There were many lessons learned from the Cooper trial. This judge will not waste time with matters outside the presence of the jury....he said he will hear these AFTER 5PM.
Also, the state estimated a 3 week trial. I will be surprised if the defense presents their own case. They will probably just chip away at the evidence with cross...especially the lack of a rape kit, the size 10 shoes, eye witness accounts from Gracie and the NY Times delivery man that saw the white SUV in the drive around 4AM.