Mel Harmon

By the Sweat of My Tongue: Profiles in Prosecution Mel Harmon

Publisher Marketing: "Lawyers earn their living by the sweat of their tongues, and they don't mind hard work." (anon.) Some legal pundits espouse the use of conversational tones when addressing Jurors. They recommend a friendly discussion approach while arguing points to the Trier of Fact. These Courthouse virtuosos suggest that the sophistication of contemporary Jurors makes Courtroom oratory passe. Excuse me! A PROSECUTOR has a sworn duty to proclaim the truth. Even the most casual Courtroom combatant knows that facts don't automatically prevail. Justice is often frustrated. Truth doesn't inexorably impose its will on a Jury. There is no magic charm-wand in the Courtroom. No vaccine for insulating undecided Jurors from the noxious effect of falsehood. No ambient conditioner to endow equivocal Juries with perfect discernment during their deliberations. The cause of Justice must be championed by PASSIONATE ADVOCACY. The People's Lawyer must prosecute aggressively but prudently, and he must speak dynamically. Truth is promulgated by evidence, proper instructions, perspiration, and eloquence! Manner of delivery is a matter of personal style to be sure, but it's also a matter of taking charge in the Courtroom.