In this episode of The Lawmas Podcast, attorneys Lauren and Lacey discuss what happens before a trial and debunk common legal misconceptions. They begin with a timely discussion about Gene Hackman's estate situation, highlighting how his will reportedly left everything to his wife without contingency clauses, creating complications when she predeceased him by several days.

Lauren and Lacey talk about common legal misconceptions, particularly focusing on Miranda rights. Lacey explains that, contrary to popular movies like Madea, police aren't legally required to read Miranda rights in most situations, and cases don't automatically get dismissed if they aren't read. Miranda rights only affect whether incriminating statements made in response to police questioning can be used as evidence.

Lauren and Lacey also compare civil and criminal legal procedures, noting significant differences in how cases are handled before trial. While civil cases often involve depositions, mandatory mediation, and comprehensive discovery, criminal cases typically have more limited discovery and no depositions. They discuss how judges in their jurisdiction handle both civil and criminal cases and speculate about potential future specialization.

Don't forget, starting next week, March 28th, is the Lawmas book club series focusing on wrongful convictions. Pick up the book "Framed" and join the discussion!

#podcast #thelawmas #lawmoms #truecrime #madea #mirandaright #framed #johngrisham #genehackman

In this episode of The Lawmas Podcast, hosts Lauren and Lacey discuss legal misconceptions portrayed in TV shows and movies. They begin with answering a legal questions about addressing the legality of bringing prescription medications across borders. Lacey explains that just because something can be purchased legally in one country (like medications in Mexico) doesn't make it legal to possess in the United States without a proper prescription. They also note that medical marijuana cards from states where it's legal are not valid in states where it remains illegal, like South Carolina.

The hosts then critique legal inaccuracies in popular media. They analyze the movie "Legally Blonde," pointing out that courtroom proceedings are rarely as dramatic as depicted, with no "smoking gun" revelations during trials due to prior discovery processes. They explain that in real criminal cases, both sides have access to evidence beforehand, preventing surprise revelations.

Lauren and Lacey also debunk the antagonistic relationship often portrayed between prosecutors and defense attorneys in shows like "Law and Order: SVU." In reality, legal professionals typically maintain cordial relationships while zealously representing their clients. They criticize how media often portrays defense attorneys negatively, when in fact all parts of the legal system serve important functions.

The podcast concludes with Lacey expressing frustration about South Carolina's grand jury system, which unlike some procedural dramas, doesn't allow defense participation.

The Lawmas Bookclub starts March28th! Grab a copy of Framed by John Grisham and join them as they discuss the book!

#thelawmaspodcast #legalpodcast #legallyblonde #lawmoms #legalmyths #lawandorderSVU

In this episode of The Lawmas Podcast, hosts Lauren and Lacey discuss the First Amendment and common misconceptions about freedom of speech. They begin by answering a question about what it takes to become a lawyer in South Carolina, explaining the education requirements, bar exam, and continuing legal education obligations.

The hosts then discuss what the First Amendment actually protects. They clarify that the First Amendment primarily prevents the government from arresting people for their speech, with some exceptions. They emphasize that freedom of speech doesn't mean freedom from consequences in private settings. Employers can still fire employees for their speech, and people can face social repercussions for what they say.

Lacey and Lauren discuss several examples, including reality TV contestants who faced employment consequences for using racial slurs, and explain that while you can't be arrested for most speech, it doesn't protect your reputation or job. They cover exceptions to protected speech, such as inciting violence, child pornography, and yelling "fire" in a crowded theater.

The hosts also share personal experiences with advocating against the use of derogatory terms, particularly the R-word, and how they address this in both professional and personal contexts. They discuss the difference between protected speech and offensive speech, and the importance of educating others about harmful language.

Announcement: Read "Framed" by John Gresham and Jim Grisham for upcoming book club episodes starting in a few weeks!

The Lawmas can be reached: [email protected]

#Thelawmaspodcast #lawpodcast #firstamendment #freespeech #lawmoms #framed #johngrisham #bookclubpodcast

In this episode of The Lawmas Podcast features Lauren and Lacey discussing two topics.

First, they address a legal question about family obligations to notify siblings about a parent's passing, explaining that while there's no legal requirement to inform relatives about an illness, probate laws require notification of all potential heirs after death.

The main topic of this episode dives into the O.J. Simpson case, focusing on how prosecutor Marcia Clark faced gender-based scrutiny during the trial. They discuss media criticism of Clark's appearance and unfair blame for trial outcomes despite her limited decision-making power. Lauren and Lacey also explore how the case transformed media coverage of trials and mention Simpson's civil case judgment and current estate disputes. They also reflecting on progress for women in male-dominated fields while acknowledging persistent challenges.

To contact The Lawmas, email [email protected]

#lawpodcast #OJSimpson #MarciaClark #lawmoms #thelawmas #genderbias #maledominatedfields #probatelaw #OJSimpsontrial

In this episode of The Lawmas Podcast, hosts Lauren and Lacey dive into the JonBenét Ramsey case, specially on the media's treatment of Patsy Ramsey. Lauren and Lacey discuss children's beauty pageants in the South versus other regions in the United States and analyze how the media unfairly sexualized JonBenét's pageant participation.

Lauren & Lacey discuss the examination of the evidence supporting the intruder theory, including:

Two notable quotes from this episode from Lacey: "If anybody looks at a child in pageantry or on the beach in a bikini and has those thoughts, they're the problem. They're the pedophile." and...

"You don't know how you're going to react. And let's hope we never do, right? Let's hope we never have to know."

The Lawmas can be reached at [email protected]

#podcast #lawmoms #laurenandlacey #jonbenétramsey #patsyramsey #thelawmas #highprofilecrime #truecrime

This episode of The Lawmas explores Michael Oher's conservatorship case and a broader discussion about protecting young athletes' finances in the NIL era.

But first: a question answered about Miranda rights and deaf individuals. Officers use written cards for DUI cases. They also discuss challenges with field sobriety tests for deaf individuals and how there are now translation apps for Spanish-speaking individuals.

With Michael Oher's conservatorship case, Lauren & Lacey explain how it extended until age 25, which is very unusual for non-disabled adults. Oher believed he was signing adoption papers. They talk about the lack of proper oversight and accounting in Tennessee and the Tuohy's handling of movie proceeds. 

Lauren & Lacey also discuss NIL Implications. There is concern about young athlets managing sudden wealth, how some athletes start college at 17-18 years old and how there is a need for financial protection and education.

Watch/listen to get recommendations from Lauren & Lacey!

Follow the podcast on YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify. Share your thoughts on NIL regulations via DM.

#podcast #NIL #michaeloher #thelawmaspodcast #lawmoms #mompreneur #conservatorships

In this episode of The Lawmas, attorneys Lacey and Lauren discuss two notable criminal cases - Gypsy Rose Blanchard and the Menendez brothers - examining the role of abuse in both cases and their dramatically different sentencing outcomes.

Key Points:

This episode starts with advice for criminal defendants' courtroom attire, emphasizing the importance of appearing relatable to juries without being overdressed or flashy.

Lauren and Lacey agree Gypsy Rose's 10-year sentence was appropriate given the extreme abuse and her accountability, while suggesting the Menendez brothers deserved lengthy but not life sentences, with potentially different terms for each brother based on their roles.

In this episode of The Lawmas, Lauren and Lacey tackle the Civil Case of Johnny Depp vs Amber Heard!

Key Topics Discussed!

Civil cases can significantly affect careers and future opportunities. This case damaged Heard's acting career, the effects can be long-lasting for reputations and employment. There are similar impacts on non-celebrities (think about evictions and medical malpractice).

Role of Social Media: The extensive coverage affected public opinion. There are the issues of potential influence on non-sequestered jury, challenges of keeping jurors unbiased in digital age and the discussion of need for courts to address social media influence.

Watch this episode on YouTube or listen on all major podcast platforms. The Lawmas are on Facebook, Instagram and X. Follow, like, subscribe, comment and share! Email The Lawmas: [email protected]

#johnnydepp #amberheard #thelawmaspodcast #podcast #mompreneurs #momlawyers

In this episode of The Lawmas Podcast, Lauren and Lacey discuss the Scott Peterson murder case. And a heads up, they have different views!

First, a legal question about could you choose the execution method for a client? Watch/listen and find out their responses!

Now onto the Scott Peterson case.

Lauren and Lacey focus on legal perspectives and recent developments of the case. Topics include:

Differing Legal Perspectives

There have been several new developments in the case:

Lastly, theu look at the legal system analysis:

"The state has not proven it beyond reasonable doubt in my eyes." - Lacey

"I think he's guilty. I have no doubts in my mind." - Lauren

Looking Ahead:

Where to Follow:

Follow "The Lawmas Podcast" on all platforms for updates and future episodes!

#podcast #mompreneurs #lawmoms #scottpetersoncase #lacipeterson #truecrime

In this episode of The Lawmas Podcast, hosts Lauren and Lacey open with a discussion of South Carolina divorce laws, covering resources through SC Legal Services and options for temporary orders and restraining orders, with information available at scbar.org.

The main segment of the podcast introduces their multi-episode series on the Menendez brothers case. Lauren and Lacey examine the two trials: the first in 1993 resulted in a hung jury with testimony about sexual abuse permitted, while the second trial excluded this testimony and ended in first-degree murder convictions with life sentences. They explore how the broader context of 1990s Los Angeles, including the Rodney King case and OJ Simpson verdict, influenced the proceedings.

Lauren and Lacey note that current prosecutors are reviewing the case for potential resentencing based on the sexual abuse allegations. Their next episode, which will compare the Menendez case to Gypsy Rose's, examining how courts handle premeditation in abuse cases.

Contact The Lawmas at [email protected]

#thelawmaspodcast #legalpodcast #lawmoms #laceyandlauren #menedezbrothers