People Acting Like Lawyers & Mostly Malarkey

The Scope of Liberty

What does liberty really mean? Is it freedom from government interference, the ability to pursue happiness, the right to make your own choices, or something else entirely? In this episode of People Acting Like Lawyers and Mostly Malarkey, Maryland attorneys Meg and Devin tackle one of the most complex concepts in constitutional law: liberty. From Supreme Court Justice John Harlan's "rational continuum" of liberty to the famous Penumbra Doctrine, they explore how courts have interpreted personal freedoms throughout American history and why those interpretations continue to evolve. Along the way, they discuss bodily autonomy, freedom of speech, privacy rights, same-sex marriage, abortion, property rights, the pursuit of happiness, and the role of the courts in defining the limits of individual freedom. They also examine how changing social values, legal precedent, and constitutional interpretation shape the rights we enjoy today—and the rights that may emerge tomorrow. Whether you're interested in constitutional law, civil liberties, or simply curious about how the courts determine what freedoms are protected, this episode offers a thought-provoking conversation about the scope of liberty and the ongoing balance between individual rights and government authority. Pour a drink (responsibly), pull up a chair, and join Meg and Devin as they explore one of the most fundamental, and most debated, ideas in American law.

Practical Tips for Hiring a Lawyer

Hiring a lawyer can be overwhelming, especially when you're already dealing with a stressful situation. In this episode of People Acting Like Lawyers and Mostly Malarkey, Maryland attorneys Meg and Devin break down what you should (and absolutely should not) do when choosing legal representation. From why first impressions matter and when to seek a second opinion, to how communication, process, professionalism, and pricing all play a role, this episode offers practical, real-world advice for anyone facing a legal decision. Meg and Devin discuss the importance of trusting your instincts, recognizing red flags, understanding an attorney's process, and making sure you feel heard and respected, before you sign that retainer. Along the way, they share personal experiences from immigration, criminal, civil, and family law cases, explain why experience isn't everything, and explore how empathy, communication, and local knowledge can make or break a lawyer-client relationship. Pour a drink (responsibly), pull up a chair, and consider this your roadmap to hiring the right lawyer for you. This episode is for entertainment purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.

Habeas Corpus

Habeas corpus: What it is, why it matters, and how it actually works. Maryland attorneys Devin and Meg break down the constitutional writ that lets a person challenge unlawful detention, separating pop-culture myths from real courtroom procedure. They cover the basics, a quick history, and what filing looks like in Maryland, then unpack recent headline cases, including the Supreme Court's 2025 action involving Venezuelan detainees and Doe v. Mattis, to show how due-process rights play out in practice. What you'll learn * The meaning and purpose of the writ of habeas corpus * Key Maryland rules (e.g., Rule 15-302 petitions; Rule 1-361(b)(1) 24-hour presentment) * When and why habeas gets used as a "last resort" * How recent federal cases shape notice, detention, and access to counsel Disclaimer: This episode is for entertainment and general information only and is not legal advice. For advice about your situation, consult a licensed attorney.

The Role of a Lawyer

In this episode of People Acting Like Lawyers and Mostly Malarkey, Maryland attorneys Meg and Dee (aka Devin) set the record straight on what it really means to be a lawyer. From managing client expectations to clarifying the limits of legal representation, they dig into: * What it means to be an advocate for your client * The difference between legal advice and life advice * Common misconceptions about a lawyer's role * Why client cooperation can make or break a case * Stories from estate planning, immigration, and criminal defense Whether you've hired an attorney, considered becoming one, or just wondered why lawyers can't (and shouldn't) be your therapist, this conversation blends candid insights, real-life examples, and plenty of personality. Listen now on the Frederick Podcast Network at ListenFrederick.com [https://listenfrederick.com].