Fall is an exciting time for the legal profession, with the commencement of the US Supreme Court’s new term, the start of academic years in law schools, and the launch of this column for Bloomberg Law, “Exclusive Jurisdiction.” This column will delve into news, trends, and personalities shaping the legal field and the legal profession.
This autumn is particularly busy in the legal world, with three high-profile trials concurrently underway, including the Justice Department’s antitrust case against Meta Inc.’s Google, the New York attorney general’s civil-fraud case against former President Donald Trump, and the federal criminal case against crypto entrepreneur Sam Bankman-Fried. Other significant cases include four criminal cases against a former president and the second federal prosecution of Senator Robert Menendez.
While the Supreme Court seems to be taking a breather after two blockbuster terms, there are still significant cases on its docket with implications for voting rights, free speech, gun regulation, and administrative law. The court might also adopt a formal ethics code for the first time.
For large law firms, it’s a time of uncertainty. Questions arise about the return of transactional work, layoffs, bringing lawyers back to the office, and the survival of some firms amid high-profile partner departures.
Law schools are also facing upheaval, particularly in response to changes in U.S. News rankings and discussions about the future of the LSAT and bar exams.
With over 25 years of experience in the legal profession and legal journalism, I am well-positioned to guide readers through these transformative times. I have diverse legal experiences, including clerkships, work at a prestigious law firm, and service as an assistant U.S. attorney. My transition into full-time legal journalism was driven by a passion for writing about the law and bringing transparency to various legal institutions.
I invite readers to join me in this column, where I’ll offer insights, analysis, and occasional humor about law and the legal profession, with a focus on free speech and addressing issues involving disfavored speakers and ideas. My aim is to provide enlightening, entertaining, and evidence-based writing, drawing on my unique experiences as a lawyer and journalist. I look forward to engaging with readers and hearing your interests and feedback.
