Justice Speaks Podcast

In part two of this series, Judge Brian MacKenzie interviews Judge Michael Haley about his law review article, Drug Courts: The Criminal Justice System Rolls the Rock. Judge Haley shares how Sobriety Courts transformed his approach to sentencing, offering hope and improving outcomes for participants and judges alike.

This episode of Justice Speaks examines pivotal court decisions addressing voting rights following the Shelby County v. Holder ruling. Judges Peggy Hora (Ret.) and Brian MacKenzie (Ret.) discuss cases in North Carolina, Wisconsin, Texas, Michigan, and Kansas that highlight the ongoing battle to protect democracy and equality in the face of restrictive laws.

This episode examines a compassionate yet controversial decision by Judge Lou Olivera, a Veterans Treatment Court judge, who served a night in jail with a veteran participant. We explore the ethical questions raised by his actions, the challenges of addressing PTSD among veterans, and the balance between judicial integrity and humanity in treatment courts.

In part one of this series, Judge Brian MacKenzie interviews Judge Michael Haley about his law review article, Drug Court: The Criminal Justice System Rolls the Rock. Judge Haley shares his journey in developing a Drug Treatment Court, the challenges faced, and how these courts provide hope and transform sentencing practices.

This episode explores the role of alcohol monitoring in ensuring compliance with abstinence clauses in the criminal justice system. Learn about tools like Ignition Interlock Devices, Continuous Alcohol Monitoring, and 24/7 programs, as well as the legal and technological advancements that improve oversight and promote accountability among offenders.

April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month, a critical time to address the growing epidemic of crashes caused by distracted driving.  Distracted driving is a growing epidemic, causing thousands of crashes, injuries, and fatalities annually. This episode explores its dangers, myths, and solutions for safer roads.

Teen driving safety starts with a conversation. Learn about the "5 to Drive" rules, effective strategies to engage teens, and resources to guide them toward safe driving habits.  

This episode examines the constitutional concerns of mandating AA or NA in criminal justice settings. Learn about viable non-religious alternatives like SmartRecovery® and LifeRing Recovery to ensure compliance with the First Amendment while respecting defendants' rights and maintaining judicial and programmatic immunity.

This episode delves into the critical role of Drug Treatment Court judges and how their behavior impacts participant success. Research highlights the importance of procedural fairness, positive judicial demeanor, and the judge-participant relationship in creating transformational outcomes for drug-dependent defendants. Discover what makes a successful DTC judge.

Each day, we make decisions that impact traffic safety—whether driving, cycling, or walking. But how often do we stop and ask, "What will I do today to make my community safer?" In this episode, we explore nine essential tips to become a safer road consumer and reduce the risk of crashes and injuries.

Therapy dogs in courtrooms provide emotional support to vulnerable witnesses and veterans. Learn how these dogs reduce anxiety, improve testimony, and support rehabilitation in Veterans' Treatment Courts.

Human trafficking is a multi-billion-dollar crime affecting millions worldwide. In this episode, Kimberly Overton Spahos discusses its impact, red flags, and steps we can take to end this modern-day slavery. Learn how you can help combat this global crisis.

Ed Wood of DUID Victim Voices examines DUI cases in Colorado, revealing that polydrug abuse, not just marijuana, is the leading factor in impaired driving fatalities. Delays in blood sampling further complicate impairment detection, raising concerns about current testing methods and policies.

Mediators in family law often influence custody outcomes, even using controversial psychological tools like the MMPI. This blog explores the lack of scientific standards in custody evaluations, the challenges for self-represented parents, and the urgent need for legal and scientific scrutiny in family court processes.

Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for veterans after deployment. The transition from combat driving to civilian roads poses unique risks. Programs like the Veterans' Safe Driving Initiative help address these challenges through awareness, education, and policy efforts, ensuring veterans stay safe on the road after returning home.

This episode of Justice Speaks examines the federal court ruling in the Deflategate case. We break down Judge Berman's decision, Tom Brady's suspension, and the arbitration process that led to the case being overturned. Was justice served? Join us as we explore the legal side of this high-profile NFL controversy.

Cognitive distractions are a hidden danger on the road. This episode explores why multitasking while driving is a myth, the risks of cell phone use, and what steps you can take to stay safe. Learn how to eliminate distractions and keep your full attention on the road.

Judge Brian MacKenzie discusses the rule of law and how public officials, like Kim Davis, must uphold it. Learn how legal accountability ensures democracy and justice for all.

DWI Courts offer a proven solution to repeat impaired driving by addressing addiction through treatment and supervision. Learn how these courts hold offenders accountable and help them change their behavior for life.

Judges Peggy Hora and Mary Celeste discuss how evolving marijuana laws are affecting the justice system, from impaired driving cases to legal challenges in court.

Distracted driving is a growing corporate liability risk. Juries are holding companies accountable for crashes caused by employees using cell phones. Learn why a hands-free policy isn't enough and how businesses can protect themselves while prioritizing safety.

Judges in problem-solving courts face unique ethical challenges. From ex parte communications to sentencing failed participants, this episode explores key concerns and best practices.