Attorneys with Swag

Navigating Family Court

In this episode, hosts Eugene D. Toussaint, Esq. and David Ourlicht II, Esq., and guests Denis B. Rose, Esq. and Mehdi Essmidi, Esq. tackle the complex and often misunderstood world of Family Court. With insights from experienced attorneys, they break down the challenges faced by families navigating this system, offer strategies for advocates, and discuss the emotional and legal toll of family law cases. Whether you're an attorney, a family member, or someone working in the system, this episode provides invaluable perspectives on making a meaningful impact in Family Court.

New York 2020 Bail Reform Explained

Eugene Toussaint, Esq. and Mehdi Essmidi, Esq. host an in-depth discussion with guests Arielle Reid, Esq. and Bryant Bell, unpacking the transformative changes brought by New York's 2020 bail reform laws. This episode explores how the reforms sought to address inequities, the challenges of navigating the system, and the real-world impact on families and communities. With firsthand insights, they examine the systemic obstacles that persist, the rollback of reforms, and how these changes shape justice for those most affected. This is more than a legal conversation—it's a call to envision a fairer system that prioritizes humanity over incarceration.

Defending January 6th Defendants

In this compelling episode, host Eugene Toussaint and co-host Jack Gomez dive deep into the complexities of defending January 6th defendants with special guest, Joseph McBride, Esq. As one of the most prominent attorneys representing those involved in the Capitol riot, McBride shares his experiences, challenges, and the legal intricacies behind these politically charged cases. The discussion touches on systemic bias, the role of the courts, and the broader implications for civil liberties in America. Tune in to explore the intersection of law, politics, and justice.

NYC Housing Court Explained

In this episode of Attorneys with Swag, host Eugene Toussaint is joined by seasoned housing court attorneys Eric Margolis, Esq., Dannelly Rodriguez, Esq., and Charles McCracken, Esq., to break down the complexities of New York housing court. Together, they provide invaluable insights into tenant and landlord rights, the eviction process, and the role of predicate notices. This discussion also covers key differences between summary proceedings and regular civil cases, offering a well-rounded view of what tenants and landlords can expect when entering housing court.Whether you're facing eviction, dealing with housing disputes, or interested in understanding New York’s housing laws, this episode provides essential information on navigating housing court effectively. Learn about the legal strategies and protections available to tenants and gain clarity on what to expect throughout the court process.

Bankruptcy Court Explained

In this episode of Attorneys with Swag, host Eugene Toussaint is joined by legal experts Peter S. White II, Esq. and Alexander Knipenberg, Esq. Together, they dive into the intricate world of bankruptcy law, exploring the different types of bankruptcies, what makes a successful petition, and the crucial role of the trustee. They also discuss common misconceptions, the impact of bankruptcy on credit scores, and the risks of bankruptcy scams. Whether you’re dealing with overwhelming debt, facing foreclosure, or just curious about the legal process, this episode provides invaluable insights into how bankruptcy can be a powerful tool for financial relief. Don’t miss this informative conversation that could help you navigate your way to a fresh start. Chapters: 00:00 Intro music 00:30 Introduction: Overview of Bankruptcy 05:30 Common Misconceptions About Bankruptcy and the Automatic Stay 12:45 Differences Between Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 Bankruptcies 20:15 Role of the Trustee: Verifying Assets and Debt Ownership 25:45 Asset Discovery and Filing Accurate Petitions 30:10 Loss Mitigation Programs and Loan Modifications in Bankruptcy 35:00 Challenges in Applying for Loan Modifications 38:00 Proof of Claims: Creditors Filing and Debt Ownership Challenges 42:00 Amending Bankruptcy Petitions and Trustee Meetings 46:20 Adversary Proceedings: Handling Fraudulent Claims in Bankruptcy Court 51:10 Trustee's Commission in Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 Cases 53:00 Circuit Split on Trustee's Fees for Dismissed Cases 55:30 How Exemptions Work in Bankruptcy: State vs. Federal Exemptions 58:30 The Homestead Exemption: Protecting Your Home in Bankruptcy 1:00:00 Using Wildcard Exemptions for Personal Assets 1:04:50 Meeting the Bankruptcy Trustee: Discovering Hidden Assets 1:10:30 Exemptions for Cars, Jewelry, and Electronics in Bankruptcy 1:15:20 The Importance of Accurate Documentation in Bankruptcy Filings 1:24:00 Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Navigating Bankruptcy Successfully