NYC lawyer Dmitriy Shakhnevich, In Conversation With...

Dmitriy Shakhnevich, Esq.

NYC lawyer Dmitriy Shakhnevich sits “In Conversation With…” some of the most compelling figures in the law, society and pop culture.

  1. 06/27/2024

    How has defending criminal cases in NYC changed since the 80s and 90s?

    Who is Gerald Lefcourt? Gerald Lefcourt is a prominent American criminal defense attorney known for his high-profile cases and his defense of clients involved in complex and often controversial legal matters. Over his career, Lefcourt has represented a diverse array of clients, including political figures, business executives, and celebrities. His work has spanned various aspects of criminal law, from white-collar crimes to drug offenses. Lefcourt began his legal career in the 1960s, a period marked by significant social and political upheaval in the United States. This environment influenced his approach to law, and he quickly became known for his willingness to take on challenging cases that often garnered significant media attention. One of his early notable cases involved representing members of the Black Panther Party, reflecting his commitment to defending civil rights. Throughout his career, Lefcourt has been actively involved in the legal community, serving in leadership roles within several legal organizations. He has been a past president of the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers (NACDL) and the New York Criminal Bar Association. His contributions to the legal field have been recognized with numerous awards and honors, underscoring his influence and reputation among his peers. Lefcourt's legal expertise is complemented by his ability to navigate the complexities of the legal system, often employing innovative strategies to defend his clients. His dedication to his clients and his tenacity in the courtroom have earned him a reputation as a formidable advocate. His work has not only impacted the lives of his clients but has also contributed to broader discussions on legal practices and reforms in the United States. Beyond his legal practice, Lefcourt is known for his commitment to education and mentorship, frequently lecturing at law schools and legal seminars. He has also authored articles on various aspects of criminal defense, sharing his knowledge and insights with the next generation of lawyers. His legacy in the legal profession is marked by his unwavering dedication to justice and his significant contributions to the field of criminal defense.

  2. 06/06/2024

    Representing cops as defendants in criminal trials

    Who is Marvyn Kornberg? Marvyn Kornberg is a prominent American criminal defense attorney, well-known for his vigorous representation of clients in high-profile cases. Over his career, Kornberg has garnered a reputation for his meticulous and aggressive defense strategies, which have been pivotal in securing favorable outcomes for many of his clients. Kornberg's prominence in the legal field is partly due to his involvement in several sensational cases that have captured public and media attention. One of his notable clients was John Gotti Jr., son of the infamous Gambino crime family boss John Gotti. Kornberg's role in defending Gotti Jr. against charges related to organized crime further solidified his standing as a formidable defense attorney capable of handling complex and highly publicized cases.

  3. 05/15/2024

    Harvey Weinstein’s lawyer on his conviction, successful appeal & the #MeToo movement

    Who is Donna Rotunno? Donna Rotunno is an American criminal defense attorney who gained significant attention for her role as the lead defense lawyer for Harvey Weinstein, the disgraced Hollywood producer convicted of multiple counts of sexual assault and rape. Rotunno, known for her assertive and combative style in the courtroom, became a central figure in one of the most high-profile trials of the #MeToo era. Born and raised in Chicago, Illinois, Rotunno earned her law degree from DePaul University College of Law. She subsequently built a successful legal career specializing in criminal defense, representing clients in a wide range of cases, including those involving allegations of sexual assault and misconduct. Rotunno gained widespread notoriety for her defense of Harvey Weinstein during his highly publicized trial in New York City in 2020. Throughout the trial, she vigorously challenged the prosecution's case and sought to undermine the credibility of Weinstein's accusers, employing aggressive cross-examination tactics and arguing that the encounters were consensual. Her representation of Weinstein sparked intense debate and criticism, with many viewing her as emblematic of the systemic issues surrounding the handling of sexual assault cases and the treatment of survivors in the legal system.

  4. 05/15/2024

    Frank Shamrock on fighting since childhood, his journey to legendary status (from 2018)

    Who is Frank Shamrock? Frank Shamrock is a retired American mixed martial artist who made significant contributions to the sport during his career. Born Frank Alisio Juarez III on December 8, 1972, he was adopted and raised by Bob Shamrock, whose last name he took. Shamrock is often credited as one of the pioneers of modern mixed martial arts (MMA), particularly in the United States. He competed in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), where he became the inaugural UFC Middleweight Champion. Shamrock also held titles in other organizations such as the WEC (World Extreme Cagefighting) and Strikeforce, showcasing his versatility across different promotions. Notably, Shamrock was known for his well-rounded skill set, blending wrestling, submission grappling, and striking techniques effectively. His fights were characterized by his strategic approach and ability to adapt to different opponents. Beyond his achievements inside the cage, Shamrock has been involved in various aspects of MMA outside of competition. He worked as a commentator, trainer, and mentor to other fighters, contributing to the growth and development of the sport. However, Shamrock's career was not without controversy. He faced legal issues and personal struggles, including a period of incarceration. Despite these challenges, he remains a significant figure in MMA history, remembered for his contributions to the sport's evolution and popularity.

  5. 05/14/2024

    Former UFC Champion Tim Sylvia on his career, being the #1 HW in the world (from 2018)

    Who is Tim Sylvia? Tim Sylvia is a former professional mixed martial artist who competed in the heavyweight division. He is best known for his time in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), where he became the UFC Heavyweight Champion twice. Sylvia was known for his imposing stature and powerful striking, which made him a formidable opponent in the cage. Despite facing various ups and downs in his career, including controversies and injuries, Sylvia left a significant mark on the world of MMA with his accomplishments inside the octagon.

  6. 05/13/2024

    Legendary Harvard Law professor on the state of affairs at American colleges

    Who is Randall Kennedy? Randall Kennedy is an esteemed American legal scholar, author, and educator. Born on September 10, 1954, in Columbia, South Carolina, Kennedy has made significant contributions to legal discourse, particularly in the areas of race relations, civil rights, and the law. After completing his undergraduate studies at Princeton University and obtaining his law degree from Yale Law School, Kennedy began his career in academia. He served as a law clerk for Judge J. Skelly Wright of the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit and later for Justice Thurgood Marshall of the Supreme Court of the United States. In 1984, Kennedy joined the faculty of Harvard Law School, where he currently holds the position of Michael R. Klein Professor of Law. Throughout his tenure, he has been highly regarded for his scholarly work and commitment to legal education. Kennedy has authored several influential books that have had a significant impact on legal scholarship and public discourse. His writings often challenge prevailing assumptions and stimulate critical thinking about race and the legal system. Kennedy is also known for his engagement in public discourse, regularly contributing essays and opinion pieces to various publications. He is a respected voice on issues of racial justice and equality, offering thoughtful analysis and commentary on contemporary social and legal issues.

  7. 05/13/2024

    UFC Hall of Famer Dan Severn on his life, legacy and the importance of competition

    Who is Dan Severn? Dan Severn is a legendary figure in mixed martial arts (MMA) and professional wrestling. Born on June 8, 1958, in Coldwater, Michigan, Severn has had a multifaceted career in combat sports. He first gained prominence as an amateur wrestler, winning numerous championships and accolades, including becoming an All-American at Arizona State University. In the realm of MMA, Severn is recognized as one of the pioneers of the sport. He competed in the early days of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), where his grappling prowess and brute strength made him a formidable opponent. Severn's fighting style was characterized by his exceptional wrestling ability and ground-and-pound techniques. During his MMA career, Severn amassed an impressive record and held titles in various organizations. He is one of the few fighters to have competed professionally in both MMA and wrestling simultaneously, showcasing his versatility and skill in both disciplines. In addition to his MMA career, Severn also ventured into professional wrestling, where he achieved success under the moniker "The Beast." He competed in promotions such as the WWE (then WWF), where he became a recognizable figure due to his imposing presence and wrestling ability. Severn's contributions to combat sports extend beyond his achievements in the ring. He has also worked as a coach, trainer, and mentor to aspiring fighters, sharing his knowledge and experience with the next generation of athletes. Throughout his career, Dan Severn has left an indelible mark on the world of combat sports, earning a reputation as one of the toughest and most skilled competitors in MMA and professional wrestling history.

  8. 05/02/2024

    What’s it like to wrongfully go to jail at 16, for nearly two decades?

    Dmitriy Shakhnevich, Esq., in conversation with Jeffrey Deskovic on the wrongful criminal prosecution that led to his incarceration at 16 years old, for nearly two decades, the causes of wrongful convictions, why someone would confess if he or she is innocent, police and prosecutorial misconduct, bad lawyering, how to fix the system, holding public servants accountable and Jeffrey's fight for justice after his prison release.

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NYC lawyer Dmitriy Shakhnevich sits “In Conversation With…” some of the most compelling figures in the law, society and pop culture.

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