What do you think of the American judicial system?

[CoolTech]

I know we have one of the best systems in the world, but it all seems like a circus as Richard Gere's character in Chicago says. I mean both sides get these witnesses and pick apart every negative aspect of their lives, attempting to attack credibility. I mean just about about everyone out there has some sort of skeleton or the other in their closet, I just don't understand how or why this should be put on public display just for some court case. I am not sure what a better way might be, any ideas?

 

[Looney]

I mean just about about everyone out there has some sort of skeleton or the other in their closet, I just don't understand how or why this should be put on public display just for some court case.

When has this occured? I've never seen anything like that happened unless it was relevant to the case.

 

[CoolTech]

when has what happened?

 

[Looney]

People's skeletons being put on display in court.

 

[CoolTech]

this happens a lot. Say you were put up as a witness against or for some person being put on trial, the other side would do research on you, find anything they can to attack your credibility. Say you got into fights in high school or something, they can paint a picture of your violent past, and you shouldnt be trusted, this can just be because you were picked on a lot. The truth is twisted so often by lawyers.

 

[Looney]

Originally posted by: CoolTech
this happens a lot. Say you were put up as a witness against or for some person being put on trial, the other side would do research on you, find anything they can to attack your credibility. Say you got into fights in high school or something, they can paint a picture of your violent past, and you shouldnt be trusted, this can just be because you were picked on a lot. The truth is twisted so often by lawyers.

I think you've been watching too many movies. It doesn't happen as often as you think... first, because it costs a lot of money to investigate such things... 2nd, it doesn't always make it into court, even if they do. It's only allowed if it's used to characterize an individual. For example, you'll less likely believe somebody if they're a witness for the prosecution, and are getting a reduced sentence for their testimony.

 

[Anubis]

lets just say it needs a lil work

 

[HEMIFREAK]

in a word, corrupt:evil:

 

[Legendary]

I think the Appeals process needs work.

 

[BeauJangles]

The better question is, how can we improve the american judicial system?

 

[compudog]

Our judicial system is a wreck. It needs a complete overhaul. Judges that are elected based upon political affiliation is the first thing that has to go IMO.

"Hmmm, lets see, Phil McKrack is a democrat and Al Coholic is a republican, and since I am a republican, I'll vote for Al Coholic."

 

[FoBoT]

it is flawed like everything in this world
even if somebody comes up with something better, it is unlikely to change