Parallel Justice

Unsafe in Your Own Home: Corporate Negligence and the Path to Civil Justice

National Center for Victims of Crime — Wed, 03 Jun 2026 11:57:30 GMT

Chicago attorney Symone Shinton joins the podcast to examine the case of a woman who says she was raped by a security guard at the luxury apartment complex where she rented when she returned home too intoxicated to find her unit. Symone breaks down the novel legal claims that arose due to the circumstances of this assault, including the apartment complex's refusal to break Jane Doe's lease after receiving notice of the assault and their destruction of key surveillance footage. The conversation explores the broader failures that leave tenants vulnerable: how companies routinely fail to properly vet and supervise their employees, neglect to implement adequate reporting systems, and abandon survivors without support in the aftermath of traumatic incidents. The episode examines the challenges civil attorneys should expect to face in the civil court system when seeking accountability for survivors against the institutions who have failed the people they are paid to protect.

More information about today's guest can be found at symoneshintonlaw.com

Inside the Business of Justice: How Civil Courts Work for Sexual Abuse Survivors

National Center for Victims of Crime — Mon, 01 Jun 2026 07:00:00 GMT

Ohio attorney Konrad Kircher joins the podcast today to discuss the financial realities of the justice system and his experience representing sexual abuse victims. Kircher breaks down the accessibility of legal representation in civil courts, the use of contingency fees, and the process of negotiating various types of settlements. Through this conversation, listeners gain a clearer understanding of the business side of the legal process and its implications for victims and their ability to get real justice.

To contact this episode's guest: Kircher Law at Call 888-725-0811

Sexual Assault in the Military: The Legal Barriers to Justice

National Center for Victims of Crime — Mon, 25 May 2026 07:00:00 GMT

In this episode, attorney Christine Dunn joins us to discuss sexual assault in the military and the legal barriers many victims face when seeking justice. The episode examines the case of Major Micheal Stockton, an army anesthesiologist, who pled guilty to sexual misconduct charges in 2025. We also break down the controversial Feres Doctrine and discuss how it has historically limited service members’ ability to pursue legal action against the government. Through Dunn’s insight and experience, listeners gain a deeper understanding of the systemic challenges surrounding military sexual assault and the push for reform.

Guest Christine Dunn is a co-managing partner at Sanford Heisler Sharp McKnight's Washington, D.C., office. Contact her at cdunn@sanfordheisler.com.

From the Vault: Unmasking Our Idols Part 1

National Center for Victims of Crime — Wed, 27 May 2026 07:00:00 GMT

This is a remastered version of the first-ever Parallel Justice episode: Unmasking Our Idols Part 1! Join us for an interactive discussion between Vince Finaldi, John Clune, and Kristen Gibbons Fedden, three high powered National Crime Victim Bar Association attorneys who fought back against Michael Jackson, Bill Cosby, Harvey Weinsten and Supreme Justice Brett Kavanaugh.

In the first of this two part episode, host Renee Williams dives into complex questions about supporting survivors who are abused by high profile defendants, unique challenges faced, and what attorneys, providers and other victim service professionals can do to make sure that survivors are aware of their rights, options and are treated fairly.

Vince Finaldi https://www.manlystewart.com/professionals/vince-w-finaldi/

Kristen Gibbons Fedden https://www.anapolweiss.com/attorneys/kristen-gibbons-feden/

John Clune https://www.hbcboulder.com/john-clune

Visit the National Crime Victim Bar Association for referrals to victim-centered attorneys in your area. https://victimbar.org/

To contact compassionate, confidential support, call or text 1-855-484-2846 or chat at VictimConnect Resource Center at https://victimconnect.org/

Ghostship: The Warehouse Fire That Caused 36 Deaths

National Center for Victims of Crime — Tue, 26 Oct 2021 12:45:00 GMT

“Ghostship: The Warehouse Fire That Caused 36 Deaths” is a powerful memorial and investigation into the 2016 Oakland Ghostship fire. Led by esteemed guest Mary Alexander and hosted by National Center for Victims of Crime Executive Director Renee Williams , this podcast walks through the negligence and foresight of individuals that could have prevented this loss of life.

This podcast memorializes the lives that the victims of this tragedy lived and the resilience of the families of the victims as they fight for justice through the civil and criminal system.

Mary Alexander https://maryalexanderlaw.com/

Visit the National Crime Victim Bar Association for referrals to victim-centered attorneys in your area. https://victimbar.org/

To contact compassionate, confidential support, call or text 1-855-484-2846 or chat at VictimConnect Resource Center at https://victimconnect.org/

Reputational Harm: How one sexual predator claimed defamation against a child – and how one attorney fought back. Part 1

National Center for Victims of Crime — Tue, 13 Sep 2022 04:00:00 GMT

Join us as attorney Rich Anderson talks about his case where a 9 year old sexual assault victim was accused of defamation by her abuser. Rich explains how this repeat predator tried to use the civil justice system to his benefit, and how the road to justice can be long and winding.

Attorney Rich Anderson passionate and unrelenting advocate for victims and children. Find out more about him here: https://sgb-law.com/our-team/rich-anderson.

Scout’s Honor? Decades of Abuse Within the Boy Scouts of America Part 1

National Center for Victims of Crime — Tue, 01 Feb 2022 13:00:00 GMT

The Boy Scouts of America, once one of the largest youth organizations in the country, fought for years to silence survivors and victims of crime who threatened their brand as a cherished American institution. After 100 years of documented abuse claims, over 80,000 survivors and victims of crime filed claims against the Boy Scouts of America. Now, they’re speaking out. Listen to Paul Slager and Michael Pfau, two attorneys who represent these survivors, to learn more in Part One of this two part episode.

Click the links below to learn more about the attorneys featured in this episode:

Paul Slager https://www.sgtlaw.com/attorney/paul-a-slager/

Michael Pfau https://www.pcva.law/attorneys/michael-pfau/

Visit the National Crime Victim Bar Association for referrals to victim-centered attorneys in your area. https://victimbar.org/

Support is available through VictimConnect via call or text 1-855-4VICTIM (855-484-2846) or chat online at victimconnect.org.

Beneath the Surface: A Complex Web of Criminality in Texas Launch Plan

National Center for Victims of Crime — Tue, 25 Jan 2022 13:00:00 GMT

Why would a company give a car to someone that they know shouldn’t be behind the wheel? One family's journey to seek justice after the loss of a family member in a vehicle collision in East Texas reveals a complex web of criminality that endangers the public. Listen to esteemed attorney Marc Lenahan, who chose not to take the easy choice but to investigate deeper, discovering a disturbingly common and extremely dangerous practice.

Learn more about Marc Lenahan:

https://www.dallassevereinjurylawyer.com/attorneys/marc-c-lenahan.html

Visit the National Crime Victim Bar Association for referrals to victim-centered attorneys in your area. https://victimbar.org/

To contact compassionate, confidential support, call or text 1-855-484-2846 or chat at VictimConnect Resource Center at https://victimconnect.org/

His Name was Ron: The Goldman’s Fight for Justice in the Glare of a National Spotlight (Part Two)

National Center for Victims of Crime — Tue, 11 Jan 2022 13:00:00 GMT

Kim Goldman and Fred Goldman join host Renee Williams on the finale of their two part episode on Parallel Justice. The Goldman’s discuss the loss of their beloved family member Ron Goldman, who was murdered in 1994. This episode dives into the civil justice process, what pursuing this system of Parallel Justice meant to them and what they want victims, survivors, professionals who work alongside victims and survivors and the general public to know.

Learn more about Kim Goldman by clicking the link below:

https://kimberlygoldman.com/

Visit the National Crime Victim Bar Association for referrals to victim-centered attorneys in your area. https://victimbar.org/

To contact compassionate, confidential support, call or text 1-855-484-2846 or chat at VictimConnect Resource Center at https://victimconnect.org/

His Name Was Ron: The Goldmans' Fight for Justice in the Glare of a National Spotlight, Part 1

National Center for Victims of Crime — Tue, 04 Jan 2022 13:05:00 GMT

Kim Goldman and Fred Goldman join host Renee Williams on Parallel Justice to discuss the loss of their beloved family member Ron Goldman. In this episode, they discuss the rich and wonderful life that Ron lived, the kind and considerate person he was, the media’s treatment of him as “the other victim,” the traumatizing experience of the criminal trial and the ongoing journey to seek justice and healing through the civil process.

Kim Goldman https://kimberlygoldman.com/

Visit the National Crime Victim Bar Association for referrals to victim-centered attorneys in your area. https://victimbar.org/

To contact compassionate, confidential support, call or text 1-855-484-2846 or chat at VictimConnect Resource Center at https://victimconnect.org/

Politics, Policy & Profits: How Parallel Justice Forces Industries to Look Beyond Their Bottom Line

National Center for Victims of Crime — Tue, 18 Jan 2022 13:00:00 GMT

“Politics, Policy & Profits: How Parallel Justice Forces Industries to Look Beyond Their Bottom Line” explores how civil justice can motivate industries to make choices that prioritize consumer safety, saving lives.This podcast is a frank discussion about how civil justice can encourage companies and large stakeholders to make our society and their products safer, saving lives. Listen to fervent advocate for victims of crime, Mike Haggard, for this trauma informed discussion on some of the largest verdicts in history.

Learn more about Mike Haggard here:

https://haggardlawfirm.com/attorneys/michael-a-haggard/

Visit the National Crime Victim Bar Association for referrals to victim-centered attorneys in your area. https://victimbar.org/

Support is available through VictimConnect via call or text 1-855-4VICTIM (855-484-2846) or chat online at victimconnect.org.

Access Denied: Backpage.com and the Case that Changed Electronic Human Trafficking Laws (Part One)

National Center for Victims of Crime — Tue, 16 Nov 2021 13:00:00 GMT

“Access Denied: Backpage.com and the Case that Changed Electronic Human Trafficking Laws (Part One)” stars esteemed attorneys Jason Amala and Vincent Nappo. This episode, the first of two about Backpage.com, a classified adult website, paints a portrait of the resilience of survivors and their families in a groundbreaking case that redefined the way that we think about private sector accountability and sex trafficking online. In this case, survivors challenged a company worth $135 million and successfully held an industry giant to account.

Learn more about these attorneys by visiting their websites.

Jason Amala https://www.pcva.law/attorneys/jason-amala/

Vincent Nappo https://www.pcva.law/attorneys/vincent-nappo/

Visit the National Crime Victim Bar Association for referrals to victim-centered attorneys in your area. https://victimbar.org/

To contact compassionate, confidential support, call or text 1-855-484-2846 or chat at VictimConnect Resource Center at https://victimconnect.org/

Shining the Spotlight: How One Attorney Took On the Catholic Church

National Center for Victims of Crime — Tue, 30 Nov 2021 12:45:00 GMT

“Shining the Spotlight: How One Attorney Took On the Catholic Church,” is LIVE! The latest episode of Parallel Justice features esteemed guest Mitch Garabedian, an internationally recognized advocate who represents survivors and victims abused by Catholic Church priests and the supervisors who allowed this abuse to occur. This episode charts a path through history, exposing a culture of abuse in the Catholic Church and the progress that is coming from outside the church. Listen now https://parallel-justice.captivate.fm/listen

Mitch Garabedian https://www.garabedianlaw.com/

Visit the National Crime Victim Bar Association for referrals to victim-centered attorneys in your area. https://victimbar.org/

To contact compassionate, confidential support, call or text 1-855-484-2846 or chat at VictimConnect Resource Center at https://victimconnect.org/

Unrelenting: The Pursuit of Justice Against Jeffrey Epstein, Part Two

National Center for Victims of Crime — Tue, 14 Dec 2021 14:00:00 GMT

“Unrelenting: The Pursuit of Justice Against Jeffrey Epstein, Part Two” weaves a story of resilience, power and perseverance, charting the path of a 12 year, and ongoing fight to hold Jeffery Epstein accountable. This episode explains his grooming and manipulation process, who he targeted, and how those same children and young women sought justice. This episode of Parallel Justice features esteemed guests Brad Edwards and Brittany Henderson, two lawyers who collectively represent 68 victims and survivors of Epstein.

Learn more about these attorneys below:

Brad Edwards https://www.epllc.com/attorneys/brad-edwards/

Brittany Henderson https://www.epllc.com/attorneys/brittany-henderson/

Learn about Crime Victims Rights here https://victimsofcrime.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/NCVC_trifold_victims-rights.pdf

Visit the National Crime Victim Bar Association for referrals to victim-centered attorneys in your area. https://victimbar.org/

To contact compassionate, confidential support, call or text 1-855-484-2846 or chat at VictimConnect Resource Center at https://victimconnect.org/

Unmasking Our Idols (Part 1)

National Center for Victims of Crime — Tue, 12 Oct 2021 13:00:00 GMT

Unmasking Our Idols is an interactive discussion between Vince Finaldi, John Clune, and Kristen Gibbons Fedden, three high powered National Crime Victim Bar Association attorneys who fought back against Michael Jackson, Bill Cosby, Harvey Weinsten and Supreme Justice Brett Kavanaugh.

Vince Finaldi https://www.manlystewart.com/professionals/vince-w-finaldi/

Kristen Gibbons Fedden https://www.smbb.com/attorney/kristen-m-gibbons-feden/

John Clune https://www.hbcboulder.com/john-clune

Visit the National Crime Victim Bar Association for referrals to victim-centered attorneys in your area. https://victimbar.org/

To contact compassionate, confidential support, call or text 1-855-484-2846 or chat at VictimConnect Resource Center at https://victimconnect.org/

Unmasking our Idols (Part 2)

National Center for Victims of Crime — Tue, 19 Oct 2021 12:30:00 GMT

Unmasking Our Idols (Part 2) is a meaningful discussion between Vince Finaldi, John Clune, and Kristen Gibbons Fedden, three high powered National Crime Victim Bar Association attorneys who fought back against Michael Jackson, Bill Cosby, Harvey Weinsten and Supreme Justice Brett Kavanaugh.

In the finale of this two part episode, host Renee Williams dives into complex questions about legacy, power, culture, and justice for survivors.

Vince Finaldi https://www.manlystewart.com/professionals/vince-w-finaldi/

Kristen Gibbons Fedden https://www.smbb.com/attorney/kristen-m-gibbons-feden/

John Clune https://www.hbcboulder.com/john-clune

Visit the National Crime Victim Bar Association for referrals to victim-centered attorneys in your area. https://victimbar.org/

To contact compassionate, confidential support, call or text 1-855-484-2846 or chat at VictimConnect Resource Center at https://victimconnect.org/

When Children Kill: How Family Abuse and Domestic Violence Can Lead to Tragic Endings

National Center for Victims of Crime — Tue, 15 Feb 2022 13:00:00 GMT

“When Children Kill: How Family Abuse and Domestic Violence Can Lead to Tragic Endings” is a passionate call to identify and prevent child abuse. Featuring nationally renowned advocate for victims of child abuse, Paul Mones, this podcast explores cases where children who are abused take the life of their abuser, representing these victims, the justice system and where they are now.

Learn more about Paul Mones here: https://www.paulmones.com/

Purchase his groundbreaking book, the first of its type, here: https://www.amazon.com/When-Child-Kills-Paul-Mones/dp/0671674218

Visit the National Crime Victim Bar Association for referrals to victim-centered attorneys in your area. https://victimbar.org/

Support is available through VictimConnect via call or text 1-855-4VICTIM (855-484-2846) or chat online at victimconnect.org.

I was there: Discussing Child Sexual Abuse within Indian Health Services from the perspective of an advocate who was there

National Center for Victims of Crime — Tue, 23 Aug 2022 04:00:00 GMT

Listen as Renee Stapp, Director of the NCVC VAST Center, recounts her experience working directly on the Dr. Stanley Weber case. This is a continuing discussion on current cases against the federal government for abuse of Native American children told from the unique perspective of an advocate who was there in real time.

Broken Promises: Finding Accountability for sexual abuse within Indian Health Services Part 2

National Center for Victims of Crime — Tue, 16 Aug 2022 04:00:00 GMT

For 30 years, a pediatrician prayed on Native American children that he was entrusted to protect and heal. For 30 years, Indian Health Services knew of this abuse and took steps to hide his misdeeds, moving him from reservation to reservation. Tune in as Peter Janci, the attorney representing these victims, discusses his quest to hold the federal government accountable for years of sexual abuse of Native American children.

Peter Janci is dedicated to empowering those who have suffered sexual abuse and helping them seek the justice they deserve. For more information or to contact Peter go to: https://www.crewjanci.com/about-us/

The 40 Year Quest: How college rape inspired change and a search for justice that lasted 4 decades Part 1

National Center for Victims of Crime — Tue, 26 Jul 2022 13:00:00 GMT

Ann Olivarius is an internationally renowned attorney, advocate, and activist but in 1974, she was raped while a student at Yale. Join us as she discusses her experience with sexual violence, how Yale reacted, and how she has finally sought justice for a decades old crime. We also examine how her experience shaped her career and influenced her to change the world for other women.

Want to learn more about Dr. Olivarius? Check out her law firm and story here: https://mcolaw.com/team/dr-ann-olivarius/

Web of Lies: How two cases of stolen identity led to stalking, date rape, and a wrongful conviction." part 2

National Center for Victims of Crime — Tue, 06 Sep 2022 04:00:00 GMT

Bumble. Tinder. Craigslist. In the modern world, there are endless solutions to find love. But what happens when someone creates lies and puts themselves at risk? Join dynamo attorney Carrie Goldberg as she explains two cases of stolen identity that almost led to tragic consequences, and how she fought for the victims involved.

Carrie is a powerful, fiery advocate for victims of crime everywhere. For more information, or to contact her go to: https://www.cagoldberglaw.com/

Web of Lies: How two cases of stolen identity led to stalking, date rape, and a wrongful conviction, Part 1

National Center for Victims of Crime — Tue, 30 Aug 2022 04:00:00 GMT

Carrie is a powerful, fiery advocate for victims of crime everywhere. For more information, or to contact her go to: https://www.cagoldberglaw.com/

Reputational Harm: How one sexual predator claimed defamation against a child – and how one attorney fought back. Part 2

National Center for Victims of Crime — Tue, 20 Sep 2022 04:00:00 GMT

Attorney Rich Anderson passionate and unrelenting advocate for victims and children. Find out more about him here: https://sgb-law.com/our-team/rich-anderson.

Failing Grades: What Happens When Schools Fail to Protect Children from Predators

National Center for Victims of Crime — Tue, 01 Mar 2022 13:00:00 GMT

How can we hold predators and those who allow them to work with children accountable? Abuse in schools is extremely difficult to talk about: schools are supposed to be places to learn, grow, and enjoy childhood. “Failing Grades: What Happens When Schools Fail to Protect Children from Predators,” discusses abuse in schools with esteemed attorney Dave Ring. Listen to learn about the warning signs of abuse, what you can do to support children who are abused and how to prevent abuse in schools.

Children and parents can contact the Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline, a 24/7 resource that you can call, chat or text: (1-800) 422-4453 https://childhelphotline.org/.

Visit the National Crime Victim Bar Association for referrals to victim-centered attorneys in your area. https://victimbar.org/upport is available through VictimConnect via call or text 1-855-4VICTIM (855-484-2846) or chat online at victimconnect.org.

The Price of Gold: How the USOC Cultivated a Culture of Abuse to Win at All Costs

National Center for Victims of Crime — Tue, 22 Feb 2022 13:00:00 GMT

Hundreds of coaches. Thousands of victims and survivors, competing at the highest level of sport. Powerful survivor-led actions to change a culture that enables athlete abuse. This podcast features Jon Little, a national advocate for athlete survivors and victims of abuse. Listen in to understand what actions have been taken to prevent and mitigate abuse and the long road ahead to accountability for those who both perpetrate and allow this abuse to occur.

Learn more about Jon Little here: https://sllawfirm.com/our-firm/

Visit the National Crime Victim Bar Association for referrals to victim-centered attorneys in your area. https://victimbar.org/

Support is available through VictimConnect via call or text 1-855-4VICTIM (855-484-2846) or chat online at victimconnect.org.

Unrelenting: The Pursuit of Justice Against Jeffrey Epstein, Part 1

National Center for Victims of Crime — Tue, 07 Dec 2021 13:00:00 GMT

“Unrelenting: The Pursuit of Justice Against Jeffrey Epstein” is an empowering investigation into Jeffery Epstein. This episode shifts the spotlight away from the tumultuous life of master manipulator Jeffery Epstein, focusing instead on the resilience, choices and strength of the victims who held this trafficker to account. This podcast features groundbreaking lawyers and advocates Brad Edwards and Brittany Henderson. Brad and Brittany together represent 68 victims and survivors of Epstein.

Learn more about these advocates by clicking the links below:

Brad Edwards https://www.epllc.com/attorneys/brad-edwards/

Brittany Henderson https://www.epllc.com/attorneys/brittany-henderson/

Order their book, Relentless Pursuit: My Fight for the Victims of Jeffrey Epstein, on Amazon https://www.amazon.com/Relentless-Pursuit-Victims-Jeffrey-Epstein/dp/1982148136.

Learn about Crime Victims Rights here: https://victimsofcrime.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/NCVC_trifold_victims-rights.pdf

Visit the National Crime Victim Bar Association for referrals to victim-centered attorneys in your area. https://victimbar.org/

To contact compassionate, confidential

support, call or text 1-855-484-2846 or chat at VictimConnect Resource Center

at https://victimconnect.org/

The 40 Year Quest: How college rape inspired change and a search for justice that lasted 4 decades Part 2

National Center for Victims of Crime — Tue, 02 Aug 2022 13:00:00 GMT

Want to learn more about Dr. Olivarius? Check out her law firm and story here: https://mcolaw.com/team/dr-ann-olivarius/

Access Denied: Backpage.com and the Case that Changed Electronic Human Trafficking Laws (Part Two)

National Center for Victims of Crime — Tue, 23 Nov 2021 13:00:00 GMT

“Access Denied: Backpage.com and the Case that Changed Electronic Human Trafficking Laws (Part Two)” features fervent advocates Jason Amala and Vincent Nappo. This episode, the finale in the two part series about Backpage.com, a classified adult website, describes the collapse of this giant, the complexities of civil and criminal trials and the role that Congress played.

In this case, survivors challenged a company worth $135 million, changed the way that we think about trafficking and successfully held an industry giant to account.

Learn more about these attorneys by visiting their websites.

Jason Amala https://www.pcva.law/attorneys/jason-amala/

Vincent Nappo https://www.pcva.law/attorneys/vincent-nappo/

Visit the National Crime Victim Bar Association for referrals to victim-centered attorneys in your area. https://victimbar.org/

Scout’s Honor? Decades of Abuse Within the Boy Scouts of America Part 2

National Center for Victims of Crime — Tue, 08 Feb 2022 13:00:00 GMT

A national movement of survivors, over 80,000 strong, banded together to seek justice for the harms they faced at the hands of the Boy Scouts of America. In response, the Boy Scouts of America declared Bankruptcy. What happens now? How can survivors still seek justice? Listen to this finale of our two part series on the Boy Scouts of America, featuring Paul Slager and Michael Pfau, to find out.

Learn more about the attorneys by clicking the links below

Paul Slager https://www.sgtlaw.com/attorney/paul-a-slager/

Michael Pfau https://www.pcva.law/attorneys/michael-pfau/

Visit the National Crime Victim Bar Association for referrals to victim-centered attorneys in your area. https://victimbar.org/

Support is available through VictimConnect via call or text 1-855-4VICTIM (855-484-2846) or chat online at victimconnect.org.

Broken Promises: Finding Accountability for sexual abuse within Indian Health Services Part 1

National Center for Victims of Crime — Tue, 09 Aug 2022 04:00:00 GMT

#Metoo and the American Justice System

National Center for Victims of Crime — Tue, 02 Nov 2021 12:45:00 GMT

#Metoo and the American Justice System, Parallel Justice’s newest episode, stars Micha Star Liberty, Alexandra Brodsky, and Laura Dunn. This deep discussion between three female leaders in the field analyses the movement, addresses misconceptions and answers questions like: “Was #MeToo a moment or a movement?

Where do we go from here?” This episode weaves together cases, anecdotes, policy and movement changes, creating a portrait of the movement that swept across the globe, toppling figures and changing the way people think about consent.

To learn more about Micha Star Liberty, visit

https://libertylaw.com/about/micha-star-liberty/

To learn more about Laura Dunn, visit

https://www.lldunnlaw.com

To learn more about Alexandra Brodsky, visit

https://www.publicjustice.net/team/alexandra-brodsky/

Visit the National Crime Victim Bar Association for referrals to victim-centered attorneys in your area. https://victimbar.org/

To contact compassionate, confidential support, call or text 1-855-484-2846 or chat at VictimConnect Resource Center at https://victimconnect.org/

Remembering Parkland: Lessons for Curbing Mass Violence

National Center for Victims of Crime — Mon, 08 Apr 2024 13:00:00 GMT

In this episode, Renee Williams interviews Michael Haggard,

managing partner of Haggard Law Firm out

of Florida, in person. Michael Haggard and his firm have been representing

crime victims for the last 20 years and played a major role in the cases

surrounding the 2018 shooting that occurred at Stoneman Douglas High School in

Parkland, Florida, where 17 people lost their lives and 17 more were injured.

Michael Haggard represented three victims from the Parkland

shooting: student Joaquin Oliver, cross-country coach Scott Beigel, and teacher

Stacey Lippel. Multiple civil cases resulted from the shooting. The FBI was

targeted in one for failing to act when they were given a tip about the shooter

announcing he was going to open fire on the high school the night before it

happened. Other lawsuits were filed against the school board and the local

police departments.

Tune in to learn more about the ongoing cases and the

lessons that we, as a nation, can learn from what happened in the aftermath of

this tragic shooting.

Continuing Revelations: Abuse and the Mormon Church & LDS

National Center for Victims of Crime — Mon, 28 Aug 2023 13:00:00 GMT

Not many religions are as shrouded in secrecy as the Church

of Latter Day Saints (LDS) and its progeny. This secrecy cultivates a culture

that is ripe for abuse to occur. Attorney Peter Janci of Crew Janci LLP represents sexual abuse

survivors including those abused by LDS and FDLS clergy and rejoins us for this

episode of the podcast to discuss how the abuse occurs and how we can combat

it.

Sexual violence cases involving LDS churches and others

associated with Mormonism tend to be discussed less often than similar cases

against Catholic churches because these crimes are reported less often. The

extent of abuse that occurs is significant, however. Victims of abuse are

deterred from reporting sexual crimes due to the insular structure of LDS

churches and those related as well as the fact that these churches are often

based in states where court statutes stop victims from being able to take legal

action.

Tune in to learn more about the history of sexual violence

in LDS churches and how abuse is often hidden.

The Playbook: Statutes of Limitations

National Center for Victims of Crime — Wed, 28 Jun 2023 13:00:00 GMT

The Catholic church has a go-to playbook to avoid liability

in child sex abuse cases. Last time, we talked to Jeff Anderson and Mike

Finnegan, attorneys from Jeff

Anderson & Associates who represent victims of childhood sexual crimes,

about how the Catholic church utilizes bankruptcy to avoid helping victims.

This time, we speak with them again to discuss one other way the Church has

historically escaped liability—by abusing statutes of limitations.

Statutes of limitations are time limits that legal claims

must be filed during in order to become viable cases. They can differ from

state to state. Statutes of limitations make sense in most personal injury

cases, but for cases involving child sex abuse, a deadline of a couple of years

is simply not enough time for many victims to come forward—especially when the

crime is committed by someone the child thinks they can trust, like a member of

the clergy. The Catholic church has been known to groom or coerce victims into

silence until the statute passes, escaping liability completely.

Hidden Consequences: Liability for enablers and bystanders in institutional abuse cases

National Center for Victims of Crime — Tue, 01 Nov 2022 13:00:00 GMT

Jerry Sandusky. Larry Nasser. Richard Strauss. These names are synonymous with abuse. Less attention is paid to the institutions that protect these predators, and even less to the individuals who knew of abuse every day and choose to not report. Join law professor Amos Guiora as he explains the harms perpetrated by those who enable abusers. More information on Professor Guiora is available at: https://faculty.utah.edu/u0586620-AMOS_GUIORA/hm/index.hml. His book is available at: https://armiesofenablers.com/

Miracle Meadows: How Civil Justice Uncovered Decades of Abuse at a West Virginia Boarding School

National Center for Victims of Crime — Mon, 09 Oct 2023 13:00:00 GMT

Between 1987 and 2014 countless students were abused at Miracle Meadows, a boarding school in West Virginia. These students often complained, but their complaints were repeatedly dismissed. Join Guy D’Andrea, W. Jesse Forbes, and Scott Long, the attorneys who broke this case, as they discuss what they learned through the course of this case and how it fits in with the larger trend of the “Troubled Teen Industry.”

More information on Mr. Forbes is available at: https://www.forbeslawwv.com/.

More information about Mr. D’Andrea is available at: https://laffeybuccikent.com.

More information about Mr. Long is available at: https://www.handl.com

Doe v. Camden City Schools: A Disturbing Case of School Abuse

National Center for Victims of Crime — Wed, 21 Aug 2024 13:00:00 GMT

Attorney Jeff Fritz discusses a case involving school abuse in New Jersey. The case revolves around a seventh-grade student, Jane Doe, who was groomed and abused by her history teacher, Don Walker. The abuse continued into high school, and Walker even convinced Jane Doe to live with him for a period of time. The case highlights the importance of reporting abuse to Child Protective Services and the challenges victims face in coming forward. The statute of limitations for criminal charges had expired, but Jane Doe filed a civil lawsuit within the two-year window provided by New Jersey law. In this conversation, attorney Jeff Fritz discusses a case involving a survivor of sexual abuse by a teacher in the Camden City School District. He explains the dynamics of the abuse, the reasons why victims often stay in contact with their abusers, and the psychological impact on the survivor. The conversation also covers the lawsuit filed against the school district, the verdict, and the ongoing efforts to hold the district accountable.

Seeking Justice in Tragedy: Accountability in Mass Shootings

National Center for Victims of Crime — Wed, 03 Jul 2024 13:00:00 GMT

Special guests Tony Romanucci and Tad Thomas are leading the charge in fighting gun violence in the US. In this episode, they provide valuable insights into the legal challenges, implications, and potential outcomes of seeking justice for the victims of mass shootings. Join us on this compelling installment of Parallel Justice as we delve into the complexities of finding justice and accountability surrounding two mass shootings - the Highland Park shooting and the Old National Bank shooting.

Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of the community impact, challenges, and societal implications involved when a mass violence incident occurs.

For more information or to contact Tony Romanucci: https://www.rblaw.net/

For more information or to contact Tad Thomas: https://www.thomaslawoffices.com/

Visit Lawyer Minds: https://www.lawyerminds.com

Killology & The Murder of George Floyd

National Center for Victims of Crime — Wed, 12 Oct 2022 13:00:00 GMT

George Floyd’s murder was a spark into an already loaded powder keg. Despite extensive press and publicity, misconceptions regarding the murder and the subsequent trials remain. Join Floyd family co-counsel Antonio Romanucci as he discusses the case and the issues that were pervasive in the Minneapolis Police Department for years. More information on Mr. Romanucci is available at: https://www.rblaw.net/professionals-romanucci.

The Unseen Victims & the State of Policing in America

National Center for Victims of Crime — Tue, 18 Oct 2022 13:00:00 GMT

Tensions between law enforcement and communities of color were on the rise well before the murder of George Floyd. Join Attorney Tony Romanucci in this continuing conversation on the current state of policing in America. Mr. Romanucci discusses previous cases of brutality that weren't publicized and discusses how disturbing practices continue to propagate. Mr. Romanucci’s information is available at: https://www.rblaw.net/professionals-romanucci.

The Playbook: How the Church Has Used Bankruptcy to Avoid Liability in Abuse Cases

National Center for Victims of Crime — Thu, 04 May 2023 04:00:00 GMT

The Catholic church has a go-to playbook to avoid liability in child sex abuse cases. Join Renee Williams as she interviews Attorney Jeff Anderson and Attorney Mike Finnegan from Jeff Anderson & Associates, one of the most recognized law firms in the nation that represents victims of childhood sexual abuse, as they discuss how and why the Church uses bankruptcy to avoid helping their victims.

By filing for a Chapter 11 bankruptcy, the Catholic church is able to hide its assets and pay less to abuse survivors while halting all abuse litigation. Consequently, by putting bankruptcy rules and deadlines into place, the organization is even protected from future litigation if more victims were to come forward after the deadline has passed.

Tune in to listen to Jeff Anderson and Mike Finnegan as they discuss how the Church gets away with this and what’s being done to fight back on behalf of survivors.

The Case of Yeardley Love

National Center for Victims of Crime — Wed, 26 Oct 2022 18:00:00 GMT

On May 3, 2010; UVA Women’s Lacrosse star, Yeardley Love was murdered in her Charlottesville Apartment. Twelve years later, Yeardley’s killer was held accountable in civil court. Join this conversation with Yeardley’s family attorney, Kevin Biniazan, as he discusses the case and one family’s quest for justice. More information One Love Foundation is available at: https://www.joinonelove.org/. Mr. Biniazan can be reached at: https://www.bbtrial.com/attorneys/kevin-biniazan/