NYCLA Amicus Curiae

Hosted by New York County Lawyers Association

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Jul 2026

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About the show

The New York County Lawyers Association (NYCLA) launched a new podcast series called NYCLA Amicus Curiae. Each month, NYCLA Amicus Curiae's host, Daniel K. Wiig, will host leaders of the bench, bar and legal community for casual and useful conversations to provide listeners a candid view of the innerworkings of the legal profession and those who undertake its charge.

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August 23, 2026Episode 841 min

We the People on the Pillars of American Democracy

A free and independent Press, the courts and the Rule of Law, the Right to Vote and the United States Constitution are the foundational pillars of our American Democracy. In this episode of NYCLA Amicus Curiae, host Daniel K. Wiig sits down with Richard Gabriel, President of Decision Analysis inc. to discuss his latest research effort, The Rule of Law Project . The aim of the Rule of Law project is to investigate how citizens feel about the role of government, legal principles, foundational Constitutional concepts, and the state of our Democracy. The key findings of this research are surprising, and they provide a framework to support an open dialogue on how We the People experience, navigate, and understand U.S. Democracy and the ideas that make it so. Listen now! To learn more about Richard Gabriel , Decision Analysis Inc. , and the Rule of Law Project .

July 31, 2026Episode 742 min

Who Decides When America Goes to War? A Conversation with Professor John Q. Barrett

Who decides when the United States goes to war? In the latest episode of Amicus Curiae: Candidly Speaking, host Daniel K. Wigg , sits down with Professor John Q. Barrett to explore the Constitution's division of war powers between Congress and the President. Drawing on history, constitutional law, and recent events, Professor Barrett discusses the origins of the War Powers Resolution, how modern military conflicts have shaped presidential authority, and why these questions remain relevant today. The conversation also highlights the enduring influence of Supreme Court Justice Robert H. Jackson, a subject Professor Barrett has studied extensively throughout his distinguished career. Professor Barrett is also the featured lecturer for NYCLA's upcoming 59th Charles Evans Hughes Memorial Lecture .

July 1, 2026Episode 630 min

The Black, White, and Gray of AI: Ethics, Risks, and Regulation with Guest Cyrus R. Vance Jr.

In this episode of NYCLA Amicus Curiae, host Daniel K. Wiig sits down with Cyrus Vance, Jr., Global Chair of Baker McKenzie's Cybersecurity Practice and Co-Chair of the firm's North American Government Enforcement Practice, for a timely discussion on the evolving role of artificial intelligence in society, business, and the legal profession. As AI technologies continue to reshape how we work, communicate, and make decisions, lawyers, policymakers, and business leaders face increasingly complex questions about ethics, risk, accountability, and regulation. Vance shares his perspective on the opportunities AI presents, as well as the challenges posed by algorithmic bias, transparency, misinformation, deepfakes, cybersecurity threats, and the growing need for responsible governance. From innovation and public safety to ethics and the rule of law, this episode examines the black, white, and gray areas of artificial intelligence and what they may mean for the future of the legal profession and society as a whole.

April 17, 2026Episode 540 min

Beyond Party Lines: The Independent Voters

This episode of NYCLA Amicus Curiae with host Daniel K. Wiig features Chad Peace , election law attorney and legal strategist, on the role of independent voters within the current electoral framework. As Independent voters represent a growing share of the electorate, the conversation examines what motivates and inspires them, and ultimately shapes their participation. Chad addresses whether shifts in voting behavior reflect ideology or gaps in representation within a two party system. Drawing on his work with the Independent Voter Project, the discussion highlights ongoing efforts to expand access and reconsider how elections engage a changing electorate. A focused look at the intersection of election law, voter behavior, and institutional design, and why independent voters remain central to that analysis. More on our guest Chad Peace, "> Legal Strategist, Independent Voter Project & Partner, Peace & Shea LLP .

March 31, 2026Episode 443 min

The Nexus of Global Business Litigation: The New York Commercial Division

In this special episode of NYCLA Amicus Curiae we explore the unique role of the New York Commercial Division as a leading forum for complex business disputes. Through a panel discussion with distinguished attorneys: Jonathan B. Fellows, Bond, Schoenneck & King; Elizabeth M. Sacksteder, Of Counsel at Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP; and Richard P. Swanson, NYCLA President and Fmr. Chief Legal Officer at York Capital Management; sit down with host Daniel K. Wiig to examine the court's specialized structure, experienced judiciary, and commitment to efficient, predictable outcomes in high-stakes commercial matters. The panel highlights key advantages, including tailored procedural rules, active case management, and deep subject-matter expertise in areas such as corporate governance, financial instruments, and cross-border transactions. The discussion also addresses how the Division maintains its global relevance, handling sophisticated disputes involving international parties while reinforcing New York's position as a central hub for commercial litigation. Overall, the episode offers insight into why the Commercial Division continues to serve as a preferred venue for resolving complex business disputes and how it adapts to the evolving demands of modern commerce.

March 6, 2026Episode 345 min

Justice Antonin Scalia, A Man in Full: A Conversation with James Rosen

In this episode of NYCLA Amicus Curiae , whost Daniel K. Wiig sits down with journalist and author James Rosen to discuss his book Scalia: Supreme Court Years, 1986 to 2001 . Rosen takes us inside the remarkable career of Antonin Scalia during his first fifteen years on the Supreme Court, exploring his judicial philosophy, memorable opinions, and the personal qualities that made him one of the Court's most influential figures. Listeners will gain insight into Scalia as both a jurist and a person, and learn how his approach to the law shaped the Court and American legal thought. This conversation is essential listening for anyone interested in the Supreme Court, legal history, or the life of one of its most compelling justices.

February 6, 2026Episode 241 min

Justice in Practice: A Conversation with Manhattan DA Alvin L. Bragg, Jr.

In this episode of NYCLA Amicus Curiae with host Daniel K. Wiig, we are joined by Alvin L. Bragg, Jr., the 37th District Attorney of New York County covering Manhattan , who was reelected to a second term in November 2025. District Attorney Bragg reflects on his professional path and the experiences that shaped his approach to public service, drawing on his work as an Assistant Attorney General in New York, an Assistant U.S. Attorney in the Southern District of New York, and Chief Deputy Attorney General overseeing major criminal and civil matters. The conversation explores key moments from his first term as Manhattan District Attorney, including a discussion of select initiatives and priorities within the office. DA Bragg shares insights into how these efforts fit into broader goals of public safety, fairness, and accountability. Looking ahead, DA Bragg outlines objectives for his second term, including the balance between individual accountability and systemic accountability, efforts to address gun violence and the rise of ghost guns, and the office's approach to emerging challenges in the cryptocurrency space, including enforcement under New York's Crypto Act. The episode concludes with reflections on leadership, responsibility, and the role of the District Attorney in a complex and evolving legal landscape. More information about District Attorney Alvin L. Bragg, Jr.

January 23, 2026Episode 140 min

Justice, Politics, and Lawfare: History's Role in Today's Legal Battles with Dennis A. Brennan

The season of NYCLA Amicus Curiae with host Daniel K. Wiig opens with a conversation that looks backward to better understand the present. Attorney and author Dennis A. Brennan joins the podcast to discuss justice, politics, and the concept of lawfare, defined as the strategic use of legal systems to gain advantage in political or institutional conflict. Drawing on his work as a historian and his book, D.C. Swamp Strikes Back: Aaron Burr, Donald Trump and Their Similar Battles , Brennan reflects on how historical narratives continue to shape legal practice, public perception, and the role of attorneys in contested political moments. History remains vivid, and its influence on the future of the law is unmistakable. More About the Author Dennis A. Brennan

December 29, 2025Episode 1537 min

The Problem with Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: A Conversation with Legal Scholar Dr. Carol M. Swain

Legal scholar Dr. Carol M. Swain joins Daniel K. Wiig to explore key questions in contemporary discussions about diversity, equity, and inclusion. The conversation begins by examining the original intent of the civil rights movement and the legal and social principles that shaped efforts to remove formal barriers to equality. From there, the discussion moves to affirmative action and the evolution of DEI frameworks, considering how concepts of merit, integration, and assimilation have been understood over time. Dr. Swain and Daniel also discuss what a color blind society might look like and the different interpretations of that concept in law and society. The episode emphasizes careful analysis of ideas, historical developments, and the implications of various approaches to race and inclusion, leaving listeners with a broader understanding of the issues. Learn More About Dr. Carol M. Swain. The views expressed here are those of the guest, and do not necessarily represent or reflect the views of NYCLA, its affiliates, its officers, or its Board.

December 16, 2025Episode 1447 min

Judicial Ethics, Public Trust, and the Federal Courts: A Candid Conversation with Gabe Roth

In this episode of NYCLA Amicus Curiae , Dan Wiig is joined by Gabe Roth, Executive Director and founder of Fix the Court . Roth discusses the organization's mission to promote greater transparency, accountability, and ethical standards at the United States Supreme Court. Drawing on his background in journalism, media advocacy, and court transparency work, he outlines how Fix the Court evaluates the Court's institutional practices and public-facing obligations. The conversation begins with an overview of Fix the Court's core priorities, including media and public access to Supreme Court proceedings, proposals for term limits, the development and implementation of a judicial code of ethics, and concerns related to stock ownership, recusals, and financial disclosures by the justices. Roth then examines developments following the Supreme Court's adoption of a Code of Conduct, noting areas where limited improvements have occurred alongside persistent structural shortcomings. Particular attention is given to the absence of an enforcement mechanism, uneven recusal practices, gaps in financial disclosure, and questions surrounding public appearances and institutional stewardship. The episode concludes with a discussion of unresolved issues and outstanding questions raised with the Court regarding ethics guidance, internal review processes, and transparency measures. Throughout, the focus remains on factual analysis of existing policies and practices and their implications for public confidence in the judiciary. Gabe Roth