Podcast · News

The Quill & Sword

by The Judge Advocate General's Legal Center and School · English · News

The Quill & Sword series of podcasts is created and hosted by The Judge Advocate General’s Legal Center and School (TJAGLCS). There are multiple shows in the series, with The Quill & Sword show serving as the umbrella show. "The Quill & Sword" show contains all episodes from the "Criminal Law Depart

New episodes: Weekly
Typical length: 14 min
Latest: 14 Oct 2026
Language: English

Latest episode

14 Oct 2026 · 22 minNew

The Quill & Sword | CAAF Chats Ep 82: United States v. Braum (C.A.A.F. 2026)

In this episode, we review the discovery and disclosure rules under R.C.M. 701 and R.C.M. 703, highlighting the tension between a victim's Fourth Amendment privacy rights in digital evidence and the accused's statutory right to discovery. We examine whether the military judge erred in denying defense access to a complete forensic data extraction of the victim's cell phone when the government held physical possession of the data, but the victim had consented only to a limited, location-related search. We provide key takeaways on the strategic trial application of the harmless error standard,…

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Earlier episodes 29 most recent

14 Oct 2026 · 10 minNew
The Quill & Sword | The FAR & Beyond Episode 57: Revolutionary FAR Overhaul: FAR Part 17: Overhauling Special Contract Methods
In this episode, we analyze the overhaul of FAR Part 17, highlighting key additions such as the explicit codification of reverse auctions and the removal of the default five-year ceiling on option periods. We also discuss structural streamlining across the subparts, the relocation of procedural best practices to the non-regulatory FAR Companion, and the broader policy shift toward judgment-based procurement practices. Learn more about The Quill & Sword series of podcasts by visiting our podcast page at https://tjaglcs.army.mil/thequillandsword. The Quill & Sword show includes featured…
7 Oct 2026 · 14 min
The Quill & Sword | The FAR & Beyond Episode 56: Revolutionary FAR Overhaul: FAR Part 16: The New Contract Types
In this episode, we explore the major shift in FAR Part 16 from a restrictive to a permissive regulatory philosophy, as well as the new agency justification requirements for non-fixed-price contracts introduced under Executive Order. We also break down key structural reorganizations across the subparts and highlight new acquisition flexibilities, including establishing BPAs under IDIQ contracts and the formal codification of vendor on-ramps and off-ramps. Learn more about The Quill & Sword series of podcasts by visiting our podcast page at https://tjaglcs.army.mil/thequillandsword. The Quill…
30 Sep 2026 · 14 min
The Quill & Sword | The FAR & Beyond Episode 55: Revolutionary FAR Overhaul: FAR Part 13: The New Non-Commercial Simplified Acquisition Rules
In this episode, we unpack the massive revamp of FAR Part 13, which completely strips out commercial clutter to focus strictly on simplified procedures for non-commercial acquisitions. We discuss operational updates for contracting officers, including the migration of payment clauses to Part 32, the transition to a dynamic online list of inapplicable laws, and the strict new legal distinction between canceling an unaccepted purchase order versus terminating an accepted one. Learn more about The Quill & Sword series of podcasts by visiting our podcast page at…
23 Sep 2026 · 8 min
The Quill & Sword | The FAR & Beyond Episode 54: Revolutionary FAR Overhaul: FAR Part 9: Streamlining Contractor Qualifications
In this episode, we examine FAR Part 9, explaining how major sections—including pre-award surveys and contractor team arrangements—have been removed from codified regulation and relocated to the non-regulatory FAR Companion Guide. We also detail core retained statutory standards updated for plain language, along with critical new administrative rules that make non-compliance a direct trigger for suspension or debarment proceedings. Learn more about The Quill & Sword series of podcasts by visiting our podcast page at https://tjaglcs.army.mil/thequillandsword. The Quill & Sword show includes…
16 Sep 2026 · 15 min
The Quill & Sword | CAAF Chats Ep 81: United States v. Maebane (C.A.A.F. 2026)
In this episode, we review the residual hearsay exception under M.R.E. 807 and the Sixth Amendment right to present a complete defense under Chambers v. Mississippi. We examine whether the military judge arbitrarily excluded a third party's recorded confession and apology letter to the victim's parents, and whether admitting that evidence for impeachment alone infringed a weighty interest of the accused. We provide takeaways on the current trustworthiness standard, the line between judicial gatekeeping and panel credibility determinations, and the appellate risk of excluding exculpatory…
9 Sep 2026 · 26 min
The Quill & Sword | CAAF Chats Ep 80: United States v. Ruiz & United States v. Brown (C.A.A.F. 2026)
In this episode, we review the hearsay exception for prior consistent statements under M.R.E. 801(d)(1)(B) and the Frost and Finch factors that govern each subsection. We examine whether a victim's statements to law enforcement were admissible to rehabilitate credibility attacked on the “other ground” of faulty memory in Ruiz, and of inconsistency in Brown, along with CAAF's clarification of Ayala on when both subsections may apply. We provide takeaways on anticipating impeachment, making strategic decisions about highlighting inconsistencies, and using bench briefs to frame the issue for…
9 Sep 2026 · 9 min
The Quill & Sword | The FAR & Beyond Episode 53: FAR Part 8 Deep Dive: Mastering the Mandatory Source Ladder and GSAM Procedures
In this episode, we break down the mandatory priority ladder for federal procurement, guiding contracting professionals through the essential "rules of the road" for sourcing supplies and services. They also highlight crucial updates on using the Spend Under Management tiers, the relocation of Federal Supply Schedule procedures to the GSAM, and the streamlined three-day explanation process for unsuccessful quoters. Learn more about The Quill & Sword series of podcasts by visiting our podcast page at https://tjaglcs.army.mil/thequillandsword. The Quill & Sword show includes featured episodes…
2 Sep 2026 · 18 min
The Quill & Sword | The FAR & Beyond Episode 52: Redefining "Small": Unpacking the SBA's Proposed Size Standards Overhaul
In this episode, we unpack two proposed rules from the Small Business Administration (SBA) that could qualify companies with up to half a billion dollars in annual revenue as small businesses. The hosting team breaks down the five major proposed shifts—including massive NAICS code consolidation, a preference for headcount-based standards, and the "hold harmless" policy—detailing exactly how these changes will reshape the "rule of two" and the competitive landscape for federal contractors. Learn more about The Quill & Sword series of podcasts by visiting our podcast page at…
26 Aug 2026 · 9 min
The Quill & Sword | The FAR & Beyond Episode 51: Revolutionary FAR Overhaul: FAR Part 8: Mandatory Sources & New GSAM Rules
In this episode, we dive into the Revolutionary FAR Overhaul (RFO) to explain how FAR Part 8 has been completely restructured, consolidating three FAR parts into one and moving Federal Supply Schedule (FSS) ordering procedures out of the FAR and into the GSAM. We detail essential shifts for acquisition professionals, including the new required-use contract hierarchy, defense-specific deviations, and the strict three-day timeline for providing brief explanations to unsuccessful quoters. Learn more about The Quill & Sword series of podcasts by visiting our podcast page at…
19 Aug 2026 · 9 min
The Quill & Sword | The FAR & Beyond Episode 50: Revolutionary FAR Overhaul: FAR Part 7: Planning for Agility
In this episode, we examine the transition from prescriptive checklists to a dynamic acquisition planning process that moves procedural "how-tos" into the non-regulatory FAR Companion Guide. The discussion highlights the unification of consolidation and bundling into a single framework, alongside new transparency requirements designed to protect small business incumbents. Learn more about The Quill & Sword series of podcasts by visiting our podcast page at https://tjaglcs.army.mil/thequillandsword. The Quill & Sword show includes featured episodes from across the JAGC, plus all episodes from…
19 Aug 2026 · 34 min
The Quill & Sword | CAAF Chats Ep 79: United States v. Malone (C.A.A.F. 2026)
In this episode, we review the CAAF's ruling that a defense counsel's statement of “no motions” at arraignment constituted an affirmative, express waiver of a multiplicity challenge to duplicative Article 128b domestic violence specifications. We examine the tension between waiver and forfeiture, the majority's reliance on the absence of an ineffective assistance of counsel claim, and the dissent's concern that constitutional double jeopardy rights were relinquished without any showing the accused personally understood or intended to give them up. We also discuss the still-unresolved…
12 Aug 2026 · 8 min
The Quill & Sword | The FAR & Beyond Episode 49: Revolutionary FAR Overhaul: FAR Part 14: The Evolution of Sealed Bidding
In this episode, we explore the historical roots of sealed bidding and its modern transformation under the Revolutionary FAR Overhaul (RFO), which reorganizes FAR Part 14 into a more accessible, lifecycle-based structure,. The discussion highlights the transition of non-regulatory best practices to the new FAR Companion, the removal of outdated procedures like facsimile bids, and the consolidation of two-step sealed bidding to create a leaner, more organized rulebook. Learn more about The Quill & Sword series of podcasts by visiting our podcast page at…
12 Aug 2026 · 11 min
The Quill & Sword | CAAF Chats Ep 78: United States v. Hurtado (C.A.A.F. 2026)
In this episode, we review whether a suspect's statement, “I would like to speak to a lawyer, but um, yeah,” was an unequivocal invocation of the right to counsel under Article 31, UCMJ principles. We examine how the Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces applied Edwards v. Arizona and Davis v. United States, and how the majority and dissent split over whether the words “but um, yeah” were meaningless filler words or introduced genuine ambiguity into the invocation. We provide takeaways for practitioners on evaluating motions to suppress based on the precise wording of a client's request for…
6 Aug 2026 · 40 min
The Quill & Sword | The Backbone Episode 1: Honoring Our Legacy, Advancing Our Profession
In the premiere episode of The Backbone, host 1SG Green brings together leaders from across the Judge Advocate General’s Corps for a special National Paralegal Appreciation Day discussion focused on the evolution of Army legal practice, professional development, and the future of the Army’s Paralegal. Joined by CSM Bostic, the 14th Regimental Command Sergeant Major of the U.S. Army Judge Advocate General’s Corps; 1SG Washington, Project Lead for the 27D Paralegal Handbook; SFC Grell, Project Lead for the Legal Technician Standard Training Package (STP); and LTC Wilson, providing the…
5 Aug 2026 · 10 min
The Quill & Sword | The FAR & Beyond Episode 48: Revolutionary FAR Overhaul: FAR Part 19: Small Business, Streamlined
In this episode, we explore the Revolutionary FAR Overhaul (RFO) of Part 19, which reorganizes small business regulations into acquisition life cycle stages while moving non-regulatory best practices to the FAR Companion. The discussion highlights critical updates for practitioners, such as the mandatory Rule of Two at the master contract level and a new, efficient process for automatically releasing requirements from the 8(a) program. Learn more about The Quill & Sword series of podcasts by visiting our podcast page at https://tjaglcs.army.mil/thequillandsword. The Quill & Sword show…
5 Aug 2026 · 17 min
The Quill & Sword | CAAF Chats Ep 77: United States v. Suarez (C.A.A.F. 2025)
In this episode, we review the interplay between unlawful command influence (UCI) and a plea agreement's waiver of all waivable motions. We examine whether a “waive all waivable motions” provision, confirmed through a judge's colloquy, forecloses appellate review of a UCI claim even when the accused later alleges his defense counsel misadvised him about its effect. We provide takeaways on the importance of thorough judicial inquiries into waiver provisions, precise and documented advice from defense counsel on what a plea waives, and the correct legal standard for assessing prejudice in…
29 Jul 2026 · 40 min
The Quill & Sword | The FAR & Beyond Episode 47: The Foundation of Advice: Mastering Contract Research in an Evolving Landscape
In this episode, we discuss navigating the Revolutionary FAR Overhaul (RFO) using updated tools on acquisition.gov, including practitioner albums for change summaries and the new FAR Companion. The panel outlines how to locate agency-specific supplements like the AFARS and DFARS, while providing strategies for researching primary sources such as National Defense Authorization Acts (NDAAs) and GAO case law. Finally, the episode introduces the newly renamed Acquisition Attorney’s Deskbook and explores the evolving role of closed and open AI tools in conducting streamlined legal analysis.…
29 Jul 2026 · 15 min
The Quill & Sword | CAAF Chats Ep 76: United States v. Gonzalez (C.A.A.F. 2025)
In this episode, we review the notice requirements for an offense of conduct unbecoming an officer under Article 133. We examine preemption rules and whether an accused has fair notice that kissing a junior enlisted trainee constitutes conduct unbecoming an officer. We provide takeaways on drafting specifications and preserving issues for appeal. Learn more about The Quill & Sword series of podcasts by visiting our podcast page at https://tjaglcs.army.mil/thequillandsword. The Quill & Sword show includes featured episodes from across the JAGC, plus all episodes from our four separate shows:…
22 Jul 2026 · 11 min
The Quill & Sword | The FAR & Beyond Episode 46: Small Business, Big Impact: Navigating the SBA’s History and Federal Contracting
In this episode, we explores the 75-year history of the Small Business Administration, tracing its origins from World War II defense advocacy to its modern role in managing government-wide contracting goals. The discussion also covers essential topics for practitioners, including the "Rule of Two," recent legal shifts in the 8(a) program, and upcoming acquisition reforms in the FY26 NDAA. Learn more about The Quill & Sword series of podcasts by visiting our podcast page at https://tjaglcs.army.mil/thequillandsword. The Quill & Sword show includes featured episodes from across the JAGC, plus…
15 Jul 2026 · 15 min
The Quill & Sword | The FAR & Beyond Episode 45: Revolutionary FAR Overhaul: FAR Part 12: Simplifying Simplified Acquisitions
In this episode, we analyze the Revolutionary FAR Overhaul FAR Part 12, which streamlines commercial acquisitions by reorganizing the part into lifecycle-based subparts and cutting approximately 30% of associated provisions and clauses. The discussion explores key updates such as the inclusion of construction as a commercial service, a new emphasis on mandatory priority sources, and the shift from a rigid "late is late" rule to a "good business judgment" standard for late offers. Learn more about The Quill & Sword series of podcasts by visiting our podcast page at…
15 Jul 2026 · 8 min
The Quill & Sword | The FAR & Beyond Episode 44: Revolutionary FAR Overhaul: FAR Part 10 & 11: Research and Planning
In this episode, we examine how the Revolutionary FAR Overhaul (RFO) replaces rigid market research checklists with professional judgment and modular acquisition strategies designed to reduce risk. The discussion highlights the shift toward outcome-based contracting and new DFARS requirements for documenting research efforts, such as analyzing capabilities and determining if tiered evaluations are appropriate. Learn more about The Quill & Sword series of podcasts by visiting our podcast page at https://tjaglcs.army.mil/thequillandsword. The Quill & Sword show includes featured episodes from…
1 Jul 2026 · 7 min
The Quill & Sword | The FAR & Beyond Episode 43: Revolutionary FAR Overhaul: DFARS 227: Intellectual Property in the DoW
In this episode, we analyze the comprehensive restructuring of DFARS Part 227, which organizes intellectual property into commercial and non-commercial "hemispheres" and introduces a new unified "super clause" for technical data and software. The episode also highlights critical substantive updates, including the extension of the validation timeline to six years and a new strategic emphasis on resolving validity questions prior to award. Learn more about The Quill & Sword series of podcasts by visiting our podcast page at https://tjaglcs.army.mil/thequillandsword. The Quill & Sword show…
24 Jun 2026 · 16 min
The Quill & Sword | The FAR & Beyond Episode 42: Warfighting Acquisition Strategy: The Rise of the Portfolio Acquisition Executives
In this episode, discuss the Department of War's transition from traditional, siloed acquisition systems to an agile, portfolio-centric model designed to keep pace with modern warfare. They explore the groundbreaking role of the Portfolio Acquisition Executive (PAE) established in the FY26 NDAA, which integrates requirements, budgeting, and execution into a single node to provide the speed and flexibility needed on the battlefield. Learn more about The Quill & Sword series of podcasts by visiting our podcast page at https://tjaglcs.army.mil/thequillandsword. The Quill & Sword show includes…
17 Jun 2026 · 19 min
The Quill & Sword | CAAF Chats Ep 75: United States v. Batres (C.A.A.F. 2025)
In this episode, we discuss the meaning of the term transaction under Rule for Courts-Martial 1002(d)(2)(B)(i). We review when sentences to confinement for multiple offenses should run concurrently or consecutively. We also address forfeiture and the plain error standard of review. Learn more about The Quill & Sword series of podcasts by visiting our podcast page at https://tjaglcs.army.mil/thequillandsword. The Quill & Sword show includes featured episodes from across the JAGC, plus all episodes from our four separate shows: “Criminal Law Department Presents” (Criminal Law Department), “NSL…
17 Jun 2026 · 12 min
The Quill & Sword | The FAR & Beyond Episode 41: FY2026 NDAA Rundown
In this episode, we dissect the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act, focusing on how the Speed and Forge Acts are driving a massive legislative pivot toward streamlined defense acquisition reform. We explore critical updates including the new statutory definition of "best value," significant threshold increases for mandatory cost data and Cost Accounting Standards, and the strategic push to eliminate supply chain reliance on covered nations. Learn more about The Quill & Sword series of podcasts by visiting our podcast page at https://tjaglcs.army.mil/thequillandsword. The…
10 Jun 2026 · 7 min
The Quill & Sword | The FAR & Beyond Episode 40: Revolutionary FAR Overhaul: FAR Part 33: Protests
In this episode, we analyze the chronological restructuring of FAR Part 33 and the new addition of a "designated purpose" for the bid protest system intended to deter improper filings. We dive into substantive updates to agency-level protests, including the mandatory disclosure of redacted Source Selection Decision documents (SSDD) to protesters and the streamlined approval levels for overrides of regulatory stays. Learn more about The Quill & Sword series of podcasts by visiting our podcast page at https://tjaglcs.army.mil/thequillandsword. The Quill & Sword show includes featured episodes…
10 Jun 2026 · 18 min
The Quill & Sword | CAAF Chats Ep 74: United States v. Downum (C.A.A.F. 2025)
In this episode, we review the sufficiency of evidence to sustain a conviction of wrongful use of a controlled substance under Article 112a, UCMJ. Specifically, we address the standard required to trigger the permissive inference to prove the wrongfulness element and the relevance of expert testimony where the government does not admit the underlying lab results. We further discuss the CAAF’s clarification of the standard of review for the most recent version of factual sufficiency review under Article 66, UCMJ. Learn more about The Quill & Sword series of podcasts by visiting our podcast…
3 Jun 2026 · 11 min
The Quill & Sword | The FAR & Beyond Episode 39: Revolutionary FAR Overhaul: FAR Part 15: Negotiations, not Discussions
In this episode, we explore the Revolutionary FAR Overhaul (RFO) of FAR Part 15, highlighting the transition from traditional discussions to a more robust negotiation framework. We break down innovative evaluation methods like Highest Technically Rated with a Fair and Reasonable Price and phased acquisitions. Additionally, the discussion covers the expanded role of clarifications, the simplified definition of deficiencies, and the increased discretion granted to contracting officers when identifying the offers best suited for the competitive range. Learn more about The Quill & Sword series…
3 Jun 2026 · 1 hr
The Quill & Sword | CAAF Chats Ep 73: The 53rd Hodson Lecturer George Brauchler
In this episode, we sit down with George Brauchler, the 53rd Kenneth J. Hodson Lecturer in Criminal Law at The Judge Advocate General’s Legal Center and School. Mr. Brauchler is the elected District Attorney for Colorado’s 23rd Judicial District and a recently retired Colonel in the Colorado National Guard and the Colorado Army National Guard’s first Military Judge. During our discussion, Mr. Brauchler offers insights and lessons learned from his career prosecuting some of the most complex and high-profile cases in civilian and military courtrooms. Learn more about The Quill & Sword series…

About The Quill & Sword

The Quill & Sword is a English news podcast from The Judge Advocate General's Legal Center and School. Melo plays each episode straight from the publisher's own feed — no ads added, no account needed — and remembers where you stopped, in this browser only.

Publisher: The Judge Advocate General's Legal Center and School
Language: English
Category: News
New episodes: Weekly
Typical length: 14 min
Latest episode: 14 Oct 2026
Feed: RSS — paste into any podcast app
Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1654759342
Rights: DVIDSHub.net

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