Legal Vixen™

by Attorney Karren Kenney

Season 2

Behind the Bench: Courtroom Stories From a Retired Federal Court Clerk - Part 2

In this episode of the Legal Vixen Podcast, trial attorney Karren Kenney sits down again with retired federal courtroom deputy Lisa Bredahl for more hilarious stories from federal court. After years of working alongside federal judges and managing jury trials, Lisa has seen just about everything, difficult lawyers, unpredictable jurors, unforgettable witnesses, pro se defendants, courtroom meltdowns, and moments when even the court staff struggled to keep a straight face. Lisa shares some of her favorite courtroom stories, including: -Two litigants who nearly came to blows when the judge left the courtroom -The bizarre case that resulted in Lisa and a federal judge being sued over an alleged courtroom "panic button conspiracy" -A luxury vacation lawsuit involving a safari, baboons, and one VERY unusual personal injury claim -The attorney who tried to get out of jury duty, and ended up spending the entire day sitting in the jury room -A criminal defendant representing himself who had to question himself on the witness stand -Why talking too fast or talking over someone else can destroy your effectiveness in front of a jury Lisa also gives attorneys practical advice about practicing in federal court, including one lesson every lawyer should remember: Be nice to the courtroom staff. She explains why courtroom deputies know far more about what's happening than attorneys may realize, and why being rude to a clerk, courtroom deputy, court reporter, or U.S. Marshal can leave an impression that lasts far longer than your court appearance. Whether you're a trial lawyer, law student, future juror, or simply fascinated by what happens inside a federal courtroom, this episode gives you a perspective you rarely get to hear. For more about Trial Attorney Karren Kenney: https://kenneylegaldefense.us

S2 · E12

Sep 8, 2026

54:14

Behind the Bench: Wild Courtroom Stories From a Retired Federal Court Clerk - Part 1

What really happens behind the scenes in federal court? Trial attorney Karren Kenney sits down with retired federal and state court clerk Lisa Bredahl for an inside look at a side of the justice system most people, including many lawyers, never get to see. Lisa spent more than three decades working inside state and federal courthouses, including 21 years in federal court. In this episode of the Legal Vixen Podcast, she shares unforgettable stories from her career and explains just how different life inside a federal courtroom can be from state court. They discuss: Lisa's transition from California state court to federal court Starting her federal court career just before September 11, 2001 What happened inside the courthouse on 9/11 High-security federal criminal trials and protected witnesses What federal courtroom deputies actually do How federal judges and their law clerks work behind the scenes Why every federal judge can run a courtroom differently The surprising differences between state and federal court Courtroom microphones—and who may be able to hear what attorneys are saying And some truly unbelievable courthouse escape stories One of Lisa's wildest stories involves an in-custody defendant who climbed into the courthouse ceiling and ventilation system and remained there for more than 48 hours. Court personnel ultimately turned up the heat, and he was eventually caught—but not before he apparently made his way into courtrooms and helped himself to food he found along the way. Karren also shares her own perspective from decades of criminal trial practice, including the very different experience of trying cases in California state court and federal court. If you've ever wondered what actually happens behind the courtroom doors, this episode is for you. Subscribe to the Legal Vixen Podcast for conversations about criminal law, federal court, trials, investigations, and stories from inside the justice system. This content is provided for general informational purposes and does not constitute legal advice.

S2 · E11

Sep 8, 2026

50:11

Child Protective Services Cases: Educational Interview with Attorney Lauren Johnson-Norri

What should you do if Child Protective Services (CPS) contacts you? What rights do parents have during a CPS investigation? Can CPS remove your child without warning? In this episode of the Legal Vixen Podcast, host Karren Kenney, a federal criminal defense attorney, sits down with Attorney Lauren Johnson, an experienced California attorney who represents parents and families in Child Protective Services (CPS) and dependency court cases. Together, they discuss how CPS investigations and how they also can overlap with criminal investigations and why having experienced legal representation early in the process can make a significant difference. If you or someone you know has been contacted by Child Protective Services, this episode provides valuable educational information about the legal process and your rights. Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. Every CPS case is different. If you are involved in a CPS investigation, consult with an attorney regarding your specific circumstances. 🎙️ Guest: Attorney Lauren Johnson-Norris

S2 · E10

Jul 11, 2026

49:02

Inside the Central District of California CASA Program: A Journey from Federal Charges to Dismissal

What is the federal CASA Program, and what does it really take to be accepted? In this episode of Legal Vixen, federal criminal defense attorney Karren Kenney sits down with former client Ernest, who successfully completed the Conviction and Sentence Alternatives (CASA) Program in the Central District of California. After completing the program, Ernest's federal criminal case was dismissed. The CASA Program is one of the most selective federal diversion programs in the country, and very little information is publicly available about how it works. Ernest shares his firsthand experience—from being charged in federal court to applying for CASA, completing the program, and rebuilding his life. In this episode, you'll learn: ✔️ What the CASA Program is and who may qualify ✔️ What the application process was like ✔️ What participants are required to do during the program ✔️ How often participants appear in CASA Court ✔️ The role of the CASA Judge and probation team ✔️ Whether participants can be removed from the program ✔️ What Ernest believes helped him succeed ✔️ What life looks like after successfully completing CASA If you or a loved one is facing federal criminal charges in the Central District of California, this episode provides valuable insight into one of the federal system's most unique rehabilitation programs through the perspective of someone who successfully completed it. ⚠️ Important: Every federal case is different. Admission into the CASA Program is highly selective, and participation is determined by the federal court and program administrators. Nothing discussed in this interview should be interpreted as legal advice or as a guarantee that any person will qualify for the program. About Karren Kenney Karren Kenney is a federal criminal defense attorney, Certified Fraud Examiner, and founder of Kenney Legal Defense. She represents clients nationwide in federal criminal investigations and prosecutions involving fraud, conspiracy, healthcare fraud, wire fraud, money laundering, public corruption, and other complex federal matters. Subscribe for more interviews, legal insights, and real stories from inside the federal justice system.

S2 · E9

Jul 3, 2026

37:37

Inside the Mind of a Fraud Investigator Pt. 2 | Damon Tucker on Real Cases

Former Orange County District Attorney’s Office Supervising Investigator Damon Tucker joins the Legal Vixen Podcast for part 2 of an in-depth conversation about fraud investigations, cybercrime, identity theft, and how investigators actually build criminal cases. With decades of experience investigating major fraud, insurance fraud, cybercrime, and economic crimes, Damon Tucker shares what really happens behind the scenes when law enforcement tracks fraudsters, gathers evidence, interviews suspects, and prepares cases for prosecution. Damon Tucker also shares insights from his years in the Orange County District Attorney’s Office Major Fraud Unit and Cybercrime Unit, giving viewers a rare insider perspective into high-level criminal investigations. If you’re interested in true crime, white collar crime, fraud investigations, cybercrime, criminal justice, or behind-the-scenes law enforcement stories, this episode is for you. Subscribe to the Legal Vixen Podcast for more conversations on criminal law, investigations, justice, and high-profile legal issues.

S2 · E8

May 21, 2026

47:15

Inside the Mind of a Fraud Investigator | Damon Tucker on Real Cases & Criminal Tactics

Former Orange County District Attorney’s Office Supervising Investigator Damon Tucker joins the Legal Vixen Podcast for an in-depth conversation about fraud investigations, cybercrime, identity theft, and how investigators actually build criminal cases. With decades of experience investigating major fraud, insurance fraud, cybercrime, and economic crimes, Damon Tucker shares what really happens behind the scenes when law enforcement tracks fraudsters, gathers evidence, interviews suspects, and prepares cases for prosecution. Damon Tucker also shares insights from his years in the Orange County District Attorney’s Office Major Fraud Unit and Cybercrime Unit, giving viewers a rare insider perspective into high-level criminal investigations. If you’re interested in true crime, white collar crime, fraud investigations, cybercrime, criminal justice, or behind-the-scenes law enforcement stories, this episode is for you. Subscribe to the Legal Vixen Podcast for more conversations on criminal law, investigations, justice, and high-profile legal issues.

S2 · E7

May 11, 2026

47:00

Interview with Retired Trial Judge and Court of Appeals Justice, The Honorable Thomas Goethals (Pt2)

Join us for part 2 of the two-part interview with one of Legal Vixen’s all-time FAVORITE trial judges, The Honorable Thomas Goethals. Judge Goethals talks about his impressive legal career and the notable Scott Dekraai Snitch Scandal case he presided over during his time as an Orange County trial judge. Judge Goethals is now a private Neutral with ADR Services, Inc., and his information can be found at https://www.adrservices.com/neutrals/

S2 · E6

Apr 22, 2026

42:16

Interview with Retired Trial Judge and Court of Appeals Justice, The Honorable Thomas Goethals

Join us for a two-part interview with one of Legal Vixen’s all-time FAVORITE trial judges, The Honorable Thomas Goethals. Judge Goethals talks about his impressive legal career and the notable Scott Dekraai Snitch Scandal case he presided over during his time as an Orange County trial judge.

S2 · E5

Apr 21, 2026

28:43

Pulled Over? STFU! Know Your Rights During a Traffic Stop - Marc from Pot Brothers at Law™ Explains

Most people talk themselves into getting arrested. In this episode of the Legal Vixen Podcast, we sit down with criminal defense attorney Marc Wasserman of the Pot Brothers to break down exactly what your rights are when police pull you over, and why staying silent can protect you. We cover the 5th Amendment right to remain silent, when Miranda rights actually apply, and the common mistakes people make during traffic stops that can lead to charges. If you’ve ever wondered: Do you have to answer police questions during a traffic stop? When do Miranda rights kick in? Can you refuse a search of your car? What should you actually say to invoke your rights? This episode explains the constitutional rules behind police encounters and gives you a simple script you should remember if you’re ever pulled over. The script to remember: "Officer, I am invoking my right to remain silent. I want a lawyer. I do not consent to any searches." Knowing your rights could be the difference between walking away or facing charges. #STFU #KnowYourRights #TrafficStop #LegalVixenPodcast #criminaljustice #potbrothersatlaw #CriminalDefense #StaySilent #MirandaRights #PoliceStop #FourthAmendment #FifthAmendment #criminaljustice #criminallaw #criminalattorney #criminalarrest #criminallawyer #whitneyhighschoolalum

S2 · E4

Mar 24, 2026

49:44

Join Our Talk With Personal Injury Attorney Case Barnett - The Truth About P.I. Lawyers

After an accident, choosing the wrong personal injury lawyer can cost you everything. In this episode of the Legal Vixen Podcast, we sit down with California personal injury attorney Case Barnett to uncover the difference between ethical and unethical personal injury representation — and how injured victims can protect themselves. Many accident victims don’t realize there are warning signs of unethical personal injury law firms. If you or someone you love has been injured, this conversation could help you avoid costly mistakes and find the right legal advocate. #personalinjurylawyer #LegalVixenPodcast #KnowYourRights #CaliforniaLaw #AccidentLawyer #InjuryLaw #ConsumerProtection #LegalEducation

S2 · E3

Mar 16, 2026

53:05

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