Wow, late winter cold kicked my ass. But thankfully on the mend…
The current American Bar Association Journal has a great article entitled “Lions of the Trial Bar” which features interviews with some of the elder statesmen of the American Courtroom. One of the lawyers featured, Richard Racehorse Haynes, is legendary for persuading Texas juries to absolve his clients of various heinous acts, including but not limited to murder. Haynes discussed how, back in the 1970’s, he used to have his client thank the judge and jury after the acquittal. One client apparently stood, looked at the jury and said:
“Ladies and gentlemen, I want to thank each and every one of you. And I promise, I will never, ever, do it again”
A few short weeks later, after yet another acquittal, Haynes’ client was about to launch into another heartfelt thank you, but didn’t get too far. According to the story, the trial judge interrupted.
“Don’t thank me, you little turd,” the judge said. “You an I both know you’re guilty”.
Haynes no longer has his client give thanks after an acquittal.