Do you feel safer because George Zimmerman is criscrossing the United States with a gun?

[branford]

46. Amen!

Last edited Fri Aug 2, 2013, 10:29 AM - Edit history (1)

Whether you agree or disagree with the Zimmerman verdict, our system worked as intended. The State zealously prosecuted its case, Zimmerman had competent defense counsel, witness were examined and cross-examined, evidence tested and a jury deliberated. The talking heads on television seeking ratings and revenue were irrelevant. As an attorney, when I speak to friends that are angered by the verdict, I remind them that if they were ever charged with a crime, this is exactly how they would want the system to operate. Innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt is not just for television and the movies. Moreover, a "not guilty" verdict does not always mean the defendant was "innocent," only that the State could not properly prove its case.

The above, however, is not a license to ignore racial (and economic) disparities in the system. Any system made and administered by men (and women) will be flawed. It is not incompatible to be glad the system worked, yet still not "support" Zimmerman and want the system to improve.