On October 7, Catholic Law, with sponsorship from several programs including the Modern Prosecution Program, welcomed The Honorable Diane Kiesel ’85, a distinguished alumna and author of When Charlie Met Joan: The Tragedy of the Chaplin Trials and the Failings of American Law. Introduced by Professor Mary Graw Leary, Judge Kiesel captivated the audience with a thought-provoking presentation on her recently published book, which delves into the infamous Chaplin trials and their lasting impact on the American legal system.

During her talk, Judge Kiesel shed light on the key figures and events that culminated in the trials, offering a nuanced perspective on the legal and societal dynamics at play. She explored the use of the Mann Act in the case, illustrating how it was wielded during the proceedings, and reflected on the broader implications of the trials for justice and fairness in American law. By weaving together historical context, legal analysis, and the human stories behind the headlines, Judge Kiesel provided a compelling narrative that left the audience with much to ponder about the intersection of law, culture, and morality.

Kiesel’s career is a remarkable blend of journalism, law, and teaching. After earning her undergraduate degree in English and Communication from Douglass College and a master’s in Public Affairs Journalism from American University, she worked as a reporter covering Congress and the Supreme Court. Encouraged by Professor Harvey Zuckman, Kiesel pursued law at Catholic Law, excelling as a student while continuing her journalism work, which earned her the Worth Bingham Award for Distinguished Investigative Journalism. Her legal career began with clerkships and a role at Cahill Gordon & Reindel before serving as an Assistant District Attorney in New York County. In 1999, she was appointed as a judge, later presiding over the state’s first Integrated Domestic Violence Court and currently serving in the New York County Supreme Court. Alongside her judicial career, Kiesel has been an adjunct professor at New York Law School for nearly 30 years, teaching legal writing and domestic violence law, and has authored several books, including a domestic violence law textbook and a book on civil rights pioneer Dr. Dorothy Boulding Ferebee.