Ep 79 - UT V. Kouri Richins: Trial Day 8 - Kouri’s Lover Takes the Stand
Day eight of the Corey Richens murder trial featured a cascade of witnesses, most notably Richens’ alleged lover, insurance officials, and a divorce attorney. The testimony centered on rapid beneficiary changes to a life‑insurance policy, a new policy taken out just weeks before Eric Richens’ fentanyl‑related death, and the mechanics of a buy‑sell agreement designed to protect business interests while funneling payouts to a spouse. The state painted a financial motive narrative: LaShonda Rogers of New York Life detailed how the beneficiary switched from Eric’s partner to Corey and back within six minutes using her email address. An insurance claims manager confirmed the policy was applied on February 3, a month before the fatal overdose, and highlighted the insurer’s requirement that fentanyl be prescribed for the accidental‑death benefit to trigger. Meanwhile, the defense moved for a mistrial, arguing prosecutors failed to disclose Brady‑Giglio material concerning key witness Carmen, potentially undermining her credibility. Key moments included the divorce attorney’s recollection that Eric had consulted her about a 60‑40 custody split and received a “to‑do list” for filing divorce, yet sent it to his brother‑in‑law rather than retain it—suggesting ambivalence. The buy‑sell agreement expert explained how $2 million policies enable a surviving partner to buy out the deceased’s share without transferring business control, a common but financially potent tool. These details collectively reinforce the prosecution’s claim that Corey stood to gain substantially from Eric’s death. If the jury accepts the financial‑gain storyline, the case could set a precedent for scrutinizing life‑insurance practices and beneficiary manipulations in homicide prosecutions. Conversely, any successful challenge to the state’s evidence—particularly the alleged withholding of impeachment material—could tilt the trial toward acquittal and spark broader discussions about disclosure obligations in criminal trials.
UT V. Kouri Richins: Trial Day 6 - Is Kouri Sunk By Her Cell?
On day six of the Utah murder trial of former author Kouri Richins, prosecutors emphasized newly obtained cell‑phone data that places Richins at critical locations and timestamps. Defense attorneys attempted to downplay the digital evidence, arguing privacy violations and potential...
UT V. Kouri Richins: Trial Day 4 - The Most Important Witness - Do You Believe Her?
The fourth day of the Utah v. Kouri Richins trial centered on two pivotal witnesses: a confidential informant who turned against Richins and a forensic toxicologist. The informant’s testimony was immediately scrutinized for contradictions, with the defense probing prior statements,...
UT V. Kouri Richins: Trial Day 2
The second day of the Utah v. Kouri Richins murder trial unfolded with prosecutors presenting forensic evidence linking Richins to the crime scene, while the defense challenged the chain of custody. Testimony from a forensic analyst highlighted DNA traces on...
Ep. 75 - We Asked 5 Lawyers Used to Winning About Their Biggest Loss
In episode 75, five seasoned attorneys share the biggest losses they’ve endured in their careers, detailing the circumstances and aftermath of each case. The conversation highlights how these setbacks reshaped their legal strategies, client relationships, and firm cultures. Listeners gain...
Another Read Civil Hearing - One Side Clearly Working The Hardest
The court convened a status hearing in the Karen Reed civil litigation, focusing on persistent discovery challenges and an extensive deposition schedule. Plaintiff Paul O’Keefe’s counsel reported that the latest load file was still processing, creating uncertainty about document accessibility,...
Murdaugh Appellate Oral Argument: What Did We Learn From the Judges' Questions
The appellate panel heard arguments on whether former South Carolina solicitor Alex Murdaugh deserves a new trial after allegations that court clerk Becky Hill improperly influenced jurors. Defense counsel contended that Hill’s statements—suggesting a guilty verdict would boost book...
Idaho 4 Sue Washington State - NOT Kohberger... What Did They Do Wrong?
Families of the four victims known as the "Idaho 4" have filed a wrongful-death civil suit against Washington State University, alleging the school knew or should have known about former employee Brian Kohberger’s escalating, predatory and stalking behavior yet retained...
Ep 72 Charlie Adelson Appellate Oral Argument, Fireworks From Bench, Ineffective Counsel Shots Fired
The Lawyer You Know podcast aired the appellate oral argument for Charlie Adelson, with lead counsel Michael Offerman facing a "hot bench" of Florida judges. The panel’s rapid, probing questions forced Offerman to expand his allotted time repeatedly, underscoring the...