Love Thy Lawyer Podcast

05/03/2025

Joseph Cox is a criminal defense lawyer with over 13 years of experience. He specializes exclusively in criminal defense and is a member of several prominent legal organizations. He co-manages a law practice with offices in Livermore and Modesto, where he has built a reputation for integrity and dedication. In this episode, Joseph discusses his journey into law, the challenges of running a legal practice, and the rewarding aspects of criminal defense work. He also shares insights into balancing family life with a demanding career and his passion for outdoor activities like fishing, hunting, and snow biking. Tune in to hear Joseph’s advice for aspiring lawyers, his thoughts on fairness in the legal system, and why kindness and reputation are vital in both life and law.

Aired on 03/05/2025 Episode No. 212

Click the link to listen to the interview on your favorite podcasting platform:
https://www.lovethylawyer.com/joe-cox-fighting-knight

19/02/2025

David Parnall is a trust and estates attorney based in Oakland, California. His practice focuses on litigation and administration within the field, including cases related to elder abuse and probate matters. Before pursuing law, David spent a decade as a professional musician, touring with bands and exploring various styles of guitar music. His career path took a turn when he sought a meaningful and impactful way to contribute, eventually leading him to law school and his current legal focus. Today, he values the intellectual and interpersonal challenges his work provides, along with the opportunity to help his clients navigate complex legal situations. In this episode, David shares insights from his unique career journey, his approach to balancing personal and professional life, and his views on the importance of empathy and professionalism in legal practice. Tune in to this episode to learn about David’s journey from musician to lawyer, his advice for new attorneys, and his perspective on staying grounded in a challenging profession.

Aired on 02/19/2025 Episode No. 211

Click the link to listen to the interview on your favorite podcasting platform:
https://www.lovethylawyer.com/david-parnall-acba-probate-litigatormusician/

05/02/2025

Judge Lise Pearlman was the first presiding judge of the California State Bar Court. She is now a bestselling author and speaker on historical legal cases. She has also served as chair of the Oakland Public Ethics Commission and president of Women Lawyers of Alameda County. Throughout her career, Judge Pearlman has presided over high-profile cases, contributed to legal ethics reforms, and written extensively on major 20th-century trials, including her recent book about the Lindbergh kidnapping case, Suspect No. 1: The Man Who Got Away. Her work sheds new light on historical events through meticulous research. In this interview, Judge Pearlman shares intriguing insights into the Lindbergh kidnapping trial, her views on justice and fairness in the legal system, and her thoughts on how lawyers can improve their advocacy. Tune in to this episode for a compelling look at history, law, and the pursuit of truth, and discover the surprising findings Judge Pearlman uncovered in one of America's most famous cases.

Aired on 02/05/2025 Episode No. 210

Click the link to listen to the interview on your favorite podcasting platform:
https://www.lovethylawyer.com/hon-lise-pearlman-charles-lindbergh-revealed/

22/01/2025

James McElroy is a dedicated attorney with extensive experience in criminal and family law, as well as a background in community development. He began his career working with the Bayview Hunters Point Foundation, where he spent over three decades supporting youth programs and advocating for community needs. Throughout his legal career, James has balanced his passion for public service with private practice. His work has ranged from defending youth in expulsion hearings to overseeing programs that provide alternatives to juvenile detention. Today, he continues to help individuals navigate the legal system while maintaining empathy and professionalism. In this episode, James discusses the challenges and rewards of practicing law, insights into family and criminal law, and the importance of self-care for legal professionals. He also shares compelling stories from his career, including the systemic issues he's observed in the justice system. Tune in to learn about the realities of being an attorney, how the legal system is evolving, and what it takes to succeed in a career that demands both skill and resilience.

Aired on 01/22/2025 Episode No. 209

Click the link to listen to the interview on your favorite podcasting platform:
https://www.lovethylawyer.com/james-mcelroy-bay-area-royalty/

08/01/2025

Maria Bee is the Chief Assistant City Attorney for the City of Oakland. She oversees key legal initiatives, including affirmative and defensive litigation teams, focused on addressing injustices and supporting community well-being. Maria's career includes impactful roles such as leading victim services at the San Francisco District Attorney’s Office and contributing to Oakland's Neighborhood Law Corps and Housing Justice Initiative. In this episode, Maria offers insights into her advocacy for housing justice, reflects on her experiences in both criminal and civil law, and shares her perspective on systemic issues in the justice system. Tune in to discover the importance of community-focused legal work and how individuals like Maria are driving meaningful change in their cities.

Aired on 01/08/2025 Episode No. 208

Click the link to listen to the interview on your favorite podcasting platform:
https://www.lovethylawyer.com/maria-bee-acba-chief-assistant-oakland-city-attorney/

11/12/2024

Casey Kaufman is a personal injury attorney who handles cases involving car accidents, brain injuries, product defects, and wrongful death. He is recognized as a Super Lawyer and is active in several trial attorney associations. Casey spent 15 years working on high-stakes cases involving serious injuries and dangerous conditions before starting his own law practice in 2019. His hands-on experience in every role within a law firm gives him a unique perspective and a deep understanding of his clients’ needs. In this episode, Casey talks about the challenges of running his own practice, the value of mentorship, and the importance of building strong relationships in the legal field. He also shares practical advice, like why uninsured motorist insurance is so crucial. Tune in to hear Casey’s insights on the legal system, his approach to helping clients, and how he balances a demanding career with family life.

Aired on 12/11/2024 Episode No. 207

Click the link to listen to the interview on your favorite podcasting platform:
https://www.lovethylawyer.com/casey-kaufman-oakland-pi-attorney/

27/11/2024

Joe Goethals, one of the founding partners of Goethals and Stone, is a seasoned trial attorney specializing in civil litigation, catastrophic injury, and victim advocacy. With a rich history of public service, he has worked as a Deputy District Attorney in Alameda and San Mateo counties, holds a master's degree in public health, and has twice served as the mayor of San Mateo. Joe’s career highlights include trying over 25 jury cases, including homicides, during his time as a prosecutor, and later transitioning into private practice to represent victims in high-stakes civil cases. His journey also reflects a commitment to public health and community infrastructure, as demonstrated by his tenure on the Peninsula Health Care District board and his efforts to improve San Mateo's infrastructure during his mayoral terms. In this episode, Joe reflects on the balance between public service and private practice, the challenges of transitioning from criminal prosecution to civil litigation, and the importance of empathy in both law and life. Tune in to hear Joe share insights into his career evolution, as well as practical advice for young lawyers.

Aired on 11/27/2024 Episode No. 206

Click the link to listen to the interview on your favorite podcasting platform:
https://www.lovethylawyer.com/joe-goethals-dda-mayor-attorney-university-of-santa-clara/

20/11/2024

Mark McGoldrick currently serves as an Alameda County Public Defender. In that capacity, he has represented criminal defendants in all stages of proceedings. He is an effective trial advocate and has recently gained press notoriety when his investigation showed that his client charged with murder actually acted in self-defense. Mark has numerous personal and professional successes in and out of the courtroom and an amazing backstory.

Aired on 04/14/2021 Episode No. 57

Click the link to listen to the interview on your favorite podcasting platform:
https://www.lovethylawyer.com/mark-mcgoldrick-harvard/

13/11/2024

Ocean Mottley is a staff attorney at Bay Area Legal Aid, where he focuses on employment, housing, tax, and family law, with an emphasis on reentry support for individuals transitioning from incarceration. His career is marked by a dedication to underserved communities, informed by his own experiences navigating the criminal justice system. Ocean has also worked in labor relations and criminal defense and is an active member of the Alameda County Bar Association. In this episode, Ocean shares his views on restorative justice, the value of empathy in law, and the power of community support. Tune in to gain insight into the legal challenges faced by reentry populations and the importance of legal aid work.

Aired on 11/13/2024 Episode No. 205

Click the link to listen to the interview on your favorite podcasting platform:
https://www.lovethylawyer.com/ocean-mottley-uc-law-sf/

30/10/2024

Sergio Garcia is an attorney with an inspiring journey from undocumented immigrant to groundbreaking legal professional. Originally from Mexico, he faced a two-decade-long battle with his immigration status but persevered, eventually passing the California bar and becoming the first undocumented lawyer licensed in the United States. In this episode, Sergio discusses his early work in personal injury law, a path shaped by the limited opportunities he had as an undocumented attorney, as well as the five-year legal struggle that led to a historic California Supreme Court ruling on his behalf. He shares moving stories from his career, discussing his commitment to fighting for the underdog and highlighting the challenges of balancing a passion for justice with the demands of the legal profession. Tune in to learn about the resilience required to overcome legal and personal obstacles, the importance of empathy in legal practice, and the value of pursuing one’s dreams against all odds.

Aired on 10/30/2024 Episode No. 204

Click the link to listen to the interview on your favorite podcasting platform:
https://www.lovethylawyer.com/sergio-garcia-undocumented-but-admitted-to-the-bar/

16/10/2024

Brooke Lively, a profitability specialist and author, works closely with law firms to enhance their business practices and financial management. She is the founder of Cathcap, a fractional CFO company that helps law firms improve their profitability without the need for a full-time CFO. Brooke is the author of several books, including the best-selling From Panic to Profit and her latest release, Exit on Top, which focuses on helping attorneys sell their practices effectively. She’s been featured in major outlets like Forbes and CNBC and has gained recognition for her expertise in guiding law firms through financial strategies. Her career highlights include transitioning from managing a hedge fund to running a family law firm, ultimately discovering a niche in helping attorneys apply business principles to their practices. Brooke is a sought-after speaker and podcast guest, sharing insights into the importance of financial planning for law firms. In this episode she discusses topics like the valuation of law firms, the evolving landscape of law firm ownership with non-attorney participation, and the steps lawyers should take if considering selling their practice. She emphasizes the importance of building a firm that is not only profitable but attractive to potential buyers, even if a sale isn’t on the immediate horizon. Tune in to this episode to gain valuable insights on law firm management, the dynamics of the legal market, and strategic planning. Learn how to assess the value of your practice, improve profitability, and prepare for a potential sale. This is a must-listen for attorneys thinking about the future of their practice.

Aired on 10/16/2024 Episode No. 203

Click the link to listen to the interview on your favorite podcasting platform:
https://www.lovethylawyer.com/brooke-lively-whats-my-practice-worth-can-i-sell-it/

02/10/2024

Mike Spencer is a private investigator with nearly 30 years of experience in civil, criminal, and family law cases. He is the founder of Spencer Legal Investigations and provides services such as surveillance, witness location, and background checks. He has also been recognized as the best skip tracer by The Recorder. Mike began his career as a journalist, which he credits with honing his investigative skills. His journalism background, including his time in Florida covering police and criminal justice issues, led him to transition into private investigation. He wrote a book titled Private Eye Confidential, which offers insights into the real-world work of a private investigator. In the episode, he discusses the importance of unbiased investigation, his experiences working with trial attorneys, and the challenges of serving difficult clients. He also shares fascinating stories from his career, including a podcast he created about an unsolved murder case. Tune in to hear more about the intersection of law, journalism, and private investigation.

Aired on 10/02/2024 Episode No. 202

Click the link to listen to the interview on your favorite podcasting platform:
https://www.lovethylawyer.com/mike-spencer-private-eye/

18/09/2024

Josh Brumley is a car crash attorney and the managing attorney of the Brumley Law Firm in Seattle, Washington. He has recently written a book titled Protect Your Neck, aimed at educating people about car accident cases and insurance processes, offering guidance to both plaintiffs and attorneys navigating personal injury cases. Some of Josh’s career highlights include starting as a public defender before transitioning to personal injury law, where his practice has flourished. He now runs a successful firm with a staff of 40 and is passionate about the business side of law, particularly data tracking and marketing. In this episode, he discusses topics like his transition from criminal defense to personal injury law, the importance of negotiation skills, and the role of data in scaling a legal practice. He also shares insights on marketing strategies for law firms and his thoughts on the future of law with AI. Tune in to hear Josh’s fascinating journey and learn valuable tips on legal practice management, negotiation, and how to effectively grow a law firm using data and strategy.

Aired on 09/18/2024 Episode No. 201

Click the link to listen to the interview on your favorite podcasting platform:
https://www.lovethylawyer.com/josh-brumley-protect-your-neck/

18/09/2024

After working grueling hours at a big law firm, Amanda Butler Schley founded Business Law Group, a boutique firm focused on representing Louisiana entrepreneurs. Having her own firm and not having to show up in court allowed her to practice from her 44-foot sailboat as she sailed along the Gulf Coast. She’s been back on land since 2020, but that hasn’t stopped her from taking to the sea from time to time. Listen to the interview to learn about how forming a mastermind group of law firm women entrepreneurs helped Amanda learn valuable lessons about the business of practicing law and how she set up her business so that she doesn’t have to work at it 24/7.

Aired on 10/05/2022 Episode No. 134

Click the link to listen to the interview on your favorite podcasting platform:
https://www.lovethylawyer.com/amanda-butler-schley-sailboat-office-lsu/

08/09/2024

Check out my interview with Chelsie D'Malta and the Love Thy Lawyer Podcast.

Chelsie D'Malta has extensive experience representing indigent clients in both civil and criminal cases. She runs a practice that primarily focuses on criminal defe…

04/09/2024

Chelsie D'Malta has extensive experience representing indigent clients in both civil and criminal cases. She runs a practice that primarily focuses on criminal defense, juvenile justice, and various types of restraining orders, operating mostly on a low bono and pro bono basis. Chelsie’s diverse background includes working as a public defender and at private law firms. Notably, she gained significant experience at the Alameda County Public Defender's Office. In this episode, she discusses some of the challenges she faces in balancing the business side of her practice with her desire to provide affordable legal services. She also shares personal stories that shaped her career, including the tragic loss of her uncle, which deepened her understanding of the criminal justice system. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of the complexities of the criminal justice system and the passion that drives Chelsie's commitment to her clients.

Aired on 09/04/2024 Episode No. 200

Click the link to listen to the interview on your favorite podcasting platform:
https://www.lovethylawyer.com/chelsie-dmalta-lowbonoprobono-business-model/

03/09/2024

William Walraven is the managing attorney of a criminal defense firm that practices in Oakland and in San Francisco. He has successfully defended clients throughout the Bay Area. He is an active member of numerous professional organizations, including the National College for DUI Defense, the California DUI Lawyers Association, the Asian American Bar Association and the Filipino Bar Association of Northern California.

Aired on 03/03/2021 Episode No. 51

Click the link to listen to the interview on your favorite podcasting platform:
https://www.lovethylawyer.com/william-walraven-golden-gate/

03/09/2024

Darryl Stallworth is a veteran of the Alameda County District Attorney's Office. He has tried over 60 cases to jury verdict, including numerous felony murders and a special circumstances death case. He has taught and lectured internationally on effective case resolution in Brazil, Malaysia, India, and Turkey. Darryl is a member and former president of the Charles Houston Bar Association. He was recognized by the Alameda County Bar Association as Distinguished Lawyer of the Year and he's a published author.

Aired on 04/28/2021 Episode No. 59

Click the link to listen to the interview on your favorite podcasting platform:
https://www.lovethylawyer.com/darryl-stallworth-cal/