In this episode, we explore the fascinating history of some of Orange County’s most high-profile white collar criminal cases. OCBA Board Member/Stradling Attorney Sean Thomas Lobb and former Federal Prosecutor/Stradling Partner Jason de Bretteville interview former Federal Prosecutor/Manatt Partner Ken Julian and former Federal Prosecutor/Founder of the National Advocacy Institute Brett Sagel as they take us behind the scenes of the investigations and prosecutions that captured national attention.

From the Sheriff Mike Carona aka “America’s Sheriff” corruption case to the Doug DeCinces/James Mazzo insider trading case and the Michael Avenatti fraud prosecution, our guests share firsthand insights into the people, investigations, strategies, and courtroom battles that shaped these landmark cases. Tune in for an insider’s look at the evolution of white collar criminal prosecution in Orange County—and the stories behind some of the cases that made headlines far beyond the OC.

Enjoy an inspiring conversation with Judge Karen L. Robinson, highlighting her life experiences in Kentucky, schooling, and distinguished legal career. Judge Robinson reflects on her service as the first African American city council member and mayor of Costa Mesa and her path to becoming a Superior Court Judge. She also discusses her biggest influences, her relationship with the OCBA and its legacy, and provides thoughtful advice for the next generation of attorneys and law students. Tune in for an engaging conversation with a trailblazer.

In this episode, we dive into the bold origins of the University of California, Irvine School of Law, the first new public law school in California in over 40 years. Past OCBA President Christina Zabat-Fran and OCBA Board Member Sean Thomas Lobb interview founding Dean Erwin Chemerinsky and Judge Andrew Guilford (Ret.) as they share the inside story of how a “dream team” of faculty and community leaders reimagined legal education from the ground up.

From navigating political hurdles to prioritizing public service, our guests reveal the grit and vision required to build a national model for innovation and impact. Tune in to discover how this transformative institution grew from a daring idea into a powerhouse that continues to redefine the legal profession.