This week on the Touro Law Review Podcast, we are joined by guest speaker Anthony LaPinta. This podcast is moderated by Professor Lynne Kramer. The topic of discussion surrounds the Valva case where Michael Valva and his fiancé, Angela Pollina were found guilty of the murder of Michael Valva’s eight-year-old son, Thomas Valva. Anthony LaPinta discusses in this podcast the important facts of this case. Mr. LaPinta explains how he voluntarily agreed, alongside two other top defense attorneys in the country, to represent Mr. Valva– an indigent defendant –as assigned counsel.

Mr. LaPinta and Professor Kramer discuss the seemingly difficult task of representing such an unpopular defendant where the facts of the case are as troubling and emotional as the facts are in this case. However, Mr. LaPinta’s strong beliefs in the criminal justice system and the foundational notion that everyone is entitled to an attorney allows him to zealously represent such unpopular defendants. Throughout this conversation, Anthony LaPinta and Professor Kramer discuss picking a jury, dealing with client honesty or dishonesty, and making good faith arguments in a defense.

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Our guest today is Anthony LaPinta.

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