The Rule of Law: The Academy Speaks
Welcome to the official podcast of the International Academy of Trial Lawyers. Each week, Academy President Joe Tucker sits down with some of the world’s foremost trial lawyers and champions of justice to explore the most pressing issues facing the legal profession and the Rule of Law.
Episodes

4 days ago
4 days ago
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.

Thursday May 01, 2025
Thursday May 01, 2025
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.

Thursday Apr 24, 2025
Thursday Apr 24, 2025
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.

Thursday Apr 17, 2025
Thursday Apr 17, 2025
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.

Thursday Apr 10, 2025
Thursday Apr 10, 2025
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).