Finally, a judge with some sense in his head. No cameras for the Peterson trial. Anyone have a problem with this?

I have more of a problem with a trial taking 4 months in California where the same trial would take 4 days in Texas. No state drags cases out longer than CA.

I have to agree with you on the length of trials in California. It poses a real problem in terms of willing and qualified jurors. My sister recently was on a panel for a murder case involving a plea of insanity. The attorneys told the panel that the trial would probably run at least four to six weeks. My sister, a well-educated intelligent woman who would make an excellent juror, was very concerned about ending up on the jury because she has teenager that she ferrys all over the place for various activities. She could get back up for a week or maybe two--but six?

On the other hand, I will never forget when I was called to jury duty in Hockley County. It was a manslaughter case. The judge informed the panel members and the attorneys at 10:00 am. on Tuesday morning that would have a jury sworn and the case tried with a verdict in by Wednesday evening because, by golly, he had a trial scheduled for Thursday morning in Brownfield. (They brought the verdict in before 6:00 p.m. Wednesday!) How's that for a fast murder trial!

Janette

The California courts have to drag out the trial long enough for the made-for-TV movies to air before trial, thereby thoroughly tainting the jury pool for the State and ensuring a fair trial, "California-style."