Go Premium for $25 and get
Already a member? Log in here.
Yesterday, the citizens of Louisiana voted to end the practice of non-unanimous juries in felony cases. Amendment 2 requires a unanimous verdict of a 12-member jury for felony convictions. Current law allows a conviction even though two of 12 jurors believe there is reasonable doubt of a defendant’s guilt.
This is what you went to law school for. Although you’ve been preparing for this for years, handling your first case and going to trial can be terrifying. Nearly every person you look to for advice will have plenty to give. Most will tell you to prepare, if not over-prepare.
What would Wolfgang Mozart do with a closing argument? If the great composer had to construct a speech for a jury, what would it sound like?
For many of you, the turning of the calendar merely means today is May 4, 2016. For sci-fi geeks who like puns, it's Star Wars Day – as in May the 4th Be With You. Star Wars itself has been a framing device over the years for points of law.
Before the Bar is the blog of the ABA Law Student Division. It brings together a diversity of opinions, experiences, and voices from those associated with the law anywhere in the world and is targeted to law students, current, past and future.
Unless stated, the opinions shared by our writers do not reflect the official position of the American Bar Association.
Before the Bar Guidelines
Become a Contributor
