Law School in Plain English: Torts & Criminal Law.
Whether you’re a law student, an undergraduate considering law school, or a lifelong learner, join me as we demystify the law — one concept at a time, in 15 minutes or less. We break down complex legal principles into plain English, making the law accessible for everyone.
Episodes
In this episode of Law School in Plain English: Torts, we dive into the world of the “Reasonable Person”—the unsung hero of legal liability. But what happens when this paragon of predictably meets their chaotic counterpart, the Unreasonable Person? Join us for an engaging, humorous exploration of fairness, responsibility, and what it really means to act “reasonably” in the eyes of the law.
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What happens when someone wrongfully takes your property, and you decide to take matters into your own hands? In this episode, we break down the tort defense of Recapture of Chattels. Using relatable examples and a dash of humor, we’ll explore the legal boundaries of reclaiming stolen or misappropriated property. Can you grab your stolen item back? What if you’re wrong about who took it? By the end, you’ll know w...
In this special extended episode, we take a deep dive into the doctrine of Res Ipsa Loquitur—the legal principle that lets the facts ‘speak for themselves.’ Explore its origins in the famous falling-barrel case, Byrne v. Boadle, and its evolution through landmark decisions involving exploding soda bottles, surgical mishaps, and more.
Whether you’re curious about how courts decide negligence without direct ...
In this episode, we explore the defense of Necessity — when breaking the rules is legally justified to prevent greater harm. From stormy backyard emergencies to real-world cases like docked ships, we break down the difference between Public and Private Necessity and how they apply in the law. Tune in to learn how far you can go in an emergency without crossing the legal line.
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In this episode, we dive into the defense of Consent - what it means to give permission, when it can be revoked, and how long it lasts. From backyard dodgeball to medical procedures, we break down the legal boundaries of Consent in playful and real-world scenarios. By the end, you’ll understand how the law balances permission and accountability!
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In this episode of Law School in Plain English, we explore the limits of defending your property. What actions can you take when someone damages or intrudes on what’s yours? We break down the legal boundaries of reasonable force, when deadly force is never an option, and how this defense applies in real-world and playful sibling scenarios. Tune in to learn where the law draws the line!
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What happens after an arrest? In this episode of Law School in Plain English, we dive into preliminary hearings-how they test the evidence, shape the case, and set the stage for trial. Using the O.J. Simpson case, we explore how both sides used this critical step to build their arguments. Tune in for an inside look at this pivotal phase of criminal law!
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In this episode of Law School in Plain English, we explore the defense of others—when you can step in to protect someone else and how the law determines if your actions are justified. Using a dramatic family reunion scenario and real-world examples, we break down the key elements: imminent threat, reasonable belief, and proportional response. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of this powerful legal defense...
In this episode of Law School in Plain English, we dive into the defense of self-defense — when the law allows you to protect yourself and what limits apply. Join us as we continue to make legal concepts simple and engaging.
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What is probable cause, and why is it the cornerstone of the criminal justice system? In this episode of Law School In Plain English, we break down the concept of probable cause and its importance in ensuring that arrests and searches are lawful. Using the O.J. Simpson case as our guide, we explore the safeguards built into the legal system to prevent abuse, the standards required to prove probable cause, and what h...
How far can someone go before interfering with your personal belongings becomes a legal issue? In this episode we dive into the tort of trespass to chattels.
Thanks for listening to Law School in Plain English. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe/follow and leave a review. Join me next time as we break down another legal concept — one principle at a time.
What happens when someone’s actions go beyond rude or offensive and cause extreme emotional harm? In this episode of Law School in Plain English, we unpack the tort of intentional infliction of emotional distress (IIED). Through engaging examples—including a humorous sibling squabble—we break down what it takes for conduct to cross the line into legal liability. By the end, you’ll know the difference between ordinary ...
Is blocking someone’s way out or detaining a shopper for suspected theft false imprisonment? In this episode of Law School in Plain English, we dive into the boundaries of this often-misunderstood tort. Using relatable scenarios and real-world examples, we explore what counts as false imprisonment, when it’s legally justified, and how intent and perception play a key role. By the end, you’ll have the tools to spot ...
What does it mean to charge someone with murder? In the episode of Law School in Plain English, we break down one of the most serious criminal charges: murder. Using the O. J. Simpson case as our guide, we’ll explore how prosecutors decide on a murder charge, the legal definition of murder, and what sets it apart from other homicides like manslaughter.
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In this episode of Law School in Plain English, we break down actus reas - the guilty act - a crucial component in proving any crime.
Thanks for listening to Law School in Plain English. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe/follow and leave a review. Join me next time as we break down another legal concept — one principle at a time.
In this episode, we tackle the concept of battery - exploring when unwanted contact crosses the line into a legal offense. Join us as we unpack what counts as battery, dive into real-life scenarios, and break down how intent and offensiveness come into play.
Thanks for listening to Law School in Plain English. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe/follow and leave a review. Join me nex...
In this episode, we explore the concept of trespass to land - when crossing boundaries becomes a legal issue. We’ll dive into what qualifies as trespass, from uninvited guest to accidental entries, and break down how the law protects your right to control who steps onto your property. By the end, you’ll know exactly when a simple misstep turns into a matter of trespass.
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In this episode of Law School in Plain English, we dive into one of the most critical concepts in criminal law: mens rea, or the “guilty mind.” Using the famous O.J. Simpson trail as our guide, we’ll explore how intent is established in a criminal case and why it is essential for proving guilt. Hear how both the prosecution and defense approached mens rea through powerful opening and closing statements, and learn ho...
In this episode, we dive into the legal concept of assault, exploring how a simple threat or gesture can cross the line into a legal offense - even without physical contact. Join us as we break down what counts as assault, unpack key examples, and reveal how intent and perception come into play. By the end, you’ll know exactly where the line is drawn.
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In this premier episode of Law School In Plain English: Criminal Law, we dive into the heart of criminal law, using one of the most famous trials in history: The People v. O.J. Simpson. Join us as we unpack what criminal law truly is, how it differs from civil law, and why it plays a crucial role in society. With over 85 trials as a former prosecutor and defense attorney, your host brings a unique perspective, guid...
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