For the DT

[Intermezzo]

For what it's worth, I have been a jury member 9 times over the last 20 years as well as foreperson for 3 of those trials. There is something so very innate about the attorneys for both sides of this particular case as well as a definitive uniqueness with each of the key players/witnesses/family members that no amount of "coaching" will change. Trust me, the jury will see through everything and be able to call a spade a spade and sort through all the madness, and it won't take them very long to assign a "likeability" factor.

Although the "evidence" was always first and foremost in importance during deliberations, what was always common during each of the deliberations as to what could/would sway a particular juror was:
1) the "likeability" factor (instantaneous, i.e. "You had me at "Hello..." type
of thing)
2) believability" factor (determined very early on in a given case)
3) "actions speak louder than words" factor, (ongoing)
4) "delivery" (or lack thereof) by the attorneys, (ongoing)
5) "professionalism" (or lack thereof), (instantaneous)
6) the "tone", (instantaneous)
7) "preparedness", (instantaneous)
8) "You're wasting our time" factor....(instantaneous AND key!!!!!!)
9) all the little nuances that we discuss here on websleuths (and then some)

All of the above (and then some) will be seen AND discussed by jury members. If a jury member misses something of particular importance/significance during the trial, I can assure you that another jury member WILL remember and share with the others.
There will be those jury members who will be opinionated, stubborn, and disagree simply to disagree, but there are also those who will be fair, open minded and agree to consider others beliefs/opinions. Deliberation time is a very challenging meeting of the minds to say the least, but it has been my experience that the right decision was always reached, regardless of how an attorney/defendant/family member/witness acted/behaved/dressed, etc. during the course of the trial.

As far as the prosecution team, I have no advice for you other than to "Carry on..." As I see it, and in my unsolicited opinion, you have absolutely nothing to worry about. The jury will "get it" rather quickly when this trial begins.

As far as the defense team, due to my past juror service, I'm "convinced" that you will (unintentionally, of course) insult the jury's intelligence with your current theories/explanations/insinuations/innuendos for the obvious, and you will lose the "majority" of the jurors very early on in this trial. The others will follow along shortly. Once a juror "checks out" from one side and relates more to the opposing side, it is unlikely that you will be able to get them to change their mind. I'm afraid that your current strategy/approach is not working, will not fly with the jury, and your client will be found guilty.

A BIG :gthanks: for you wonderful and informative post

:clap::clap::clap:

 

[Whome?]

The non-verbals from the Judge are priceless!

Caption yesterday from slides:
Judge has his NOT HAPPY LEAN on!

Caption from HHJP; This is the best you got Mr Baezzzzzzz ???? !!!!

 

[Truthwillsetufree]

bbm
I agree.
Has anyone noticed the transformation in Amanda Knox?
How you dress or appear in Court was a topic of discussion on the Today show this morning, they had a Jury consultant on and they also mentioned the Casey Anthony case

http://today.msnbc.msn.com/id/26184891/vp/42391012#42391012 Courtroom Couture
It starts at the 3:00 min mark regarding Amanda Knox and at the 3:30 mark regarding Casey..

That was interesting, thanks!

 

[sharpar]

DT- ALFORD PLEA ! Pound her with the benefits of it ...... it will save her
worthless hide. She is not likeable and juries arent lenient with defendants they dont like . They will not be able to empathize with her so lethal injection wont be difficult to prescribe for ICA.

 

[ZsaZsa]

I despise the whole team with the exception ( so far anyway) of Ann Finnell.
She displays some professionalism and seems very calm and straightforward-
but Ann- if you lie down with dogs you get up with fleas.....

 

[ecs5298]

Here's a little piece of advice for the defense team. Put your client on the stand. Let her tell her side of the story again. I'm sure the jury would never convict once they hear the story from your hottie with a naughty body...er...oops...I mean your client. So I really think you should put her on the stand. I'm sure she'll totally win over that mean JA and LDB. They'll probably even drop the charges. So that's my advice as a totally neutral potential juror type person!

**hee hee**

 

[Sooner Fan#1]

Here's all I have...Baez...if you want to honor your Dad, do it with dignity, NOT pocket squares.....

 

[ZsaZsa]

I am hoping someone who was in court yesterday managed to get a photo when CM made an obscene 'arm gesture' towards JA, as witnessed by Bill Sheaffer. I feel sure the Florida Bar would love to see it...
Obviously HHJP missed this little gem.

 

[denjet]

Being no fan of the defense, I personally like the sound of JB's pen clicks. To me, it represents his nervousness. He has many tells that speak of his inexperience, the eye rolls, smirking, etc. But, his new found security blanket, the pen, is my favorite, because it can be heard by everyone in the courtroom and anyone who is watching. With each click, he is broadcasting his nervousness and I grin, picturing him sucking his thumb instead.
Bottom line, I used to see arrogance. Now I see a thumbsucker.

ITA, his tells definitely give him away ... opening his mouth does too! :loser:

But here's the thing Jose should be concerned about and should be asking himself

"Does trying everything I know to aggravate my opponent in court and make him lose his temper make me look successful? competent? respectful? all grown up as a lawyer?"

Here's another question, Jose ... while trying every childish, low blow you know, you should ask yourself

"Is is possible that I'm aggravating EVERYONE with my antics? even the judge and the jury?"
And Jose, is it EVER appropriate in court to stick out your tongue at someone? Seriously? ... what are you 12?

The pen clicking sealed the deal for me ... I would be equally annoyed if Ashton or Burdick were clicking their pens incessantly ...

ADVICE FOR JOSE: Stick pens and go easy on the Red Bull ...

 

[sleutherontheside]

Sooner, that pocket square comment is so spot on.

I suspect that if JB has any friends in the legal community that they will tell him to tone down the "GQ" ala Scott Dissick (of Kardashian pseudo fame) attire.

Right now, there is no jury just the general public. He has taken quite a beating in the media and in various discussions. I suspect that the carefully coordinated ties and pocket squares are part of his attempt to present himself as "current", "confident", and put together.

What he lacks in legal "talent and expertise" he counters with a polished and stylish wardrobe.

I'll be the first one to admit that he is a frequent inspiration for my love of humor and parody. I aslo recognize that he is NOT as stupid as people think he is. As offensive, arrogant, disrespectful, and less than articulate as he often presents....he does have a certain appeal.

That said....come trial time the jury does NOT need to see that pocket square unless he is offering it to someone that sneezed. And even then, it shoud come from his pants pocket and be cotton. The jury does not need to see the continual I-Pad stroking and Blackberry handling.

CM will likely appear no different, but his current style is not at all flashy.

Michelle M. is an attractive young woman. That said, a woman in the courtroom should look like a woman. LDB is a perfect example of a professional woman that presents herself as a woman. She appears no less professional because she wears skirts and blazers.
Michelle would do well to buy 2-3 suits with blazers and a variety of blouses. It also wouldn't hurt to wear her hair down once in a while. Nobody is fooled by a bun.

As far as KC goes. I understand the importance of distancing the defendant from how they looked "then" vs. now. BUT, the horse tail pony she has going on is too distracting. If she won't cut it, then pull it back in a shorter ponytail or braid. I might suggest soft bangs to soften her face. The wide eyed "deer in the headlights" looks would be far less noticeable if her forehead didn't look like it was the size of a billboard. Rent that space out or cover it up.

Dorothy wears attractive clothes and aside from the occassional frizzies, looks polished and professional. She clearly has a sense of humor after we heard her make that remark about "I'm the one with the bad hair." You didn't hear her threatening a civil suit did ya???

I won't dive into the physical mannerisms, tics, and habits in this post.

Making suggestions don't equate to "helping" the DT. They don't want out help. But I suspect that long after this trial...some really good information just might help in others. And...for more than just this team.

 

[logicalgirl]

For what it's worth, I have been a jury member 9 times over the last 20 years as well as foreperson for 3 of those trials. There is something so very innate about the attorneys for both sides of this particular case as well as a definitive uniqueness with each of the key players/witnesses/family members that no amount of "coaching" will change. Trust me, the jury will see through everything and be able to call a spade a spade and sort through all the madness, and it won't take them very long to assign a "likeability" factor.

Although the "evidence" was always first and foremost in importance during deliberations, what was always common during each of the deliberations as to what could/would sway a particular juror was:
1) the "likeability" factor (instantaneous, i.e. "You had me at "Hello..." type
of thing)
2) believability" factor (determined very early on in a given case)
3) "actions speak louder than words" factor, (ongoing)
4) "delivery" (or lack thereof) by the attorneys, (ongoing)
5) "professionalism" (or lack thereof), (instantaneous)
6) the "tone", (instantaneous)
7) "preparedness", (instantaneous)
8) "You're wasting our time" factor....(instantaneous AND key!!!!!!)
9) all the little nuances that we discuss here on websleuths (and then some)

All of the above (and then some) will be seen AND discussed by jury members. If a jury member misses something of particular importance/significance during the trial, I can assure you that another jury member WILL remember and share with the others.
There will be those jury members who will be opinionated, stubborn, and disagree simply to disagree, but there are also those who will be fair, open minded and agree to consider others beliefs/opinions. Deliberation time is a very challenging meeting of the minds to say the least, but it has been my experience that the right decision was always reached, regardless of how an attorney/defendant/family member/witness acted/behaved/dressed, etc. during the course of the trial.

As far as the prosecution team, I have no advice for you other than to "Carry on..." As I see it, and in my unsolicited opinion, you have absolutely nothing to worry about. The jury will "get it" rather quickly when this trial begins.

As far as the defense team, due to my past juror service, I'm "convinced" that you will (unintentionally, of course) insult the jury's intelligence with your current theories/explanations/insinuations/innuendos for the obvious, and you will lose the "majority" of the jurors very early on in this trial. The others will follow along shortly. Once a juror "checks out" from one side and relates more to the opposing side, it is unlikely that you will be able to get them to change their mind. I'm afraid that your current strategy/approach is not working, will not fly with the jury, and your client will be found guilty.

Loved loved loved your post - thank you! I've never had the privilege to serve on a jury.

But now tell me honestly - how much would you trust a defense lawyer who spends his time sucking on a drink called "Red Bull"?

Mr. Baez - did ya not think we would pick up on that? It is too funny!:great:

 

[denjet]

I am hoping someone who was in court yesterday managed to get a photo when CM made an obscene 'arm gesture' towards JA, as witnessed by Bill Sheaffer. I feel sure the Florida Bar would love to see it...
Obviously HHJP missed this little gem.

I'm thinking if Judge Perry didn't catch it, his bailiffs did ... he'll most likely be made aware of it ...

Perhaps the judge needs to "clarify" this rule of decorum for Jose and Mason:

"Avoid disparaging personal remarks or acrimony toward opposing counsel and remain wholly detached from any ill feeling between the litigants or witnesses."
(This includes making obscene gestures when you think the judge isn't looking)

 

[Melanie]

Loved loved loved your post - thank you! I've never had the privilege to serve on a jury.

But now tell me honestly - how much would you trust a defense lawyer who spends his time sucking on a drink called "Red Bull"?

Mr. Baez - did ya not think we would pick up on that? It is too funny!:great:

I've served on a jury 3 times (so loved it), and I've never witnessed an attorney carting around a red bull or an Iphone. My cases were relatively minor, but nonetheless, I did rely on how the attorney and client acted. One dude wore street clothes and laid back in his chair like he was going to sleep. That really irked me.

To try to keep it short, they (LE) had the confession on video - YES, on video. The defense was "the video was taken without his knowledge" and we shouldn't take it into consideration. Yah right -- :floorlaugh: He just happened to call his dad and spill the entire story as to why he stole the car and had a gun in the car!

Anyway, I later found out it was his 3rd strike and he went buh-bye for a very long time. But he was one bad dude.

I do believe that jurors notice all the little idiosyncrasies of the defendant and their attorney(s). In this case, I beleive ICA is gonna be burnt toast.

MOO

Mel

 

[BlOnDe_GuRrL]

yeah um... i don't think we should be aiding the defense in helping a child murderer walk...

the only advice i have for them is for ms. sims

they make this amazing shampoo called "Deva Curl - No Poo" shampoo... it doesn't lather and feels like conditioner going on... it'll fix ya right up.
also, i recommend "Tigi - Bedhead- Dumb Blonde" conditioner (it's made for over processed hair) use that 3 times in a row.. then some regular lathering shampoo to clarify... then back to the no poo/dumb blonde... switch it around every 3 days.

i would also use a styling product with a LOT of silicone! my favorite is this http://www.meijer.com/s/loreal-vive...zz-cream-5-oz/_/R-173288?cmpid=capricegrabber
slap some on while it's wet and air dry..... i also recommend using some kind of gel if you want to retain your curls... it'll also do away with your frizz problem.

 

[Melanie]

I am hoping someone who was in court yesterday managed to get a photo when CM made an obscene 'arm gesture' towards JA, as witnessed by Bill Sheaffer. I feel sure the Florida Bar would love to see it...
Obviously HHJP missed this little gem.

My nerves couldn't handle the afternoon session. What happened? Did CM give someone the bird? Is it postable here?

Just curious, as I really wouldn't expect that out of our ol' boy CM. JB yes, but CM not so much.

I hope someone caught it and he's sanctioned heavily!

MOO

Mel

 

[sleutherontheside]

Regarding the Red Bull.....

There is a time and place for Red Bull, the courtroom is NOT it. If JB is so drained that he requires a Red Bull to perform....then perhaps a physical and some B vitamins are in order.

Red Bull has been linked to erratic behavior and hyperactivity. The courtroom is the LAST place you want to see that. Friday, he was literally unable to sit down, pacing, clicking, and overly argumentative.

He was above his usual level of energy. The snark was far more pronounced.

I don't doubt that he is working harder than ever before, but drinking Red Bull by the case is going to hurt him not help him.

Like any stimulant, Red Bull gives you a false "high". Sure it's legal, but it's not always warranted. The arrogance JB demonstrated by pouring his beverage under the table while the Judge entered the courtroom was not only rude...but IMO indicitive that his need for a "fix" was a more powerful pull than following protocol.

It does not go unnoticed by me that this is the SAME day as the heated energy in the courtroom. When one guest at the party is amped up....it takes the entire room to another level.

NO, I do not consider the hearing to be a party.......just offering an analogy.

JB......a party is where a Red Bull fits in...like a lampshade on the head. Neither of which are appropriate in a courtroom.

 

[TxJan1971]

Loved loved loved your post - thank you! I've never had the privilege to serve on a jury.

But now tell me honestly - how much would you trust a defense lawyer who spends his time sucking on a drink called "Red Bull"?

Mr. Baez - did ya not think we would pick up on that? It is too funny!:great:

First, thank you (and all others) for your kind comments. I rarely post.

In response to your question above...

One may find this really hard to believe, and I hope I don't offend anyone, but "chugging" - "slurping", "burping" - or "daintily sipping it through a straw" --- drinking "Red Bull" isn't what would cause me to distrust a defense lawyer (or for that matter a prosecutor). Not in the least. I think the "Bull" coming out of his mouth is what makes me distrust him more.... So my suggestion for the team..... "NO BULL!!!!!!!!!!!" :floorlaugh:

For me personally, the distrust occurred within the first few minutes (okay - I confess -- it was instantaneous) when I first saw him, "observed" him in action and then "listened" to what came out of his mouth. He continues to this day to validate my "first impression". Like mama always done told me .... First Impressions are Lasting..... :great: :rocker:

 

[logicalgirl]

First, thank you (and all others) for your kind comments. I rarely post.

In response to your question above...

One may find this really hard to believe, and I hope I don't offend anyone, but "chugging" - "slurping", "burping" - or "daintily sipping it through a straw" --- drinking "Red Bull" isn't what would cause me to distrust a defense lawyer (or for that matter a prosecutor). Not in the least. I think the "Bull" coming out of his mouth is what makes me distrust him more.... So my suggestion for the team..... "NO BULL!!!!!!!!!!!" :floorlaugh:

For me personally, the distrust occurred within the first few minutes (okay - I confess -- it was instantaneous) when I first saw him, "observed" him in action and then "listened" to what came out of his mouth. He continues to this day to validate my "first impression". Like mama always done told me .... First Impressions are Lasting..... :great: :rocker:

Your posts are wonderful - please jump in more often. And I don't really think the (Red) Bull is what causes his behavior - I think it comes naturally to him and glad to hear your comments - confirms my own observations.:rocker:

 

[joeskidbeck]

I know a lot of posters don't feel that we need to be aiding in ICA's defense, but there is another way to look at this. When the jury hands down a guilty verdict, we all want that verdict to stick. With the way this circus has been playing ICA could totally get a new trial based on "inaffective counsel". That's the last thing we all want, right? With that said, I want the jury to see the way ICA looked when she was "living the good life". Maybe not exactly the same way, but a lot closer than she is now. Now we have a frumpy woman who would do well to get a date, not the hottie that went clubbing every night while her beautiful child was missing. I want this jury to get the full CA picture!

 

[LinasK]

Loved loved loved your post - thank you! I've never had the privilege to serve on a jury.

But now tell me honestly - how much would you trust a defense lawyer who spends his time sucking on a drink called "Red Bull"?

Mr. Baez - did ya not think we would pick up on that? It is too funny!:great:

I guess Red Bull is better than the caffeine alternative: Monster!!!
Personally, I prefer Rock Star.