Trial Experience Part 3 - Aftermath

Again another surprise in the process, the judge and lawyers can come talk to the jury after the trial. The judge came in first and we thought she was a great judge so it was nice to talk with her after. Turns out we had reached all the decisions she expected (and she doesn't know much about the trial before it starts either) and also landed on the exact sentence she predicted. This actually relieved me a lot. I was sure of the decisions I was making (you know, beyond a reasonable doubt) but still to have the judge tell us we were "right" still makes you feel better.

We also talked about the awful defense attorney and she told us if any of this goes to appeal it will probably be because of his behavior and inadequacy of his advice. We also found out since we the jury were speculating, that the defendant was offered a plea agreement originally on the first drug charge (prior to the aggravated assault) of the minimum 15 year sentence if he plead guilty. If you ever need a lawyer DO NOT HIRE A MR. DYER WITH A LONG BEARD! He is a horrible lawyer and my gut feel is that he is a horrible person in general. If you vote in Harris County, I suggest you continue to vote FOR Joan Campbell who from me experience was an excellent and competent judge.

We also talked to the prosecutor, a Mr. Lewis, from the DA's office. He was also very competent and told us about the plea agreement originally was for the defendant had taken responsibility for his crimes. Obviously, he won't, continues to lie about it even on the stand, and ultimately is paying the price. We also asked about the weapons charge we had such a hard time on and apparently this usually is decided 50/50 by juries. Since the legislature did not better define the words in the law, it really does get interpreted differently by juries but they include the charge to try and get it in the sentence.

All in all I was extremely grateful for the opportunity to basically be debriefed by judge and prosecutor and finally got to ask and have answered questions we had from the trial.

The defense lawyer did not come to see us, with is probably good for him because we were prepared to tear into him. We may think the defendant is a bad guy, but he is a young man that at least deserves appropriate council and advice in things that affect his future and his freedom in such a magnitude.

I honestly hope I never have to be on a jury again after this week.