I beg to differ. He's not trying this case in the court of public opinion. Lawyers know better than to inadvertently influence a juror and usually take great measures to avoid even the appearance of it. Even if it means going in and out separate entrances. I agree with Jean C - if 1 or more jurors had seen the public's reaction, it may have weighed heavily on them (particularly after OJ and CA) whether they realized or admitted it. Additionally, if 1 or more jurors saw it and talked with other jurors about it, a mistrial would and should be a real possibility.
I don't think anybody wants to put the Alexander family through this again let alone pony up the $$$ for another trial.