I love that clip, and I wish things were so simple.
We like to think of things either "are" or "are not" legal. Only the legal world can create the need for me to quote simple forms of the verb "to be."
We like to think of things either "are" or "are not" legal. Only the legal world can create the need for me to quote simple forms of the verb "to be."
But, I learned early in law school that there is only ever one answer... "it depends." I want to write about my feelings on the Trayvon Martin murder case.
The only certain answer is that there will be no winners in this case. After listening to some of the trial and hearing both closing arguments in the background while working, I believe that anyone who claims this case is "clear" or "simple" serves a preconceived notion, philosophy, or preference. I have opinions, but I see nothing as clear.
The only certain answer is that there will be no winners in this case. After listening to some of the trial and hearing both closing arguments in the background while working, I believe that anyone who claims this case is "clear" or "simple" serves a preconceived notion, philosophy, or preference. I have opinions, but I see nothing as clear.
George Zimmerman either murdered Trayvon Martin or he killed him for the lawful purpose of saving his own life. Lesser-included-offenses aside (and that is a post for another day), it seems like one or the other.
I have been glued to this case precisely because it illustrates the muddy gray between "legal" and "illegal." It shows us just how chaotic our world is and how difficult simple truth can be. We have seen dueling mothers, a gun-control debate by proxy, and impassioned pleas on both sides for and against "stand your ground" laws. In other words, we made it another battleground for the usual things even though it is simply a murder trial with interesting dynamics.
This is not easy. This is a very tough case. And it reflects so much about humanity. It reflects how we all act and contrasts it with how we think we would act when faced with danger. It shows how important it is to so many to fit this case into our own preferences (political, social, etc.).
This is one of those uncomfortable moments in front of the unflattering image of ourselves in a full-length mirror with bright fluorescent lights. The lights bring it all to bear. This case tells us so much about "us."
This is not easy. This is a very tough case. And it reflects so much about humanity. It reflects how we all act and contrasts it with how we think we would act when faced with danger. It shows how important it is to so many to fit this case into our own preferences (political, social, etc.).
This is one of those uncomfortable moments in front of the unflattering image of ourselves in a full-length mirror with bright fluorescent lights. The lights bring it all to bear. This case tells us so much about "us."
I don't know what I think about the truth from the evidence presented and I do not seek to influence anyone's opinion. Rather, I have been ruminating about the nuances and I prefer to wade through the gray muck.
No matter what happens in this case, people will be upset. And that may tell us more about us than anything else.
