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On November 2, 1990, Florida Power and Light workers discovered the emaciated body of a small child hidden in the bushes of a wealthy Miami Beach home. The boy, dressed only in a lollipop-decorated T-shirt and a soiled diaper wrapped in brown packing tape, had been beaten, starved, and systematically tortured. He weighed just eighteen pounds. This is part one of the story of how a mother's resentment turned deadly.VICTIM PROFILE:Lazaro Figueroa was born September 18, 1987, into what should have been a life of comfort. His father, Fidel Figueroa, was a well-connected drug dealer who kept his family in a lavish penthouse overlooking Biscayne Bay. But fate intervened before Lazaro ever drew breath. Just two days after his birth, his father was executed in a gangland-style shooting outside a Miami riverfront bar. The murder was never solved. From that moment forward, Lazaro became the target of his mother's displaced rage, blamed for the loss of everything she had.THE CRIME:Ana Maria Cardona's abuse of Lazaro began shortly after he was returned to her custody from foster care in late 1988. Over the next eighteen months, she systematically starved, beat, and confined her son in conditions the Dade County Medical Examiner would later call the worst child abuse he had ever witnessed. Lazaro spent weeks locked in closets and tied to beds. His arm was broken and left untreated, eventually becoming fixed at a ninety-degree angle. His two front teeth were knocked out. Cardona wrapped duct tape around his diapers to avoid changing them, leaving his skin raw with bedsores. On October 31, 1990, Cardona beat Lazaro with a baseball bat, fracturing his skull. She then dumped his dying body in the bushes of a Miami Beach mansion and fled the state with her girlfriend, Olivia Gonzalez, stopping at Disney World before their arrest.THE INVESTIGATION:Miami Beach police initially could not identify the battered child, dubbing him Baby Lollipops after his T-shirt. Detectives conducted door-to-door interviews in English and Spanish and distributed flyers throughout the community. The break came when a neighbor who had occasionally cared for Lazaro recognized him from police bulletins. The investigation led detectives to Ana Maria Cardona and Olivia Gonzalez, who had fled to central Florida. Both women were arrested within weeks. Gonzalez eventually testified that Cardona had called Lazaro the son of the devil and blamed him for her descent from riches to rags.CURRENT STATUS:Ana Maria Cardona has been convicted of first-degree murder three times. Her first two death sentences were overturned by the Florida Supreme Court on procedural grounds. In 2017, she was convicted for the third time and sentenced to life in prison without parole. Olivia Gonzalez served fourteen years for her role in Lazaro's abuse and has since been released.RESOURCES:Learn more about this case at https://www.mythsandmalice.com/show/obscura/Support Obscura: https://www.patreon.com/obscuracrimepodcast/Our Sponsors:* Check out Chime: https://chime.com/OBSCURA* Check out Kensington Publishing: https://www.kensingtonbooks.com* Check out Mind of a Monster: The Killer Nurse: https://podcasts.apple.com* Check out Mood and use my code OBSCURA for a great deal: https://mood.com* Check out Progressive: https://www.progressive.comSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/obscura-a-true-crime-podcast/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Bryan Power discusses The 6 Pillars that will move you from an unhealthy attachment style to a healthy one.Core Wounds Core wounds are the deep emotional injuries we carry from past experiences, often stemming from childhood.NeedsOur emotional needs are the fundamental desires that drive how we connect with others, such as the need for love, validation, or safety.EmotionsEmotions are powerful forces that influence our behaviors and reactions in relationships.Boundaries Setting boundaries and respecting others boundaries is vital for maintaining healthy relationships.CommunicationCommunication is the foundation of all healthy relationships.Behaviors Our behaviors are often a reflection of our underlying beliefs and emotions. Learn more about Bryan Power's relationship coaching at:https://www.myrelationshipfail.com'https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryanwpower/----If you have a matter, disagreement, or dispute you need professional help with then visit iMediate.com - Email mbrickman@ichatmediation or Call (877) 822-1479Matthew Brickman is a Florida Supreme Court certified family and appellate mediator who has worked in the 15th and 19th Judicial Circuit Courts since 2009 and 2006 respectively. But what makes him qualified to speak on the subject of conflict resolution is his own personal experience with divorce.Download Matthew's book on iTunes for FREE:You're Not the Only One - The Agony of Divorce: The Joy of Peaceful ResolutionMatthew Brickman President iMediate Inc. Mediator 20836CFAiMediateInc.comSCHEDULE YOUR MEDIATION: https://ichatmediation.com/calendar/OFFICIAL BLOG: https://ichatmediation.com/podcastOFFICIAL YOUTUBE: http://www.youtube.com/ichatmediationOFFICIAL LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ichat-mediation/ABOUT MATTHEW BRICKMAN:Matthew Brickman is a Supreme Court of Florida certified county civil family mediator who has worked in the 15th and 19th Judicial Circuit Courts since 2009 and 2006 respectively. He is also an appellate certified mediator who mediates a variety of small claims, civil, and family cases. Mr. Brickman recently graduated both the Harvard Business School Negotiation Mastery Program and the Negotiation Master Class at Harvard Law School.
This Day in Legal History: Bush v. GoreOn December 12, 2000, the U.S. Supreme Court issued its landmark decision in Bush v. Gore, effectively ending the Florida recount and resolving the 2000 presidential election in favor of George W. Bush. The per curiam opinion held that the Florida Supreme Court's method for ordering a manual recount violated the Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment due to inconsistent standards across counties. The Court also ruled that there was not enough time to implement a constitutionally valid recount before the deadline for certifying electors.The decision was one of the most controversial in the Court's history. It was split 5-4 along ideological lines, with the majority—led by Chief Justice Rehnquist and Justices Scalia, Thomas, Kennedy, and O'Connor—arguing that allowing the recount to continue would irreparably harm Bush. The dissent, written by Justices Stevens, Ginsburg, Breyer, and Souter, criticized the majority for intervening in a state election process and undermining public confidence in judicial neutrality.The ruling effectively awarded Florida's 25 electoral votes to Bush, giving him 271 electoral votes—one more than needed to win the presidency—despite losing the national popular vote to Al Gore. The case remains a flashpoint in debates over judicial activism, the politicization of the courts, and the role of federal courts in state election matters. It also raised enduring questions about election integrity and the limits of judicial power in resolving political disputes.The watchdog group American Oversight filed a lawsuit against the U.S. Commerce and Justice Departments, demanding records of legal arrangements between the Trump administration and nine major law firms. The group had submitted eight Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests in October seeking details about agreements in which the firms pledged to provide nearly $940 million in pro bono or discounted legal services to the federal government. After receiving inadequate responses, the group took legal action to compel the release of any related contracts, communications, or internal legal analyses.The agreements were announced by Trump earlier in the year on social media, shortly after he issued executive orders targeting law firms for their previous political and diversity-related work. American Oversight is particularly concerned about whether the deals were transparent and whether they might have influenced government policy or enforcement decisions. Several firms—Kirkland & Ellis, Paul Weiss, Simpson Thacher, and Skadden Arps—were reported to have been involved in trade matters or other projects with the administration. None of the firms or the agencies responded to requests for comment.This lawsuit follows a similar legal action by Columbia University's Knight First Amendment Institute, which alleged in October that related federal record requests had been improperly denied. Meanwhile, Democratic lawmakers have also asked several of the firms to explain their government work, but the firms declined, citing client confidentiality and discretion in matter selection.Trump administration sued for records of law firm deals | ReutersA federal judge blocked a renewed attempt by immigration authorities to detain Kilmar Abrego, just one day after his court-ordered release from ICE custody in Pennsylvania. U.S. District Judge Paula Xinis had previously ordered Abrego's temporary release, but an immigration judge quickly issued a new directive requiring him to report back to detention by the following morning. In response, Abrego's attorneys filed an emergency request to stop the re-detention, which Xinis granted.In her ruling, Judge Xinis emphasized that judicial decisions must be respected and cannot be reversed hastily without due process. Abrego's case has drawn national attention, serving as a high-profile example of what critics view as the Trump administration's heavy-handed immigration enforcement tactics. Originally deported in March to El Salvador under disputed circumstances, Abrego was returned to the U.S. in June to face charges related to human smuggling.Supporters argue his case reflects serious due process violations, while administration officials have maintained he poses a public safety risk. The legal tug-of-war over Abrego's detention has become emblematic of broader legal and political conflicts surrounding immigration enforcement and civil liberties under the Trump administration.Judge blocks new effort to detain Kilmar Abrego | ReutersA federal judge in Boston ruled that the Trump administration acted unlawfully when it attempted to terminate a FEMA program designed to help states prepare for natural disasters. U.S. District Judge Richard Stearns sided with a coalition of 20 mostly Democratic-led states, finding that the administration overstepped its authority by trying to cancel the Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) program and redirect its funds elsewhere without congressional approval.The Department of Homeland Security, which oversees FEMA, had labeled the program wasteful and politically driven when it moved to end it in April. Judge Stearns rejected that rationale, emphasizing that Congress—not the executive branch—has the power to decide how federal funds are spent. He previously issued an order in August blocking FEMA from diverting more than $4 billion in BRIC funding. In this latest decision, he ordered the program reinstated and required FEMA to take immediate steps to undo its termination.Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell praised the ruling, stating it would save lives by preserving funding for critical infrastructure improvements meant to prevent disaster-related harm. The Department of Homeland Security, in contrast, denied that it had ended BRIC and accused the court of siding with a politicized narrative, claiming the program had been misused by the Biden administration.Since its launch, BRIC has approved over $4.5 billion in grants for nearly 2,000 disaster mitigation projects, many located in vulnerable coastal states. The lawsuit, led by states like Washington and Massachusetts, argued that canceling the program delayed or canceled hundreds of vital community projects aimed at reducing disaster risk.Trump administration unlawfully canceled disaster prevention program, US judge rules | ReutersPresident Trump announced an executive order threatening to withhold federal broadband funding from states with AI regulations deemed obstructive to national technological dominance. The order targets state-level laws that the administration argues create a fragmented, burdensome environment for AI innovation, particularly for startups. Trump emphasized the need for a single, centralized regulatory system, positioning the U.S. to compete more aggressively with China in the AI sector.The order authorizes the Commerce Department to review state AI laws and restrict access to the $42 billion Broadband Equity Access and Deployment fund for non-compliant states. It also criticizes anti-discrimination measures in states like Colorado, claiming such laws inject “ideological bias” into AI development. While the administration supports certain safeguards, such as child protection, it aims to dismantle what it sees as excessive oversight.Critics argue the move undermines state authority and risks public safety. Representative Don Beyer warned the order violates the 10th Amendment and discourages meaningful congressional action. State leaders from both parties have defended their right to regulate AI, citing the federal government's inaction on tech legislation. States like New York, California, and Florida have already enacted laws addressing AI's risks, from data transparency to deepfake bans.Trump threatens funding for states over AI regulations | ReutersThis week's closing theme is by Abigail Leahey and her classmates.This week, we are proud to present a performance of singular clarity, youthful ambition, and the product of more than a little bit of dedicated practice: The First Scale March, recorded live on December 10th at a school Winter Concert. Its thematic simplicity belies its pedagogical complexity: it is equal parts warm-up and war cry. The holidays are upon us.The featured artist, Abigail, is one of several violins. She was born in New Jersey in 2014 and has been defying expectations and delighting her family ever since. A gifted writer, illustrator, softball player, and—crucially—violinist, she began studying the instrument in earnest in early 2025. In a bold display of ambidextrous courage, she agreed to learn the instrument right-handed.Abigail's musical sensibility combines the raw urgency of a student recital with the unmistakable rhythmic intensity of a group trying very hard to play the same tempo at the same time. Her phrasing evokes a deep respect for the discipline of practice; she has come a long way—and is still going.We are honored to showcase this piece as a representative work from a performer at the dawn of her musical journey, backed by a supporting cast of equally determined string players. With hearts full and bows raised, they march forward—one note at a time. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.minimumcomp.com/subscribe
This Day in Legal History: SCOTUS Intervenes in 2000 Presidential ElectionOn this day in legal history, December 9, 2000, the U.S. Supreme Court intervened in the presidential election with a pivotal order in Bush v. Gore. The Court issued a 5-4 decision to halt the manual recount of ballots in Florida, which had been ordered by the Florida Supreme Court due to the razor-thin margin between George W. Bush and Al Gore. The justices cited potential violations of the Equal Protection Clause, expressing concern that differing standards across counties for evaluating ballots could lead to unequal treatment of voters.The per curiam order did not decide the case outright but signaled deep skepticism about the recount process, effectively pausing it while the Court considered broader constitutional questions. This stay was the first significant sign that the nation's highest court might ultimately decide the outcome of the 2000 election. Three days later, the Court would issue its final ruling, effectively awarding Florida's 25 electoral votes to Bush and securing his presidency.The December 9 order was controversial not only for its impact on the election but for its constitutional implications. Critics argued the Court had overstepped by interfering in a state-managed election process, while supporters claimed it was necessary to ensure legal consistency and fairness. The episode raised enduring questions about the judiciary's role in democratic governance and electoral integrity.The Court's use of the Equal Protection Clause in this context was novel and has rarely been invoked in similar cases since. The justices themselves noted that the ruling was limited to the specific circumstances of the 2000 election. Nevertheless, the decision left a lasting mark on American law and politics, serving as a stark example of how constitutional interpretation can intersect with high-stakes political conflict.The U.S. Supreme Court is set to hear a major challenge to federal campaign finance limits in a case involving Vice President JD Vance and two Republican political committees. The case targets restrictions on how much political parties can spend in coordination with candidates they support, with plaintiffs arguing that these limits violate the First Amendment's free speech protections. The legal challenge stems from a 2022 lawsuit filed while Vance was running for Senate in Ohio.At issue are “coordinated party expenditure limits” under the Federal Election Campaign Act of 1971, which differentiates between independent spending (unlimited) and coordinated spending (restricted). The challengers argue that the current rules unconstitutionally restrict political speech by capping how much support a party can directly offer its candidates. In contrast, Roman Martinez, appointed by the Court to defend the law after the Trump-aligned FEC declined to do so, argues that without these limits, parties could act as loopholes for donors to evade individual contribution caps—raising corruption risks.A lower court upheld the law, citing a 2001 Supreme Court precedent, but the challengers now argue that subsequent changes in campaign finance law—especially since Citizens United—warrant a reassessment. Three Democratic campaign committees have joined the case to defend the law, represented by attorney Marc Elias. The outcome could significantly reshape the balance between campaign finance regulation and political speech, especially in high-stakes federal elections.US Supreme Court weighs challenge to campaign spending curbs in JD Vance case | ReutersMassachusetts is taking legal action to block Kalshi, a prediction-market platform, from allowing residents to bet on sports outcomes, arguing the company is operating as an unlicensed gambling business. Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell is seeking a preliminary injunction in state court to stop Kalshi's operations in Massachusetts, marking the first time a U.S. state has pursued a court order against the platform. At least nine other states have issued cease-and-desist letters to Kalshi, but none have yet gone this far.Kalshi offers users the ability to buy “event contracts” on the outcomes of various occurrences—including sporting events—through a platform regulated by the U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC). The company maintains that its activities are legal under federal law, claiming its contracts are financial derivatives (swaps), not wagers, and thus fall outside the scope of state gambling laws.Massachusetts disagrees, alleging that Kalshi is effectively offering sports betting to users, including individuals as young as 18—below the state's legal betting age of 21. The case highlights a growing tension between federal financial regulation and state-level gambling laws. Kalshi's position has already faced judicial setbacks: federal judges in Nevada and Maryland have ruled that state gambling laws apply to Kalshi's operations, though those decisions are under appeal. Meanwhile, the company has pending legal challenges against other states, including New York and Connecticut.Massachusetts seeks to block Kalshi from operating sports-prediction market | ReutersThe U.S. Department of Justice has filed a lawsuit against the Loudoun County School Board in Virginia, challenging its policy that allows transgender students to use locker rooms aligned with their gender identity. The DOJ claims the policy violates the constitutional rights of religious students who object to “gender ideology,” framing the case as a denial of equal protection rooted in religious freedom concerns. This lawsuit is part of a broader push by the Trump administration to roll back transgender-inclusive policies in schools, sports, and the military.The Loudoun County school board has maintained its gender policy despite federal pressure, citing prior court rulings supporting the rights of transgender students to use facilities aligned with their identity. Critics, including state officials, claim the school has retaliated against students and parents who objected to the policy, particularly in cases involving locker room complaints.The case represents a new front in an escalating legal and political campaign to police gender expression and access, using constitutional arguments around religion and sex-based rights to challenge trans inclusion in public spaces. This comes amid a broader moral panic over gender identity, echoing the structure and rhetoric of the 1980s satanic panic—but with even more tangible consequences, especially for already marginalized transgender youth. While the panic of that earlier era was rooted in fabricated threats, today's version is targeting real people, shaping policies that affect their education, safety, and public presence.US Justice Department sues Virginia school board over transgender use of locker rooms | ReutersIn my latest column for Bloomberg Tax, I argue that Texas' new sales tax sourcing rules expose the shaky logic behind decades of municipal incentives for fulfillment centers—and offer a timely reason to abandon the practice altogether. The recent revision to Rule 3.334 by the Texas Comptroller clarifies that a location must actively receive customer orders—not merely fulfill them—to count as a “place of business” for local tax purposes. That change has triggered a lawsuit from the City of Coppell and other Texas municipalities, who now stand to lose out on lucrative sales tax revenue tied to online commerce routed through local warehouses.But regardless of the lawsuit's outcome, I believe the real issue is the flawed economic development model these cities have been relying on. For years, under Chapter 380 agreements, municipalities handed out infrastructure upgrades and tax rebates to lure backend logistics operations with promises of rising sales tax revenue. Yet these facilities, often low-wage, temporary, and increasingly automated, were never a strong foundation for community growth. Their value was always tied to creative interpretations of tax code language—not meaningful employment or local investment.Now that the tax arbitrage game is falling apart, municipalities should see this as an opportunity to rethink their approach. I argue for redirecting public resources toward workforce development, technical training, and support for regionally rooted industries—investments that actually build capacity, not just capture transactional flows. If a city's financial health depends on how an e-commerce order is defined in the tax code, that's not economic development—it's dependence.Texas Sales Tax Sourcing Fight Is More Reason to Drop Incentives This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.minimumcomp.com/subscribe
What's Your Attachment Style?Attachment theory explores how early relationships with caregivers shape the way we connect with others throughout life. It helps explain patterns in how we form bonds, handle intimacy, and respond to conflict. Understanding attachment styles can provide valuable insight into our relationships, helping us build healthier, more secure connections.Secure Anxious Preoccupied Fearful AvoidantDismissive AvoidantLearn more about Bryan Power's relationship coaching at:https://www.myrelationshipfail.com'https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryanwpower/----If you have a matter, disagreement, or dispute you need professional help with then visit iMediate.com - Email mbrickman@ichatmediation or Call (877) 822-1479Matthew Brickman is a Florida Supreme Court certified family and appellate mediator who has worked in the 15th and 19th Judicial Circuit Courts since 2009 and 2006 respectively. But what makes him qualified to speak on the subject of conflict resolution is his own personal experience with divorce.Download Matthew's book on iTunes for FREE:You're Not the Only One - The Agony of Divorce: The Joy of Peaceful ResolutionMatthew Brickman President iMediate Inc. Mediator 20836CFAiMediateInc.comSCHEDULE YOUR MEDIATION: https://ichatmediation.com/calendar/OFFICIAL BLOG: https://ichatmediation.com/podcastOFFICIAL YOUTUBE: http://www.youtube.com/ichatmediationOFFICIAL LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ichat-mediation/ABOUT MATTHEW BRICKMAN:Matthew Brickman is a Supreme Court of Florida certified county civil family mediator who has worked in the 15th and 19th Judicial Circuit Courts since 2009 and 2006 respectively. He is also an appellate certified mediator who mediates a variety of small claims, civil, and family cases. Mr. Brickman recently graduated both the Harvard Business School Negotiation Mastery Program and the Negotiation Master Class at Harvard Law School.
A listener writes in and asks, "How do people center themselves emotionally during a turbulent divorce?" Matthew Brickman goes through the most popular options for getting through an emotionally charged divorce process. Matthew Brickman answers your most frequently asked questions about divorce as he goes over several key points:Assume nothing.Know who you are before you get married. Know who you're getting married to. Know the laws and statutes in the state you live in.Don't take advice from anyone who isn't a legal professional in the state in which you're getting married and living in.If you have a matter, disagreement, or dispute you need professional help with then visit iMediate.com - Email mbrickman@ichatmediation or Call (877) 822-1479Matthew Brickman is a Florida Supreme Court certified family and appellate mediator who has worked in the 15th and 19th Judicial Circuit Courts since 2009 and 2006 respectively. But what makes him qualified to speak on the subject of conflict resolution is his own personal experience with divorce.Download Matthew's book on iTunes for FREE:You're Not the Only One - The Agony of Divorce: The Joy of Peaceful ResolutionMatthew Brickman President iMediate Inc. Mediator 20836CFAiMediateInc.comSCHEDULE YOUR MEDIATION: https://ichatmediation.com/calendar/OFFICIAL BLOG: https://ichatmediation.com/podcastOFFICIAL YOUTUBE: http://www.youtube.com/ichatmediationOFFICIAL LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ichat-mediation/ABOUT MATTHEW BRICKMAN:Matthew Brickman is a Supreme Court of Florida certified county civil family mediator who has worked in the 15th and 19th Judicial Circuit Courts since 2009 and 2006 respectively. He is also an appellate certified mediator who mediates a variety of small claims, civil, and family cases. Mr. Brickman recently graduated both the Harvard Business School Negotiation Mastery Program and the Negotiation Master Class at Harvard Law School.
Matthew Brickman explains the current process for DIY Divorce, Paternity and Modification actions in the State of Florida. Matthew Brickman answers your most frequently asked questions about divorce as he goes over several key points:Assume nothing.Know who you are before you get married. Know who you're getting married to. Know the laws and statutes in the state you live in.Don't take advice from anyone who isn't a legal professional in the state in which you're getting married and living in.If you have a matter, disagreement, or dispute you need professional help with then visit iMediate.com - Email mbrickman@ichatmediation or Call (877) 822-1479Matthew Brickman is a Florida Supreme Court certified family and appellate mediator who has worked in the 15th and 19th Judicial Circuit Courts since 2009 and 2006 respectively. But what makes him qualified to speak on the subject of conflict resolution is his own personal experience with divorce.Download Matthew's book on iTunes for FREE:You're Not the Only One - The Agony of Divorce: The Joy of Peaceful ResolutionMatthew Brickman President iMediate Inc. Mediator 20836CFAiMediateInc.comSCHEDULE YOUR MEDIATION: https://ichatmediation.com/calendar/OFFICIAL BLOG: https://ichatmediation.com/podcastOFFICIAL YOUTUBE: http://www.youtube.com/ichatmediationOFFICIAL LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ichat-mediation/ABOUT MATTHEW BRICKMAN:Matthew Brickman is a Supreme Court of Florida certified county civil family mediator who has worked in the 15th and 19th Judicial Circuit Courts since 2009 and 2006 respectively. He is also an appellate certified mediator who mediates a variety of small claims, civil, and family cases. Mr. Brickman recently graduated both the Harvard Business School Negotiation Mastery Program and the Negotiation Master Class at Harvard Law School.
Featuring our panelists:Blaise Trettis, public defender, Eighteenth Judicial CircuitWilliam Scheiner, state attorney, Eighteenth Judicial CircuitModerated by:Jennifer Englert, managing partner at The Orlando Law GroupBlaise Trettis was elected Public Defender for the Eighteenth Judicial Circuit for Brevard and Seminole counties in 2012. Mr. Trettis? commitment to serving the public is demonstrated through both his work in the legal profession and his volunteer work in a wide range of community service organizations.Mr. Trettis graduated from the University of Florida with honors with a bachelor?s degree in business administration. He then went on to graduate from Stetson University College of Law, the first law school established in the State of Florida.In 1987, Mr. Trettis moved to Brevard County where he took a job as assistant public defender. The cases he has taken to jury trial include first degree murder, and he has argued several cases before the Florida Supreme Court. He has served on the Florida Supreme Court Committee on Standard Jury Instructions in Criminal Cases.Mr. Trettis has served on the Crosswinds Youth Services Juvenile Assessment Center Advisory Board; the North/Central Brevard Salvation Army Advisory Board; the Florida Assertive Community Treatment Team Advisory Board; and the Brevard Achievement Center Board of Directors. His involvement with civic organizations includes the Rockledge Rotary Club. Mr. Trettis has been married for 36 years to wife Jill, and they have three children and one grandchild.State Attorney Will Scheiner, a career prosecutor, has proudly served the people of the 18th Judicial District since 2008. He has prosecuted thousands of criminal cases ranging from petit theft to public corruption, drug trafficking to first-degree murder. Before his election as the State Attorney in 2024, Mr. Scheiner served as chief trial attorney for Brevard County. Earlier roles included felony division chief, Career Criminal and Firearms Unit, Sex Crimes and Child Abuse Unit, felony trial attorney, misdemeanor trial attorney, and felony early resolution. ?Being a prosecutor is an honor that comes with great responsibility,? Mr. Scheiner says. ?It is a profession that comes with power and consequences from our decisions. Our work requires compassion, integrity and a desire to always do the right thing. A prosecutor must always be prepared and diligent. To do otherwise would be a miscarriage of justice and a disservice to the community we serve.? Mr. Scheiner grew up in Titusville, graduated from the University of Central Florida in 2005, and received his law degree from Florida Coastal School of Law in 2007. He is the father of two daughters, whom he describes as ?my rocks and inspiration ? the strongest people I know.? Mr. Scheiner is a member of the Florida Bar, Brevard County Bar Association, Brevard County Commission on Aging, Brevard County Association of Chiefs of Police. He is the recipient of the Brevard Trial Attorney of the Year award, given to the top trial attorney, in 2012 and 2015. He also was honored as Victim Rights Prosecutor of the year in 2014 and Brevard Police Chief?s Top Prosecutor in 2015. Sponsors: South Seminole Business & StorageWaste ProThe Orlando Law GroupAddition FinancialGenske & Co. AccountingJPMorganChaseSeminole SCOUT by FreebeeGrand Canyon UniversityWestarp AI + BI
David Lee Windecher is a trailblazing criminal defense attorney, author, and activist in the social justice movement to end mass incarceration, reduce recidivism and redress racial inequity in the criminal justice system. In his autobiography The American Dream / HiSstory in the Making, David shares the harsh realities of growing up as an impoverished immigrant on the streets of Miami-Dade County. He was arrested 13 times and spent over 7 months incarcerated as a juvenile. He dropped out of high school and joined a gang for protection. His street name was Red. David endured the brutal climate of the lawlessness on the streets by both criminals and the police. All the while he dreamed of becoming a lawyer and fighting for those who don't have the resources to pay for justice. David began his path to self-rehabilitation when he earned his GED in March of 1998 and took his first academic steps toward his childhood dream of becoming a lawyer. He graduated Summa Cum Laude from American Intercontinental University in Fort Lauderdale, Florida in 2005 and earned his Juris Doctorate degree from John Marshall Law School in Atlanta, Georgia in 2012. David was admitted to the Georgia Bar in 2012 and the Florida Bar in 2014. David is a member of the Georgia and Florida Court of Appeals, the Georgia and Florida Supreme Court, the Northern District of Georgia United States District Court and the American Bar Association. David specializes in criminal defense, juvenile law, and expungement procedures. In 2022 the National Football League awarded him with the Inspire Change Changemaker Award. Related Links: Rehabilitation Enables Dreams - https://www.stoprecidivism.org/ Lester Tate – http://www.akintate.com/ Robin Frazer Clark – https://www.gatriallawyers.net/ See You In Court – https://seeyouincourtpodcast.org To learn more about the Georgia Civil Justice Foundation, visit https://fairplay.org
New Zealand journalist Danny de Hek is being sued by Christopher Delgado's GOLIATH VENTURES INC in a Florida courtroom.This is Danny vs Goliath — a real-life David vs Goliath story where truth meets power.On September 22, 2025, GOLIATH VENTURES INC filed a lawsuit against Danny — 7,000 miles away from his home in New Zealand — claiming he caused “millions of dollars in damages.” Their complaint accuses him of lying about their CEO, running a “smear campaign,” and publishing defamatory content.Here's what they didn't mention: after months of investigating GOLIATH VENTURES INC, Danny uncovered what he believes is a large-scale Ponzi scheme breaking multiple U.S. laws and deceiving investors worldwide. HIS REPORTING REVEALED:- Impossible guaranteed returns (4–8% monthly)- Unlicensed money transmission- Unregistered securities sold to unaccredited investors- Connections to convicted fraudsters like Verlin Sanciango (My Liquidity Partner)- Deceptive claims of insurance and audits- A pattern of withdrawal delays and shifting excuses- Now, this lawsuit is being used to silence him.In this exposé, Danny shows how Christopher Delgado and GOLIATH VENTURES INC have allegedly turned the courtroom into a publicity stunt — using the case to reassure panicked investors and attract new ones under the guise of legitimacy.The lawsuit, filed by Oliver Birman of Perlman, Bajandas, Yevoli & Albright, reads more like an advertisement than a legal document. It describes GOLIATH as “operating at the leading edge of decentralized finance,” with “fidelity bond coverage” and “strategic Bitcoin initiatives” — phrasing that sounds suspiciously like investor bait.Danny argues that this lawsuit is not about defamation — it's about intimidation. It's about silencing journalists who expose uncomfortable truths.THIS VIDEO DIVES DEEP INTO:- How GOLIATH VENTURES INC's business model mirrors My Liquidity Partner, a previous Ponzi scheme.- The background of its executives, including Nick Petrillo, who has previously appeared in DOJ indictments.- How the lawsuit could backfire by exposing the company's fraudulent operations to even greater public scrutiny.- The Florida Supreme Court setting underscores a symbolic international clash — the American flag vs the New Zealand flag, justice vs corruption, truth vs manipulation.- This is not just another scam story. It's a test of how far financial fraudsters will go to protect their empire when exposed.Full blog post with supporting documents, lawsuit excerpts, and analysis:https://www.dehek.com/general/scam-fraud-investigations/danny-vs-goliath-new-zealand-journalist-sued-by-christopher-delgados-goliath-ventures-inc/SPONSOR A REVIEW- If you're open to it, I've recently launched a sponsored review service that allows me to conduct deep-dive investigations into scams like this one. While completely optional, your support helps me dedicate more time to exposing these frauds and spreading awareness. If you'd like to sponsor a review, you can do so here: https://ko-fi.com/s/e450de6745 RESOURCES & SUPPORT:- Global Reporting Guide – How to Report Cybercrime & Crypto Scams: https://www.dehek.com/general/ponzi-scheme-scamalerts/how-to-report-cybercrime-and-cryptocurrency-scams-a-global-guide/- Track where your crypto really went: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1_eMtZBEgkhyq376U3CwAoetWuXQ13dka3pj2qh_ZGjsSUPPORT MY WORK:- Support The Crypto Ponzi Scheme Avenger: https://ko-fi.com/dehekBuy Me a Coffee I'm on @buymeacoffee. If you like my work, you can buy me a coffee and share your thoughts.Support the show
A listener writes in asking if they are liable for their ex-spouse's reckless debt accumulated through gambling, drug use and excessive spending. Where typically items like this are usually split 50% during a divorce, your state may have laws that protect you against this one particular circumstance.Matthew Brickman answers your most frequently asked questions about divorce as he goes over several key points:Assume nothing.Know who you are before you get married. Know who you're getting married to. Know the laws and statutes in the state you live in.Don't take advice from anyone who isn't a legal professional in the state in which you're getting married and living in.If you have a matter, disagreement, or dispute you need professional help with then visit iMediate.com - Email mbrickman@ichatmediation or Call (877) 822-1479Matthew Brickman is a Florida Supreme Court certified family and appellate mediator who has worked in the 15th and 19th Judicial Circuit Courts since 2009 and 2006 respectively. But what makes him qualified to speak on the subject of conflict resolution is his own personal experience with divorce.Download Matthew's book on iTunes for FREE:You're Not the Only One - The Agony of Divorce: The Joy of Peaceful ResolutionMatthew Brickman President iMediate Inc. Mediator 20836CFAiMediateInc.comSCHEDULE YOUR MEDIATION: https://ichatmediation.com/calendar/OFFICIAL BLOG: https://ichatmediation.com/podcastOFFICIAL YOUTUBE: http://www.youtube.com/ichatmediationOFFICIAL LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ichat-mediation/ABOUT MATTHEW BRICKMAN:Matthew Brickman is a Supreme Court of Florida certified county civil family mediator who has worked in the 15th and 19th Judicial Circuit Courts since 2009 and 2006 respectively. He is also an appellate certified mediator who mediates a variety of small claims, civil, and family cases. Mr. Brickman recently graduated both the Harvard Business School Negotiation Mastery Program and the Negotiation Master Class at Harvard Law School.
In this episode, Karen and Catherine talk with Tina Keyes, a Florida Supreme Court certified family mediator and divorce coach. Tina shares how her own family experiences led her to create a Kids First mediation model, designed to reduce conflict and keep the focus on families—not legal battles. We cover what pro se mediation really means, how to know if it's the right fit, and why coming prepared—both financially and emotionally—is the key to success. Key Takeaways What pro se mediation is and who it works best for Why Tina avoids 8-hour “marathon” sessions and instead uses short, focused meetings How to prepare for mediation: from parenting plans to verified financial data The importance of putting kids first throughout the process Why making decisions based on facts, not emotions, leads to better long-term outcomes About Our Guest Tina Keyes is a Florida Supreme Court certified family mediator, certified divorce coach, and co-parenting specialist. She is also certified in trauma-informed practice, special needs divorce, and high-conflict co-parenting. Through her Kids First Mediation framework, Tina helps families reduce stress, save money, and make child-focused decisions. Learn more: floridadivorcemediation.com Kids First program: kidsfirstmediation.com Resources Prepare for mediation with the MDS Financial Portrait™: mydivorcesolution.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Politically Entertaining with Evolving Randomness (PEER) by EllusionEmpire
Send us a textTommy Kilpatrick, a retired teacher and author, challenges conventional understanding of bank-issued credit cards by claiming they represent a worldwide banking fraud rather than legitimate debt. Following a personal financial crisis where he accumulated $85,000 in credit card debt, Kilpatrick discovered what he believes is a fundamental misrepresentation in how banks issue credit cards and collect payments.• Distinction between store-issued credit cards (legitimate debt backed by goods/services) versus bank-issued cards (allegedly fraudulent)• Bank-issued credit cards function more like gift cards since they lack traditional loan documentation (promissory notes, income verification, collateral)• After filing federal lawsuits against banks, Kilpatrick had his debts removed from his credit report within 45 days• The modern banking system allegedly creates money through accounting entries rather than lending existing funds• Process for challenging bank-issued credit card debt involves demanding evidence of legitimate debt (invoice, promissory note)• Working with accounting professionals can verify these claims and help prepare appropriate documentation• Even after challenging bank practices, consumers can still obtain new credit cards and rebuild credit scores• Banks allegedly profit approximately $23 per month from the average cardholder through feesTo learn more about challenging bank-issued credit card debt, check out Kilpatrick's book "Forgive and Forget: How to Nuke Your Credit Card Debt" available on Amazon, or schedule a 15-minute free consultation to receive the book for free.Show Notes1. Banks don't lend money: https://www.educatedinlaw.org/2017/03/banks-dont-take-deposits-banks-dont-lend-money/#2. Banks must have a promissory note for the bank to grant a loan.https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/4/4a/Modern_Money_Mechanics.pdfThe Federal Reserve says the only way a bank can make a loan is if you first sign a promissory note to pay and the bank will enter numbers in your free checking account. Page six, right column, second paragraph, second line.3. Fraud undoes all contracts.https://casetext.com/case/vokes-v-arthur-murray-incThe bank says you used the card, therefore you are contracted to our terms and conditions, but Hirschman v. Hodges, etc., (1910) In this case, the Florida Supreme Court found that a contract could be rescinded based on fraudulent misrepresentation.4. Banks match your deposits and all you have to do is to withdraw it and close the account; the same when the bank gave (GAVE YOU) a bank-issued alleged credit card that was in fact a “Gift Card” to induce you to be a customer, in this videSupport the showFollow your host atYouTube and Rumble for video contenthttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUxk1oJBVw-IAZTqChH70aghttps://rumble.com/c/c-4236474Facebook to receive updateshttps://www.facebook.com/EliasEllusion/Twitter (yes, I refuse to call it X)https://x.com/politicallyht LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/eliasmarty/
Who Is Jackie Fulford? Donna Adelson's Doppelgänger Lawyer Has a Shocking History Donna Adelson's choice of legal counsel might be the most overlooked plot twist in the Dan Markel murder saga — until you see who's sitting next to her in court. Enter Jackie L. Fulford: a former Florida judge who left the bench not in retirement — but under scandal. In this gripping breakdown, we dive into Fulford's disturbing history of judicial misconduct, including allegations of abuse of power, personal coercion, and interfering in a domestic battery case involving her live-in partner's son. Fulford was removed from the bench in 2015 by the Florida Supreme Court, following findings of a “permanent disability” that conveniently ended her ethics case just before a full trial. Now, nearly a decade later, she's back — not in a robe, but defending a woman accused of orchestrating one of the most calculated murder plots in Florida history. But here's where it gets eerie. Fulford and Adelson don't just share a courtroom — they share a look. A posture. A vibe. The resemblance is uncanny. Could Donna Adelson have chosen Fulford not just for legal strategy… but because she sees herself in her? Is this a calculated psychological tactic to reflect control, polish, and power? Or is it just coincidence? This isn't just a legal breakdown — it's a story about image, manipulation, and how power presents itself when the cameras are rolling. Listen as we dissect Fulford's career implosion, her ethical collapse, and why she might be the most controversial courtroom figure this side of the defense table. Subscribe for more true crime breakdowns, courtroom drama, and psychological deep dives — updated daily. #DonnaAdelson #JackieFulford #DanMarkel #TrueCrimeToday #HiddenKillers #CourtroomDrama #JudicialMisconduct #MurderTrial #CriminalDefense #RealStoryMedia Want to comment and watch this podcast as a video? Check out our YouTube Channel. https://www.youtube.com/@hiddenkillerspod Instagram https://www.instagram.com/hiddenkillerspod/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/hiddenkillerspod/ Tik-Tok https://www.tiktok.com/@hiddenkillerspod X Twitter https://x.com/tonybpod Listen Ad-Free On Apple Podcasts Here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/true-crime-today-premium-plus-ad-free-advance-episode/id1705422872
Hidden Killers With Tony Brueski | True Crime News & Commentary
Who Is Jackie Fulford? Donna Adelson's Doppelgänger Lawyer Has a Shocking History Donna Adelson's choice of legal counsel might be the most overlooked plot twist in the Dan Markel murder saga — until you see who's sitting next to her in court. Enter Jackie L. Fulford: a former Florida judge who left the bench not in retirement — but under scandal. In this gripping breakdown, we dive into Fulford's disturbing history of judicial misconduct, including allegations of abuse of power, personal coercion, and interfering in a domestic battery case involving her live-in partner's son. Fulford was removed from the bench in 2015 by the Florida Supreme Court, following findings of a “permanent disability” that conveniently ended her ethics case just before a full trial. Now, nearly a decade later, she's back — not in a robe, but defending a woman accused of orchestrating one of the most calculated murder plots in Florida history. But here's where it gets eerie. Fulford and Adelson don't just share a courtroom — they share a look. A posture. A vibe. The resemblance is uncanny. Could Donna Adelson have chosen Fulford not just for legal strategy… but because she sees herself in her? Is this a calculated psychological tactic to reflect control, polish, and power? Or is it just coincidence? This isn't just a legal breakdown — it's a story about image, manipulation, and how power presents itself when the cameras are rolling. Listen as we dissect Fulford's career implosion, her ethical collapse, and why she might be the most controversial courtroom figure this side of the defense table. Subscribe for more true crime breakdowns, courtroom drama, and psychological deep dives — updated daily. #DonnaAdelson #JackieFulford #DanMarkel #TrueCrimeToday #HiddenKillers #CourtroomDrama #JudicialMisconduct #MurderTrial #CriminalDefense #RealStoryMedia Want to comment and watch this podcast as a video? Check out our YouTube Channel. https://www.youtube.com/@hiddenkillerspod Instagram https://www.instagram.com/hiddenkillerspod/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/hiddenkillerspod/ Tik-Tok https://www.tiktok.com/@hiddenkillerspod X Twitter https://x.com/tonybpod Listen Ad-Free On Apple Podcasts Here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/true-crime-today-premium-plus-ad-free-advance-episode/id1705422872
We're excited to welcome back estate planning attorney Bill McQueen of Legacy Protection Lawyers! This episode dives into common estate planning mistakes, the nuances of trusts versus wills, and strategies to protect your assets and heirs. From funding trusts correctly to understanding step-up in basis, Medicaid planning, and safeguarding inheritances from creditors, Bill breaks down complex topics in a clear, practical way. Learn more about Bill and Legacy Protection Lawyers Contact info: www.legacyprotectionlawyers.com Phone 727-471-5868 Helpful Information: PFG Website: https://www.pfgprivatewealth.com/ Contact: 813-286-7776 Email: info@pfgprivatewealth.com Disclaimer: PFG Private Wealth Management, LLC is an SEC Registered Investment Advisor. Information presented is for educational purposes only and does not intend to make an offer or solicitation for the sale or purchase of any specific securities, investments, or investment strategies. The topics and information discussed during this podcast are not intended to provide tax or legal advice. Investments involve risk, and unless otherwise stated, are not guaranteed. Be sure to first consult with a qualified financial advisor and/or tax professional before implementing any strategy discussed on this podcast. Past performance is not indicative of future performance. Insurance products and services are offered and sold through individually licensed and appointed insurance agents. Marc: It's time once again for another edition of Retirement Planning Redefined with John and Nick, Financial advisors at PFG Private Wealth. Find them online at pfgprivatewealth.com. That's pfgprivatewealth.com. And we're excited to have our guest speaker, Bill McQueen, back with us to continue our conversation about estate planning, and trusts, and probate, and all these pieces that we need when it comes to our retirement strategies. And, of course, Bill is from Legacy Protection Lawyers based out of St. Petersburg, Florida, and we appreciate your time once again. Bill, welcome in. How are you? Bill McQueen: Doing wonderful. Thank you. Marc: Absolutely. Good to have you back. Nick, my friend. What's going on this week? You doing all right? Nick: Oh, yeah, just fighting the Florida heat. Marc: Well, if you picked Florida, right, it's hot. Nick: I will lose. Yeah, I will lose, for sure. Marc: I mean, versus Buffalo, right? You got your choice there. Nick: Yeah. Rochester, yeah, close enough. But, yeah- Marc: Oh, yeah. Okay. Nick: ... for sure. This time of year, I'd rather be there, but it's understandable. Marc: Par for the course? All right, I got you. Well, we're happy to have Bill back. And, of course, if you guys have questions about estate planning, definitely reach out to he and his team at LegacyProtectionLawyers.com. That's LegacyProtectionLawyers.com. And Bill, we were talking a lot about, obviously, trusts and funding them, and all the different kind of pieces that go in there. So, on this final episode, this part four of the series, we want to talk about some of the common mistakes and things that you guys see as professionals, then try to help people avoid these or highlight some of the things. So, we talked as we finished off about the funding issue of a trust. What are some other common mistakes that you tend to see? Bill McQueen: First off, I would say it might not be considered a common mistake, but a common misconception. A lot of people who think that, "Well, hey, I've created this revocable trust, and so my assets aren't in my individual name. Now they're held by my trust. And so, if something were to happen and I were to be sued, for some reason, my wealth is protected inside this trust." And unfortunately, that's not the case with a revocable trust. Again, the revocable trust just acts as a substitute for your last will and testament. And because the person who creates it has so much control over those assets, they can do anything they want with those assets. If somebody were to sue them, there'd be a lawsuit of some sort, and a judgment was entered against that person who created that trust. Those creditors can get at those assets that are inside the revocable trust no differently than if they were held in the person's individual name. So, that's something that we always need to advise clients that they're well aware of. There may be other ways to protect their wealth from creditors, but putting them in a revocable trust does not give them credit or protection from that standpoint. The other thing that comes up fairly frequently is, I have real estate, and should I put it in my revocable trust or not? If that real estate is something that's not your primary home or your residence here in Florida, we would definitely say do that, and especially if the clients own real estate outside the state of Florida. They might have a vacation home in North Carolina or something like that. If they own that home in their individual name and they die, and we're using a will-based plan, not only are we going to have to do a probate administration down here in the state of Florida, but we're also going to have to do one in the state of North Carolina as well, a second one, because each state's very protective of their real estate. Whereas if they go ahead and deed that real estate into the revocable trust, then we avoid probate both in Florida and in North Carolina. The issue, though, as to the primary residence, because under Florida law or Constitution, that's considered your homestead, and there are certain benefits that come from that, like a tax break, and it makes your home creditor protected, there are some restrictions on where your homestead can go, who can get it after your death if you're survived by a spouse or minor children. And so, that comes into play as to can we put that home into the revocable trust? And it used to be we would usually advise people not to do that if they're married because of these restrictions that were involved. Now we can do it if it's done properly, but there needs to be some special waiver language and things that are included in the deed. And unfortunately, if somebody puts it into their trust and they don't do the deed properly, then when they die, it's considered what we call an invalid devise. And that home may be going to people other than where they wanted it to go underneath the terms of their trust. So you can do it, and we do it for clients, but you definitely want to make sure you're getting good advice when you're setting something up like that. Nick: Yeah, I would say that's one of the most common questions that people have. Oftentimes, what leads people to act, obviously, hopefully, it's from working with advisors and stuff like that, but people talk amongst themselves. A lot of times, it's friend or family that are like, "Hey, my brother just retired and they got a trust put into place. Do you think I should do something like that?" And sometimes, the answer's like, "Well, hey, we've been telling you to do it for the last 10 years. But also, yes, there's things that can make sense to do, but you need to make sure that you work with somebody to understand the nuances." Because I would say one of the most common mistakes that people make is when they do talk with their peers, siblings, etc., that oftentimes they don't understand the dynamics between the differences of their situations. And so, somebody like Bill and the people at Bill's team can help walk them through how that works. And the majority of people, no matter what the situation is, when they're working with an advisor or an attorney, they have some sort of real estate holding, and so that's often one of the most common questions. Marc: Yeah. No, it makes sense. With you asking that and talking about that, Nick, Bill, what's your thoughts on people who say, "Well, who should draft this?" Right? Or, "Can I just go on to one of these, for lack of a better term, robo-advisors or robo-lawyers?" Right? I mean, you should be sitting down with an attorney in your area because state to state, law is probably a little bit different. I'm sure there's some things that are probably the same from place to place, but you want to make sure you're getting advice on your specific situation, not one of these cookie-cutter type deals. Bill McQueen: No, a really good point. Estate planning is specific per the state where you're residing, and that's the laws that will apply at the time of your death, so it is important that you're talking to an attorney who is licensed in that particular state where you live. But I would definitely advise against a do-it-yourself estate plan. Marc: Right. Bill McQueen: And there are a lot of, especially with the internet nowadays, various online programs where you can draft your own will or trust. The big problem with that is you'll never know if you're the drafter of a do-it-yourself will or trust, whether you did it right, because we won't know that. We won't implement it until after your death. Marc: And you won't know until it's too late. Well, it's too late for you, obviously, but your heirs are suffering. Right? Bill McQueen: So, if there's problems with it, we can't go back and correct it or change it. So that's very important. I also always tell people it would be ... I highly recommend you go to somebody who specializes in the area of trust and estates planning. You wouldn't want me to handle a criminal law matter for you, and you probably don't want a criminal lawyer to try to draft your will or trust. And just to show you what the problems can be, as recently as within the last decade here in our state of Florida, our Florida Supreme Court had a case, that's our highest court here in Florida, where a lady drafted her own will. Actually, I think it was pre-internet. It was a form will or whatnot, but she left out of that will what we call the residuary provision, which is where the remainder of her estate goes, and that's where the bulk of her estate would go. And it was very clear, the court said, that her intentions were to leave it to her sister, but that's not what the will said. It was done improperly. And so the wealth went to someone else, and the court said they felt really bad about that, but they have to go with what the will said. And the will was validly executed and everything. It just wasn't properly constructed, and so, unfortunately, her estate went somewhere other than where she wanted it to go, and we don't want that to happen. Marc: Yeah. In a world where we can turn to the internet for so much stuff, there's just certain areas where I feel like it's just not a good idea. Right? Legally has got to be one of those. It's got to be the tops for a lot of those things. Nick, what else? Nick: Yeah. And these things tie together a little bit. I was having a conversation with a client the other day, and I've seen this in other instances, where clients in their 40s, the parents of the clients are in their 70s, and there's some concern on future healthcare planning. And from the standpoint of the transition potentially to Medicaid and/or titling assets, whether it's a home, whether it's other types of assets like investments, so obviously non-retirement, putting the kids on accounts to try to protect those assets per se and the future inheritance while somebody to qualify. Now, I know this is a long, convoluted thing, but I guess, just in general, especially in the state of Florida, maybe helping people understand is that primary homestead residence protected and/or just the definition or an explanation of step up in cost basis and how big of a deal that can be to somebody down the road. I know it's a lot there, so break it up and down, whatever. Bill McQueen: That was a lot, Nick. The issue regarding Medicaid, what I would say there is if we have clients where somebody, a parent, has maybe been diagnosed with early onset of dementia or something like that, so there's a high likelihood that they are going to need long-term care in the future. When that arises, they'd like to qualify for Medicaid as soon as possible. We can help them do that through using a trust. It's an irrevocable form of a trust where we can move assets that otherwise would be what we call countable assets, meaning that the government says you have to spend those assets first before Medicaid will take over and start paying for the long-term care. And we can move them into this irrevocable trust so that when they do reach that stage that they need the long-term care, hopefully, they can qualify right away. And this wealth that's in this trust will then ultimately still be there and able to go on to their kids rather than go to pay for the nursing home care. That, though, has to be done well in advance of qualifying for Medicaid or trying to, basically, five years in advance. So, this is definitely a very proactive, forward-looking planning-type procedure. And it's not something that can be done once they need to get on Medicaid right away or on the near-term standpoint from that part of the equation. Here's my basic advice. Whether it's Medicaid or anything else, people will say, "Hey, well, what I'm going to do, I'm going to put my children's names on accounts with me in joint names, so one, they can maybe help pay my bills and stuff like that. Two, when I die, that asset will just pass by operational law to my child, so it won't go through the probate process, and I don't have to worry about probate." I highly advise clients typically not to do that. One: when you put your child's name on that account with you jointly, at least as to regards to the bank or the brokerage house, that child now has the right to take all those funds that are in that account. Hopefully, they won't do that while you're still alive, but that could possibly happen. But two, the child might get sued or go through a divorce, and somebody else now might be trying to take those funds that are in the parent's account. So we would highly advise against that and instead, let that child maybe be given a durable power of attorney that I think Nicole spoke with you about in one of the earlier episodes so that they can help pay bills and do stuff like that, but they have no ownership rights in those accounts that maybe somebody else could get at those accounts that the parents will need before their death. One big thing for estate tax or death tax planning purposes, the amount of wealth now that people can leave at their death or give away during their lifetime is at an all-time high watermark. Very few people pay federal estate taxes anymore, less than one-tenth of 1% of the US population. And here in Florida, as a Florida resident, all we're concerned about is the federal estate tax laws. So, instead, what we focus on is income tax planning for our clients. And so it would be much better for actually those parents not to, for instance, give away assets before they die to their children because what happens is if the parents die owning assets that have a lot of appreciation in them, that's been unrealized, and by example, maybe they've got a house that they bought for $200,000 30 years ago that today is worth a couple of million dollars here in Florida, if they give that house away to the child before their death, the child gets what we call a basis in that asset that's a carryover basis. It's equal to the $200,000 the parents paid for it. And so, if the children ever sell that house, maybe after the parents die, they're going to have to recognize income tax or capital gains tax on that million eight of gain. If instead they hold onto the home, the parents, and when they die, they leave it to the children, that home then gets a step-up in basis for income tax purposes to what the house is worth at the time of the parent's death, the $2 million. So if the children sell the house soon after their parent died, they're going to pay no income tax, no capital gains tax, they get the full $2 million, and Uncle Sam doesn't take any of it in the form of income taxes. So, it's very important that people be cognizant of what the potential income tax effects could be if they're talking about giving away assets prior to their death versus holding onto them and passing them to their beneficiaries after death. Marc: Yeah, tax efficiency, right? It's just as important when we're no longer here, and our heirs would certainly appreciate that as well. Any final thoughts or anything that I didn't cover, Bill, that you'd like to share with folks when it comes to estate planning in general and what you guys do at your firm? Bill McQueen: Sure. I guess one thing I would just mention, and we've talked a lot about probate avoidance, but with a trust, a trust can do a whole lot more. And I guess I would just give one example. It's not uncommon for us to have families nowadays that are often blended families, so it's a married couple and they have children from earlier marriages. For those of my generation that grew up watching The Brady Bunch, a family like that. And by using a trust properly, what usually most married couples want to do, one thing we don't know from an estate planning standpoint which spouse is going to die first. And usually, the spouses want to make sure the surviving spouse is well taken care of for his or her remaining lifetime, and then the assets go down to all of their children from both sides of the family. So, one way to do that is just when the first spouse dies, they leave everything outright to the surviving spouse, with the hope and understanding they're going to leave everything to all six children in this example. But what can happen is when they do that and they leave the assets to the surviving spouse, that now becomes his or her assets. And again, they can change their estate plan after that first spouse died. Instead, what can be done through that revocable trust is we leave assets into a new trust, a marital trust for the benefit of that surviving spouse, so he or she's well taken care of for the rest of their life, but that trust, that marital trust, is irrevocable. And so, the first spouse to die knows their surviving spouse is going to be well taken care of, but they also know when the surviving spouse dies, where the assets are going to go, and it's locked in that it will go to their children as well and not just maybe the surviving spouse's children. And then the last thing I would say is when we pass the assets to the children, often, most people think the easiest thing is just to leave assets to the children outright. And that can be done that way, but it's often not the most effective. Often, nowadays, we will leave the assets to the children in a trust, and we'll let the children be the trustee of their own trust so they get their share of the inheritance. They have it in their own trust that they're the trustee of, but this type of trust does give that child asset protection. So, if the child ever gets sued during their lifetime, be it age 25 or 85, a creditor can't get at the inheritance inside that trust. Also, if the child is married or gets married and unfortunately goes through a divorce, their former spouse has no rights to the assets inside this trust either, because legally, the child does not own those assets individually. They're owned by this trust that the child controls and the child's the primary beneficiary of, but it's insulated from what I'll call bad people being able to get at their inheritance from that standpoint. So, that's really how we try to protect that inheritance and pass it down to the people we want and keep those creditors and predators away from their inheritance from that standpoint. Marc: Got you. Yeah. I'll ask you this final question, and I set Nicole up with this as well. Just in general, I think, mindsets have changed through the years, but people often, many years ago, thought, "Well, you have to be really wealthy to A, have a financial advisor, and B, have a trust. You must be a Rockefeller or something like that." And that's just not the case anymore. So, are you seeing more people starting to realize or understand that this could be a useful tool for them in working with someone, and not just something for the ultrarich? Bill McQueen: Oh, definitely. We serve clients of all different sizes and net worths, and I tell my clients there is no bright line test as to when it makes sense to have a trust as your primary estate planning document versus a will. But if I had to use a rule of thumb, I would say if somebody has assets that are over a couple of hundred thousand dollars, it probably is more beneficial to use a trust as the primary estate planning document rather than a will because, again, looking back to my youth, there used to be a commercial, the Fram oil filter commercial, that they always said, "Pay me now or pay me later." Marc: Right, yeah. Bill McQueen: Yes, putting a trust-based plan into place is probably more expensive than a will-based plan, but it's not that much more expensive, and all the benefits you get far exceed the cost of when they do die, what it's going to cost going through the probate process. So, just looking at it from a cost factor alone, I would say most anybody would pretty much benefit from having a trust-based plan versus a will-based plan. Marc: Bill, does that include the home value as well? Obviously, those have skyrocketed the past few years, so it'd be pretty easy to get to a couple of hundred grand. Bill McQueen: It would, yes. And I would include the home value in that as well, yes. Marc: Okay. All right, Nick, any final thoughts from you before we go? Nick: Really, I think the takeaway, and a lot of things have been pointed out, and something that we try to emphasize with people, whether it's financial planning, whether it's legal planning, is that strategy and how just a couple of decisions can make a dramatic impact on somebody's overall situation and plan. Oftentimes, and Mark, you alluded to it, where people, for many years, had this perception of, whether it's an advisor or an attorney, it's something that only people with really substantial amounts of money have. And if anything, people with substantial amounts of money, they have a bigger buffer. You know what I mean? And can make more mistakes and recover, but really, a handful of decisions for a typical client that's worked hard their whole life, saved a whole bunch, paid off their house, want to enjoy their retirement and hopefully pass on some money to their kids, they can really benefit from strategy planning and adapting to what's going on. Marc: Yeah. For lack of a better term, Middle America, right? I mean, a lot of folks in Middle America could certainly use a team, a financial and legal team. And so, if you need some help, reach out to, of course, Bill and Nicole and their team there at Legacy Protection Lawyers. That's LegacyProtectionLawyers.com. That's where you can find them online, Legacyprotectionlawyers.com, or call 727-471-5868. We'll put a link in the show descriptions of this week's podcast as well. And you can also, as always, go to Pfgprivatewealth.com to get in touch with John and Nick. Don't forget to subscribe to the podcast, Retirement Planning Redefined, on Apple, or Spotify, or whatever podcasting app you enjoy using. Bill, thank you so much for your time. Great information. We really enjoyed having you here. Bill McQueen: Thanks for having me, Mark and Nick, appreciate it very much. Enjoy it. Nick: Thanks, Bill. Marc: And we'll see you next time here on Retirement Planning Redefined with John and Nick.
Genesis Robinson, executive director of Equal Ground, updates us on the recent Florida Supreme Court decision that has “turned its back on Black voters.”Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/tavis-smiley--6286410/support.
Raising a child now costs $319,000. Yet most parents are told to make it work with a court-issued child support number based on income and overnights.
Today's West Coast Cookbook & Speakeasy Podcast for our especially special Daily Special, Blue Moon Spirits Fridays, is now available on the Spreaker Player!Starting off in the Bistro Cafe, Trump lost four court cases within hours of each other.Then, on the rest of the menu, Trump's surgeon general pick criticizes others' conflicts but profits from wellness product sales that puts money in her own pocket; a jury awarded a California prosecutor $3 million after she was forced out of her position; and, seventy law professors, attorneys and former Florida Supreme Court justices filed a Florida Bar complaint accusing Pam Bondi of ‘misconduct' as US Attorney General.After the break, we move to the Chef's Table where China issued warrants for Taiwanese hackers and banned a business for pro-independence links; and, the private lunar lander from Japan crashed into the moon in a failed mission.All that and more, on West Coast Cookbook & Speakeasy with Chef de Cuisine Justice Putnam.Bon Appétit!The Netroots Radio Live PlayerKeep Your Resistance Radio Beaming 24/7/365!“Structural linguistics is a bitterly divided and unhappy profession, and a large number of its practitioners spend many nights drowning their sorrows in Ouisghian Zodahs.” ― Douglas Adams "The Restaurant at the End of the Universe"Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/west-coast-cookbook-speakeasy--2802999/support.
Divorce is tough. But when your child is dealing with mental health challenges, it adds a layer of urgency most families aren't prepared for. In this episode, Florida Supreme Court Certified Mediator Matthew Brickman tackle the sensitive intersection of child custody, mental health, and mediation.
It's Thursday, May 22nd, A.D. 2025. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes heard on 125 radio stations and at www.TheWorldview.com. I'm Adam McManus. (Adam@TheWorldview.com) By Jonathan Clark Pakistani Muslim man abducted, forcibly converted, and “married” Christian teen A Christian 15-year-old girl in Pakistan reunited with her parents yesterday after being abducted five months ago. A 29-year-old Muslim man, Muhammad Anees, kidnapped her with four other men from her aunt's home, forcibly converted her to Islam, and married her. The girl suffered abuse for months and is now pregnant. Attorney Hanif Hameed told Morning Star News, “This is a clear case of false conversion and fake marriage to cover the crime of abduction and rape.” Sadly, such cases are increasing in the South Asian country. Pakistan is ranked eighth on the Open Doors' World Watch List of nations where it is most difficult to be a Christian. Billy Graham Association to host evangelism meeting in Germany The Billy Graham Evangelistic Association is hosting the largest meeting on evangelism in 25 years in Berlin, Germany later this month. It's the same location that Rev. Billy Graham held the first World Congress on Evangelism in 1966. Evangelist Franklin Graham is focusing the upcoming event on the church in Europe. Listen to his comments to CBN News. GRAHAM: “We want to ignite a fire in Europe to where there's an excitement for evangelism and the churches are willing to be bold and not ashamed of the Gospel. “We've got Ukrainian churches coming. We have churches coming from Russia. You know, some say, ‘These countries are at war.' Yes, they are, but the Gospel is more powerful than any of that stuff.” In Romans 1:16, the Apostle Paul wrote, “I am not ashamed of the Gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes.” Trump announces “Golden Dome” missile defense system U.S. President Donald Trump announced plans for a $175 billion missile defense system on Tuesday. U.S. Space Force General Michael Guetlein is leading the project, known as the “Golden Dome.” Trump said the system should be completed in about three years. Defunding Planned Parenthood remains in Trump's budget bill A handful of conservative Republicans, who hesitated to support Trump's “big, beautiful bill,” appear ready to support the massive package after a furious pressure campaign from President Trump and Speaker Mike Johnson, reports The Hill. After meeting with Trump at the White House on Wednesday afternoon, and then huddling together afterward on Capitol Hill, the members of the conservative Freedom Caucus emerged to say they're on the cusp of supporting the package — if a laundry list of changes promised by the White House is reflected in the final proposal. Their newfound enthusiasm appears to stem from assurances Trump and Johnson made during the White House meeting, including a promise from the president to issue more executive orders addressing some of the spending concerns the conservatives couldn't secure in the legislation, and expanding the rollback of green energy tax credits enacted in the Democrats' 2022 Inflation Reduction Act. The bill seeks to deliver on Trump's key campaign promises, including making permanent Trump's 2017 tax cuts and eliminating taxes on tips. And, thanks in part to the calls of Worldview listeners, the defunding of Planned Parenthood remains in the bill. Court: Florida should require parental consent for a minor's abortion Last Friday, a federal appeals court ruled against a Florida law that allows minors to get abortions without parental consent. A three-judge panel of the U.S. Fifth District Court of Appeals ruled that the law was unconstitutional and violated parental rights. The decision stated, “Whatever asserted constitutional abortion rights may have justified Florida's [law] in the past unequivocally have been repudiated by both the U.S. Supreme Court and the Florida Supreme Court.” Married, employed, church-attending people happier Harvard University recently published their Global Flourishing Study which surveyed 200,000 people across 22 countries over the past five years. The study found people experienced higher levels of wellbeing when married, employed, and attending religious services. Professor Tyler VanderWeele led the research. He noted, “Religious service attendance was one of the factors most consistently associated with present or subsequent wellbeing, across countries and across outcomes.” Anniversary of First Council of Nicaea And finally, this month marks the anniversary of the First Council of Nicaea, 1,700 years ago. In May A.D. 325, about 300 Christian leaders convened in the city of Nicaea, located in modern-day Turkey. The council dealt with the doctrine of the Trinity. In particular, the church at the time had to refute the heresy of Arianism, which denied that Jesus is fully and eternally divine. The council went on to affirm the Trinity and Christ as fully God in the Nicene Creed. It is recited by churches worldwide to this day. The creed affirms there is “one Lord Jesus Christ, the only-begotten Son of God, begotten of the Father before all worlds; God of God, Light of Light, very God of very God; begotten, not made, being of one substance with the Father, by Whom all things were made.” John 1:1 and 4 says, “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. ... In Him was life, and the life was the light of men.” Close And that's The Worldview on this Thursday, May 22nd, in the year of our Lord 2025. Subscribe for free by Spotify, Amazon Music or by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com. Or get the Generations app through Google Play or The App Store. I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.
A listener writes in and asks, "Are there rules or guidelines to introducing children to a new partner after a divorce and can my spouse legally prevent this?"Matthew Brickman answers your most frequently asked questions about divorce as he goes over several key points:Assume nothing.Know who you are before you get married. Know who you're getting married to. Know the laws and statutes in the state you live in.Don't take advice from anyone who isn't a legal professional in the state in which you're getting married and living in.If you have a matter, disagreement, or dispute you need professional help with then visit iMediate.com - Email mbrickman@ichatmediation or Call (877) 822-1479Matthew Brickman is a Florida Supreme Court certified family and appellate mediator who has worked in the 15th and 19th Judicial Circuit Courts since 2009 and 2006 respectively. But what makes him qualified to speak on the subject of conflict resolution is his own personal experience with divorce.Download Matthew's book on iTunes for FREE:You're Not the Only One - The Agony of Divorce: The Joy of Peaceful ResolutionMatthew Brickman President iMediate Inc. Mediator 20836CFAiMediateInc.comSCHEDULE YOUR MEDIATION: https://ichatmediation.com/calendar/OFFICIAL BLOG: https://ichatmediation.com/podcastOFFICIAL YOUTUBE: http://www.youtube.com/ichatmediationOFFICIAL LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ichat-mediation/ABOUT MATTHEW BRICKMAN:Matthew Brickman is a Supreme Court of Florida certified county civil family mediator who has worked in the 15th and 19th Judicial Circuit Courts since 2009 and 2006 respectively. He is also an appellate certified mediator who mediates a variety of small claims, civil, and family cases. Mr. Brickman recently graduated both the Harvard Business School Negotiation Mastery Program and the Negotiation Master Class at Harvard Law School.
Matthew Brickman speaks with Lawyer and Forensic Scientist Tad A. Nelson on MediateThis! to discuss retirement plans from mediation - there isn't one. With over 400 jury trials under his belt, Board Certified in Criminal Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization for 30 years, and recognized as a Super Lawyer over 10 consecutive years, Tad Nelson is a force to be reckoned with in the courtroom. His reputation for aggressive representation, combined with an unparalleled level of expertise, has made him the go-to criminal defense attorney in Galveston County and beyond. Former Assistant District AttorneyBoard Certified® in 1996Certified SFST InstructorCertified in the DRE ProtocolTad has not only mastered the law—he has mastered the science behind it. Achieving the prestigious Lawyer-Scientist designation from the American Chemical Society, he further solidified his expertise by pursuing a Master's in Forensic Toxicology from the University of Florida. This deep understanding of forensic science gives him a cutting edge in cases involving DWI, drug charges, sexual assaults and other forensic-heavy criminal matters.Beyond his scientific acumen, Tad has earned the highest possible AV rating from Martindale-Hubbell, an honor recognizing both legal skill and ethical integrity. His aggressive nature, wicked courtroom skills, and commitment to justice make him a wrecking ball when it comes to defending the rights of his clients.Website: https://tadlaw.com If you have a matter, disagreement, or dispute you need professional help with then visit iMediate.com - Email mbrickman@ichatmediation or Call (877) 822-1479Matthew Brickman is a Florida Supreme Court certified family and appellate mediator who has worked in the 15th and 19th Judicial Circuit Courts since 2009 and 2006 respectively. But what makes him qualified to speak on the subject of conflict resolution is his own personal experience with divorce.Download Matthew's book on iTunes for FREE:You're Not the Only One - The Agony of Divorce: The Joy of Peaceful ResolutionMatthew Brickman President iMediate Inc. Mediator 20836CFASCHEDULE YOUR MEDIATION: https://ichatmediation.com/calendar/OFFICIAL BLOG: https://ichatmediation.com/podcastOFFICIAL YOUTUBE: http://www.youtube.com/ichatmediationOFFICIAL LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ichat-mediation/ABOUT MATTHEW BRICKMAN:Matthew Brickman is a Supreme Court of Florida certified county civil family mediator who has worked in the 15th and 19th Judicial Circuit Courts since 2009 and 2006 respectively. He is also an appellate certified mediator who mediates a variety of small claims, civil, and family cases. Mr. Brickman recently graduated both the Harvard Business School Negotiation Mastery Program and the Negotiation Master Class at Harvard Law School.
Matthew Brickman speaks with Lawyer and Forensic Scientist Tad A. Nelson on MediateThis! to discuss the the impact someone having a mental heath crisis can have on employment and divorce. With over 400 jury trials under his belt, Board Certified in Criminal Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization for 30 years, and recognized as a Super Lawyer over 10 consecutive years, Tad Nelson is a force to be reckoned with in the courtroom. His reputation for aggressive representation, combined with an unparalleled level of expertise, has made him the go-to criminal defense attorney in Galveston County and beyond. Former Assistant District AttorneyBoard Certified® in 1996Certified SFST InstructorCertified in the DRE ProtocolTad has not only mastered the law—he has mastered the science behind it. Achieving the prestigious Lawyer-Scientist designation from the American Chemical Society, he further solidified his expertise by pursuing a Master's in Forensic Toxicology from the University of Florida. This deep understanding of forensic science gives him a cutting edge in cases involving DWI, drug charges, sexual assaults and other forensic-heavy criminal matters.Beyond his scientific acumen, Tad has earned the highest possible AV rating from Martindale-Hubbell, an honor recognizing both legal skill and ethical integrity. His aggressive nature, wicked courtroom skills, and commitment to justice make him a wrecking ball when it comes to defending the rights of his clients.Website: https://tadlaw.com If you have a matter, disagreement, or dispute you need professional help with then visit iMediate.com - Email mbrickman@ichatmediation or Call (877) 822-1479Matthew Brickman is a Florida Supreme Court certified family and appellate mediator who has worked in the 15th and 19th Judicial Circuit Courts since 2009 and 2006 respectively. But what makes him qualified to speak on the subject of conflict resolution is his own personal experience with divorce.Download Matthew's book on iTunes for FREE:You're Not the Only One - The Agony of Divorce: The Joy of Peaceful ResolutionMatthew Brickman President iMediate Inc. Mediator 20836CFASCHEDULE YOUR MEDIATION: https://ichatmediation.com/calendar/OFFICIAL BLOG: https://ichatmediation.com/podcastOFFICIAL YOUTUBE: http://www.youtube.com/ichatmediationOFFICIAL LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ichat-mediation/ABOUT MATTHEW BRICKMAN:Matthew Brickman is a Supreme Court of Florida certified county civil family mediator who has worked in the 15th and 19th Judicial Circuit Courts since 2009 and 2006 respectively. He is also an appellate certified mediator who mediates a variety of small claims, civil, and family cases. Mr. Brickman recently graduated both the Harvard Business School Negotiation Mastery Program and the Negotiation Master Class at Harvard Law School.
Matthew Brickman speaks with Lawyer and Forensic Scientist Tad A. Nelson on MediateThis! to discuss the correlation between divorce and the effect it can have the psyche post-divorce. With over 400 jury trials under his belt, Board Certified in Criminal Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization for 30 years, and recognized as a Super Lawyer over 10 consecutive years, Tad Nelson is a force to be reckoned with in the courtroom. His reputation for aggressive representation, combined with an unparalleled level of expertise, has made him the go-to criminal defense attorney in Galveston County and beyond. Former Assistant District AttorneyBoard Certified® in 1996Certified SFST InstructorCertified in the DRE ProtocolTad has not only mastered the law—he has mastered the science behind it. Achieving the prestigious Lawyer-Scientist designation from the American Chemical Society, he further solidified his expertise by pursuing a Master's in Forensic Toxicology from the University of Florida. This deep understanding of forensic science gives him a cutting edge in cases involving DWI, drug charges, sexual assaults and other forensic-heavy criminal matters.Beyond his scientific acumen, Tad has earned the highest possible AV rating from Martindale-Hubbell, an honor recognizing both legal skill and ethical integrity. His aggressive nature, wicked courtroom skills, and commitment to justice make him a wrecking ball when it comes to defending the rights of his clients.Website: https://tadlaw.com If you have a matter, disagreement, or dispute you need professional help with then visit iMediate.com - Email mbrickman@ichatmediation or Call (877) 822-1479Matthew Brickman is a Florida Supreme Court certified family and appellate mediator who has worked in the 15th and 19th Judicial Circuit Courts since 2009 and 2006 respectively. But what makes him qualified to speak on the subject of conflict resolution is his own personal experience with divorce.Download Matthew's book on iTunes for FREE:You're Not the Only One - The Agony of Divorce: The Joy of Peaceful ResolutionMatthew Brickman President iMediate Inc. Mediator 20836CFASCHEDULE YOUR MEDIATION: https://ichatmediation.com/calendar/OFFICIAL BLOG: https://ichatmediation.com/podcastOFFICIAL YOUTUBE: http://www.youtube.com/ichatmediationOFFICIAL LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ichat-mediation/ABOUT MATTHEW BRICKMAN:Matthew Brickman is a Supreme Court of Florida certified county civil family mediator who has worked in the 15th and 19th Judicial Circuit Courts since 2009 and 2006 respectively. He is also an appellate certified mediator who mediates a variety of small claims, civil, and family cases. Mr. Brickman recently graduated both the Harvard Business School Negotiation Mastery Program and the Negotiation Master Class at Harvard Law School.
In This Episode Erin and Weer'd discuss: Florida's governor calling for the repeal of post-Parkland gun laws... ...but the Florida Supreme Court has upheld those laws' ban on adults under 21 from buying firearms. and Australia, unhappy with the results of their gun bans, is now seeking to ban machetes. David tells us the best way to police your brass; Myles continues the review of his Henry Lever Action Supreme Rifle. Did you know that we have a Patreon? Join now for the low, low cost of $4/month (that's $1/podcast) and you'll get to listen to our podcast on Friday instead of Mondays, as well as patron-only content like mag dump episodes, our hilarious blooper reels and film tracks. Show Notes Main Topic DeSantis wants Legislature to ‘reevaluate' gun safety laws passed after Parkland Eleventh Circuit Upholds Florida Under-21 Gun Sales Ban First Machete Ban In Australia Victorian government under fire over machete ban as search continues for killers | 9 News Australia Gun Lovers and Other Strangers Nut Wizzard Brass Catchers Brass Retriever - Brownells Tactical Brass Recovery Sunk Cost Fallacy Brownells - AR-15/M16 Brass-SAVR Brass Catcher Brena Bock Author Page David Bock Author Page Team And More Southpaw Corner Henry Lever Action Supreme
Matthew Brickman and family law attorney and mediator Rebecca Palmer Esq. sit down for their 3rd interview on MediateThis! to discuss the correlation between divorce and the effect it can have the psyche post-divorce.Rebecca L. Palmer is a Family & Marital Law attorney practicing in Orlando, FL and serves clients throughout the state of Florida. Palmer has a broad background in providing intimate legal advice to those in need at a major time of change in their life. She has been an advocate for her clients for over 25 years and continues to have steadfast continued relationship even after a divorce has been finalized. Palmer is a champion in the courtroom as well as knowledgeable in alternative domestic dispute resolution avenues like mediation and Collaborative Law. If you have a matter, disagreement, or dispute you need professional help with then visit iMediate.com - Email mbrickman@ichatmediation or Call (877) 822-1479Matthew Brickman is a Florida Supreme Court certified family and appellate mediator who has worked in the 15th and 19th Judicial Circuit Courts since 2009 and 2006 respectively. But what makes him qualified to speak on the subject of conflict resolution is his own personal experience with divorce.Download Matthew's book on iTunes for FREE:You're Not the Only One - The Agony of Divorce: The Joy of Peaceful ResolutionMatthew Brickman President iMediate Inc. Mediator 20836CFAiMediateInc.comSCHEDULE YOUR MEDIATION: https://ichatmediation.com/calendar/OFFICIAL BLOG: https://ichatmediation.com/podcastOFFICIAL YOUTUBE: http://www.youtube.com/ichatmediationOFFICIAL LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ichat-mediation/ABOUT MATTHEW BRICKMAN:Matthew Brickman is a Supreme Court of Florida certified county civil family mediator who has worked in the 15th and 19th Judicial Circuit Courts since 2009 and 2006 respectively. He is also an appellate certified mediator who mediates a variety of small claims, civil, and family cases. Mr. Brickman recently graduated both the Harvard Business School Negotiation Mastery Program and the Negotiation Master Class at Harvard Law School.
2/28/25 - As we approach our country's 250th anniversary, we find ourselves at a crucial crossroads where the choices between life and death, blessing and curse, carry profound consequences. Will America choose the right path? We'll also cover Vivek Ramaswamy's announcement of his bid for Governor of Ohio and recap some baffling comments on personhood coming out of the Florida Supreme Court.
Matthew Brickman and Dana Casperson reveal tactics on how to your find your power in negotiation, mediation and everyday life situations. Dana is a practitioner of "constructive conflict", award-winning performing artist, TEDx speaker, and best-selling author. She works with individuals, workplaces, and communities worldwide as a trainer, coach, consultant, and dialogue designer. Dana draws on the knowledge and insight gained from her experience and training as a mediator and conflict analyst as well as her 40 years career as a performing arts innovator.Conflict Is an Opportunity: Twenty Fundamental Decisions for Navigating Difficult Times on Amazon.If you have a matter, disagreement, or dispute you need professional help with then visit iMediate.com - Email mbrickman@ichatmediation or Call (877) 822-1479Matthew Brickman is a Florida Supreme Court certified family and appellate mediator who has worked in the 15th and 19th Judicial Circuit Courts since 2009 and 2006 respectively. But what makes him qualified to speak on the subject of conflict resolution is his own personal experience with divorce.Download Matthew's book on iTunes for FREE:You're Not the Only One - The Agony of Divorce: The Joy of Peaceful ResolutionMatthew Brickman President iMediate Inc. Mediator 20836CFAiMediateInc.comSCHEDULE YOUR MEDIATION: https://ichatmediation.com/calendar/OFFICIAL BLOG: https://ichatmediation.com/podcastOFFICIAL YOUTUBE: http://www.youtube.com/ichatmediationOFFICIAL LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ichat-mediation/ABOUT MATTHEW BRICKMAN:Matthew Brickman is a Supreme Court of Florida certified county civil family mediator who has worked in the 15th and 19th Judicial Circuit Courts since 2009 and 2006 respectively. He is also an appellate certified mediator who mediates a variety of small claims, civil, and family cases. Mr. Brickman recently graduated both the Harvard Business School Negotiation Mastery Program and the Negotiation Master Class at Harvard Law School.
On February 6, Robert debated Judge Adam Tanenbaum (First DCA) about whether the prior-panel rule applies in the DCAs. The rule requires 3-judge appellate panels to follow prior-panel precedent unless the court overrules the prior precedent en banc or the precedent has been overruled by the Florida Supreme Court. Robert is a proponent of the rule, which he argues flows from Florida Rule of Appellate Procedure 9.331 (the en banc rule) and is supported by Florida Supreme Court precedent. Judge Tanenbaum is an opponent of the rule, which he argues has no basis in law and is contrary to article V, section 4(a) of Florida's Constitution. Robert co-authored an article in The Florida Bar Journal explaining his position. Judge Tanenbaum's position is best articulated in his concurring opinions in Normandy Ins. Co. v. Bouayad, 372 So. 3d 671 (Fla. 1st DCA 2023) (en banc), review granted, No. SC2023-1576, 2024 WL 4449458 (Fla. Oct. 9, 2024) and BAM Trading Servs. Inc. v. Off. of Fin. Regul., 395 So. 3d 687 (Fla. 1st DCA 2024) (en banc).Thanks to the Hillsborough County Bar Association for hosting the event and to David Costello of the Florida Office of the Attorney General and Dimitri Peteves of Creed and Gowdy P.A. for an amazing job organizing and moderating the debate. Please send your questions, comments, and feedback to summarilypod@gmail.com.Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not an advertisement for legal services. The information provided on this podcast is not intended to be legal advice. You should not rely on what you hear on this podcast as legal advice. If you have a legal issue, please contact a lawyer. The views and opinion expressed by the hosts and guests are solely those of the individuals and do not represent the views or opinions of the firms or organizations with which they are affiliated or the views or opinions of this podcast's advertisers. This podcast is available for private, non-commercial use only. Any editing, reproduction, or redistribution of this podcast for commercial use or monetary gain without the expressed, written consent of the podcast's creator is prohibited.
In this episode: Ron DeSantis and Republicans in the Florida Legislature end a month of fighting over immigration by agreeing to a package of bills that crack down on college kids — but cower from big corporations. Florida's new immigration legislation is most interesting for the way that Republican state lawmakers used the process to push back against DeSantis after years of playing a submissive second fiddle to the governor. And now the Republican-appointed Florida Supreme Court is kicking his butt, too. Show notes: Jim DeFede analysis: Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis backs down on immigration Debbie Mayfield vs. Secretary, Florida Department of State Car dealers try to keep a chokehold on new car sales in FloridaQuestions or comments? Send ‘em to Garcia.JasonR@gmail.comListen to the show: Apple | SpotifyWatch the show: YouTube Get full access to Seeking Rents at jasongarcia.substack.com/subscribe
Dana Casperson is a practitioner of "constructive conflict", award-winning performing artist, TEDx speaker, and best-selling author. She works with individuals, workplaces, and communities worldwide as a trainer, coach, consultant, and dialogue designer. Dana draws on the knowledge and insight gained from her experience and training as a mediator and conflict analyst as well as her 40 years career as a performing arts innovator.Dana's work integrates conflict engagement practices with choreographic design to create effective, impactful teaching and communication methods. In collaboration with communities, governments, and foundations in the U.S., Europe, and the UK, she has designed and facilitated large-scale action dialogues on challenging topics ranging from immigration to violence, bringing together thousands of people from diverse communities across the world.Conflict Is an Opportunity: Twenty Fundamental Decisions for Navigating Difficult Times on Amazon.If you have a matter, disagreement, or dispute you need professional help with then visit iMediate.com - Email mbrickman@ichatmediation or Call (877) 822-1479Matthew Brickman is a Florida Supreme Court certified family and appellate mediator who has worked in the 15th and 19th Judicial Circuit Courts since 2009 and 2006 respectively. But what makes him qualified to speak on the subject of conflict resolution is his own personal experience with divorce.Download Matthew's book on iTunes for FREE:You're Not the Only One - The Agony of Divorce: The Joy of Peaceful ResolutionMatthew Brickman President iMediate Inc. Mediator 20836CFAiMediateInc.comSCHEDULE YOUR MEDIATION: https://ichatmediation.com/calendar/OFFICIAL BLOG: https://ichatmediation.com/podcastOFFICIAL YOUTUBE: http://www.youtube.com/ichatmediationOFFICIAL LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ichat-mediation/ABOUT MATTHEW BRICKMAN:Matthew Brickman is a Supreme Court of Florida certified county civil family mediator who has worked in the 15th and 19th Judicial Circuit Courts since 2009 and 2006 respectively. He is also an appellate certified mediator who mediates a variety of small claims, civil, and family cases. Mr. Brickman recently graduated both the Harvard Business School Negotiation Mastery Program and the Negotiation Master Class at Harvard Law School.
In this episode of The Life Shift Podcast, Jackie Otero, a dedicated family mediator and passionate business owner, opens up about her inspiring journey through personal and professional challenges. She shares a pivotal moment that transformed her life—navigating the complexities of her marriage to someone struggling with addiction—and illustrates how she emerged with newfound strength, discovering her purpose in helping others through divorce mediation. This heartfelt conversation explores themes of resilience, self-discovery, and the empowerment that comes from embracing change. Jackie's story beautifully exemplifies our ability to rebuild and find joy even after facing life's toughest trials.Takeaways:- Jackie's journey highlights the vital role of resilience when tackling overwhelming personal challenges.- Her experience navigating through the chaos of addiction reinforced that it's okay to seek support from others.- She is a strong advocate for peaceful divorces, striving to reduce conflict for the families involved in such transitions.- Through her work, Jackie aims to guide others toward constructive solutions during difficult times.Jackie Otero is a Florida Supreme Court-certified family mediator, dedicated business professional, and respected leader in higher education based in Winter Park, Florida. With a Master's degree in business, a Bachelor's degree in sociology, and over 20 years of enriching experience managing hundreds of employees and thousands of clients, she has held roles as a business professor, university dean, and conduct officer before finding her calling in family mediation. By blending her personal experiences in navigating tough family dynamics with her professional expertise in conflict resolution, Jackie is committed to helping people gracefully transition into their next chapter in life. Social Media: @jackieomediatorWebsite: www.qtmediation.comResources: To listen in on more conversations about pivotal moments that changed lives forever, subscribe to "The Life Shift" on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen to podcasts. If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to rate the show 5 stars and leave a review! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️Access ad-free episodes released two days early and bonus episodes with past guests through Patreon.https://patreon.com/thelifeshiftpodcastConnect with me:Instagram: www.instagram.com/thelifeshiftpodcastFacebook: www.facebook.com/thelifeshiftpodcastYouTube: https://bit.ly/thelifeshift_youtubeTwitter: www.twitter.com/thelifeshiftpodLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thelifeshiftpodcastWebsite: www.thelifeshiftpodcast.comThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
The capital of Florida is Tallahassee, a city deeply rooted in history and political significance. It serves as the county seat of Leon County and stands as the largest city in the Florida Panhandle. With a population of approximately 193,500, Tallahassee is the seventh-largest city in Florida and 126th in the United States. Despite not being as populous as Miami or Orlando, Tallahassee plays a crucial role as Florida's political hub, housing the state government, the Florida Supreme Court, and the Governor's Mansion. It is also home to two major universities—Florida State University and Florida A&M University—making it a prominent college town with a student population of nearly 70,000. Discover your family story for free Beyond its governmental and educational significance, Tallahassee is a center for legal and lobbying firms, professional associations, and state agencies. In recognition of its civic engagement, the National Civic League awarded Tallahassee the All-American City Award in 2015. However, long before it became Florida's political heart, Tallahassee was home to indigenous cultures that shaped its landscape and history. Podcast Notes: https://ancestralfindings.com/the-state-capitals-florida-2/ Genealogy Clips Podcast: https://ancestralfindings.com/podcast Free Genealogy Lookups: https://ancestralfindings.com/lookups Genealogy Giveaway: https://ancestralfindings.com/giveaway Genealogy eBooks: https://ancestralfindings.com/ebooks Follow Along: https://www.facebook.com/AncestralFindings https://www.instagram.com/ancestralfindings https://www.youtube.com/ancestralfindings Support Ancestral Findings: https://ancestralfindings.com/support https://ancestralfindings.com/paypal #Genealogy #AncestralFindings #GenealogyClips
A listener writes in and asks, "How does domestic violence affect how a case will be viewed and ultimately the outcome?"Matthew Brickman answers your most frequently asked questions about divorce as he goes over several key points:Assume nothing.Know who you are before you get married. Know who you're getting married to. Know the laws and statutes in the state you live in.Don't take advice from anyone who isn't a legal professional in the state in which you're getting married and living in.If you have a matter, disagreement, or dispute you need professional help with then visit iMediate.com - Email mbrickman@ichatmediation or Call (877) 822-1479Matthew Brickman is a Florida Supreme Court certified family and appellate mediator who has worked in the 15th and 19th Judicial Circuit Courts since 2009 and 2006 respectively. But what makes him qualified to speak on the subject of conflict resolution is his own personal experience with divorce.Download Matthew's book on iTunes for FREE:You're Not the Only One - The Agony of Divorce: The Joy of Peaceful ResolutionMatthew Brickman President iMediate Inc. Mediator 20836CFAiMediateInc.comSCHEDULE YOUR MEDIATION: https://ichatmediation.com/calendar/OFFICIAL BLOG: https://ichatmediation.com/podcastOFFICIAL YOUTUBE: http://www.youtube.com/ichatmediationOFFICIAL LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ichat-mediation/ABOUT MATTHEW BRICKMAN:Matthew Brickman is a Supreme Court of Florida certified county civil family mediator who has worked in the 15th and 19th Judicial Circuit Courts since 2009 and 2006 respectively. He is also an appellate certified mediator who mediates a variety of small claims, civil, and family cases. Mr. Brickman recently graduated both the Harvard Business School Negotiation Mastery Program and the Negotiation Master Class at Harvard Law School.
Death Penalty: Can a death sentence be imposed by a non-unanimous jury? - Argued: Thu, 12 Dec 2024 14:12:41 EDT
Criminal Procedure: Should defendants have a right to interlocutory appeal when Stand Your Ground immunity is denied? - Argued: Thu, 12 Dec 2024 14:8:8 EDT
The Patriotically Correct Radio Show with Stew Peters | #PCRadio
Go to: www.myredlight.com and use the promo code STEW10 for an additional 10% off your order! Red light therapy is scientifically proven to prevent and beat cancer, autoimmune disease, thyroid disease, arthritis, dementia, and tinnitus while achieving great results with weight loss, wrinkles, acne, and stem cell regeneration. Watch medical journalist Jonathan Otto's free training and get the best at-home red light therapy devices at the lowest prices. Join Filmmaker and Journalist Jonathan Otto as he joins Stew to discuss the frightening rise of early/onset Cancers and Turbo cancers, and the innovated Red Light Therapy he discovered to have profound results in healing cancers and many other diseases. BioTech researcher Karen Kingston is back with Stew to talk about the Florida Supreme Court accepting a document that calls for the seizure of the bioweapon Clot Shot. Watch this new show NOW at https://StewPeters.com! Western civilization has been infected by a parasitic invasion of foreign ideals and values that have been introduced into our culture by strange and morally degenerate people whose goal is world domination. We have been OCCUPIED. Watch the film NOW! https://stewpeters.com/occupied/ Become an SPN member to gain access to exclusive content and unlock premiere benefits, including personal interactions with Stew, VIP event tickets, and live giveaways. https://stewpeters.locals.com/ Check out the Stew Peters Store for all things Stew Crew merchandise and Get 30% off all Purge supplements with code: PURGE30! https://spnstore.com/ These loyal and courageous sponsors chose to stand with us despite the cancel culture backlash. Support their bravery below: Red light therapy is scientifically proven to prevent and beat cancer, autoimmune disease, thyroid disease, arthritis, dementia, and tinnitus while achieving great results with weight loss, wrinkles, acne, and stem cell regeneration. Watch medical journalist Jonathan Otto's free training and get the best at-home red light therapy devices at the lowest prices. Go to: https://myredlight.com and use the promo code “STEW10” for an additional 10% off your order! Cortez Wealth Management makes financial planning for you and your family. Find out how you can rely on this America First financial advisory and get your retirement plan today by calling 813-448-3446 or by visiting https://cortezwm.com Please support your child's natural immunity throughout the year with Z-Spike Gummies and use code “SPN” for buy one get one 15% off at: https://zstacklife.com/spn Big tech designed your phone to be addictive, Above phones is here to help. Visit http://abovephone.com/stewpeters/ to register for their free webinar “Breaking out of Tech Addiction” on December 19 @ 12:30 pm CST and shop their exclusive Stew Peters holiday deals. Don't miss your chance to own this one-of-a-kind Holocaust encyclopedia. You can get yours by visiting http://holocaustencyclopedia.com/ or at https://armreg.co.uk/product/holocaust-encyclopedia/ using promo code “stewlikesbooks” for 15% off your order. Preserve heart health and be the best version of yourself with Cardio Miracle by checking out: http://HighPowerHeart.com. Kuribl- We have products to help manage your stress through the holidays; visit https://kuribl.com/ Use promo code “Stew20” for 20% off. Extra 10% off for 72 hours. (Total 30%) Spotlight products this month - 3000mg CBD oil Mint https://kuribl.com/collections/kuribl-premium-tinctures/products/kuribl-3000mgs-premium-mint-tincture - 3000mg CBD oil cinnamon https://kuribl.com/collections/kuribl-premium-tinctures/products/premium-kuribl-cinnamon-3000mgs. Nutronics Labs' Testosterone Booster: Man's Edge with NO2 - visit https://getigf1.com and use code “STEW.” NO FILTERS: Clean up your AIR with these high-quality air filtration systems, and protect yourself from shedding: http://airwaterhealing.com/ Promo code “STEW” Mastering Mental Health with Diana Ketterman. You can get her new book, TRUTH IS NOT OF THIS WORLD, right now by visiting https://authordianaketterman.com/. Diana wrote this book to educate Christians who believe the Scofield Bible; there is a difference between Biblical Israel and Rothschild Israel. DON'T BE THE LAST TO KNOW! Visit Https://EuropaTheLastBattle.net to watch Europa for free. Please consider buying a DVD copy. Available online at https://InvisibleEmpirePublishing.com/Europa. Europa The Last Battle is now for sale on Blu-Ray in 28 Languages! Get it here http://InvisibleEmpirePublishing.com/Europa Visit http://fieldofgreens.com and use promo code “Stew”! Stay up to date with Stew by following him on all socials! Locals: https://stewpeters.locals.com/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/realstewpeters Telegram: https://t.me/stewpeters Gab: https://gab.com/RealStewPeters GETTR: https://gettr.com/user/realstewpeters Truth: https://truthsocial.com/@RealStewPeters
A Florida man accused of brutally stabbing his estranged wife to death in her home died in a single-car crash just hours after the killing, authorities said. The deadly attack occurred roughly one month after a judge—who was suspended last week in a separate disciplinary matter—declined to place the suspect under GPS monitoring. The Seminole County Sheriff's Office identified the slain victim as 40-year-old Kristin Stevens. Investigators say James Lindsey, 42, broke into her home in the early morning hours last Thursday, stabbed her between 20 and 70 times, and also injured another man before fleeing. Stevens died at the scene, while the second victim, whose name has not been released, survived after seeking help from a neighbor. A 16-year-old boy was present in the home but not harmed. Authorities confirmed that Lindsey, who was arrested on Nov. 6 for domestic violence against Stevens, was released with only a no-contact order. At that time, both the sheriff's office and the local prosecutor's office had requested GPS monitoring for Lindsey, but Seminole County Circuit Court Judge Wayne Culver denied the request. Approximately a month later, Lindsey allegedly committed the deadly attack. Lindsey died about four hours after the stabbing in a single-vehicle crash. Investigators believe the violent murder and his subsequent death were connected to the ongoing domestic turmoil. According to Sheriff Dennis Lemma, the surviving victim said he found Lindsey on top of Stevens, repeatedly stabbing her. When he tried to intervene, Lindsey stabbed him in the leg. “This is a heartbreaking and traumatic incident that will have a lasting impact on families and a community,” Lemma said in a statement. “Our team will continue to work diligently to uncover the full details surrounding this case.” The couple's history of domestic violence was documented in a previous arrest affidavit, which described Lindsey allegedly kicking Stevens off a bed and shoving her into a door. He blamed her injuries on what he called “crazy” behavior and claimed she “hit herself” with the door. Judge Culver, who declined the GPS monitoring request, was suspended last week for 60 days without pay following a Florida Supreme Court ruling. The court determined that Culver had engaged in “abusive and intemperate conduct” in two separate, unrelated cases in early 2022. During those proceedings, Culver reportedly used profanity, threatened jail time over minor courtroom disruptions, and refused to let defendants speak on their own behalf. He acknowledged he was appalled by his own behavior and agreed to undergo anger management and stress therapy. The shocking timing of Culver's suspension and the murder now brings new scrutiny to the earlier decision not to impose stricter supervision on Lindsey, as the community mourns Stevens's death and law enforcement officials work to piece together the events that led to the fatal encounter. Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Trial of Karen Read, The Murder Of Maddie Soto, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK's Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, The Menendez Brothers: Quest For Justice, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, The Murder Of Sandra Birchmore, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
Hidden Killers With Tony Brueski | True Crime News & Commentary
A Florida man accused of brutally stabbing his estranged wife to death in her home died in a single-car crash just hours after the killing, authorities said. The deadly attack occurred roughly one month after a judge—who was suspended last week in a separate disciplinary matter—declined to place the suspect under GPS monitoring. The Seminole County Sheriff's Office identified the slain victim as 40-year-old Kristin Stevens. Investigators say James Lindsey, 42, broke into her home in the early morning hours last Thursday, stabbed her between 20 and 70 times, and also injured another man before fleeing. Stevens died at the scene, while the second victim, whose name has not been released, survived after seeking help from a neighbor. A 16-year-old boy was present in the home but not harmed. Authorities confirmed that Lindsey, who was arrested on Nov. 6 for domestic violence against Stevens, was released with only a no-contact order. At that time, both the sheriff's office and the local prosecutor's office had requested GPS monitoring for Lindsey, but Seminole County Circuit Court Judge Wayne Culver denied the request. Approximately a month later, Lindsey allegedly committed the deadly attack. Lindsey died about four hours after the stabbing in a single-vehicle crash. Investigators believe the violent murder and his subsequent death were connected to the ongoing domestic turmoil. According to Sheriff Dennis Lemma, the surviving victim said he found Lindsey on top of Stevens, repeatedly stabbing her. When he tried to intervene, Lindsey stabbed him in the leg. “This is a heartbreaking and traumatic incident that will have a lasting impact on families and a community,” Lemma said in a statement. “Our team will continue to work diligently to uncover the full details surrounding this case.” The couple's history of domestic violence was documented in a previous arrest affidavit, which described Lindsey allegedly kicking Stevens off a bed and shoving her into a door. He blamed her injuries on what he called “crazy” behavior and claimed she “hit herself” with the door. Judge Culver, who declined the GPS monitoring request, was suspended last week for 60 days without pay following a Florida Supreme Court ruling. The court determined that Culver had engaged in “abusive and intemperate conduct” in two separate, unrelated cases in early 2022. During those proceedings, Culver reportedly used profanity, threatened jail time over minor courtroom disruptions, and refused to let defendants speak on their own behalf. He acknowledged he was appalled by his own behavior and agreed to undergo anger management and stress therapy. The shocking timing of Culver's suspension and the murder now brings new scrutiny to the earlier decision not to impose stricter supervision on Lindsey, as the community mourns Stevens's death and law enforcement officials work to piece together the events that led to the fatal encounter. Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Trial of Karen Read, The Murder Of Maddie Soto, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK's Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, The Menendez Brothers: Quest For Justice, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, The Murder Of Sandra Birchmore, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
In the third installment of the Oral History of Amendment 10, we discuss the lawsuits filed by several counties in the summer of 2018 in their attempt to toss Amendment 10 from the November ballot. We cover the litigation that went all the way up to the Florida Supreme Court and how the constitutional officers were ultimately victorious. Then with less than 50 days before the election, sheriffs got to work to educate the public about Amendment 10 by branding it the “Protection Amendment." We learn about the dedicated effort that united all sheriffs into garnering enough support for Amendment 10 to pass with more than 60% support.
In this episode: Since taking total control of state government 25 years ago, Florida Republicans have systematically rolled back reforms that once kept state courts independent. It was a project launched by Jeb Bush, expanded by Rick Scott, and that has now culminated under Ron DeSantis with a Florida Supreme Court that is a rubber stamp for the governor and Legislature — and a roadblock for anyone who dares to challenge them. Learn more about how it happened from Martin Dyckman, a Florida journalist and historian whose investigative reporting once exposed Supreme Court corruption and spurred some of the very reforms that have been undone.Show notes:Read this Dyckman column in the Sun-Sentinel explaining some of the history and changes in more detail.And if you want to do a truly deep dive into the subject, check out his book: A Most Disorderly Court: Scandal and Reform in the Florida Judiciary (and don't forget his biographies of Govs. Reubin Askew and Leroy Collins, too).Questions or comments? Send ‘em to Garcia.JasonR@gmail.comListen to the show: Apple | SpotifyWatch the show: YouTube Get full access to Seeking Rents at jasongarcia.substack.com/subscribe
Our friend, Daniel Rosemond, visits the show to provide an update on his legal case against the City of Hallandale Beach. In February, he had a major set back and we talk about battling through this ordeal that has now stretched out more than 8 years. We also talk about his work with East to West Development and share some exciting news about his book, "Death of the Public Servant." Daniel was featured in a 3-part interview series last year: Episode 10: Death of the Public Servant, Episode 12: Revenge of the Public Servant, and Episode 16: Betrayal of the Public Servant SHOW NOTES: Daniel Rosemond is the author of "Death of the Public Servant" and CEO of the East to West Development Corporation. You are invited to reach out and contact him for professional advice and consultation on affordable housing initiatives and to support him by purchasing his book. Daniel's LinkedIn profile EPISODE SPONSOR: This episode is sponsored by KUDO. Make your council meetings accessible with translated audio and live captions into 45+ languages. EXCLUSIVE OFFER: Only listeners of the City Manager Unfiltered podcast can sign up for a FREE, no risk, no obligation one-month trial offer. Use this link: https://kudo.ai/cmu/ SUBMIT JOB POSTING: Do you have an executive or senior level vacancy in your organization? Use this form/link to submit your job listing in my weekly newsletter for just $100: https://forms.gle/ceMzWqeLwiRFRAGj9 SUPPORT THE PODCAST: Subscribe to my FREE weekly report of city and county manager resignations, terminations, and retirements (RTRs) at this link: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/city-manager-rtrs-job-board-7164683251112992768/ If you would like to support the podcast by making a donation, please use the "Buy Me A Coffee" link. Please rate and review the podcast on Apple or your preferred platform if you enjoy the show. It helps tremendously. But more importantly, refer your friends and peers to podcast through personal conversations and posts on your social media platforms. Joe Turner's LinkedIn Page City Manager Unfiltered YouTube Page - Subscribe Today! Note: Page may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
This week on the Mark Levin Show, Judge Juan Merchan is a crooked judge and was specifically appointed to handle this Trump NY case. Merchan has shredded the law and the rules of evidence, stomped all over due process, silenced Trump in most aspects of the case, and assumed jurisdiction over federal election law. The weight of precedent and the outrageous behavior of the prosecutors and Judge Merchan favor President Donald Trump. In Bush v. Gore, the United States Supreme Court interceded in the Florida Supreme Court's deliberations because that court was changing the Florida voting system on the fly, thereby violating the Equal Protection rights of Florida voters. The state court was establishing new standards for resolving a presidential election. The Trump NDA matter is a case that should have been dismissed, and corrupted by a crooked Judge Juan Merchan, a crooked prosecutor Alvin Bragg, and an overwhelmingly Democrat jury. This underscores the point that we must turn out in large numbers to win the election and put people who love our country in positions of power. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On Wednesday's Mark Levin Show, President Trump calls in with his first comments after the first day of jury deliberation in NY. He explains that there has never been a judge who has been so conflicted. The prosecution has no case, there is no crime. He weighs in on Israel, Iran, and Biden's failed economy. Later, the weight of precedent and the outrageous behavior of the prosecutors and Judge Merchan favor President Donald Trump. In Bush v. Gore, the United States Supreme Court interceded in the Florida Supreme Court's deliberations because that court was changing the Florida voting system on the fly, thereby violating the Equal Protection rights of Florida voters. The state court was establishing new standards for resolving a presidential election. The Manhattan trial court has done worse in the farcical “hush-money” case. This state court could easily have avoided influencing and interfering with the federal presidential election merely by setting a later time for the case if the court actually believed it somehow had merit. After all, the state waited years to bring its case. If Trump is found guilty of any of the 34 charges, he should encourage his attorneys to seek an emergency appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court based, at least in significant part, on Bush v. Gore. Also, Biden is desperate to win Pennsylvania. He goes to Philly only when he needs the Black or Union votes. What has Biden done for Black people in his 50 years in D.C.? Nothing. He's done nothing for any community. Finally, Dave McCormick calls in to discuss his race against Sen Bob Casey, who is out of touch with Pennsylvania. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Florida's Supreme Court enacted a six-week abortion ban — but there's a chance to protect reproductive rights in the Sunshine State in November; the NCAA women's basketball championships are RIVETING; and, Dr. Heather Irobunda joins to discuss an announcement from the Department of Health and Human Services regarding consent for “sensitive” procedures like pelvis and prostate exams. Then, Rep. Barbara Lee comes on to talk about her history of fighting for progressive policy, 2024 voter turnout, and being portrayed on TV in Netflix's “Shirley.” Finally, Sani-Petty (Mercury is in retrograde again). For a closed-captioned version of this episode, click here. For a transcript of this episode, please email transcripts@crooked.com and include the name of the podcast. Show NotesRep. Barbara LeeInstagram, Twitter, Congress detailsCongresswoman Barbara LeeBarbara Lee: Speaking Truth to PowerRep. Barbara Lee Pays Tribute to Her 'Mentor and Friend' Shirley Chisholm (Elle) Column: California isn't sending a Black woman to the Senate. But Barbara Lee won anyway (LATimes) Florida Abortionvotesaveamerica.com/fuckbans“Shut Up, Bill Ackman” w. Rep. Anna EskamaniFlorida Supreme Court allows one of nation's strictest abortion bans to take effect (WaPo 4/1)Florida Supreme Court Allows Abortion & Marijuana Initiatives To Remain On The Ballot (Meidas Touch) BasketballIowa-LSU was most-watched women's college basketball game on record, ESPN says (WaPo 4/2)The 10 most-watched NCAA women's basketball games (Sports Media Watch) Iowa-LSU women's NCAA basketball game sets ratings record (CNN)FanDuel says Iowa-LSU game was its biggest betting event of all time for women's sports (CNBC)Commentary: UCLA-LSU is America's sweethearts vs. its basketball villains (LATimes 3/29, before the correction) (after the correction)L.A. Times columnist apologizes for piece characterizing LSU players as 'dirty debutantes' (Fox Sports 4/2)LSU coach Kim Mulkey criticized the columnLSU's Angel Reese opens up about dealing with hateful speech, death threats: 'I've been through so much' (Yahoo! Sports) Dr. HeatherHospitals Must Get Written Patient Consent for Pelvic Exams, H.H.S. Says (NYT 4/1)The 2020 NYT Investigation
The Florida Supreme Court delivered bittersweet news to abortion rights advocates on Monday. In one ruling, the court gave voters the chance to enshrine abortion rights in Florida's constitution by okaying a referendum to appear on the state ballot this November. But in a separate decision, the court also cleared the way for Florida's six-week abortion ban to take effect in 30 days. Lauren Brenzel, campaign director for Floridians Protecting Freedom, explained the ballot initiative that now heads to voters and how the state's impending six-week abortion ban raises the stakes.The Israeli military on Monday ended its 14-day siege of Al-Shifa, Gaza's largest hospital. The Gazan Health Ministry estimated that about 3,000 people were inside the hospital when the IDF began its raid. Meanwhile, in Israel over the weekend, thousands in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv protested against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.And in headlines: A temporary shipping channel opened in the port of Baltimore, former President Donald Trump posted a $175 million dollar bond tied to his civil fraud case in New York, and Iowa defeated LSU and will head to the Final Four of the NCAA Women's Basketball Championship.Show Notes:What A Day – YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@whatadaypodcastFollow us on Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/crookedmedia/For a transcript of this episode, please visit crooked.com/whataday