphasizes the value of personal growth, self-love, and spending quiet time with oneself.

She also talks about her books, one focused on the impacts of French colonization in Haiti and Guinea Conakry, and a children's book inspired by her daughter, both of which explore themes of growth and potential.

STORY:

00:00 Introduction

00:47 Advocate and Author

01:33 Educational Journey and Career Path

02:48 The Importance of African American Studies

08:25 Writing as a Form of Therapy

09:28 Life Coaching and Helping Others

16:48 Challenges in Modern Dating

24:33 Recharging and Finding Joy

26:49 Final Advice and Conclusion

BIOGRAPHY:

From the corporate world to the social stratosphere, Gessie has for the past six years been expanding her professional experience to also include entrepreneurial endeavors in the ever changing creative space to her near 2 decade experience working on Black and Brown issues in the Non-for-Profit work space. She is presently adding value to the entrepreneurial market as a certified life coach, 2-time author, Host and Founder of GB Consulting Group, LLC, a highly regarded consulting firm, established in 2019, based in Washington, DC, known for their exceptional event planning and consulting services.

LINKS:

Website: https://www.thislifeiliveintruth.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gessie-belizaire-2189381a/

Instagram: @Thislifeiliveintruth

Amy Tanzillo, shares her journey from working in the trial support industry to founding Thrive Breastfeeding, a service dedicated to supporting breastfeeding mothers. She discusses various challenges new mothers face, including milk supply issues, latching problems, and societal stigmas around breastfeeding. She emphasizes the importance of pre-birth planning and continuous postpartum support to prevent complications. The conversation also covers improvements in parental leave, the impact of corporate policies on breastfeeding, and the role of paternal and community support in successful breastfeeding. Additionally, Amy offers insights into the mindset needed for successful breastfeeding and the logistics of weaning.

STORY:

00:00 Introduction

01:03 From Legal Trial Graphics to Lactation Consultant

01:55 The Journey to Thrive Breastfeeding

02:10 Challenges and Realities of Breastfeeding

05:45 The Evolution of Parental Leave and Support

06:59 Legal and Social Changes in Breastfeeding

11:18 Services and Client Experiences

14:00 Breastfeeding Education and Support

18:42 Insurance and Equipment for Breastfeeding

20:03 Insurance Policies and Breast Pumps

21:54 Challenges and Support in Breastfeeding

22:57 Breastfeeding Duration and Weaning

24:00 Diet and Breastfeeding

25:04 Stress and Breastfeeding

29:42 Educational Resources and Business Coaching

34:14 Personal Coping Mechanisms and Conclusion

BIOGRAPHY:

Amy was born and raised in New Jersey. She is currently a lactation consultant in Northern Virginia & the wider DC area helping families through their breastfeeding journeys. She’s gained her experience as a mom (3 babies in 39 months!) and from high-quality education in the industry. She is board certified from the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners (IBLCE). She travels regularly to homes to advocate for babies, helping mothers gain knowledge and comfort in the most natural process.

LINKS:

Website: https://thrivebreastfeeding.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thrivebreastfeeding/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thrivebreastfeeding

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amytanzillo/

N. Jeremi Duru, a renowned sports law expert and professor at American University’s Washington College of Law shares his journey from studying at Brown and Harvard to a career that transitioned from civil rights litigation to shaping the landscape of sports law. We delve into his pivotal work addressing racial inequality in the NFL, his expertise across contracts, trademarks, and employment discrimination, and his insights on emerging issues. Offering guidance to aspiring sports lawyers, he unpacks the challenges and rewards of this multifaceted field, weaving in personal stories and reflections on balancing a demanding career with his love for sports.

STORY:

0:00 Early Career Path and Law School

3:09 Clerkship and Early Legal Experience

5:01 Transition into Sports Law

7:48 What is Sports Law?

8:26 Changes in Sports Law and New Opportunities

17:44 Race and Gender Equality in Sports

24:05 Work-Life Balance and Career Satisfaction

26:20 Advice for Aspiring Sports Lawyers

27:18 World Cup Discussion

BIOGRAPHY:

N. Jeremi Duru is a Professor of Law at American University’s Washington College of Law and a leading expert in sports law. He has authored influential works in the field, including Sports Law and Regulation, The Business of Sports Agents, and Advancing the Ball, which explores diversity and equity in NFL coaching and leadership. A frequent media commentator, Professor Duru also advises sports professionals and organizations, such as the Fritz Pollard Alliance, advocating for minority representation in the NFL.

LINKS:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/n-jeremi-duru/

Washington College of Law (American University): https://www.american.edu/wcl/faculty/jduru.cfm

CV: https://www.american.edu/uploads/docs/wcl_cv_duru.pdf

The Honorable Judge Carlos Acosta shares his career journey from working at the State's Attorney's Office, joining the Department of Justice (DOJ), becoming a trial attorney, and his roles in the Prince George's County (Maryland) Police Department and Montgomery County (Maryland)'s judicial system. Judge Acosta reflects on his legal education, the importance of mastering language for law, his Hispanic heritage, and the value of education.

He also shares career advice for aspiring lawyers and judges, his views on the U.S. judicial system, particularly differences between district and circuit courts, and his experiences with jury management. He also emphasizes the importance of mentorship, government service for skill-building, and finding career fulfillment. The conversation also touches on his personal life, the work-life balance challenges, and his passions.

STORY:

00:00 Introduction

01:00 Early Career

02:47 Insights on Being a Great Lawyer

05:15 Educational Background and Importance of English

07:01 Hispanic Heritage and Family Influence

08:58 Journey to Becoming a Lawyer

12:39 Career Transitions and Mentorship

16:37 Advice for Law Students and Internships

20:56 Experience with the DOJ and Special Assignments

25:03 The Mérida Initiative and Historical Context

26:14 The Evolution of Civil Code in Latin America

27:43 Mexico's Struggle for a Modern Justice System

28:34 The Role of the U.S. in Mexican Judicial Reform

29:47 Challenges and Improvements in Conviction Rates

32:18 Transitioning from Prosecutor to Judge

34:58 The Responsibilities and Qualities of a Judge

36:15 Differences Between District and Circuit Courts

39:16 The Jury System Explained

43:14 Balancing Work and Personal Life

51:19 The Importance of Mentorship and Integrity

53:16 Concluding Thoughts

BIOGRAPHY:

The Honorable Carlos F. Acosta is a Maryland Circuit Court Judge with a distinguished career in law and justice reform. Prior to his judicial roles, he served as Inspector General for the Prince George’s County Police Department and held key prosecutorial positions at the U.S. Department of Justice and State’s Attorney’s Offices in Maryland. A dedicated educator, Judge Acosta has trained legal professionals worldwide, lecturing on topics ranging from prosecutorial ethics to combating corruption and money laundering.

LINKS:

MD Circuit Court Bio: https://msa.maryland.gov/msa/mdmanual/31cc/html/msa17597.html

American University Washington College of Law Faculty Bio: https://www.american.edu/wcl/faculty/cacosta.cfm

UMD Alumni: https://alumni.umd.edu/news/meet-board-governors-honorable-carlos-f-acosta-85-ma-91

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carlos-f-acosta-31470a15/

Maritza Perez Medina, Director of Federal Affairs at the Drug Policy Alliance. Maritza shares her journey from growing up in rural Nevada to attending Berkeley School of Law, and her long-standing desire to advocate for marginalized and vulnerable communities. She discusses her focus on public interest law, specifically criminal justice reform and drug policy, informed by her experiences with immigration advocacy and personal encounters with systemic racism. The conversation explores complex issues such as drug scheduling, the opioid crisis, harm reduction strategies, and the role of policy in addressing public health concerns. Maritza emphasizes the importance of cultural change, community support, and de-stigmatization of drug users, advocating for more informed and compassionate drug policies.

STORY:

00:00 Welcome and Introductions

00:57 Navigating Cultural Identity

01:42 Maritza's Career Journey

02:40 Early Advocacy and Inspiration

04:19 Pursuing Public Interest Law

08:13 Challenges and Family Support

09:42 Drug Policy and Criminal Justice

13:18 Understanding Drug Scheduling

20:00 The Reality of Drug Use and Safety

21:50 The War on Drugs: A Modern Perspective

23:08 Challenges in Drug Policy and Public Perception

27:42 Historical Context of Drug Legislation

34:57 The Role of Pharmaceuticals and Public Health

37:17 Advocacy and Public Involvement

BIOGRAPHY:

Maritza Perez Medina is the Director of the Office of National Affairs at the Drug Policy Alliance in Washington, DC where she leads the organization’s federal legislative agenda and strategy to end the drug war. Previously, Maritza was a Senior Policy Analyst for Criminal Justice Reform at the Center for American Progress (CAP) where her portfolio included marijuana policy, policing, and prison and sentencing reform. Prior to joining CAP, Maritza was a Legislative Staff Attorney at the Mexican American Legal Defense and Educational Fund (MALDEF). She began her legal career at MALDEF as a Soros Justice Fellow, advocating for policies to end mass incarceration. Her portfolio at MALDEF expanded to include immigration policy, employment rights, education access, and judicial nominations.

Maritza is passionate about public service and giving back to her community. She currently serves on the Board of Directors of the Hispanic Bar Association of the District of Columbia (HBA-DC) and the National Immigrant Women’s Advocacy Project (NIWAP) at American University Washington College of Law. In 2019, Maritza was named one of the Hispanic National Bar Association's Top Lawyers Under 40 in recognition of her outstanding record of public service and professional excellence.

LINKS:

Bio: https://www.hbadc.org/page/BoardBiosMaritzaP

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maritza-perez-medina-esq-364b4869/

Drug Alliance: https://drugpolicy.org

Related interview: https://www.mycannabis.com/maritza-perez-medina-director-of-federal-affairs-for-the-drug-policy-alliance-interview-series/

Craig Leen, Labor Law attorney, joins the podcast to discuss why Accessibility should be a core part of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) efforts. Craig shares his inspiring journey through private practice and impactful roles in government, including his tenure as Director of the OFCCP at the U.S. Department of Labor.

Drawing from his personal and professional journey, Craig shares powerful stories about disability advocacy and the impact of inclusive policies. He emphasizes the need for empathy, legal protections, and proactive change.

STORY:

00:00 Introduction

01:51 Career Journey

03:43 Early Aspirations and Influences

05:35 Political Experiences and Reflections

13:11 Advocacy for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

18:34 Personal Connection with Disability Advocacy

28:00 The Cost of Accessibility

28:12 Legal Rights and the ADA

29:40 Global Perspectives on Disability Rights

31:16 Personal Advocacy and Challenges

34:16 Navigating Public Spaces with Disabilities

39:19 Neurodiversity and Workplace Inclusion

44:07 The Importance of Empathy

49:28 Concluding Thoughts on Inclusion

BIOGRAPHY:

Craig Leen is a partner in the firm's Labor, Employment, and Workplace Safety practice, where he co-leads the firm’s OFCCP and Affirmative Action Compliance area of focus. His depth of experience spans across federal, state, and local government, as well as the private sector. He is also President-Elect of the Bar Association of the District of Columbia and will serve as the 139th President of the BADC next year.

Prior to joining the firm, Craig served as the Director of the Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP), a federal civil rights enforcement agency at the US Department of Labor that regulates federal contractors. In this role, Craig reported directly to the Secretary and Deputy Secretary of Labor in the first Trump Administration, with OFCCP experiencing record years in both enforcement recoveries and compliance assistance. Craig oversaw three rulemakings and issuance of several technical assistance guides to help employers comply with the law, ultimately receiving the Secretary’s Exceptional Achievement Award – Professional for his work helping transform OFCCP.

Likewise, Craig provides frequent advice to clients on developing EEO, public accommodation, and inclusion programs that are compliant with federal anti-discrimination law, such as Title VI, Title VII, Title IX, the Fair Housing Act, and the Americans with Disabilities Act along with other laws, including conducting comprehensive pay equity and promotions self-audits. Many of Craig’s clients are government contractors and fund recipients who must comply with additional obligations based on their receipt of federal or state funds and contracts. Craig advises these clients and represents them before government agencies.

Further, Craig has extensive experience overseeing internal investigations and employment audits that can help companies in ensuring compliance with applicable civil rights and employment laws, including in the use of artificial intelligence, which is an increasing focus of federal and state regulators.

LINKS:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craig-leen-1a47155b/

K&L Gates Lawyer Profile: https://www.klgates.com/Craig-E-Leen