Evidence, proof and truth in criminal trials
Now and then someone, often a parent, will complain to me that there is “no evidence” that my client committed a crime. That conversation goes something like this: Parent: “He’s charged with driving under the influence, but I don’t even know why they arrested him. There isn’t any evidence that he did it.” Me: “Well, the police must have some reason. Do you have any idea what that...
Read MoreBook Review - Priceless, by William Poundstone
Priceless, by William Poundstone Hill and Wang 2010 Priceless is about how people assign monetary value to things with no obvious price. Although those of us who remember college economics might think of price as cost plus ten percent, real prices are messier. That formula might work for fungible commodities such as gasoline and sugar, but what about dry-aged Waygu beef, or an Armani suit? Those...
Read MoreTrial practice tip for lawyers - how to avoid losing any trials ever.
I have never lost a trial in the Coos County Circuit Court.[1] I’ve never lost an appeal in front of the Supreme Court of Idaho.[2] I’ve never lost a hearing in front of the International Criminal Tribunal in The Hague.[3] I’ve never lost a game of jai alai, either.[4] Clever readers will have figured out the reason for my extraordinary winning percentages. Any attorney can use the same...
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