The Rule of Law: The Academy Speaks

One Lawyer, One Action: Sparking a Movement

This week, Joe sits down with Ted Schmidt, the President of the Arizona State Bar, to discuss how small acts—such as speaking in a classroom or organizing a local event—can spark broader civic engagement. Ted shares what he has done to help lawyers promote the Rule of Law without stepping into political controversy.

Due Process: Lessons from Guantanamo Bay

This week, Joe and "Texas Legal Legend" Dicky Grigg discuss the abuse of immigrants and asylum seekers in the U.S. under the current administration. Grigg reflects on his pro bono work defending people who were wrongfully detained in Guantanamo Bay, the damage those actions inflicted on due process and America’s global reputation, and the striking similarities to what we’re witnessing today. This important conversation challenges us to consider how we can prevent a full-blown constitutional crisis.

Optimism and its Role in Preserving Democracy

In this episode, Joe sits down with Craig Peters, Partner at Altair Law in San Francisco, to revisit the powerful Dean’s Address he delivered at the International Academy of Trial Lawyers 2025 Annual Meeting. The conversation centers on optimism and its essential role in preserving democracy. Craig shares stories of three mentors who, despite overwhelming odds, held onto optimism as they worked to create lasting change.
 
Additional Resources: Watch Craig's Dean's Address, Democracy Depends on Each of Us on IATL.net

The Future of Politics: Courage and Common Ground

This week, Joe and Senator Doug Jones speak about the future of American politics and the role that courage and common ground must play in preserving our democracy. As a former U.S. Senator and longtime attorney, Jones offers a unique perspective on gerrymandering, the inner workings of government, and the critical importance of an independent judiciary in times of division.

DE&I and the Fight for Justice

In this episode, Joe speaks with Doris Cheng of Walkup, Melodia, Kelly & Schoenberger in San Francisco about the growing backlash against diversity, equity, and inclusion. For both Doris and Joe, it’s a deeply personal and professional issue. Together, they unpack what’s fueling the pushback—and how we can make sense of the chaos while holding onto hope.

Gun Violence: "The New Cancer" (part 2)

Michael Haggard of The Haggard Law Firm and Josh Koskoff of Koskoff Koskoff & Bieder, PC, join Joe Tucker for part two of a powerful conversation on the epidemic of gun violence sweeping the nation.
Recently named one of TIME’s 100 Most Influential People of 2025, Koskoff shares how his groundbreaking legal strategy secured a $73 million settlement for the families of Sandy Hook victims — a landmark victory that is now reshaping how gun manufacturers are held accountable in mass shooting cases.

Gun Violence: "The New Cancer" (part 1)

In part one of this episode, Joe speaks with Michael Haggard, Managing Partner of The Haggard Law Firm, about his work representing victims and families affected by gun violence in the U.S. They discuss the heartbreak of this ongoing crisis, and what hope the law can offer to those working to rebuild their lives.

Neighbors In Law: When Politics Threaten Principles

In this episode, Joe connects with Brian Gover and Paul Le Vay of Stockwoods LLP in Toronto to discuss rising U.S.-Canada tensions. They explore cross-border solidarity, the role of legal leadership, and how lawyers on both sides can defend shared principles when politics put pressure on the Rule of Law.

Speaking Truth to Power: What to Do When Lawyers Become Targets

In this premiere episode of The Rule of Law: The Academy Speaks, Academy President Joe Tucker sits down with renowned trial lawyers Cliff Edwards and Kathy Patrick to explore what happens when lawyers themselves become targets—by political leaders, powerful interests, and institutional forces. Together, they reflect on courage, duty, and the vital role trial lawyers play in defending democracy and the Rule of Law. (This episode was recorded on Saturday March 29, 2025).