Just Lawing Around

In this episode we are discussing the results from Jimmy’s traffic tickets.  Did we win?

We also talk about traffic court and how to deal with a traffic ticket.

Topics include: What to do if you a get a ticket, pleading not guilty, going to court, what is the burden of proof, points on your license and much more.

In this episode we are discussing Jimmy’s new traffic tickets.  He received three citations stemming from the “spotlight” on his vehicle. We talk about being pulled over by the police, recording the stop and his legal defenses.  Join us to see how we handle his situation and plan our strategy for defending the case.

In this episode we have a special guest, Magisterial District Judge, Edward Levine.  His Court is located in Lansdale, Pennsylvania.  We discuss his background, how he became a Judge, what types of cases he handles, issues in criminal cases, search warrants, landlord tenant matters, traffic tickets, and civil actions.

In this episode we have a special guest, Garry Herbert, the current Mayor of Lansdale Borough. We discuss what it is like to serve as mayor. How did he get the job? What are the issues that he handles? Working with the police and community; how to address the homeless issue; dealing with the COVID shut down; how much does the mayor get paid?

In this episode we are discussing the horrific story of a Georgia couple whose baby was decapitated when the doctor applied “excessive force to the baby’s head and neck during the delivery. The hospital then tried to cover up the details of the death. Several lawsuits have been filed by the family. 

Topics include: infliction of emotional distress, wrongful death, medical malpractice, damages, fraud, homicide vs murder and much more.

In this episode we are discussing Taylor Swift and the pornographic AI generated photographs of her that have been posted all over the internet.  Have you seen them?  We discuss the legalities of AI and how it can affect the legal system.  

Topics include: unauthorized use of images, defamation, creating false evidence, interpreting the laws, criminal and civil remedies and much more.

In this episode we are discussing a new California law that states that police officers are no longer allowed to ask a driver if they know why they were pulled over. Is this really needed? Should all states have a similar law? What should you say if you get pulled over?

Topics include: answering police questions, traffic stops, profiling motorists, entrapment, admissions of guilt, hearings, license suspensions, burdens of proof and much more.

In this episode we are talking about the new video game, GTA 6. A Florida man, who calls himself the Florida Joker, is demanding that Rockstar Games pay him $2 million for using a character that looks like him. Does he have a case? Listen and find out.

In this episode we are discussing those over-the-top Christmas light displays.  We have all seen them.  Some people love them, some people hate them.  What are the legal issues involved?  Jimmy and Carl (aka the Grinch) argue their positions. 

Topics include: Landowner liability, attractive nuisance, neighbor’s rights, nuisance lawsuits, personal injury, notice of dangerous conditions, duty to protect guests and much more.

In this episode we are discussing the tragic case involving a killing during a custody exchange. A father was picking up his child at the mother’s house and the mother’s boyfriend shot and killed him. It was all captured on video (see link below). No criminal charges were filed.  This case shows how emotional custody cases can be.

Was the shooting self-defense? How could it have been avoided?  What to do if you have a contested custody case? Listen and find out.

Topics include: custody exchanges, self-defense, gun rights, stand your ground laws, third parties in custody cases and much more.

In this episode, we are discussing alimony in a Pennsylvania divorce action. Are you entitled to it? How much will it be? For how long will you be able to collect? Listen and find out all you need to know.

Topics include: how to calculate the amount of alimony; what are the factors considered, is it automatic, how to raise a claim for alimony, how long does it last and much more.

In this episode we are talking about rapper, Young Thug who is on trial for various criminal offenses including violating the RICO statute.  The prosecution is planning to introduce the lyrics from his rap songs as evidence against him. Is this legal?  Are the songs proof of criminal activity or artistic expression covered by the First Amendment?  Can Carl rap? Listen and find out.

Topics include: RICO crimes, probative versus prejudicial evidence, freedom of speech, pretrial motions, appealable issues, artistic expression and admissions of guilt and much more.

In this episode we are talking about toxic divorces. In a toxic divorce, the parties fight and fight in an attempt to destroy each other. This results in higher fees, more anger and increased emotional damage. Find out if you are in a toxic divorce and how to minimize the damage.

Topics include: signs of toxic divorce, choosing the right lawyer, avoiding conflict, dealing with narcissistic behavior, saving your sanity, reducing attorney’s fees, focusing on the big issues and much more.

In this episode we are talking about a burglary that occurred in Lansdale nine years ago.  The individual was caught years later based on DNA evidence. Our guest is Keith Heffintrayer, editor at North Penn Now. He shares his knowledge of the case with us and we discuss the various legal issues. 

Topics include: DNA evidence (pros and cons); burglary; statute of limitations for crimes in PA, possible defenses, lesser included offenses, merging of crimes, search and seizure and much more.

In this episode we are discussing what happens when a loved one dies. What do you do first?

Topics include: Paying for the funeral, first steps, locating assets and debts, paying expenses, setting up the estate, probate, life insurance, dealing with beneficiaries, PA inheritance tax, spousal rights, and much more.  

In this episode we are talking about Kouri Richins, the Utah mother who is accused of killing her husband by poisoning him with a drink spiked with fentanyl. After his death, she wrote a children's book about grief. Listen and get our views on this case and the potential legal issues.    

Topics include: The PA Slayers Act; can a murderer collect life insurance benefits, attorney client privilege, guardianship of children, circumstantial evidence, reasonable doubt, prisoners’ rights, search and seizure and much more.  

In this episode we are talking about Danelo Cavalcante, the inmate who escaped from Chester County Prison, and is still on the loose. Listen and get our views on the case and the potential legal issues.   

Topics include: negligence, aiding a fugitive, cooperating with the police, sentencing, bail, custody rights, and much more.

In this episode we are talking to a father who has been dealing with custody and child support issues for the past twelve years! Listen to his story and learn about some of the issues and pitfalls in the family law court system.

Topics include: custody rights, paternity issues, child support payments, truancy, legal and physical custody, contempt of custody and much more.

In this episode we are discussing the fight that occurred on a boat dock in Alabama. The video has been all over the internet and the news (link below). What are the legal issues involved. Can you assault someone that is threatening your personal property? What is the law of self defense and defense of others?

Listen and find out!

In this episode we have a return guest. A woman who has been representing herself in custody court for the past year. We discuss the pros and cons of representing yourself. Find out how she did!

Topics include: Petitions for contempt, modification of custody, presenting evidence, custody evaluations, legal custody issues and much more.

In this episode we are talking about crazy behavior in and out of Court. Why do some people lose their minds when they get involved in litigation?

Carl discusses some of his more interesting cases with people acting badly.  Learn how act (and dress) when you go to Court.

In this episode we are talking about three recent US Supreme Court rulings. One case involved a Colorado website designer who refused to design wedding websites for same-sex couples claiming that it violated her First Amendment rights.  Another case addressed whether colleges may consider race as a factor in student admissions. And finally, the Court blocked President Biden’s forgiveness of student loan debt.     

Topics include: equal protection, First Amendment rights; discrimination, sexual orientation, affirmative action, forgiveness of debt and much more.

In this episode we are talking about requesting police body cam video and how do you get it. James and Carl went to Court to get police video from a civil dispute. What did James learn? Was it easy?  Did we get it?  Listen and find out!     

Topics include: how to request police audio and video recordings; what to do if your request is denied; civil procedure; court pleadings; arguing legal issues in court; interacting with Judges; the provisions of PA Act 22-Police Recordings, and much more.

In this episode we are discussing the bizarre case of the mortuary manager at Harvard Medical School, along with several other individuals who were indicted on charges they ran a ring that stole and sold parts from bodies donated to the school for use by doctors. Join us for this creepy episode!

Topics include: theft of property; anatomical gifts in a will or living will; ownership of a corpse; using the mail to ship stolen goods; suits for emotional distress and much more.

In this episode we are discussing the Netflix documentary “Pepsi, Where’s My Jet?”.  The case arises from a Pepsi promotion “Drink Pepsi—Get Stuff”.  The television commercial showed a Harrier Fighter Jet, with the caption “HARRIER FIGHTER 7,000,000 PEPSI POINTS”.   John Leonard was able to get the points and wanted the jet.  Did he get it?  Listen and find out!     

Topics include: What is an offer, the difference between an offer and an advertisement, summary judgement, the objective person standard, contract formation, and much more.

In this episode we are discussing the case of Katie Sorensen, a self-described "mom influencer" with a large following. She was convicted of falsifying a police report after she made a viral video claiming that Hispanic couple attempted to kidnap her children from a store.  It turns out the story was false.    

Topics include: false statements to police; social media posts; defamation, slander and libel; damages to reputation; facts versus opinion; truth as a defense and much more.

In this episode we are discussing the strange case of two Landsdale neighbors who had a long-standing feud.  The case ultimately ended up with one neighbor filing a federal lawsuit against the other and suing Landsdale Borough and the Police Department. Do good fences really make good neighbors?  

Topics include: dealing with bad neighbors, malicious prosecution, civil rights violations, false arrest, punitive damages, counterclaims, harassment, small claims court and much more.

In this episode we are discussing criminal law and procedure. Our special guest is Laurie Jubelirer, an experienced criminal defense attorney and civil rights attorney.  

Topics include: criminal procedure, search and seizure, pretrial practice, talking to the police, jury selection, the right to remain silent, discovery, appeals and much more.  

In this episode we are discussing auto insurance policies and auto law.  Our special guest is David R. Friedman, Esquire, an experienced civil litigator who practices insurance defense law. Get out a copy of your policy and follow along to see what coverage you have or you need.

Topics include: liability coverage, duty to defend, property damage, first party benefits, coverage limits, stacked and unstacked coverage, PA state minimum coverage, uninsured and underinsured coverage, phantom vehicles, limited tort, full tort, bodily injury and much more.

In this episode we are discussing Landlord-Tenant Law.  What are the legal implications of leasing a property?

Topics include: 

What is a lease; what happens if you breach your lease; what is the difference between a co-signer and a guarantor; how are security deposits handled; what is the Landlord Tenant Act; can a landlord breach a lease; repairs and alterations to a leased property; renewal periods; evictions and much more.

In the episode we are discussing the legal aspects of buying and selling a house. Our guest is Steve Labroli an experienced real estate attorney.

We discuss various topics including: agreements of sale; home inspections; using real estate agents; contingency clauses; deposits; breach of the agreement; specific performance; time restrictions; title insurance; mortgages and much more.

In this episode we provide an update on a case that involved a traffic stop in Lower Merion Township that turned into a violent encounter between the driver and police. The police end up tasing the woman and dragging her from her car. We review new details about the incident.

Topics include: can you film the police; what is disorderly conduct; obtaining body cam footage; filming in public and private places; discovery in criminal cases; fleeing and eluding; obstruction of justice, resisting arrest and much more.

Updated story click this link:

https://6abc.com/lower-merion-pa-police-traffic-stop-woman-taser-video-chaine-jordan-arrested/12713598/

In this episode we are discussing what happens to property when unmarried people break up. One way to address this issue is by using a cohabitation agreement.

Topics include: What is a cohabitation agreement; who gets property acquired during a relationship; who gets the car, furniture, real estate and bank accounts; who pays the debts, mortgage or lease; can you sue your ex partner for amounts you paid during the relationship; what is the difference between a prenup and a cohabitation agreement and much more.

In this episode we are discussing how to file for divorce in Pennsylvania. What are the steps for obtaining a Divorce Decree?

Topics include: Filing the complaint, where to file, service on the other party, counts for relief, alimony, affidavits of consent, waiting periods, what if your spouse doesn’t agree to a divorce, how long does it take, what does it cost, living separate and apart, hearings before the court and much more.

In this episode we are discussing a case involving a 6 year old child who took a gun to school. His mother was arrested and is now facing criminal charges.

Topics include: Straw gun purchases; endangering the welfare of children; conditions of bail; gun possession; maximum sentences; how crimes affect child custody and much more.

In this episode we are talking about divorces. We review statistics about divorce in the United States.

Topics include: Who is most likely to get divorced; what is the best age to get married; which jobs have the highest divorce rate; do second and third marriages last longer than first marriages; reasons why people get divorced; which states have the highest/lowest divorce rates and much more.

In this episode we are speaking to a mother who has been representing herself in custody court. After her lawyer moved to another job, she decided to represent herself. We find out how it has been going.

Topics include: do you even need a lawyer; how do the Courts treat self-represented parties; how to deal with opposing counsel; preparing and filing documents on your own; staying focused on the important issues; consulting with counsel; guardians ad litem; recovering counsel fees and much more.

In this episode we are discussing wills.

Topics include: do you need a will; who can make a will; what happens if you don’t have a will; what goes into a will; what is “non-probate” property; executors, deeds; trusts; beneficiary designations and much more.

In this episode we are discussing a case involving a traffic stop in Lower Merion Township that turned into a violent encounter between the driver and police. The police end up tasing the woman and dragging her from her car. We review the audio and video from the incident and break down the legal issues.

Topics include: do you have to exit your vehicle if the police order you to, use of force, obstruction of justice, resisting arrest, police authority and much more.

If you are considering getting divorced then this is the episode for you. We provide you with steps to take prior to filing for divorce so that you can streamline the process and make it as simple as possible. 

Topics include: getting organized, saving money, preserving property, pets, date of separation, marital assets and debts, paying bills and much more.

In this episode we are discussing two local cases involving “lawyers” acting badly. One involves a lawyer who used a power of attorney to steal more than $165,000 from her elderly father. The other case is about a man who pretended to be a lawyer for seven years. He represented clients and operated a law firm even though he was not a licensed attorney.

Topics include: powers of attorney, bail, sentencing, attorney licensing, and much more.

In this episode we are discussing the disturbing case of Stephen Capaldi, a Husband who killed his wife (Elizabeth Capaldi) after thirty years of marriage. The couple lived together in Sellersville, Pennsylvania. After smothering his wife in her sleep, he dismembered her body and disposed of her remains in a dumpster in Lansdale and buried others near the Philadelphia International Airport. 

Topics include: the Grand Jury Investigation, his statements to police, the investigation, his negotiated guilty plea/sentence, and much more.

To read the criminal complaint: https://bucks.crimewatchpa.com/sites/default/files/29567/post/2022/12/stephen_capaldi_criminal_complaint.pdf

To read the Grand Jury report: 

https://bucks.crimewatchpa.com/sites/default/files/29567/post/2022/12/capaldi_grand_jury_report.pdf

In this episode we are talking about Powers of Attorney (POA). Topics include: what is a durable power of attorney; what is required to make a POA valid; what can you do with a POA; what are the duties of an agent; POA versus guardianship; how do you revoke a POA and much more.