When cities lets homeless camps spiral out of control...who are they serving? A constitutional scholar and law professor is suing big cities on the premise of nuisance laws...and he is winning. In one instance, his action cleared a massive homeless encampment in Phoenix, known as "the zone." Listen in as Bob spars with our special guest, constitutional expert and author, Ilan Wurman. We delve headfirst into the legal complexities and human disaster is homelessness and inadvertent implications of old court decisions.Listen as we expose what the court found was a city's negligence in enforcing laws against public camping and sleeping, leading to the unfortunate living conditions of up to a thousand individuals, struggling with issues ranging from drugs and violence to human waste. Discover how public nuisance lawsuits are being used to address the crisis without adding to the criminalization of homelessness.  We are reminded the pervasive role of addiction and mental illness in the homeless scenario.Will we see nuisance lawsuits nationwide?  Gain insights into this ripple effect and the fierce stance of organizations like the ACLU against the removal of homeless camps. We discuss if it's high time for cities to prioritize the well-being of their residents over lawsuit fears. Spoiler alert, it is.This is a cutting edge episode you don't want to miss.

It does not matter what your political position may be or how you vote. No matter your views, you probably feel that there is WAY TOO MUCH CORRUPTION  - those who use taxpayer dollars to enrich themselves.Is That EVEN LEGAL?  Of course not.  The question is, what can be done about it. Can the law curtail corruption?In this episode, join Bob as we reach into the Mississippi Attorney General's race, where one candidate has made fighting public corruption a hallmark of her campaign. We don't endorse candidates, and we certainly offer equal time to Greta Martin's opponent, but Mississippi's high profile case involving the use (or misuse) of $90 million earmarked for needy families - YOUR TAX DOLLARS, was a good exhibit A of what corruption looks like. Brace yourselves as we delve into a shocking tale of corruption that has rocked the state of Mississippi! It's a microcosm of corruption country-wide. Imagine a system where the rule of law is upheld and those in power are held accountable? Is it a fantasy...or can Attorney Generals actually make it happen?Give a listen as we venture into the thorny terrain of prosecution and jurisdiction in Mississippi, probing how concurrent jurisdiction could be employed to prosecute those implicated in this sordid saga. We ponder the potential of unearthing more crimes beyond the $77 million fraud and question why the state's political system has been allowed to operate  seemingly unchecked for so long. Related reading: https://apnews.com/article/mississippi-welfare-scandal-brett-favre-dd447fa50d4e67b963f59de42fe5dc3fhttps://apnews.com/article/sports-legal-proceedings-scandals-brett-favre-mississippi-d0ae88cc6727fd74b4686fb09d9e7dcc

Join us in a deeper exploration as amazing New Mexico Estate Planning lawyer Stephanie Woods and I delve into the convoluted legalities surrounding the true story of Michael Oher, whose life journey inspired the Hollywood blockbuster, 'The Blind Side.' In this episode, we critically examine the peculiar conservatorship held by the Tuohys - his guardians, and the baffling circumstances surrounding his supposed "adoption." Recent developments have emerged post our recording, shedding more light on this complex tale.The narrative takes a new turn as a Tennessee judge recently announced the termination of the conservatorship agreement between Michael Oher and the Memphis couple who had taken him in during his high school years. While this decision marks the end of the conservatorship established in 2004, it opens a Pandora's box of financial disputes which continue to linger. The heart of the matter lies in Oher's claims that the Tuohys had misrepresented the conservatorship as an adoption, leading him to believe in a familial bond that legally, never existed. Further, he alleges that this misrepresentation allowed the Tuohys to control his finances, using his name, image, and likeness for their enrichment.Listen in as we navigate through the legal intricacies of conservatorships, adult adoptions, and the significant implications surrounding solid estate planning. Michael's case underscores the potential financial repercussions when such legal arrangements are not adequately addressed or understood. Despite the termination of the conservatorship, Michael's fight for a thorough accounting and rightful compensation of the finances earned off his name and story forges on, unraveling more questions on the ethical and legal aspects of conservatorships and adult adoptions.

Ever wondered what happens when a loved one passes away without a will and the repercussions it can have on a family? Join us as we shed light on the little-known term 'intestacy' and unravel the bitter dispute between the sons of music legend Aretha Franklin over her multi-million-dollar estate. Our esteemed host Bob Sewell, plays guest this time and the amazing David Williams is our host. Both are partners in the law firm of Davis Miles. Bob offers his legal expertise on the topic, giving us a firsthand account of how intestacy laws work and the role of the state government in such matters. In the second part of our conversation, we explore the often-underestimated power of mediation in resolving family disputes. Bob shares his rich experiences as a mediator, enlightening us on how this often overlooked tool can be used to not only resolve disputes but also preserve treasured family relationships. We delve into the role of the mediator and why it's better to settle disputes rather than leaving the decision to a judge. Bob's gives a unique perspective on family disputes and how they can be managed while minimizing the emotional trauma they often inflict on relationships. Tune in, as we navigate the intertwining worlds of family, law, and money.

From the Society of Human Resource Management (SHRM):"Gerald Groff, a former postal worker, sued the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) for failing to accommodate his religious practice. Groff is an evangelical Christian who observes a Sunday Sabbath, meaning he doesn't work on that day. Although the USPS does not deliver mail on Sundays, it does have a contract to deliver packages for Amazon, which includes Sunday deliveries. The USPS sought co-workers to voluntarily cover Groff's Sunday shifts and imposed progressive discipline for his absences. Eventually, Groff resigned."He lost his lawsuit twice, with lower courts ruling that the Postal Service accommodating his Sunday off would cause undue hardship for his employer and co-workers. However, the Supreme Court had a different perspective.Justice Alito wrote: "A hardship that is attributable to employee animosity towards a particular religion, to religion in general, or to the very notion of accommodating religious practice, cannot be considered undue. Bias or hostility towards a religious practice or accommodation cannot supply a defense."Employers, take note: Your bar for religious accommodation may have just been raised significantly.Delve into the intricate world of employment law with our guest, Jennifer Wasserman, an authority in the field, as we dissect landmark decisions and their profound implications for religious accommodation in the workplace. Ever wondered how the 1964 Civil Rights Act is interpreted in the context of religious accommodation? You're about to get the details.In this insightful discussion, Jennifer and your affable, unique host Bob Sewell analyze the Supreme Court case of Groff v. United States Postal Service, revealing the layers of legal expectations for employers. We also highlight the role of seniority systems in shift changes and the concept of 'reasonable accommodation.'

Is there a mental health crisis drowning the legal profession? Is there a higher level of depression, anxiety and alcoholism among those licensed to defend our laws and freedom than other areas of the population? If so, does it impact society as a whole?And...what can be done?Our guest, Claire Parsons, an employment attorney and mental health expert. Claire weighs in on the intricate ways attorneys grapple with mental health issues, and the crucial role of self-care. With Claire's expertise, we navigate the powerful tools of mindfulness and compassion, revealing how they can bolster lawyers' capabilities and manage stress whilst dealing with challenging individuals. The conversation takes an even more critical turn as we uncover the silent enemy of isolation and substance abuse that lurks behind many legal professionals' facades. The magnitude of these issues on an individual's mental health is substantial, emphasizing the pressing need for open conversations and support within the legal community and beyond. Because, as our listeners know...the law impacts everyone. As advocates for mental wellness, we bring to you the Surgeon General's guidelines for workplace mental health, underlining the importance of a supportive work environment where employees feel safe to seek help. The power of social support in handling stress is undeniable, so listen and get involved in easing this challenge.

What if our daily interactions with AI could expose our deepest secrets? Imagine having a conversation with an artificial intelligence system that feels like you're talking to a real person. Join us, Bob Sewell and Mike Carey, as we explore the fascinating and sometimes frightening realm of AI and its potential effects on our privacy and security.We'll also discuss the future of antitrust laws, monopolies, and maintaining fair competition in the marketplace. Plus, we'll touch on the mental health crisis in the legal profession and the urgent need for change. And don't miss our quest to find the surf law expert who can help us navigate the intriguing world of surf law in beach towns across the globe. Remember, we're not offering legal advice, but we're here to help you make sense of this complex world.

Ready to dive deep into the nitty-gritty, the good, the bad, and the downright stinky? Join your favorite host Bob Sewell and civil litigation maestro, Marshall Hunt, as we take you on a wild journey through the unexpected and surprisingly compelling world of...you guessed it...dog poop! In this episode, we're not just talking sh*t, we're discussing the real legal ramifications tied to those little brown 'presents' left behind by your favorite furry friends.Can you sue your neighbor when his pet soils your lawn repeatedly? Can you be arrested for your pet's waste?Together, we'll scoop up the facts about how Arizona is taking a firm stance against poo-littering pet parents. Don't know your obligations when your pooch poops? We've got you covered, as we 'doggie bag' all the need-to-know details, including the hefty fines that might be hiding in those not-so-secret deposits.But it's not all bad news and 'dirty' talk; we're also digging into the exemptions for those with disabilities. We'll explore the responsibilities and rights of service animal owners in our canine-caring community.Don't let the subject matter fool you - this isn't just a stinky situation, it's a fascinating exploration into the intersection of pets, law, and civic duties. So, leash up your curiosity, fetch your headphones, and let's get ready to roll in some seriously intriguing insights!Grab your poop bags, folks! It's time to take a walk on the wild (and wonderfully woofy) side of pet law in Arizona. Hold your noses - it's going to be an informative, engaging, and surprisingly fun ride! So, sit back, relax, and get ready to get the 'scoop' on the legalities of dog poop. Trust us, this is one conversation you won't want to 'leave behind'!This idea was provided by a subscriber!  Thank you, N.J.!*** Listeners please note…the show makes reference to a Supreme Court case involving a dog toy…that is labeled as dog poo…which prompted a trademark infringement lawsuit from Jack Daniel’s. (Give this show a listen…you’ll understand!!!) Our point was that this subject can get so weighty the nations highest court is not above dealing with it. We didn’t tackle the trademark law nuance, but if you’re interested…our friends at the Wilson Sonsini law firm have the goods here. The case was decided a couple of days after our recording. A bad verdict for the doo doo folks: https://info.wsgr.com/index.php/email/emailWebview?md_id=15013

Hey hey, AI...is this where privacy comes to die? There is more to these pixels...than meets the eye! Artificial intelligence maybe taking your privacy!Last time Bob had Mike Carey on the show, he assured us that robots would not take over the law for at least five years. Now, chatGPT has taken the world by storm and virtually everyone has head of it...if not already used it. But when you ask it a question you may be exposing private data about yourself. And, AI likely already knows all about you anyway. Is That Even Legal?  Lawmakers, scientists, and many others are very concerned about AI...but everyone also loves it!  What's next?Listen in as Bob and AI guru Mike talk about the present and possible future dangers of AI to your privacy.  But first....here's a description of the show as written by a robot (in less than a minute --- the show 43 minutes long!):In this podcast, the speakers discuss the issues related to AI privacy. They talk about how AI is being used in various industries to improve efficiency and productivity but also raise concerns about the privacy of data. They explain how AI algorithms work by analyzing large amounts of data, and if this data is not protected, it can be misused by cybercriminals. The speakers also discuss the importance of AI privacy regulations and how governments are working to implement them. They talk about the European Union's General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and how it has set a standard for data privacy regulations worldwide. They also discuss the challenges of implementing such regulations and the need for collaboration between governments, businesses, and individuals to protect personal data. Overall, the podcast emphasizes the importance of AI privacy and the need for individuals to be aware of their rights to privacy and take steps to protect their personal information.

From Politico: There have been 27 different bills proposed across 16 states pushing for kids’ privacy and safety regulations by February of this year, according to analysis from the Future of Privacy Forum. Many of these bills share similarities, like banning targeted advertising to children, or banning addictive designs from social networks. Numerous states are taking up kids’ online safety bills this year, a handful are including parental oversight requirements as part of their strategy. Lawmakers in Maryland and California have proposed such regulation. Utah last month wrote it into law.But, in trying to protect children by requiring  that their parents oversee their social media use...and requiring that socials ASK children to prove they are children...thereby divulging private information...are the laws designed to protect minors actually going to infringe on the privacy of those minors?Bob wanted to know!   He invited Romaine Marshall, one of the country's top cybersecurity and privacy lawyers to join the show...Romaine happens to be HQ'd in Utah...and has been a dad to a teenager...who best to ask about these types of laws...and what they mean for privacy going forward.BUT WE COULDN'T STOP THERE...Because computers control everything in our society...from power grids to watersheds to traffic systems...cybersecurity is critical to our country's safety...and Romaine has been busy protecting  the world from bad hackters...listen in.

When "Swifties went through the wringer to get tickets to Taylor Swift's  "The Eras Tour," one among them was not about to "Shake it Off," when she saw what she thought was a potential pattern of fraudulent behavior and antitrust violations by Ticketmaster. That fan was attorney Jennifer Anne Kinder. Kinder is one Swifty who is now saying to the ticket-selling behemoth..."Look What You Made Me Do," launching  lawsuits, websites and a social and traditional media campaign to #takedownticketmaster.  Bob, ever on the lookout for inadequate antitrust regulation or enforcement...and like all of us...LONGS for the days when concerts were affordable enough to enjoy frequently...asked Jennifer to join him to sort out the issues.  What started as a way to shut out scalpers, she says, has resulted in complete reduction in power for the average consumer in the live entertainment ecosystem.   And Kinder is not stopping with Swift fans...having also sued on behalf of fans of Beyonce. Look for more action on behalf of heavy metal, classical, EDM, & rap fans. Sounds like some real “Vigilante Sh*t!”  Listen In!More articles:Sorry, There's No Such Thing as a “Fair" Ticket Price in an Age of Income Inequality, Consequence of Sound, March 27, 2023.Senate Judiciary Committee sends warning to Ticketmaster over Beyoncé tour tickets, The Hill, February 2, 2023.Justice Dept. Is Said to Investigate Ticketmaster’s Parent Company, New York Times, January 24, 2023.Live Nation subsidiaries got millions in aid meant for independent venues, Washington Post, May 22, 2022.Live Nation, a company behind Astroworld, has a long history of safety violations, NPR, November 8, 2021.U.S. and Plaintiff States V. Ticketmaster Entertainment Inc. and Live Nation, Inc., The United States Department of Justice, January 28, 2020.Ticketmaster / Live Nation merger: Azoff and Rapino talk paperless ticketing, dynamic pricing, Ticket News, September 10, 2009. (Note: dynamic pricing was always the goal!)Big Music vs. Fans and Artists, New York Times, February, 8, 2009.

According to Investopedia...which ranks and reviews a whole range of financial services and products, LegalShield was the top overall "online legal service," in the U.S. in 2022.What is an online legal service and why does that matter?  Should you use one?Recently LegalShield named a new CEO. Warren Schlichting is a veteran technology and media executive with experience at places such as Sling TV and Dish Network.Bob wanted to meet Warren, learn more about his plans for LegalShield and talk about the future of legal services...and how this company fits in.More and more, consumers and businesses are understanding that traditional legal service delivery models are not only outdated, but they don't serve a large portion of the public.  How much does LegalShield address these issues?Listen in!

There's a reason movies like Knives Out...and Glass Onion are so popular. Human nature never comes more to the surface then at the time of a death...particularly if there is an e$tate involved!How realistic are those movies? Is there really a will reading? Can there really be a dramatic change of plans at the last minute?Come learn about the probate process as Estate Planning lawyer and podcast guest host extraordinaire (yes she does have a "knife out" for Bob's job...) Sarah Clifford interviews the master himself...BOB! Taking him through the dramatic scenes and circumstances of the Knives Out movie to see what is really real and what is fiction.Bob, whose aspirations include the movie business himself...is a seasoned probate litigator who prides himself on telling his clients...and his listeners in 86 countries...exactly how it is. So come get the real script.While it is not necessarily true to the movies, Bob says probate litigation rarely lacks drama and often is full of sex, drugs, and rock and roll.Listen in!

Every day we encounter the law. Sometimes we need a lawyer. Often, accessing quality legal assistance - truly good lawyers who know what they are doing, backed by the resources of a law firm - is beyond the resources of the everyday person or podcast listener. What is there to do?Millions of Americans and Canadians have filled this gap by becoming members of LegalShield or finding other ways to access lawyers. When someone has this service...where they can call in and talk with a lawyer,  what is it like to be a lawyer handling those calls?Do those lawyers get results?  Bob talks to access to justice warrior Ingrid Carlin, who has been helping people for years, to get the real life stories of the law helping real people.Listen in!!

Ever wonder how those incredible movies get financed?  How all the deals go together?  How your favorite stars get paid?Ever wonder what happens to all those amazing endorsement deals when an entertainer goes a little cray, commits a crime, or embarrasses himself and all the brands he represents?Do the music and movie stars really put a lot of crazy things in their contracts?One of the biggest trials of 2022 was the Johnny Depp/Amber Heard trial (which spawned a movie in and of itself).  How will Depp rehabilitate his brand? Is it possible?In this episode Bob interviews the lawyer working on his latest project, Bianca Goodloe...who has more movie credits as a lawyer (think projects like Lord of the Rings Trilogy, Harry Potter) than most actors! Also joining in this blockbuster episode is attorney Caroline Mankey, another Hollywood lawyer who represents motion picture studios and production companies, major media companies, film libraries, actors, comedians, television personalities, musicians, and artists.Now the real question...Can these amazing guests get Bob in a movie?  Listen in to find out!

It's the holiday season and you're flying your "slay" down the freeway at lightening speed to deliver your gifts...but GRINCH pulls you over...and in a flash of non-holiday red and blue light, your life is no longer merry! What next?Let's listen in as Bob talks with one of the best traffic lawyers on this topic.  Welcome Julie O'Connor!Can you get a traffic ticket "fixed?"What should you do when you are pulled over?Do the police actually have quotas?

Imagine a bar fight. Imagine someone getting killed and someone getting indicted for the crime by a Grand Jury. Imagine now, that one vital piece of evidence – a clear cut self defense argument – is never presented to the Grand Jury by the prosecutor…Is That Even Legal?  A trial court said it was.  The Arizona Supreme Court said…no! Grand Juries are in the news every day. They are impaneled against politicians, business titans and others suspected of crimes.  Their job is to determine whether a crime was committed and whether the person being investigated likely committed the crime. The word indicted can end your career, your professional and even your private life. How does the Grand Jury process work? What happens when it doesn’t? The all too common saying that you can “indict a ham sandwich,” has a very distasteful meaning when you consider the impacts of being indicted. Your amazing host, Bob became very curious about this process…and particularly the story of the bar fight.  Attorney Jesse Smith, who won the appeal before the AZ Supreme Court – earning his client a new Grand Jury – is Bob’s guest.  Here is  more on the underlying case… WILLIS v. BERNINI From the AZ Supreme Court:"In  this  case,  we clarify the  due  process  rights  of  a  person  under  investigation  before  a  grand  jury,  the  duties  of  a  prosecutor  to present evidence for the grand jury’s consideration in determining whether to  issue  an  indictment,  and  the  standard  for  what  constitutes  “clearly exculpatory” evidence, especially with regard to a justification defense. ¶2We  hold  that  the  Arizona  Constitution  guarantees  a  person  under grand jury investigation a due process right to a fair and impartial presentation  of  clearly  exculpatory  evidence  and that  a  prosecutor  has  a  duty, even in the absence of a specific request, to present such evidence to a  grand  jury.    We  also  affirm that  evidence  is  clearly exculpatory if  it  would   deter   a   grand   jury   from   finding   probable   cause   to   issue   an   indictment as initially stated in State v. Superior Court(Mauro),  139 Ariz. 422, 425 (1984).    Finally,  we  hold  that  clearly  exculpatory evidence includes evidence relevant  to  a  justification  defense  that  would  deter  a  finding  of  probable cause." Read more: https://www.azcourts.gov/LinkClick.aspx?fileticket=-q-5mzI4S0k%3D&portalid=45

Maybe you have never heard of home title fraud or deed fraud?  In today's crazy real estate market, you should be aware...and be prepared.  You’ve probably heard about it through commercials in the media trying to get you to buy products to protect yourself from title fraud. Should you be scared?In this first episode of Season 3, Bob visits with real estate lawyer and title guru Jesi Wolnik to get the real facts about title fraud...something she has dealt with a lot as a lawyer.What are we talking about here? (hat tip The Better Business Bureau):Home title fraud happens when someone obtains the title to your property and changes ownership from your information to theirs.  The scary part is, you may not even realize it has happened until it’s too late.How the Scam Works:Scammers will choose a house, sometimes a second home, rental or vacant house. They then gather your personal information from the internet or elsewhere, and take over your identity to assume the role of property owner or claim to represent you.  They file the necessary paperwork to transfer ownership of your property to themselves, using forged signatures and fake identification. They then sell the home or borrow against the equity.  You might not even know this has happened until a lender starts to send letters of foreclosure on your home due to failure to make payments.

Subdivisions with no water?  Arizona groundwater being sold to benefit Saudi Arabia?Who is in charge here? We are in a water crisis in the West, but the building doesn't stop.  How does the law work?What in the law is being done about future calamity?From Arizona State University News Service: The Colorado River provides water for millions of acres of irrigation and some 40 million people in tribes and cities in Arizona, Nevada, New Mexico, Colorado, California, Wyoming, Utah and Mexico. But the literal wellspring of the Southwest region’s vitality is drying up, and fast.We’re already in the second year of allocation cuts, which directs how much states can draw from the Colorado River, and deeper cuts are on the way. A “Tier 1 shortage” has already been declared, but the feds have recently indicated that a Tier 2 shortage may be declared by the end of this year, mandating larger cuts, especially to Arizona.The Bureau of Reclamation has already asked basin states and tribes to give them suggestions for how to cut 2 million to 4 million more acre-feet of water consumption per year to keep the river’s largest storage reservoirs, Lake Mead and Lake Powell, from falling to dead pool and becoming unusable.Time to talk agua.  Bob's guest is Michele Van Quathem, a leading water lawyer.Listen in!

The nation's leading legal podcast - coming to you from Arizona - is interviewing that state's attorney general candidates. Last week it was Abe Hamadeh.In this episode it's Kris Mayes.  She promises to depoliticize the AG's office and be for all the people. Mayes brings experience as an elected member of the Arizona Corporation Commission, a lawyer and law professor. Her time at the ACC she says gave her experience in water, energy and other issues vital to the state. She also would be Arizona's first "mom," AG.  Should she be elected?  That is for you decide! Listen in!