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Attorney Quote by Michael Connelly

“Well, did he do it?" She always asked the irrelevant question. It didn't matter in terms of the strategy of the case whether the defendant "did it" or not. What mattered was the evidence against him -- the proof -- and if and how it could be neutralized. My job was to bury the proof, to color the…” quote by Michael Connelly
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“Well, did he do it?" She always asked the irrelevant question. It didn't matter in terms of the strategy of the case whether the defendant "did it" or not. What mattered was the evidence against him -- the proof -- and if and how it could be neutralized. My job was to bury the proof, to color the proof a shade of gray. Gray was the color of reasonable doubt.”

Michael Connelly

About This Quote

Source Novel: The Lincoln Lawyer by Michael Connelly, 2005

The speaker emphasizes that the focus is on undermining evidence rather than proving guilt, using doubt as a defense strategy.

In simple terms: The goal is to create doubt about the evidence, not to prove innocence.

Key Takeaway

Create reasonable doubt to protect the client.

Themes

law justice strategy ethics truth

Mood

tension analytical cautious

Type

legal strategic narrative

When to use this quote

  • courtroom defense
  • jury persuasion
  • media framing
  • political campaigns

Key Concepts

reasonable doubt burden of proof legal manipulation

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does creating doubt affect the pursuit of justice?
  • When is it acceptable to manipulate evidence?
A Different Perspective

It ignores the moral responsibility of truth and can erode public trust.

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