This episode of Tales from the 10th features excerpts from the oral history of prominent Denver trial lawyer Hal Haddon, whose career shaped both criminal law and legal institutions in Colorado. Haddon recounts two remarkable cases from the early years of his career. The first, People v. Snead, challenged Colorado’s homicide statutes and led the Colorado Supreme Court to clarify the role of premeditation in first-degree murder law. The second case involved anti-Vietnam War activist Cameron Bishop, who was charged with a capital crime after a protest-related act of sabotage. Haddon describes the dramatic trial, the political context of the era, and the eventual reversal of Bishop’s conviction by the Tenth Circuit on due process grounds.

Beyond the courtroom, Haddon reflects on his role in shaping Colorado’s legal landscape, helping establish bipartisan judicial nominating commissions that diversified the federal bench and co-founding the Colorado Criminal Defense Bar to advocate for criminal justice reform. The episode offers a vivid look at how one lawyer’s work influenced the evolution of law, courts, and the defense bar in Colorado.

Two stories, one legacy. Judge Bobby R. Baldock recounts the behind-the-scenes effort that helped the Tenth Circuit reclaim and restore Denver’s historic courthouse, now named for Justice Byron White. Judge David Ebel then shares personal memories of the justice himself, reflecting on White’s humility, competitive spirit, and deep commitment to the law. Together, these conversations explore both the history of the building and the character of the man whose name it carries.

This episode of Tales from the 10th features two memorable fireside conversations from the 10th Circuit Bench and Bar Conference.

The first tells of the remarkable story behind a 2010 appearance by Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. After the death of her husband, renowned tax lawyer Martin Ginsburg, Justice Ginsburg traveled to Denver to deliver a speech he had prepared. In it, Marty recounts the story of Mortiz v. Commissioner, the case he and Ruth argued before the Tench Circuit that challenged a tax law discriminating against unmarried men caring for dependent parents. The victory helped launch Justice Ginsburg’s pioneering litigation strategy advancing gender equality under the Constitution.

The second part features highlights from a 2022 fireside interview with Chief Justice John Roberts. Speaking with Tenth Circuit Judges, Roberts reflects on the role of the Supreme Court, the importance of collegiality among the justices, and the challenges of maintaining public confidence in the Court during a period of intense scrutiny.

Together, these conversations offer a rare window into the people, stories, and institutional traditions that shape the Supreme Court and the broader federal judiciary.