Many people think convicting the bad guys is the toughest part of working as a prosecuting attorney. That is difficult, as I know from the time I
worked as a county prosecutor. He/she must make certain all the evidence to convict is assembled, witnesses are available, and that she is prepared for any defense arguments about the procedure …
So often when I’ve represented people of color in the criminal justice system, they complain that they’ve been denied bail “just because I’m black.” (Or another color) There certainly is racism built into the criminal justice system at all stages, but what about bail and people of color? Why does it seem they remain in custody long after …
Question: What if I come to the rescue of a robbery victim and I chase the attacker to try to get back the victim’s purse. When I catch-up with
him he pulls a gun on me. Is it okay for me to shoot and kill him?
Is this self defense or murder?
This situation really happened in Minneapolis …
Over my lifetime, I’ve tried many jury trials—all criminal cases. After 30+ years, I’m so used to the process I over-looked something. It’s the biggest misunderstanding the public has about criminal trials–a trial in America today has nothing to do with innocence.
Most people assume that a jury will find the accused guilty or innocent (not guilty). Or …
When a lawyer represents an accused person, which choices are reserved for the lawyer and which ones for the client?
Of course, in any lawyer/client relationship the people involved will determine who makes the decisions. However, in criminal cases there are two main decisions that only the client can make—
1. The decision to plead guilty or to …
People constantly complain about the long delays in court proceedings—and it’s true. There are many reasons why this happens. But one of the biggest problems is there are too many cases and too few resources for people coming through the courts. What can we do?
In the largest, busiest counties there has been a break-through toward handling this …
So what can I possibly add to the national debate about CIA torture? I can compare it to the practices that local police departments use to get confessions from suspects. I think you’ll be surprised at the direction and history these practices can teach us in the international arena.
Do police still use rubber hoses to get people …
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