Switching Sides: James Porfido on Becoming a Defense Attorney After Prosecuting
Note: This episode includes discussion of crime and the criminal justice system, including violent crime.
James Porfido spent years as a prosecutor, working to put accused criminals behind bars—until he made a pivotal shift and began defending them instead. Now, having seen the criminal justice system from both sides, he shares what changed his perspective, what most people misunderstand about fair trials, and why he believes the system doesn’t always deliver equal justice.
Hear James talk about:
His path from prosecutor to defense attorney—and what changed his perspective
The meaning of “innocent until proven guilty” in practice
The state’s obligation in a criminal case
The role of a strong defense attorney in ensuring a fair trial
Why he believes the justice system isn’t always equal
What everyday citizens misunderstand about the legal system
Mentioned in this episode:
“This is how I viewed my transition to becoming a defense attorney: we all are guaranteed a fair trial and due process under the law, and we have constitutional protections.”
Episode 37 Notes
Coming soon.
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