Weighing The Evidence
WARNING:Although I will attempt to keep the next few posts as "agreeable" as possible, realize that they may very well contain graphic information not suitable for some audiences! It is my interpretation of the events as I experienced them.
As the trial made its progression, and the evidence was offered, the jury had to decide upon the weight of each piece of evidence. Whether or not this evidence was to be believed or discarded. Whether the stories made "sense" or contained logical information. You are admonished not to allow sentiment or personal feelings affect your view of the issues. You are asked to weigh the proposed suggestions and determine the which is truth and which is fiction. And all the while, even the counsels admit that this is a most difficult thing to do since, as a society, we make life decisions everyday based upon less evidence and even personal emotions. Having listened to all the testimony, seeing the diagrams and weighing the physical evidence, the jury was finally allowed to enter the deliberation room. Twelve people, from all walks of life, each with their own opinions and thoughts about what had just transpired...are allowed to, for the first time, speak to each other and debate the evidence offered. All of the diagrams, photos, transcripts and physical evidence is placed before them. Video tapes are re-watched and scrutinized further. Directions from the court are read and re-read as to how these twelve people should now proceed. Time passes ever so slowly. Ideas, suggestions and thoughts are revealed from each member. Even arguements arise from time to time from those with passionate positions. Timelines and logic are reviewed and finally, ....after much debate and several days...decisions are rendered. The jury is now returned to the courtroom. The verdicts are handed to the bailiff, then to the judge, then to the court clerk who inturn reads them aloud. After which, each juror is polled and questioned as to whether this is indeed, their true and official finding. Emotions now fill the courtroom with sounds of sobs and saddness, not only from the public audience...but from the jury box as well. This was NOT a "fun" or "enjoyable" experience for any party concerned.Ultimately, the sentencing of the defendant is left to the disgression of the judge. The jurors are reminded that life sometimes deals difficult issues which require difficult decisions. We were thanked by the court for time spent and finally released from service. Only time will tell what fate has in store for all parties concerned.
Today's Quote:
A trial is still an ordeal by battle. For the broadsword there is the weight of evidence; for the battle-ax the force of logic; for the sharp spear, the blazing gleam of truth; for the rapier, the quick and flashing knife of wit.-Lloyd Paul Stryker
12:36:32 PM 
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