Mighty MERP

In this episode of Mighty MERP - Melissa Rosenblum welcomes Alex Settle to discuss the implications and ethics of AI in the practice of law, the conversation revolves around the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into the legal profession, discussing its implications, ethical considerations, and the evolving role of trial attorneys. The speakers emphasize the importance of understanding A...

Mighty MERP dives into the real-world intersection of  mental health and the criminal justice system  in this powerful conversation with  Meg McCormick Hoerner  and  Gretchen Pickering . From first police contact through case disposition, they unpack how mental health shapes every phase of a criminal case—and why diversion, treatment, and nuanced responses are essential for both rehabilitation and...

In this conversation, Peter Lederman, a seasoned attorney specializing in DWI defense and municipal court practice, shares insights from his extensive career. He discusses the challenges of courtroom dynamics, the role of judges, and the importance of building relationships with prosecutors. Lederman emphasizes the need for credibility in legal practice and the significance of finding passion in o...

Building Strong Teams Through Purpose-Driven Hiring Guest: Greg Rosenblit In this episode of the Mighty MERP Podcast , host Melissa Rosenblum speaks with Greg Rosenblit , Chief People & Performance Officer at Jewish Family Service of Atlantic & Cape May Counties (JFS) . Greg shares how JFS is scaling its workforce while staying mission-driven — including how the organization recruits, hire...

takeawaysJessica Budrock emphasizes the importance of a client-centered approach in family law. Her journey into family law began with a volunteer project during law school. Family law encompasses a wide range of issues beyond just divorce, including prenuptial agreements and custody. Opening her own firm was a leap of faith supported by her husband and previous client base. Jessica aims to mainta...

In this episode, Dr. Nina Stolzenberg shares her journey from working in pediatric psychology to leading vocational services at JFS. She discusses the evolution of JFS, the introduction of vocational services, and the importance of individualized support for individuals facing employment barriers. Nina highlights trends in the job market for people with disabilities and justice involvement, shares...

In this conversation, Richie Lomurro and Mighty Merp discuss the intricacies of trial law , discussing various aspects such as trial styles, the importance of authenticity, and the art of cross-examination. https://www.mightymerp.com/richie-lomurro-returns-for-trial-talk/ They emphasize the continuous nature of trial preparation , the significance of understanding client goals, and the necessity o...

Mighty MERP is joined by fellow change-agent, attorney, and past President of the NJSBA Jeralyn Lawrence. The conversation focuses on the need to redefine best practices within legal proceedings, emphasizing a shift from traditional hierarchical mindsets to a more collaborative approach between judges and lawyers. They discuss the importance of mutual respect and the necessity for judges and lawye...

NJ Family Law attorney, Maritza Rodriguez shares her journey from law school to her current role in advocating for lawyer well-being. She and MERP discuss the importance of bar associations, the Putting Lawyers First initiative, and the alarming statistics revealed by recent surveys on lawyer mental health. The dialogue emphasizes the need for systemic changes to support lawyers, the significance...

In this heartfelt episode of the Mighty MERP podcast, host Melissa Rosenblum speaks with Dawn and Sydney Geller about their son and brother, Dylan, who tragically passed away. The conversation explores the deep friendship between MERP and the Geller family, the impact Dylan had on those around him, and the creation of the Do It Like Dylan Foundation, which aims to promote kindness, advocacy for th...

In this episode, Mighty Merp interviews Alex Settle, a seasoned trial attorney who transitioned from prosecution to defense. They discuss the responsibilities of a prosecutor, the importance of mitigation in legal defense, and the dynamics of trial strategies. Alex shares insights on effective trial attorney traits, the significance of staying updated with case law, and the value of building a str...

In this conversation, Mighty Merp and Robert Bianchi dig into the complexities of the legal profession, discussing the roles of prosecutors and judges, the challenges faced within the legal system, and the importance of mental health and community engagement. They explore personal journeys, the impact of leadership in the prosecutor's office, and the power of mercy in justice. The discussion a...

In this episode of the Mighty MERP podcast, David Bruno, a former prosecutor turned criminal defense attorney, shares his journey into law, emphasizing the importance of mental health and avoiding burnout in the legal profession. He discusses the value of trial experience, the shift in perspective from prosecution to defense, and the strategies he employs to maintain a balanced life. The conversat...

In this conversation, Prescott Loveland joins MERP to discuss the transformative approach of holistic defense within the New Jersey Office of Public Defender. Full EP: https://www.mightymerp.com/holistic-defense-with-prescott-loveland/ He shares his personal journey to becoming a public defender, emphasizing the importance of understanding clients as dynamic individuals rather than just cases. The...

In this episode of the Mighty MERP Podcast, host Melissa Rosenblum speaks with Lily Elsohn, Senior Director of Mental Health Services at Jewish Family Services (JFS) of Atlantic and Cape May counties. They discuss Lily's journey into mental health, the vital programs offered by JFS, including Community Support Services (CSS) and the PATH program, and the challenges faced in providing mental he...

In this episode of the Mighty MERP Podcast, host Melissa Rosenbllum interviews Begum Malali, the Director of Food Security Initiatives at Jewish Family Services. They discuss the various services provided by JFS, theimportance of addressing food insecurity in the community, and the unique approach JFS takes in offering food assistance. Begum shares insights into the food distribution process,the c...

In this episode of the Mighty MERP Podcast, Melissa is joined by her #sister Ali, to discuss the evolving nature of #podcasting, family dynamics, and the challenges of caregiving. They reflect on their upbringing, the lessons learned from their #parents, and the pressures of raising #children in today's world. The conversation highlights the generational shifts in perspectives on family, #agin...

In this episode of the Mighty MERP podcast, Judge Susan Maven shares her inspiring journey from a young girl in Brentwood, Long Island, to becoming the first African American woman appointed to the bench in Atlantic County. Her Honor discusses early life, the challenges she faced, her educational path, and her career in law, emphasizing the importance of mentorship, community involvement, and resi...

In this episode of the Mighty MERP Podcast, Melissa and Kristin discuss the challenges of burnout in the legal profession, the importance of mental health, and the journey of recovery. They explore the realities of being a lawyer, the impact of stress on health, and the steps taken to regain balance and redefine career paths. Kristin shares her personal experiences with burnout, the decision to le...

In this conversation on Mighty MERP, Kristin M. Lis, Esq. shares her journey from being a teacher to becoming a family law attorney. ⚖️ Full Ep Page: https://mightymerp.com/kristin-lis-lawyer She discusses the challenges she faced during law school, her clerkship experience, and the transition to solo practice. Kristin reflects on the importance of work-life balance, the impact of burnout, and the...

Mighty MERP returns with a discussion about intimate partner violence and traumatic stress. ⚖️ In this episode of the Mighty MERP podcast, Dr. Dawn Hughes, a clinical and forensic psychologist, discusses her career path and expertise in intimate partner violence and trauma. The conversation delves into the complexities of forensic psychology, particularly in legal cases involving domestic violence...

Join the Mighty LoMURRo podcast ⚖️ with pirate-host Rich Lomurro taking over for Melissa Rosenblum . Full EP page: https://mightymerp.com/lomurro-takeover In this episode, Melissa shares her journey into the legal profession, discussing her transition from aspiring prosecutor to public defender . She reflects on her experiences at the Philadelphia Public Defender's Office, the complexities of navi...

Full episode page: https://MightyMERP.com/linda-laskowski-jones Mighty MERP returns for ⚖️ a conversation that explores the complex issue of criminalizing medical errors in healthcare , focusing on the perspectives of nursing professionals and the systemic failures that contribute to these errors. Linda Laskowski Jones, a seasoned nurse, discusses the emotional toll on healthcare workers, the impo...

The Mighty MERP Podcast - ⚖️ In this episode, Melissa Rosenblum welcomes Dr. Defne Ekin and attorney Evan Levow to discuss the importance of lawyer wellness, the New Jersey Lawyers Assistance Program, and the personal journeys of both guests. They explore the stigma surrounding addiction in the legal profession, the significance of specialization in law, and the evolving landscape of mental health...

Mighty MERP ⚖️ welcomes you to Season 4! In this episode Melissa calls her producer Tom on the carpet to discuss upcoming guests, true crime, and her plan for this season. Melissa discusses professionalism and comfort in the courtroom, the importance of lawyer wellness, and the complexities of legal cases. She shares insights on the nuances of attorney-client privilege, the impact of police report...