A civil trial in Leelanau that occurred nearly two decades ago taught me much about our legal system. As the judicial branch of government has come under attack from both sides of the aisle, I’ve been reflecting back at what occurred here.
In retrospect, I had much to learn. TV pundits — self-proclaimed legal experts, if you will — routinely make predictions about the outcomes of trials and Supreme Court rulings they finish with a caveat that goes something like: “But you just never know how it will turn out.”
They’re right. Coincidence, evidence restrictions, sympathy and nuance can become deciding factors in court decisions, especially in jury trials. Defendants, plaintiffs, attorneys and sometimes witnesses wear game faces. Those who play their roles best can win even with weak cases should empowered jurors seek justice through their own hearts.
