The Lawmas Podcast

Lauren & Lacey
  • 5.0 (5)
  • CAREERS
The Lawmas Podcast

Juggling courtrooms and playrooms, legal briefs, and bedtime stories... Meet Lauren and Lacey, two powerhouse attorneys and moms who are laying down the law on work-life balance. Lauren handles estate planning, while Lacey is a criminal defense attorney. And together, they're The Lawmas! Join them as they dive into into the chaotic world of running law firms while raising families, where they share war stories from the courtroom and the playground, while offering tips on building a thriving practice without missing soccer games and dance class... These two prove that moms really can do it all - with a little help from coffee and wine! From estate planning emergencies to criminal defense dilemmas, these legal eagles tackle it all with wit, wisdom, and a whole lot of heart. So whether you're a working mom, an aspiring attorney, or love a good laugh... Tune in to The Lawmas Podcast. Where justice meets juice boxes! Court is now in session! Coming soon to YouTube and major podcast platforms!

  1. 4D AGO

    Episode 26: Guest Aimee J. Zmroczek: The Gary Bennett Exoneration Case

    In this episode of The Lawmas Podcast, host Lacey welcomes guest attorney Aimee Zmroczek to discuss the exoneration of Gary Bennett, who was wrongfully convicted of murder and spent 18 years in prison before being acquitted in a retrial. Amy was part of the pro bono defense team that helped prove Gary's innocence. Amy explains how she got involved in Gary Bennett's case through the South Carolina Defense Lawyers Association. She gives the details of the brutal murder of Marie, who worked at Taco Bell with Gary's wife, along with the critical timeline evidence that established Gary's alibi. Physical evidence at the crime scene was mishandled by investigators. The co-defendant falsely implicated Gary to secure his own deal. Forensic evidence proving the killer was right-handed while Gary is left-handed Aimee discusses the jury's reaction to the co-defendant's testimony and outburst during cross-examination, along with the impact of 18 years of wrongful imprisonment on Gary's life and relationships. Aimee also talks about Gary's life after exoneration. Lacey and Aimee discuss the importance of jury duty and critical evaluation of testimony from co-defendants or "snitches" who may be motivated to lie for their own benefit. Aimee Zmroczek is a defense attorney in Columbia, SC, who worked pro bono on Gary Bennett's successful retrial and exoneration. Questions or comments? Email thelawmaspodcast@gmail.com #podcast #thelawmaspodcast #garybennett #aimeezmroczek #lawmoms #criminaldefensesouthcarolina

    43 min

  2. APR 10

    Episode 25: The Lawmas Book Club: Framed by 'Experts': When Science Gets It Wrong

    In this episode of The Lawmas Podcast, Lauren and Lacey continue their book club discussion about wrongful convictions in the book Framed by John Grisham. But first, Lauren recommends "Love on the Spectrum," highlighting it as a respectful reality show following individuals with autism seeking relationships (with special mention of contestant Tanner from South Carolina) Lauren and Lacey discuss two tragic cases from their book club selection: Lacey covers Todd Willingham's case - wrongfully executed for allegedly setting a fire that killed his children, later exonerated posthumously due to flawed arson evidence. Lauren discusses a case involving Dr. Hayne (medical examiner) and Dr. West (dentist) whose questionable "expert" testimony led to a wrongful conviction based on fabricated bite mark analysis Next week Lauren and Lacey wrap up their book club episodes and discuss a case Lacey worked on involving a client she believes is innocent. They welcome episode requests from listeners, mentioning they've already received requests including one about the Memphis Three! Follow, subscribe, like, comment and share! #podcast #thelawmaspodcast #framed #johngrisham #lawmoms #truecrimepodcast

    31 min

  3. APR 2

    Episode 24: The Lawmas Book Club: Framed by Prejudice: Two Lives Derailed by Justice Gone Wrong

    In this episode of The Lawmas Podcast, Lauren and Lacey continue their Book Club discussion of "Framed" by John Grisham. The cases discussed this week are Joe Bryan and Carrie Cook.  Lacey opens the episode sharing her week of medical appointments with her 7-year old son, Luke, who has Down syndrome. Lauren talks about the universal struggles of motherhood.  Case 1: Joe Bryan Elementary school sweethearts Joe and Mickey Blue were both teachers in a small Texas town Mickey was brutally murdered while Joe was at a conference 120 miles away Police started unfounded rumors about Joe being gay to create a motive Blood spatter "expert" with minimal training provided questionable testimony Despite physical evidence proving Joe couldn't have committed the crime (time constraints), he was convicted Joe was eventually released due to COVID prison reductions but never exonerated Case 2: Carrie Cook Linda Jo Edwards was brutally murdered in her apartment Her roommate identified Jim Mayfield (Linda's former lover) at the scene Despite DNA evidence implicating Mayfield, police focused on Cook based on a fingerprint and unreliable jailhouse informant testimony Cook was tried three times, receiving death penalty twice Eventually took a plea deal for time served and was later exonerated Lauren and Lacey discuss how homophobia was weaponized in both cases to secure convictions Here's our question for the listeners: Would you have accepted a plea deal guaranteeing freedom (like Cook did) or risked a fourth trial?   Send any questions or requests to thelawmaspodcast@gmail.com Subscribe, follow, like, and share out podcast!   #framed #wrongfulconvictions #johngrisham #thelawmaspodcast #lawmoms #mompreneurs

    34 min

  4. MAR 28

    Episode 23: The Lawmas Book Club: Framed: Inside the Shocking Norfolk Four & Ellen Reasonover Cases

    In this first book club episode, hosts Lauren and Lacey discuss two cases from John Grisham's book "Framed." The book examines wrongful convictions, jailhouse informants and the failures of the justice system. Lauren covers the Norfolk Four case, where multiple military men were wrongfully convicted of a rape and murder despite DNA evidence only matching one person. The police continuously added suspects to their theory when DNA didn't match, eventually claiming seven men were involved in what they called a "gang rape" despite physical evidence only pointing to one perpetrator. The real perpetrator, Omar Ballard, even confessed, but authorities maintained their flawed theory. Four innocent men spent 10-15 years in prison before receiving conditional pardons from Governor Tim Kane. Lacy discusses the Ellen Reasonover case, where a single mother was wrongfully convicted of murdering a store clerk based solely on testimony from jailhouse informants with long criminal histories who received deals for their testimony. Ellen had initially come forward as a witness after seeing suspicious individuals near the store. The prosecution withheld exculpatory evidence—recordings of Ellen maintaining her innocence—violating Brady disclosure requirements. Ellen was eventually exonerated but missed her daughter's entire childhood, from age 2 to 18. Both cases highlight serious issues in the criminal justice system: tunnel vision by investigators, Brady violations, the unreliability of jailhouse informants, coercive interrogation tactics, and potential racial bias. This is the first of a multi-part series of the book. Email the Lawmas at thelawmaspodcast@gmail.com if you have questions or comments! Subscribe, follow, like, share and review us! #podcast #framedJohnGrisham#thelawmas #lawmoms #thelawmaspodcast #wrongfullycommitted

    31 min

  5. MAR 21

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

    In this episode of The Lawmas Podcast, attorneys Lauren and Lacey discuss what happens before a trial and debunk common legal misconceptions. They begin with a timely discussion about Gene Hackman's estate situation, highlighting how his will reportedly left everything to his wife without contingency clauses, creating complications when she predeceased him by several days. Lauren and Lacey talk about common legal misconceptions, particularly focusing on Miranda rights. Lacey explains that, contrary to popular movies like Madea, police aren't legally required to read Miranda rights in most situations, and cases don't automatically get dismissed if they aren't read. Miranda rights only affect whether incriminating statements made in response to police questioning can be used as evidence. Lauren and Lacey also compare civil and criminal legal procedures, noting significant differences in how cases are handled before trial. While civil cases often involve depositions, mandatory mediation, and comprehensive discovery, criminal cases typically have more limited discovery and no depositions. They discuss how judges in their jurisdiction handle both civil and criminal cases and speculate about potential future specialization. Don't forget, starting next week, March 28th, is the Lawmas book club series focusing on wrongful convictions. Pick up the book "Framed" and join the discussion!   #podcast #thelawmas #lawmoms #truecrime #madea #mirandaright #framed #johngrisham #genehackman

    26 min

  6. MAR 14

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

    In this episode of The Lawmas Podcast, hosts Lauren and Lacey discuss legal misconceptions portrayed in TV shows and movies. They begin with answering a legal questions about addressing the legality of bringing prescription medications across borders. Lacey explains that just because something can be purchased legally in one country (like medications in Mexico) doesn't make it legal to possess in the United States without a proper prescription. They also note that medical marijuana cards from states where it's legal are not valid in states where it remains illegal, like South Carolina. The hosts then critique legal inaccuracies in popular media. They analyze the movie "Legally Blonde," pointing out that courtroom proceedings are rarely as dramatic as depicted, with no "smoking gun" revelations during trials due to prior discovery processes. They explain that in real criminal cases, both sides have access to evidence beforehand, preventing surprise revelations. Lauren and Lacey also debunk the antagonistic relationship often portrayed between prosecutors and defense attorneys in shows like "Law and Order: SVU." In reality, legal professionals typically maintain cordial relationships while zealously representing their clients. They criticize how media often portrays defense attorneys negatively, when in fact all parts of the legal system serve important functions. The podcast concludes with Lacey expressing frustration about South Carolina's grand jury system, which unlike some procedural dramas, doesn't allow defense participation. The Lawmas Bookclub starts March28th! Grab a copy of Framed by John Grisham and join them as they discuss the book! #thelawmaspodcast #legalpodcast #legallyblonde #lawmoms #legalmyths #lawandorderSVU

    27 min

  7. MAR 5

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

    In this episode of The Lawmas Podcast, hosts Lauren and Lacey discuss the First Amendment and common misconceptions about freedom of speech. They begin by answering a question about what it takes to become a lawyer in South Carolina, explaining the education requirements, bar exam, and continuing legal education obligations. The hosts then discuss what the First Amendment actually protects. They clarify that the First Amendment primarily prevents the government from arresting people for their speech, with some exceptions. They emphasize that freedom of speech doesn't mean freedom from consequences in private settings. Employers can still fire employees for their speech, and people can face social repercussions for what they say. Lacey and Lauren discuss several examples, including reality TV contestants who faced employment consequences for using racial slurs, and explain that while you can't be arrested for most speech, it doesn't protect your reputation or job. They cover exceptions to protected speech, such as inciting violence, child pornography, and yelling "fire" in a crowded theater. The hosts also share personal experiences with advocating against the use of derogatory terms, particularly the R-word, and how they address this in both professional and personal contexts. They discuss the difference between protected speech and offensive speech, and the importance of educating others about harmful language. Announcement: Read "Framed" by John Gresham and Jim Grisham for upcoming book club episodes starting in a few weeks!   The Lawmas can be reached: thelawmaspodcast@gmail.com   #Thelawmaspodcast #lawpodcast #firstamendment #freespeech #lawmoms #framed #johngrisham #bookclubpodcast

    28 min

  8. FEB 26

    Episode 19: If the Dress Fits: Marcia Clark and Gender Bias in Law

    In this episode of The Lawmas Podcast features Lauren and Lacey discussing two topics. First, they address a legal question about family obligations to notify siblings about a parent's passing, explaining that while there's no legal requirement to inform relatives about an illness, probate laws require notification of all potential heirs after death. The main topic of this episode dives into the O.J. Simpson case, focusing on how prosecutor Marcia Clark faced gender-based scrutiny during the trial. They discuss media criticism of Clark's appearance and unfair blame for trial outcomes despite her limited decision-making power. Lauren and Lacey also explore how the case transformed media coverage of trials and mention Simpson's civil case judgment and current estate disputes. They also reflecting on progress for women in male-dominated fields while acknowledging persistent challenges. To contact The Lawmas, email thelawmaspodcast@gmail.com #lawpodcast #OJSimpson #MarciaClark #lawmoms #thelawmas #genderbias #maledominatedfields #probatelaw #OJSimpsontrial

    28 min
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About

Juggling courtrooms and playrooms, legal briefs, and bedtime stories... Meet Lauren and Lacey, two powerhouse attorneys and moms who are laying down the law on work-life balance. Lauren handles estate planning, while Lacey is a criminal defense attorney. And together, they're The Lawmas! Join them as they dive into into the chaotic world of running law firms while raising families, where they share war stories from the courtroom and the playground, while offering tips on building a thriving practice without missing soccer games and dance class... These two prove that moms really can do it all - with a little help from coffee and wine! From estate planning emergencies to criminal defense dilemmas, these legal eagles tackle it all with wit, wisdom, and a whole lot of heart. So whether you're a working mom, an aspiring attorney, or love a good laugh... Tune in to The Lawmas Podcast. Where justice meets juice boxes! Court is now in session! Coming soon to YouTube and major podcast platforms!

Information

  • Creator
    Lauren & Lacey
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2025
  • Episodes
    28
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2024
  • Show Website
    The Lawmas Podcast

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