Unequal Justice: A Veteran Attorney Speaks Out

🔹 Introduction

In this compelling episode of How to Live a Fantastic Life, Dr. Allen Lycka welcomes James M. Porfido, a seasoned New Jersey attorney with over 35 years of experience. A former prosecutor and now defense attorney, James offers rare insight into the U.S. criminal justice system from both sides of the courtroom.

🔹 Guest Background

James Porfido has served as Chief Prosecutor for sex crimes and child abuse cases, and is a certified criminal trial attorney. His work as a legal analyst on major networks and as an adjunct law professor adds further depth to his impressive resume.

🔹 Key Takeaways

• The stark contrast between prosecution and defense
• How bias can erode constitutional protections
• The emotional toll of wrongful accusations
• Stories from high-profile cases, including Duke Lacrosse and a shocking date rape trial
• Why James titled his book Unequal Justice and what he hopes it will change

🔹 Real-Life Stories

One particularly moving story involves a college student falsely accused of rape. Despite lacking credible evidence, he spent over 18 months in jail. James fought relentlessly, only to have the family switch lawyers—only to be told the same hard truth: the system itself was broken. Eventually, when the accuser was later arrested in Florida, the case unraveled and the young man was freed.

🔹 Expert Insights

James discusses the inherent flaws in the justice system, how high-profile cases are often tried in the media, and the critical need for strong advocacy. He also shares his passion for teaching future litigators the lost art of persuasion and real courtroom tactics not taught in law school.

🔹 Learn More

To learn more, get James’s book Unequal Justice: The Search for Truth to Balance the Scales on Amazon or Barnes & Noble, or visit www.unequal-justice.com. You can also find James on YouTube and Spotify sharing more insights into the legal world.

Visit www.drallenlycka.com to subscribe to weekly Golden Pearls and keep discovering how to live your own fantastic life.

BIO:

James m. Porfido, Esq. is an attorney in New Jersey with over 35 years experience. He is Certified as a Criminal trial Attorney by the Supreme Court of New Jersey since 1995. He is a former Prosecutor and Chief Prosecutor of Sex Crimes and Child Abuse Cases and Vehicular Homicides. He is a TV Legal Analyst for over 20 years and an Adjunct Law Professor at Seton Hall University School of Law. Unequal Justice is his first book and talks about the cases and people involved from both sides of the courtroom as a Prosecutor and Defense Attorney.

Social Media:

Website: www.porfidolaw.com www.unequal-justice.com

https://www.instagram.com/jamesporfido/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-m-porfido-b007461a1/

The Philosopher’s Wrench – Tools for a Better World

Guest: Larry Weingarten, Author, Contractor, and Philosopher of Practical Wisdom

Overview:

Larry Weingarten joins Dr. Allen Lycka to explore timeless lessons on living fully, solving complex problems, and embracing creativity through manual work and mindful living. From his early passion for fixing things to writing The Philosopher’s Wrench, Larry shares insights on how creativity, kindness, and practical tools can be used to improve both our inner and outer worlds.

Key Themes:

1. Finding Joy in Work:

Larry explains how learning can be entertaining and why fun should be foundational to any job. Whether taking apart gadgets or helping others, joy has always fueled his journey.

2. Why He Wrote the Book:

Motivated by a desire to pass down hard-earned wisdom, Larry shares how writing helped him clarify truths and offer guidance to future generations.

3. The Power of Collective Action:

He and Dr. Lycka imagine a world transformed by everyday acts of kindness—small fixes that ripple out to big changes.

4. Embracing a Second Childhood:

Larry advocates reconnecting with childlike wonder—being present, curious, and playful—while viewing work as an extension of joy and meaning.

5. How to Live a Fantastic Life:

Presence and helpfulness are at the core of Larry’s life philosophy. He encourages listeners to notice what’s right, slow down, and lead with gratitude and hope.

6. Life Lessons on Time, Money & Stress:

• Time: Save it by slowing down, planning, and sharpening your mental “tools.”
• Money: Spend with intention—ask if it's an investment or entertainment.
• Stress: Notice five good things every hour. Balance negativity with gratitude.

7. Troubleshooting as an Artform:

Larry outlines how to approach problems by gathering comprehensive data, avoiding premature assumptions, and applying learned wisdom to solve issues efficiently.

8. Final Pearls of Wisdom:

His biggest “tools”? Truth, appreciation, hope, and perspective. These human values guide his approach to challenges and empower others to live better lives.

Resources & Book Info:

Get Larry’s book, The Philosopher’s Wrench, on Amazon or visit www.larryweingarten.com for more insights.

Connect with Dr. Lycka:

Explore more episodes and sign up for weekly “Golden Pearls” at www.drallenlycka.com.

BIO:

Larry Weingarten authored “The Philosopher’s Wrench”, published in 2023. He’s a contractor, who’s worked with his hands for over 50 years, and has learned about fixing problems, both technical and human. He enjoys helping, whether it’s people, animals, or by simply respecting this land that raised him.