Episode 21: Order in the Fake Court! Legal Myths Debunked

03/14/25 • 27 min

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

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

Previous Episode

Episode 20: You Can Say That... But Should You? The Lawmas Break Down the First Amendment

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

Next Episode

Episode 22: Miranda Wasn't Even There: Legal Myths & Gene Hackman Million-Dollar Estate Mistake

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