Lecture Notes: Simulated Murder Trial

Introduction

• Presenter: Michelle, a YouTuber, participating in a simulated murder trial.
• Context: A live-action courtroom simulation with real jurors, a judge, and actors as witnesses.
• Case: The State vs. Ash Thornhill, accused of murdering Wendell Tucker.

Overview of Criminal Trials

• Criminal Justice System:
  • Typically involves actual lawyers representing the accused.
  • Michelle is learning the basics as a pretend lawyer.
• Roles in Trial:
  • Prosecution: Spencer, a seasoned State prosecutor with decades of experience.
  • Defense: Michelle, learning from Devon Stone (Legal Eagle) and Gonzalo Graciosa (UCLA mock trial coach).

The Case Details

• Incident Date: October 15, 2024, at Cobb County Zoo.
• Victim: Wendell Tucker, head zookeeper.
• Accused: Ash Thornhill, claims he was watching a baseball game with his roommate during the murder.
• Murder Details:
  • Argument escalated between Ash and Wendell.
  • Alibi provided by Drew, Ash's roommate.

Preparing for Trial

• Key Elements of Trial:
  • Opening statements, evidence presentation, witness examination, closing arguments, and jury deliberation.
• Opening Statement Importance:
  • Jurors often make decisions based on opening statements.
• Defense Strategy:
  • Highlight gaps in the prosecution's investigation.
  • Focus on Ash's alibi and lack of forensic evidence against him.

Evidence Considerations

• Favorable Evidence for Defense:
  • Alibi from Drew during the time of the murder.
  • Lack of thorough investigation by the prosecution.
• Key Points for Defense:
  • Generic key card found in Ash's drawer and absence of fingerprints.
  • Missing Rolex watch from the crime scene, suggesting robbery as a motive.

Trial Etiquette and Strategy

• Courtroom Conduct:
  • Address the judge as "Your Honor".
  • Maintain decorum; body language and tone matter.
• Cross-Examination:
  • Challenge prosecution witnesses, highlight shoddy investigation.
  • Key focus on officer G's prior relationship with security at the zoo impacting investigation quality.

Closing Arguments

• Prosecution's Focus:
  • Ash's anger and motives to commit murder.
  • DNA evidence found under victim's nails.
• Defense's Argument:
  • Insufficient evidence proving Ash's guilt.
  • Emphasis on missing evidence and incomplete investigation.
  • Use of baseball metaphor in closing to highlight "strikes" against prosecution.

Verdict and Conclusion

• Jury Decision:
  • Verdict: Not guilty for Ash Thornhill.
• Michelle's Performance:
  • Improved understanding of law and courtroom procedure.
  • Successfully navigated objections and witness examination despite limited preparation.

Key Takeaways

• Importance of Evidence:
  • Prosecution must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
• Trial Preparation:
  • In-depth preparation and understanding of laws are crucial, even if time is limited.
• Role of Emotion and Storytelling:
  • Engaging the jury with narratives and emotional appeals can influence their decision.