Wondery has once again captivated the true crime audience with its latest podcast series, Criminal Attorney, hosted by acclaimed hip-hop personality and journalist Brandon “Jinx” Jenkins. This compelling anthology delves deep into the murky waters of legal corruption and courtroom scandals, spotlighting the dark side of those who are supposed to uphold the law.
A New Chapter in True Crime
True crime has long fascinated audiences with its tales of real-world mysteries, criminal masterminds, and the pursuit of justice. Criminal Attorney offers a fresh perspective by focusing on the very individuals who are meant to defend justice—lawyers and attorneys—who, instead, manipulate it for their own gain. Each season of the series brings to light a story that will leave listeners questioning the integrity of those behind the bench.
Season One: The Downfall of Paul Bergrin
The inaugural season of Criminal Attorney is a gripping narrative centered around the rise and fall of Paul Bergrin, a once-prominent defense attorney in New Jersey. Bergrin’s story is not just one of legal battles, but of moral decay, as he crosses the line from defending criminals to becoming one himself.
Bergrin, notorious for his aggressive defense tactics and his roster of high-profile clients, including celebrities like Queen Latifah, Lil’ Kim, and members of the Naughty By Nature crew, was a force to be reckoned with in the courtroom. He also represented military personnel involved in the infamous Abu Ghraib prison abuse scandal. However, as his success grew, so did his willingness to blur ethical boundaries.
The FBI’s Mission to Clean Up Newark
The series follows Shawn Brokos, a former bank manager turned FBI agent, who is tasked with cleaning up the crime-ridden streets of Newark. Her investigation leads her into a labyrinth of corruption, drug dealing, and murder, with Bergrin at the center of it all. As Brokos digs deeper, she uncovers a shocking reality: the very attorney who was supposed to be upholding the law was, in fact, orchestrating criminal activities.
A Lawyer Gone Rogue
Paul Bergrin’s story is a stark reminder of how power and success can corrupt. Known as “the craziest, most evil lawyer in the history of New Jersey,” Bergrin’s fall from grace is both tragic and terrifying. His unwavering loyalty to his clients and his refusal to lose a case led him down a path of criminality that ultimately resulted in his conviction in 2013.
Bergrin’s journey from a respected defense attorney to a convicted criminal serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of moral compromise. Criminal Attorney explores the complex psychology behind Bergrin’s actions, asking the question: What drives a person to switch from defending the law to breaking it?
Exploring the Blurred Lines of Morality
Brandon “Jinx” Jenkins, the host of Criminal Attorney, is no stranger to the complexities of moral dilemmas. His background in journalism and hip-hop culture gives him a unique perspective on the stories he tells. Jenkins is particularly fascinated by the thin line between right and wrong and how easily it can be crossed.
In Criminal Attorney, Jenkins invites listeners to re-evaluate their own perceptions of morality and justice. “What’s most fascinating to me about the evolution of true crime are the exciting stories that make you re-evaluate the often-blurry lines about what is right and what is wrong, both within and beyond the scope of the law,” Jenkins explains. “Paul Bergrin and the people he crosses paths with have to engage with that dichotomy to varying degrees. I’m excited for people to tap in.”
Availability and Audience Engagement
Criminal Attorney is now available ad-free on Wondery+, offering subscribers early access to the series. For those who prefer to listen on other platforms, the podcast will be available across all major podcast platforms starting September 23, with new episodes dropping every Monday.
This strategic release schedule is designed to keep audiences engaged and eager for the next installment, ensuring that the series maintains momentum and continues to draw in listeners.
The Impact of Criminal Attorney on True Crime
Wondery has a strong track record of producing high-quality true crime content that resonates with audiences. Criminal Attorney is poised to make a significant impact in the genre, offering a fresh take on legal corruption and the dark side of the justice system.
By focusing on the lawyers who cross ethical boundaries, the series challenges the conventional narrative of crime and punishment. It forces listeners to consider the complexities of the legal system and the potential for corruption within it.
As true crime continues to evolve as a genre, Criminal Attorney stands out as a thought-provoking and deeply engaging series that will leave listeners questioning the very nature of justice.
Conclusion
Criminal Attorney is not just another true crime series; it’s a deep dive into the moral complexities of the legal world. With Brandon “Jinx” Jenkins at the helm, listeners are in for a thrilling and eye-opening experience that will challenge their perceptions of right and wrong.
For true crime enthusiasts and those interested in the darker side of the legal system, Criminal Attorney is a must-listen. Its blend of gripping storytelling, in-depth investigation, and moral exploration makes it a standout addition to Wondery’s impressive lineup of podcasts.
As the series unfolds, it will undoubtedly spark conversations about the integrity of the legal profession and the thin line between defending justice and becoming a part of the criminal world.
