I took some time off and sat in on the punishment phase of a death penalty case this morning. Ive never tried a death penalty case. However, I have tried 5 murder cases. The worst being a 3 defendant, multiple victim trial in which I sat 2nd chair back in Michigan. That was a very complex, tough, long, and emotionally draining trial. Today, as I sat in and listened to the evidence in that death penalty case, even though I was not involved with the trial, I could not help but feel an ominous and foreboding sense of seriousness in the room. I take all of my trials very seriously but the very feel of that courtroom today had a sense of finality that I have not felt before. As I sat there and watched that young man on trial for his life I realized that the stakes are a little bit higher here in Texas. I have a new found respect for those who do this type of work. These District Attorneys and Defense Attorneys are a special breed. After watching this morning, I felt a sense of renewal in what I do. I look forward to the challenge.
Posted on: Thu, 08 May 2014 21:46:04 +0000