The Good Fight (2017–…): Season 2, Episode 12 - Day 485 - full transcript
Following a random arrest, a problem is found in Jay's citizenship and the firm tries to stop his deportation.
How do you feel?
Good.
Why?
Because I'm in control.
How long will it last?
As long as I want it to.
Oh.
Sorry. I thought I'd turned it off.
The world calls.
So is he here?
Yes, his flight was delayed,
but we're on our way to you right now.
No, I'm not at the
office, take him to court.
What about witness prep?
- Do it on the way.
- Me?
Yes. You know the case,
and there's no time.
He'll go right on the
stand when he gets there.
Sure, he is shit.
Chance The Rapper sings like shit.
Oh, my fucking God,
you're making my head hurt.
Avi, wait, we need to witness prep.
- No, we need to argue
- No.
You need to let Jay drive,
and you and I need to
witness prep right now.
- How far are we from court?
- 30 minutes.
Can we go any faster?
If you want us to get pulled over, yes.
Julius Cain, he is one of our partners,
he's gonna be questioning you.
Now, he will ask for
your name and occupation.
And you'll answer?
With my name and occupation.
Which are?
Are we afraid I'll forget it?
Avi, I need to see how
you are on the stand.
Avi Epps, I organize
Birthright tours in Israel.
The defendant has been accused
of using Birthright money
to bribe foreign officials.
Now, do you know this not to be true?
I do... uh, know this not to be true.
- Good.
- She's an awful woman,
but she's not corrupt.
No, no, no, you can't say that.
- Why? It's true.
- You're fucking kidding me.
No, it is.
Naftali sleeps with every...
- You were driving too fast?
- Shut up.
Let me do the talking. Are you nuts?
License and registration.
- You all right, miss?
- Yes.
We're just running a bit late, Officer.
- For?
- Court.
We work at Reddick, Boseman
& Lockhart, a law firm.
- And you are?
- Hello, American police officer.
He's scheduled to testify
in federal court, and
we are, like I say,
running a little bit late.
- You asking us to hurry?
- Uh, no.
I'm just sharing information.
What's in the bag?
I carry it with me on the plane.
I asked you what's inside
it, not how it got here.
- Please step out of the car.
- Officer,
just out of curiosity,
why were we pulled over?
I need you all out of the car,
that's why you were pulled over.
- Come on.
- Maia, stop.
- Let's go.
- Any weapons in the bag?
Anything that'll stick...
_
I've sent both my
daughters on Birthright.
free of responsibility.
This is more bullshit.
Ms. Amado, did you not promise me
that you would refrain
from any outbursts?
Why do I refrain when everyone
else is talk, talk, talk?
Because you have two attorneys here
- talking for you.
- No.
It's because I'm Jewish.
Everyone in this courtroom is Jewish.
- He is not Jewish.
- Excuse me?
Ten years on the board at Temple Shalom.
That means nothing. Take off your pants.
- Let's see.
- Mr. Boseman,
you don't get her under control...
Apologies, Your Honor, yes.
Yes, thank you.
Jay and Maia were pulled
over by the police.
It was a routine traffic stop.
- Jesus Christ.
- I'm in touch with Maia.
She thinks they'll be here in 20.
Okay.
They've got a 30 minute
recess. We should be fine.
- Yeah, I wouldn't count on that.
- Please stand,
- place your hands on the car.
- You're kidding.
These are yours?
- I have a prescription.
- Where is it?
In Yerushalayim.
Your drugs, your car...
You're both under arrest. Come on.
Come on!
Hands behind your back.
Why are you doing this?
Sheldon Adelson is my cousin.
This vehicle is to be
impounded. You'll need to find
other means of transportation, miss.
And why am I not being arrested?
Maia, get on with Diane.
26th and Cal at noon.
We'll need bail.
Go.
Liz!
Bond court 401.
Okay.
Who did the drugs belong to?
The witness. They think they're illegal.
So why didn't they take you in?
I don't know. I mean, Jay says
it was "driving while black."
Ugh, okay, I will argue for an I-bond...
What's wrong?
Nothing. Just...
- Nothing.
- Docket 354-A.
Male number 19.
Assault.
What have you got, ASA?
Here comes Jay.
Representing the arrestee.
God.
- I'm happy to see you guys.
- What happened to Avi?
He's in the group two after mine.
- You all right?
- Yeah.
Should have had Maia drive.
- They're ICE.
- What?
Those four.
They're plainclothes immigration agents.
I recognize them from the DOJ.
I think they're here for you.
Me? Why?
You don't have any issues?
With citizenship? No.
- You have your birth certificate?
- Somewhere.
What, are you sure about this?
I think so.
Well, whatever Jay's status,
people can be hard to reach
once they get taken in.
I know. This is how it works.
They wait outside criminal
courts, take them in.
358-A.
Male number 21, drug possession.
What have you got, ASA Timmons?
Mr. Dipersia is a flight risk
given his codefendant
recently arrived from overseas.
Any mitigation from the defense?
Yes, Your Honor. But first,
it is our understanding
that Chicago is a sanctuary city.
So we are surprised to find
four immigration officers working
with the county sheriffs.
Your Honor, I have no idea
what Counselor is referring to.
Well, let's ask her.
What are you referring to?
Those four men
back there. They are ICE agents.
Gentlemen, is this true?
Are you immigration enforcement?
With all due deference,
ma'am, you cannot ask us that.
Come here.
I said come here.
Ma'am?
It's "Your Honor."
Your Honor.
It's, uh, still true
that we live in a democracy.
But the fact is, in these four walls,
you're in a monarchy.
And where I'm sitting is the throne.
Now, when I ask you a question,
I want an answer,
or else I will hold you and
your colleagues in contempt.
What's your name?
- Patrick Basehart.
- Why are you here?
I'm a lawyer with Immigration
and Customs Enforcement.
We have a detainer
notice for Jay Dipersia.
Counselor,
for purposes of setting bail,
can you speak to some factors
in your client's favor?
We have nothing to offer
in mitigation, Your Honor.
We request bail to be set at $1,000.
We cannot pay that amount
at this time, Your Honor.
Well, then I'll set bail at $100.
Still too burdensome, Your Honor.
Only ten dollars is due today.
That amount is simply too high.
Your Honor, this is clearly a trick.
The defendant is remanded
to the custody of Cook
County until such time
as he can post bail.
Next.
Okay, they can't touch
you while you're in here.
You have all your documents?
My sisters do. Uh,
Brigitte's a genealogy nut.
She keeps every paper and then some.
- You've seen your birth certificate?
- Yes.
I vote, I pay taxes.
Okay. This is just a
bureaucratic mistake.
Maia, contact his sisters.
Get his birth certificate.
Yeah, and I'll get an emergency hearing
in front of an immigration judge.
Julius, we need help bailing Avi out.
I'm on my way.
The judge is denying a delay.
_
Good morning, Your Honor.
Diane Lockhart here on
behalf of Jay Dipersia.
Say it again, please. Louder.
Good morning, Your Honor.
Um, Diane Lockhart
and Liz Reddick here...
- Louder, please.
- On...
Good morning, Your Honor.
Liz Reddick and Diane Lockhart here
on behalf of Jay Dipersia.
And Ralph Beldi for
Immigration and Customs...
I'm sorry, Judge, we can't hear you.
I said, good morning, too.
Where is this undocumented?
He is not undocumented, Your Honor.
He is currently being held
in the Cook County Courthouse
on an unrelated charge.
Your Honor, Patrick Basehart
for Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
We filed a detainer notice,
and we're seeking immediate
deportation to Nigeria,
Mr. Dipersia's country of origin.
What is the basis
for the detainer notice?
We've scanned the
individual's birth certificate
to you, Your Honor.
Your Honor, we haven't...
We haven't seen this birth certificate.
It says he was born
on May 2, 1980,
in Barewa Hospital, in the town of Kano,
which is in the country
of Nigeria... you see?
No, no, this says
"Jamil Dokpesi Dipersia,"
which is not our
client's name, Your Honor.
This is clearly a mistake.
Your Honor, we ask for an opportunity
to provide documentation
proving that Mr. Dipersia
is a natural-born American citizen.
Well, how long is that going to take?
One hour, Your Honor.
Maia, we have one hour.
We need the birth certificate now.
We're doing our best. His
sisters think they have it,
and I will run over a copy.
- Great.
- Okay.
I-I just grabbed the box
and jumped in the car.
Left the kids next door.
It should be in here somewhere.
This is crazy. We were born here.
Sometimes this country makes me so mad.
This would kill Mom and Dad.
Except they're already dead.
Not funny. I'm the bad sister.
This is Jay and me when we were kids.
Here. See?
Born in the U.S.
Thank God.
Okay, perfect. I'm gonna make a copy.
I'll be right back.
They have to let him go now, right?
Yeah, once we post bail. What?
Nothing. For a second I thought
I gave her the wrong certificate.
- The wrong...
- Oh, no, this one's mine.
They were born 15 minutes apart.
- So you and Jay are twins?
- Yes.
Born at Harbor Hospital.
Can I see?
Okay,
I'm gonna head to court
with the copy. Bye.
Uh-oh.
What?
I think Jay's might be a fake.
_
Uh, I don't understand
what the problem is.
This is his sister's certificate.
- It reads "female," see?
- Yeah.
- Well, isn't that to be expected?
- Yes.
But this is Jay's certificate.
- Well, "male," okay.
- Yeah.
They whited out the "F" and the "E."
It's his sister's birth certificate.
They just copied it and
altered it to be Jay's.
What? You see this
rip here at the bottom?
It's identical.
- You can say it.
- Uh-oh.
_
I'm not American?
No.
And you're not a twin.
Your sister, Brigitte, was born here,
but you were born a
year earlier, in Nigeria.
Oh, my God.
What's my name?
Jamil Dokpesi Dipersia.
That was my uncle's name.
Your parents copied your
sister's birth certificate.
So, I'm in trouble.
Well, no, we're trying a few things.
God, this is insane.
Your parents wanted
you to have a good life.
That's why they did this.
Did my sisters know?
No.
So, the key here is, Jay,
to keep you out of the hands of ICE.
It doesn't matter, does it?
They can deport me.
I'm not an American citizen.
We need to keep you here in Cook County.
That's the only way we can fight them.
Jay Dipersia?
What is it?
He's needed in court.
- Why?
- I don't know.
- I do what I'm told.
- You actually do
a hell of a lot more
than what you're told.
What's that supposed to mean?
- Colluding with ICE.
- Oh, come on.
You act like they're terrorists.
Th-They're obeying the law.
They're doing their jobs.
And he's illegal.
You want to change the law of the land?
Then run for office and change it.
But don't blame me for
following it. Let's go.
There's Jay.
Jay. Hey.
- Are you okay?
- I'm good.
- How about you two?
- We're here.
Wow. So, I guess I'm 38.
My God, can you believe it?
You do look older.
Do we even know anyone from Nigeria?
I'll send you Mom's
letters from back home.
- I just want to hug you.
- After this,
and before they place
me back in holding, okay?
- Okay.
- Okay.
358-A. Drug possession.
Here we go again.
Has the status of bail changed?
- Did you find the ten dollars?
- No, ma'am. Still struggling.
Your Honor, the lab
did an expedited test
on the drugs found
in Mr. Dipersia's car.
That's amazing.
And the state is dropping the case.
Your Honor, that is a ploy.
Really? A ploy to release your client?
Right. Straight into the arms
of the conveniently warned ICE agents.
Mr. Basehart, good
to see you back again.
Good to be back, Your Honor.
We have also confirmed
that Mr. Epps, the passenger
in Mr. Dipersia's car,
does in fact have a
prescription for those pills.
So, he has been released.
So, you are...
Dropping the charges. And, of course,
we regret any mix-up.
Well, I can't pretend
that there's a case
when there isn't one.
Mr. Dipersia,
you will conduct yourself appropriately
in my courtroom.
If you do not conduct yourself
with appropriate decorum,
I will be forced to
hold you in contempt.
Act up.
Um... you-you can't tell
me what to do, Judge.
What did you say?
- Louder.
- I-I said
I-I don't recognize the
authority of this court
to tell me shit!
I'm giving you one last warning.
- Fuck this court!
- Oh...
You have been warned, sir.
I am holding you in contempt.
Take the defendant back
to the holding cell.
Mr. Dipersia is hereby
remanded to state custody.
Next.
We're here for you.
I love you both.
Here's the problem with a shell game.
Eventually, I find the pea.
How much taxpayer
money are you burning up
to pursue one man?
- Let me ask you a question.
- No.
Mine first, and it's not hypothetical.
How much are you burning up?
You two are idealists, right?
Justice is worth all sacrifice,
all toil... well, I agree.
I should be at my son's
birthday party, his sixth,
but instead, I'm here,
trying to make sure
that federal powers
trump state's rights.
God, he's getting a federal writ
to overcome state rights.
- We need to get court time.
- Well, yeah.
We also need an end game.
Expedited lawful residency?
We could apply for an Einstein visa.
With what expertise?
Investigative. I mean, he has a license.
Doesn't sound like a winner.
- He draws. Jay draws.
- Draws what?
Pictures. He's really good.
- He's an artist?
- Yeah, of graphic novels.
- Has he ever been paid?
- I don't know.
- What do you think?
- We can try.
Okay, Marissa, get
together with his sisters,
- and get his artwork.
- And we'll hit court.
Your Honor, we have reason to believe
that our witness, Avi Epps,
has returned to Israel.
- So what do you want from me?
- We would ask for a continuance
until such time as we
can affect his return.
- Who is he?
- Given the speed of this trial,
you probably have time to
- fly him back by way of the South Pole.
- I don't know.
That aside, there are no more
continuances for any reason.
So, motions to dismiss,
closing statements...
Where are we at?
We actually have an
additional witness, Your Honor.
This witness have a name?
Uh, yes, Your Honor.
Jay Dipersia.
- Objection! Your Honor.
- Objection.
Mr. Dipersia is an employee
of our law firm, Your Honor.
Jay Dipersia is currently
in state custody...
Mr. Gottlieb... and whomever
whispered in his ear...
Wants Mr. Dipersia
transferred to federal custody
so that ICE will have
easier access to him.
That is an outrageous
accusation, Your Honor.
The witness is necessary
to rebut the testimony
of the defendant.
On the issue of Mr. Dipersia testifying,
I'll hear oral arguments
from both sides.
You first, Gottlieb.
He's a Republican fixer I know.
I'm gonna go find out
what I can about Jay.
They're empty.
What'd you find out?
No one's targeting your firm,
and the Republicans have nothing
to do with deporting your investigator.
- But...?
- But what?
Well, it sounded like
you had a "but" attached.
No. But there is a "however."
However, doesn't mean
we can't do something.
Such as?
People like you, Julius, they
just don't like your firm.
They think it suited
up for the other team.
So do us a favor.
You have a client,
Neil Gross of Chumhum.
We hear he ran a personality quiz
just like the one Cambridge
Analytica did for Trump.
Get us the Chumhum contract.
I can't do that.
You're asking me to put
my thumb on the scale
for your illegal investigator,
and I'm willing to do that,
but I need something.
The Democrats and Chumhum are denying
there's any data mining equivalency.
Now, we know that's bullshit.
We just need proof.
Well, let me see what I can do.
We can't give him the Chumhum contract.
I know.
Then why is he asking?
My guess is to see how we react.
You think he can stop
the deportation action?
Yeah. He's a political fixer.
He makes a couple of
calls, ICE will back off.
Well, let's stall him.
Keep him on a hook.
Imply you can get the contract.
Okay. Which court are you going to now?
- Federal District...
- Civil court...
Uh, this should be interesting.
_
Your Honor, this is a federal
court, and the State of Illinois
is trying to usurp your power.
And ICE is just forum shopping here.
This same case
is being argued in state court,
but they think they can get a
decision more to their liking
- here in federal.
- I don't understand this.
Well, it's quite simple, Your Honor.
No, no, no, the zippers.
Uh, they seem to go in both directions.
I...
Your Honor, Cook County is actively
interfering in an
ongoing enforcement action
in violation of federal law...
No, the counselor is trying
to trick you, Your Honor,
and I know that you cannot be tricked.
No, no, no, see, you're tearing it.
No, the-the zipper's off the track.
I... it's... All right, get out.
Your Honor, again,
this is a matter for
the federal government.
_
This is a matter of
state's rights, Your Honor.
We are a sanctuary city.
The sanctuary laws as practiced
here are an unlawful restraint
on federal authority, Your Honor.
We all know that state law
does not preempt federal law.
We are not preempting.
We are only arguing that
the state is not an extension
of the federal government.
We're not suggesting
the state is an extension
of the federal government, Your Honor.
We only believe federal
powers trump state rights.
Just as in the Civil War...
Your Honor.
Can't you get me another robe?
Your Honor,
the defense would hate to
make a motion in limine here.
What does a motion in
limine have to do with this?
We will be asking His
Honor to rule in limine
- if we lose this motion.
- Your Honor,
a motion in limine has
nothing to do with this.
Only if we use the Younger
- abstention doctrine.
- What are you talking about?
Maybe we should just, uh, recess...
- I wholeheartedly agree, Your Honor.
- No... Your Honor,
- this is an issue that needs...
- This is a matter
- that requires serious...
- ...to be decided now.
Judge Suzanne Morris
held the defendant in contempt of court.
- Yes, yes, but the sole reason...
- That is her right.
...for Judge Suzanne Morris's action
was to stifle enforcement
of federal law.
Arizona v. U.S.clearly states
immigration enforcement
is the sole province
of the federal government.
That's it?
I don't know.
He's been drawing a lot, I thought.
Well, has he ever been paid for drawing?
What does that matter?
There's something
called an Einstein visa.
It allows non-citizens to stay
in the country indefinitely
if they prove some cultural
or intellectual worth...
"Einstein visa"?
Yeah, that doesn't sound like Jay.
Well, it can apply to any
talent, not just science.
You just have to have made
some significant contribution,
or been praised by critics.
- Graphic novel critics?
- Yeah, I know.
But we need more samples
of his art than that.
You might want to come in here.
Is this enough?
It's a start.
Federalism is a cornerstone
of our legal system.
And as such, I find that the
lower court is within its rights
to hold Mr. Dipersia for contempt,
and that, until such
time as he is released,
the federal government has
no superseding claim to him.
Okay. Okay.
So Donald Trump appointed me,
and he is with the federal government,
- so federal rights...
- "Powers."
Federal powers trump state powers...
- Uh, "rights."
- Exactly.
So I so order, uh, that the court,
the court lower than
mine, release this guy...
- Jay Dipersia.
- Uh, him...
uh, to the ICE people.
"Ice people."
_
Liz.
I struck out.
Federal court just issued an
order that ICE can take Jay.
Well, this should be interesting,
because state court just issued an order
that they couldn't take Jay.
You got to love this country.
Oh, there they go.
Sir, you were talking
earlier about the law,
about following the law?
Yes. Why?
I think we'll need you in holding.
Stand down. Cook County,
we need you to stand down.
We have a court order, right here.
You are to hand over the detainee to us.
And that order is contravened
by the order of Judge Suzanne Morris.
That is a state ruling,
this is a federal ruling.
Yes, and these are state
sheriffs, they don't take orders...
If they don't, they
will have to show cause.
No, sir, youwill have to show cause.
Look at this order.
You must hand over the
prisoner right now, Sheriff.
Nope.
I got two orders
canceling each other out,
so this prisoner stays
right where he is.
Where is he?
- What?
- Where is he?
He's not here.
So where am I going?
Federal court.
You're needed as a witness.
My order required that
he be held in contempt.
Yes, and he was. But
transport received an order
from Judge Kassovitz's federal court
that he was needed as a witness.
The only purpose of his testifying
is to spirit him out of
this court's jurisdiction.
The prison transport is ours, right?
Cook County? Yes, Your Honor.
Okay, then get me the
driver on the phone.
Oh.
Hello?
This is Deputy Stromer, Your Honor.
Did you pick up a
prisoner named Jay Dipersia
from the Criminal Division
of the Cook County Courthouse?
Yes, I did, Judge.
What is your present location?
We've just pulled up to the
Dirksen Federal Courthouse.
Okay, I want you to listen
to me very carefully, Deputy.
You must bring that
individual back here,
- right now, do you understand?
- Yes, Judge.
- There's just one problem.
- What's that?
The prisoner's already
been taken from the van.
Well, stop them!
Uh...
Ooh... they're bringing him in now.
Okay, we're working
on his Einstein visa,
so keep him on the stand
as long as possible.
Will do. The judge is
losing his patience.
Ugh, God... He can join the club.
Please state your name and occupation.
Jay Dipersia, I'm a
private investigator.
You picked up Avi Epps
from the airport, correct?
I did. He never made it
to court. Why is that?
- Objection. Relevance?
- Your Honor,
counsel intended to bring Mr.
Epps to testify for the defense.
We're entitled to know
why it didn't happen.
Objection's overruled,
the witness can answer.
He was arrested.
No further questions, Your Honor.
That's it?
Goes to character and credibility, no?
Mr. Boseman?
Thank you, Your Honor.
Mr. Dipersia.
How long have you been
a private investigator
at Reddick/Boseman?
Four years.
Do you enjoy it?
Yeah. Uh...
I recognize him, yeah,
he does some cool stuff.
It's, uh, J... uh, Jay...
- Dipersia. Yeah.
- Mm-hmm.
I was going through his
stuff, and I found a receipt.
I guess he sold something to you?
Oh, yeah, that's right, uh, it
was some cool stuff that he did.
Um, I like to encourage
local artists, and, uh,
it was only $90.
You know, it's...
- Why, do you want to buy it?
- Oh, uh, no.
N-No, I-I just thought...
You have good taste,
Mr. Costas.
Yeah, I mean, I-I guess,
uh... it was cool, so...
You sound like an expert.
Uh, a qualified appraiser
with an acute eye.
Sure.
Mm-hmm.
Are you free right now?
Why?
_
As I'm sure you're aware, Your Honor,
in family reunification cases,
the government frowns on
horizontal sponsorship.
ICE only uses the word
"horizontal," Your Honor,
hoping you will forget it
refers to sibling relationships.
As close as two people can get.
Your Honor, Mr. Dipersia's sisters
were both born right
here in the United States.
- And we would like to...
- Actually, I'm Judge Vincent Park.
Judge Windsor is not available.
I'm told it's trout season
up his way, and he left early.
Now, applying for a visa, yes?
- Um, filing under?
- Uh, family reunification.
Mr. Dipersia's sisters were both born...
The fact is, parents are preferred.
Um, is there any other basis
on which you would like
him to be considered
for legal residency?
Yes, his artwork.
Your Honor, that's ridiculous.
Mr. Dipersia is an artist
of impressive skill.
He's an investigator at a law firm.
And he's also an artist of
note, and we intend to prove it.
With what?
Actually, the artwork is
on its way, Your Honor.
And it is well worth the wait. Oh, boy.
Illinois law requires that Mr. Dipersia
- be remanded back into state custody.
- Counselor.
He's here in the custody
of federal marshals.
ICE has a valid arrest warrant.
- My hands are tied.
- Your Honor.
Paper or no paper, you remand
him back into federal custody,
they will deport him.
I have no control of that.
My responsibility and
my authority are here,
from that wall to that wall.
They're rounding people up, Your Honor,
all over this country.
Rounding people up
and putting them into camps,
in 2018.
I can't be the only one
who sees the irony here.
Mr. Boseman,
I don't administer
justice based on irony.
I follow the law.
The witness is dismissed.
Your Honor, in support
of our application
for an EB-1 visa, we present evidence
of Mr. Dipersia's artistic talent.
Your Honor,
the EB-1 visa, colloquially
known as the Einstein visa,
is reserved for great talent
and significant contributions.
A nuclear scientist,
a clarinetist playing with Yo-Yo Ma,
a cancer researcher.
These are the people
deserving of an Einstein visa,
not a cartoonist.
Goya drew cartoons, Your Honor.
In recent times, Keith Haring
drew cartoons on subway walls.
His work now commands
six and seven figures.
But rather than have us
pretend to be an expert,
we have a highly credentialed art dealer
who is very familiar
with Mr. Dipersia's work
and is prepared to give his assessment.
Okay. Where is he?
- Where's the art expert?
- Maia's bringing him.
Okay. What are you doing?
Microtargeting Judge Park.
Guess what the good judge likes? Lions.
I... think this is
something that I probably
shouldn't know anything
about. Probably for the best.
Oh, but what sounds better,
"first exhibit" or "first show"?
Show.
You seem calm.
Why is that?
Mm, I have no choice.
That's not true.
You can, uh, panic. You can scream.
You can throw something.
Yeah. To what end?
Breaking something.
The world has gone insane, Liz.
The news is satire. It's not real.
The people blowing up grizzly bears
have been put in
charge of grizzly bears.
So I've decided the
only way to stay sane
is to focus on my little corner of it.
My firm, the people in it.
If I make my little
corner of the world sane,
then I won't let the insanity win.
That's what I've learned.
It's one thing to know it.
It's another thing to do it.
True.
But I have to start somewhere.
Why not today? Why not with Jay?
Yeah.
Uh, Diane, Liz. This is Kevin.
Oh, uh... bonjour.
Uh, here, um, try these.
Neat!
Okay.
Now, you collect comic
book art, Mr. Costas?
Yes, and graphic novels.
Uh, yes, now having
reviewed Mr. Dipersia's work,
what is your professional
opinion of his art?
Mm...
Too often, this genre leans
on derivative tropes, but these,
these are exceptional.
With his puppet-like minimalism,
Mr. Dipersia's studied melancholy
is nothing short of
"genius in the rough."
Uh... And, uh,
in fact, uh, haven't you purchased
a few of Mr. Dipersia's pieces?
Yes...
Yes. Yes.
Uh, the earlier works mostly.
Hmm. Thank you.
- You're welcome.
- Thank you.
Mr. Costas, is it your position
that these works rise to the
level of a Picasso or a Monet?
Have you ever...
Have you, have you ever
heard of Bill Finger
- or Bob Kane?
- No.
They created Batman.
Those books sold for a dime a piece.
Now some of them are worth
upwards of $1 million.
This looks like a cartoon lion you'd see
on a morning kids' show.
That is actually one of my favorites.
- Could you hand that to me, please?
- Yes, I can.
It's hard to explain,
- but I'm drawn to this one.
- Yes.
It's-it's hypnotic, isn't it?
Especially the hair.
You know? You can almost hear
the-the roar of the lion.
Your Honor, may I remind
the court that the respondent
is currently under arrest
for contempt of court...
That criminal contempt charge
has been vacated, Your Honor.
Well, in my professional career,
my office has only been involved
in one EB-1 Einstein visa.
They're very rare.
- And one lion cartoon doesn't really rate.
- Your Honor,
Mr. Basehart has mentioned
many nuclear scientists and researchers
who have been offered the Einstein visa,
but he has not mentioned
a more recent recipient,
Melania Trump.
Objection, Your Honor.
Oh, it's odd that Mr.
Basehart should object,
since he supported the
issuance of an Einstein visa
to the First Lady based
on this photo and her,
uh, modeling career.
Now, why does she deserve
an Einstein visa and not...
this...
accomplished artist?
Nice work.
Thank you. For what?
Your stall gets your
investigator his visa,
but this firm just
made itself a new enemy.
- Who? You?
- Not just.
You may have a win today.
Enjoy it, but it's not going to last.
Tomorrow's a new day,
and we're coming for you.
Or anybody out there.
Or all of them.
Maybe you haven't heard,
one of our partners was shot.
You're gonna have a
hard time beating that.
Not really. He recovered, didn't he?
Keep your eyes open.
It's coming.
Good.
Why?
Because I'm in control.
How long will it last?
As long as I want it to.
Oh.
Sorry. I thought I'd turned it off.
The world calls.
So is he here?
Yes, his flight was delayed,
but we're on our way to you right now.
No, I'm not at the
office, take him to court.
What about witness prep?
- Do it on the way.
- Me?
Yes. You know the case,
and there's no time.
He'll go right on the
stand when he gets there.
Sure, he is shit.
Chance The Rapper sings like shit.
Oh, my fucking God,
you're making my head hurt.
Avi, wait, we need to witness prep.
- No, we need to argue
- No.
You need to let Jay drive,
and you and I need to
witness prep right now.
- How far are we from court?
- 30 minutes.
Can we go any faster?
If you want us to get pulled over, yes.
Julius Cain, he is one of our partners,
he's gonna be questioning you.
Now, he will ask for
your name and occupation.
And you'll answer?
With my name and occupation.
Which are?
Are we afraid I'll forget it?
Avi, I need to see how
you are on the stand.
Avi Epps, I organize
Birthright tours in Israel.
The defendant has been accused
of using Birthright money
to bribe foreign officials.
Now, do you know this not to be true?
I do... uh, know this not to be true.
- Good.
- She's an awful woman,
but she's not corrupt.
No, no, no, you can't say that.
- Why? It's true.
- You're fucking kidding me.
No, it is.
Naftali sleeps with every...
- You were driving too fast?
- Shut up.
Let me do the talking. Are you nuts?
License and registration.
- You all right, miss?
- Yes.
We're just running a bit late, Officer.
- For?
- Court.
We work at Reddick, Boseman
& Lockhart, a law firm.
- And you are?
- Hello, American police officer.
He's scheduled to testify
in federal court, and
we are, like I say,
running a little bit late.
- You asking us to hurry?
- Uh, no.
I'm just sharing information.
What's in the bag?
I carry it with me on the plane.
I asked you what's inside
it, not how it got here.
- Please step out of the car.
- Officer,
just out of curiosity,
why were we pulled over?
I need you all out of the car,
that's why you were pulled over.
- Come on.
- Maia, stop.
- Let's go.
- Any weapons in the bag?
Anything that'll stick...
_
I've sent both my
daughters on Birthright.
free of responsibility.
This is more bullshit.
Ms. Amado, did you not promise me
that you would refrain
from any outbursts?
Why do I refrain when everyone
else is talk, talk, talk?
Because you have two attorneys here
- talking for you.
- No.
It's because I'm Jewish.
Everyone in this courtroom is Jewish.
- He is not Jewish.
- Excuse me?
Ten years on the board at Temple Shalom.
That means nothing. Take off your pants.
- Let's see.
- Mr. Boseman,
you don't get her under control...
Apologies, Your Honor, yes.
Yes, thank you.
Jay and Maia were pulled
over by the police.
It was a routine traffic stop.
- Jesus Christ.
- I'm in touch with Maia.
She thinks they'll be here in 20.
Okay.
They've got a 30 minute
recess. We should be fine.
- Yeah, I wouldn't count on that.
- Please stand,
- place your hands on the car.
- You're kidding.
These are yours?
- I have a prescription.
- Where is it?
In Yerushalayim.
Your drugs, your car...
You're both under arrest. Come on.
Come on!
Hands behind your back.
Why are you doing this?
Sheldon Adelson is my cousin.
This vehicle is to be
impounded. You'll need to find
other means of transportation, miss.
And why am I not being arrested?
Maia, get on with Diane.
26th and Cal at noon.
We'll need bail.
Go.
Liz!
Bond court 401.
Okay.
Who did the drugs belong to?
The witness. They think they're illegal.
So why didn't they take you in?
I don't know. I mean, Jay says
it was "driving while black."
Ugh, okay, I will argue for an I-bond...
What's wrong?
Nothing. Just...
- Nothing.
- Docket 354-A.
Male number 19.
Assault.
What have you got, ASA?
Here comes Jay.
Representing the arrestee.
God.
- I'm happy to see you guys.
- What happened to Avi?
He's in the group two after mine.
- You all right?
- Yeah.
Should have had Maia drive.
- They're ICE.
- What?
Those four.
They're plainclothes immigration agents.
I recognize them from the DOJ.
I think they're here for you.
Me? Why?
You don't have any issues?
With citizenship? No.
- You have your birth certificate?
- Somewhere.
What, are you sure about this?
I think so.
Well, whatever Jay's status,
people can be hard to reach
once they get taken in.
I know. This is how it works.
They wait outside criminal
courts, take them in.
358-A.
Male number 21, drug possession.
What have you got, ASA Timmons?
Mr. Dipersia is a flight risk
given his codefendant
recently arrived from overseas.
Any mitigation from the defense?
Yes, Your Honor. But first,
it is our understanding
that Chicago is a sanctuary city.
So we are surprised to find
four immigration officers working
with the county sheriffs.
Your Honor, I have no idea
what Counselor is referring to.
Well, let's ask her.
What are you referring to?
Those four men
back there. They are ICE agents.
Gentlemen, is this true?
Are you immigration enforcement?
With all due deference,
ma'am, you cannot ask us that.
Come here.
I said come here.
Ma'am?
It's "Your Honor."
Your Honor.
It's, uh, still true
that we live in a democracy.
But the fact is, in these four walls,
you're in a monarchy.
And where I'm sitting is the throne.
Now, when I ask you a question,
I want an answer,
or else I will hold you and
your colleagues in contempt.
What's your name?
- Patrick Basehart.
- Why are you here?
I'm a lawyer with Immigration
and Customs Enforcement.
We have a detainer
notice for Jay Dipersia.
Counselor,
for purposes of setting bail,
can you speak to some factors
in your client's favor?
We have nothing to offer
in mitigation, Your Honor.
We request bail to be set at $1,000.
We cannot pay that amount
at this time, Your Honor.
Well, then I'll set bail at $100.
Still too burdensome, Your Honor.
Only ten dollars is due today.
That amount is simply too high.
Your Honor, this is clearly a trick.
The defendant is remanded
to the custody of Cook
County until such time
as he can post bail.
Next.
Okay, they can't touch
you while you're in here.
You have all your documents?
My sisters do. Uh,
Brigitte's a genealogy nut.
She keeps every paper and then some.
- You've seen your birth certificate?
- Yes.
I vote, I pay taxes.
Okay. This is just a
bureaucratic mistake.
Maia, contact his sisters.
Get his birth certificate.
Yeah, and I'll get an emergency hearing
in front of an immigration judge.
Julius, we need help bailing Avi out.
I'm on my way.
The judge is denying a delay.
_
Good morning, Your Honor.
Diane Lockhart here on
behalf of Jay Dipersia.
Say it again, please. Louder.
Good morning, Your Honor.
Um, Diane Lockhart
and Liz Reddick here...
- Louder, please.
- On...
Good morning, Your Honor.
Liz Reddick and Diane Lockhart here
on behalf of Jay Dipersia.
And Ralph Beldi for
Immigration and Customs...
I'm sorry, Judge, we can't hear you.
I said, good morning, too.
Where is this undocumented?
He is not undocumented, Your Honor.
He is currently being held
in the Cook County Courthouse
on an unrelated charge.
Your Honor, Patrick Basehart
for Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
We filed a detainer notice,
and we're seeking immediate
deportation to Nigeria,
Mr. Dipersia's country of origin.
What is the basis
for the detainer notice?
We've scanned the
individual's birth certificate
to you, Your Honor.
Your Honor, we haven't...
We haven't seen this birth certificate.
It says he was born
on May 2, 1980,
in Barewa Hospital, in the town of Kano,
which is in the country
of Nigeria... you see?
No, no, this says
"Jamil Dokpesi Dipersia,"
which is not our
client's name, Your Honor.
This is clearly a mistake.
Your Honor, we ask for an opportunity
to provide documentation
proving that Mr. Dipersia
is a natural-born American citizen.
Well, how long is that going to take?
One hour, Your Honor.
Maia, we have one hour.
We need the birth certificate now.
We're doing our best. His
sisters think they have it,
and I will run over a copy.
- Great.
- Okay.
I-I just grabbed the box
and jumped in the car.
Left the kids next door.
It should be in here somewhere.
This is crazy. We were born here.
Sometimes this country makes me so mad.
This would kill Mom and Dad.
Except they're already dead.
Not funny. I'm the bad sister.
This is Jay and me when we were kids.
Here. See?
Born in the U.S.
Thank God.
Okay, perfect. I'm gonna make a copy.
I'll be right back.
They have to let him go now, right?
Yeah, once we post bail. What?
Nothing. For a second I thought
I gave her the wrong certificate.
- The wrong...
- Oh, no, this one's mine.
They were born 15 minutes apart.
- So you and Jay are twins?
- Yes.
Born at Harbor Hospital.
Can I see?
Okay,
I'm gonna head to court
with the copy. Bye.
Uh-oh.
What?
I think Jay's might be a fake.
_
Uh, I don't understand
what the problem is.
This is his sister's certificate.
- It reads "female," see?
- Yeah.
- Well, isn't that to be expected?
- Yes.
But this is Jay's certificate.
- Well, "male," okay.
- Yeah.
They whited out the "F" and the "E."
It's his sister's birth certificate.
They just copied it and
altered it to be Jay's.
What? You see this
rip here at the bottom?
It's identical.
- You can say it.
- Uh-oh.
_
I'm not American?
No.
And you're not a twin.
Your sister, Brigitte, was born here,
but you were born a
year earlier, in Nigeria.
Oh, my God.
What's my name?
Jamil Dokpesi Dipersia.
That was my uncle's name.
Your parents copied your
sister's birth certificate.
So, I'm in trouble.
Well, no, we're trying a few things.
God, this is insane.
Your parents wanted
you to have a good life.
That's why they did this.
Did my sisters know?
No.
So, the key here is, Jay,
to keep you out of the hands of ICE.
It doesn't matter, does it?
They can deport me.
I'm not an American citizen.
We need to keep you here in Cook County.
That's the only way we can fight them.
Jay Dipersia?
What is it?
He's needed in court.
- Why?
- I don't know.
- I do what I'm told.
- You actually do
a hell of a lot more
than what you're told.
What's that supposed to mean?
- Colluding with ICE.
- Oh, come on.
You act like they're terrorists.
Th-They're obeying the law.
They're doing their jobs.
And he's illegal.
You want to change the law of the land?
Then run for office and change it.
But don't blame me for
following it. Let's go.
There's Jay.
Jay. Hey.
- Are you okay?
- I'm good.
- How about you two?
- We're here.
Wow. So, I guess I'm 38.
My God, can you believe it?
You do look older.
Do we even know anyone from Nigeria?
I'll send you Mom's
letters from back home.
- I just want to hug you.
- After this,
and before they place
me back in holding, okay?
- Okay.
- Okay.
358-A. Drug possession.
Here we go again.
Has the status of bail changed?
- Did you find the ten dollars?
- No, ma'am. Still struggling.
Your Honor, the lab
did an expedited test
on the drugs found
in Mr. Dipersia's car.
That's amazing.
And the state is dropping the case.
Your Honor, that is a ploy.
Really? A ploy to release your client?
Right. Straight into the arms
of the conveniently warned ICE agents.
Mr. Basehart, good
to see you back again.
Good to be back, Your Honor.
We have also confirmed
that Mr. Epps, the passenger
in Mr. Dipersia's car,
does in fact have a
prescription for those pills.
So, he has been released.
So, you are...
Dropping the charges. And, of course,
we regret any mix-up.
Well, I can't pretend
that there's a case
when there isn't one.
Mr. Dipersia,
you will conduct yourself appropriately
in my courtroom.
If you do not conduct yourself
with appropriate decorum,
I will be forced to
hold you in contempt.
Act up.
Um... you-you can't tell
me what to do, Judge.
What did you say?
- Louder.
- I-I said
I-I don't recognize the
authority of this court
to tell me shit!
I'm giving you one last warning.
- Fuck this court!
- Oh...
You have been warned, sir.
I am holding you in contempt.
Take the defendant back
to the holding cell.
Mr. Dipersia is hereby
remanded to state custody.
Next.
We're here for you.
I love you both.
Here's the problem with a shell game.
Eventually, I find the pea.
How much taxpayer
money are you burning up
to pursue one man?
- Let me ask you a question.
- No.
Mine first, and it's not hypothetical.
How much are you burning up?
You two are idealists, right?
Justice is worth all sacrifice,
all toil... well, I agree.
I should be at my son's
birthday party, his sixth,
but instead, I'm here,
trying to make sure
that federal powers
trump state's rights.
God, he's getting a federal writ
to overcome state rights.
- We need to get court time.
- Well, yeah.
We also need an end game.
Expedited lawful residency?
We could apply for an Einstein visa.
With what expertise?
Investigative. I mean, he has a license.
Doesn't sound like a winner.
- He draws. Jay draws.
- Draws what?
Pictures. He's really good.
- He's an artist?
- Yeah, of graphic novels.
- Has he ever been paid?
- I don't know.
- What do you think?
- We can try.
Okay, Marissa, get
together with his sisters,
- and get his artwork.
- And we'll hit court.
Your Honor, we have reason to believe
that our witness, Avi Epps,
has returned to Israel.
- So what do you want from me?
- We would ask for a continuance
until such time as we
can affect his return.
- Who is he?
- Given the speed of this trial,
you probably have time to
- fly him back by way of the South Pole.
- I don't know.
That aside, there are no more
continuances for any reason.
So, motions to dismiss,
closing statements...
Where are we at?
We actually have an
additional witness, Your Honor.
This witness have a name?
Uh, yes, Your Honor.
Jay Dipersia.
- Objection! Your Honor.
- Objection.
Mr. Dipersia is an employee
of our law firm, Your Honor.
Jay Dipersia is currently
in state custody...
Mr. Gottlieb... and whomever
whispered in his ear...
Wants Mr. Dipersia
transferred to federal custody
so that ICE will have
easier access to him.
That is an outrageous
accusation, Your Honor.
The witness is necessary
to rebut the testimony
of the defendant.
On the issue of Mr. Dipersia testifying,
I'll hear oral arguments
from both sides.
You first, Gottlieb.
He's a Republican fixer I know.
I'm gonna go find out
what I can about Jay.
They're empty.
What'd you find out?
No one's targeting your firm,
and the Republicans have nothing
to do with deporting your investigator.
- But...?
- But what?
Well, it sounded like
you had a "but" attached.
No. But there is a "however."
However, doesn't mean
we can't do something.
Such as?
People like you, Julius, they
just don't like your firm.
They think it suited
up for the other team.
So do us a favor.
You have a client,
Neil Gross of Chumhum.
We hear he ran a personality quiz
just like the one Cambridge
Analytica did for Trump.
Get us the Chumhum contract.
I can't do that.
You're asking me to put
my thumb on the scale
for your illegal investigator,
and I'm willing to do that,
but I need something.
The Democrats and Chumhum are denying
there's any data mining equivalency.
Now, we know that's bullshit.
We just need proof.
Well, let me see what I can do.
We can't give him the Chumhum contract.
I know.
Then why is he asking?
My guess is to see how we react.
You think he can stop
the deportation action?
Yeah. He's a political fixer.
He makes a couple of
calls, ICE will back off.
Well, let's stall him.
Keep him on a hook.
Imply you can get the contract.
Okay. Which court are you going to now?
- Federal District...
- Civil court...
Uh, this should be interesting.
_
Your Honor, this is a federal
court, and the State of Illinois
is trying to usurp your power.
And ICE is just forum shopping here.
This same case
is being argued in state court,
but they think they can get a
decision more to their liking
- here in federal.
- I don't understand this.
Well, it's quite simple, Your Honor.
No, no, no, the zippers.
Uh, they seem to go in both directions.
I...
Your Honor, Cook County is actively
interfering in an
ongoing enforcement action
in violation of federal law...
No, the counselor is trying
to trick you, Your Honor,
and I know that you cannot be tricked.
No, no, no, see, you're tearing it.
No, the-the zipper's off the track.
I... it's... All right, get out.
Your Honor, again,
this is a matter for
the federal government.
_
This is a matter of
state's rights, Your Honor.
We are a sanctuary city.
The sanctuary laws as practiced
here are an unlawful restraint
on federal authority, Your Honor.
We all know that state law
does not preempt federal law.
We are not preempting.
We are only arguing that
the state is not an extension
of the federal government.
We're not suggesting
the state is an extension
of the federal government, Your Honor.
We only believe federal
powers trump state rights.
Just as in the Civil War...
Your Honor.
Can't you get me another robe?
Your Honor,
the defense would hate to
make a motion in limine here.
What does a motion in
limine have to do with this?
We will be asking His
Honor to rule in limine
- if we lose this motion.
- Your Honor,
a motion in limine has
nothing to do with this.
Only if we use the Younger
- abstention doctrine.
- What are you talking about?
Maybe we should just, uh, recess...
- I wholeheartedly agree, Your Honor.
- No... Your Honor,
- this is an issue that needs...
- This is a matter
- that requires serious...
- ...to be decided now.
Judge Suzanne Morris
held the defendant in contempt of court.
- Yes, yes, but the sole reason...
- That is her right.
...for Judge Suzanne Morris's action
was to stifle enforcement
of federal law.
Arizona v. U.S.clearly states
immigration enforcement
is the sole province
of the federal government.
That's it?
I don't know.
He's been drawing a lot, I thought.
Well, has he ever been paid for drawing?
What does that matter?
There's something
called an Einstein visa.
It allows non-citizens to stay
in the country indefinitely
if they prove some cultural
or intellectual worth...
"Einstein visa"?
Yeah, that doesn't sound like Jay.
Well, it can apply to any
talent, not just science.
You just have to have made
some significant contribution,
or been praised by critics.
- Graphic novel critics?
- Yeah, I know.
But we need more samples
of his art than that.
You might want to come in here.
Is this enough?
It's a start.
Federalism is a cornerstone
of our legal system.
And as such, I find that the
lower court is within its rights
to hold Mr. Dipersia for contempt,
and that, until such
time as he is released,
the federal government has
no superseding claim to him.
Okay. Okay.
So Donald Trump appointed me,
and he is with the federal government,
- so federal rights...
- "Powers."
Federal powers trump state powers...
- Uh, "rights."
- Exactly.
So I so order, uh, that the court,
the court lower than
mine, release this guy...
- Jay Dipersia.
- Uh, him...
uh, to the ICE people.
"Ice people."
_
Liz.
I struck out.
Federal court just issued an
order that ICE can take Jay.
Well, this should be interesting,
because state court just issued an order
that they couldn't take Jay.
You got to love this country.
Oh, there they go.
Sir, you were talking
earlier about the law,
about following the law?
Yes. Why?
I think we'll need you in holding.
Stand down. Cook County,
we need you to stand down.
We have a court order, right here.
You are to hand over the detainee to us.
And that order is contravened
by the order of Judge Suzanne Morris.
That is a state ruling,
this is a federal ruling.
Yes, and these are state
sheriffs, they don't take orders...
If they don't, they
will have to show cause.
No, sir, youwill have to show cause.
Look at this order.
You must hand over the
prisoner right now, Sheriff.
Nope.
I got two orders
canceling each other out,
so this prisoner stays
right where he is.
Where is he?
- What?
- Where is he?
He's not here.
So where am I going?
Federal court.
You're needed as a witness.
My order required that
he be held in contempt.
Yes, and he was. But
transport received an order
from Judge Kassovitz's federal court
that he was needed as a witness.
The only purpose of his testifying
is to spirit him out of
this court's jurisdiction.
The prison transport is ours, right?
Cook County? Yes, Your Honor.
Okay, then get me the
driver on the phone.
Oh.
Hello?
This is Deputy Stromer, Your Honor.
Did you pick up a
prisoner named Jay Dipersia
from the Criminal Division
of the Cook County Courthouse?
Yes, I did, Judge.
What is your present location?
We've just pulled up to the
Dirksen Federal Courthouse.
Okay, I want you to listen
to me very carefully, Deputy.
You must bring that
individual back here,
- right now, do you understand?
- Yes, Judge.
- There's just one problem.
- What's that?
The prisoner's already
been taken from the van.
Well, stop them!
Uh...
Ooh... they're bringing him in now.
Okay, we're working
on his Einstein visa,
so keep him on the stand
as long as possible.
Will do. The judge is
losing his patience.
Ugh, God... He can join the club.
Please state your name and occupation.
Jay Dipersia, I'm a
private investigator.
You picked up Avi Epps
from the airport, correct?
I did. He never made it
to court. Why is that?
- Objection. Relevance?
- Your Honor,
counsel intended to bring Mr.
Epps to testify for the defense.
We're entitled to know
why it didn't happen.
Objection's overruled,
the witness can answer.
He was arrested.
No further questions, Your Honor.
That's it?
Goes to character and credibility, no?
Mr. Boseman?
Thank you, Your Honor.
Mr. Dipersia.
How long have you been
a private investigator
at Reddick/Boseman?
Four years.
Do you enjoy it?
Yeah. Uh...
I recognize him, yeah,
he does some cool stuff.
It's, uh, J... uh, Jay...
- Dipersia. Yeah.
- Mm-hmm.
I was going through his
stuff, and I found a receipt.
I guess he sold something to you?
Oh, yeah, that's right, uh, it
was some cool stuff that he did.
Um, I like to encourage
local artists, and, uh,
it was only $90.
You know, it's...
- Why, do you want to buy it?
- Oh, uh, no.
N-No, I-I just thought...
You have good taste,
Mr. Costas.
Yeah, I mean, I-I guess,
uh... it was cool, so...
You sound like an expert.
Uh, a qualified appraiser
with an acute eye.
Sure.
Mm-hmm.
Are you free right now?
Why?
_
As I'm sure you're aware, Your Honor,
in family reunification cases,
the government frowns on
horizontal sponsorship.
ICE only uses the word
"horizontal," Your Honor,
hoping you will forget it
refers to sibling relationships.
As close as two people can get.
Your Honor, Mr. Dipersia's sisters
were both born right
here in the United States.
- And we would like to...
- Actually, I'm Judge Vincent Park.
Judge Windsor is not available.
I'm told it's trout season
up his way, and he left early.
Now, applying for a visa, yes?
- Um, filing under?
- Uh, family reunification.
Mr. Dipersia's sisters were both born...
The fact is, parents are preferred.
Um, is there any other basis
on which you would like
him to be considered
for legal residency?
Yes, his artwork.
Your Honor, that's ridiculous.
Mr. Dipersia is an artist
of impressive skill.
He's an investigator at a law firm.
And he's also an artist of
note, and we intend to prove it.
With what?
Actually, the artwork is
on its way, Your Honor.
And it is well worth the wait. Oh, boy.
Illinois law requires that Mr. Dipersia
- be remanded back into state custody.
- Counselor.
He's here in the custody
of federal marshals.
ICE has a valid arrest warrant.
- My hands are tied.
- Your Honor.
Paper or no paper, you remand
him back into federal custody,
they will deport him.
I have no control of that.
My responsibility and
my authority are here,
from that wall to that wall.
They're rounding people up, Your Honor,
all over this country.
Rounding people up
and putting them into camps,
in 2018.
I can't be the only one
who sees the irony here.
Mr. Boseman,
I don't administer
justice based on irony.
I follow the law.
The witness is dismissed.
Your Honor, in support
of our application
for an EB-1 visa, we present evidence
of Mr. Dipersia's artistic talent.
Your Honor,
the EB-1 visa, colloquially
known as the Einstein visa,
is reserved for great talent
and significant contributions.
A nuclear scientist,
a clarinetist playing with Yo-Yo Ma,
a cancer researcher.
These are the people
deserving of an Einstein visa,
not a cartoonist.
Goya drew cartoons, Your Honor.
In recent times, Keith Haring
drew cartoons on subway walls.
His work now commands
six and seven figures.
But rather than have us
pretend to be an expert,
we have a highly credentialed art dealer
who is very familiar
with Mr. Dipersia's work
and is prepared to give his assessment.
Okay. Where is he?
- Where's the art expert?
- Maia's bringing him.
Okay. What are you doing?
Microtargeting Judge Park.
Guess what the good judge likes? Lions.
I... think this is
something that I probably
shouldn't know anything
about. Probably for the best.
Oh, but what sounds better,
"first exhibit" or "first show"?
Show.
You seem calm.
Why is that?
Mm, I have no choice.
That's not true.
You can, uh, panic. You can scream.
You can throw something.
Yeah. To what end?
Breaking something.
The world has gone insane, Liz.
The news is satire. It's not real.
The people blowing up grizzly bears
have been put in
charge of grizzly bears.
So I've decided the
only way to stay sane
is to focus on my little corner of it.
My firm, the people in it.
If I make my little
corner of the world sane,
then I won't let the insanity win.
That's what I've learned.
It's one thing to know it.
It's another thing to do it.
True.
But I have to start somewhere.
Why not today? Why not with Jay?
Yeah.
Uh, Diane, Liz. This is Kevin.
Oh, uh... bonjour.
Uh, here, um, try these.
Neat!
Okay.
Now, you collect comic
book art, Mr. Costas?
Yes, and graphic novels.
Uh, yes, now having
reviewed Mr. Dipersia's work,
what is your professional
opinion of his art?
Mm...
Too often, this genre leans
on derivative tropes, but these,
these are exceptional.
With his puppet-like minimalism,
Mr. Dipersia's studied melancholy
is nothing short of
"genius in the rough."
Uh... And, uh,
in fact, uh, haven't you purchased
a few of Mr. Dipersia's pieces?
Yes...
Yes. Yes.
Uh, the earlier works mostly.
Hmm. Thank you.
- You're welcome.
- Thank you.
Mr. Costas, is it your position
that these works rise to the
level of a Picasso or a Monet?
Have you ever...
Have you, have you ever
heard of Bill Finger
- or Bob Kane?
- No.
They created Batman.
Those books sold for a dime a piece.
Now some of them are worth
upwards of $1 million.
This looks like a cartoon lion you'd see
on a morning kids' show.
That is actually one of my favorites.
- Could you hand that to me, please?
- Yes, I can.
It's hard to explain,
- but I'm drawn to this one.
- Yes.
It's-it's hypnotic, isn't it?
Especially the hair.
You know? You can almost hear
the-the roar of the lion.
Your Honor, may I remind
the court that the respondent
is currently under arrest
for contempt of court...
That criminal contempt charge
has been vacated, Your Honor.
Well, in my professional career,
my office has only been involved
in one EB-1 Einstein visa.
They're very rare.
- And one lion cartoon doesn't really rate.
- Your Honor,
Mr. Basehart has mentioned
many nuclear scientists and researchers
who have been offered the Einstein visa,
but he has not mentioned
a more recent recipient,
Melania Trump.
Objection, Your Honor.
Oh, it's odd that Mr.
Basehart should object,
since he supported the
issuance of an Einstein visa
to the First Lady based
on this photo and her,
uh, modeling career.
Now, why does she deserve
an Einstein visa and not...
this...
accomplished artist?
Nice work.
Thank you. For what?
Your stall gets your
investigator his visa,
but this firm just
made itself a new enemy.
- Who? You?
- Not just.
You may have a win today.
Enjoy it, but it's not going to last.
Tomorrow's a new day,
and we're coming for you.
Or anybody out there.
Or all of them.
Maybe you haven't heard,
one of our partners was shot.
You're gonna have a
hard time beating that.
Not really. He recovered, didn't he?
Keep your eyes open.
It's coming.