I’ve been following the Casey Anthony trial daily for a few reasons. For one, I know the consultants working on the case so I’m always watching for any tv interviews they decide to do. Second, I’m intrigued by the case just like the rest of the nation. Third, it’s always interesting to me to see how the media portrays trials.
While listening, I have heard news commentators talk often about seeing Casey’s parents and brother in the elevator. The commentators discuss their demeanor and speculate as to what that means – do they really think their daughter is guilty? Are they all uniting to save her from the death penalty? Is Casey’s mom journaling during trial or taking notes to rehearse her testimony? Just now, I heard a commentator talk about how Casey’s brother, Lee, was seen eating by himself at a sandwich shop during a lunch break. Discussion followed regarding whether that meant that he was distancing himself from his parents, are they now not as united? The speculation is unreal – and this is all regarding family members, not the defendant herself (who definitely does not evade scrutiny as every eyebrow raise and tear is analyzed).
There is an important message in this. Although this is a major publicized trial, do not for one second think that jurors in your case think any differently. To them, the case they sit on is a major trial. They will analyze every movement from you, your client, and your client’s friends or family. If jurors see you or your client outside the courtroom, they will be watching, taking it all in, and speculating. It all feeds into their stories. So…be very careful of what you say and do. Make sure your client and his/her family knows how to act in and out of the courtroom. Nothing goes unnoticed.