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Focusing on closing arguments

MSNBC's Daniels talks to legal analyst Filan about the attorneys' last chance to reach the jury
/ Source: msnbc.com

Michael Jackson stayed home Tuesday while lawyers and the judge in his child molestation trial tried to work out the instructions the jury will receive before beginning deliberations.

With closing arguments scheduled for later in the week, both sides are focused on their last chance for to talk to the jury directly and sell their case.  On Wednesday, MSNBC’s Lisa Daniels talked with MSNBC legal analyst Susan Filan about what to expect from the judge and jury once closing arguments begin.

To watch the interview, click on the link above.  Below is an excerpt from the transcript.

Lisa Daniels: Any good attorney knows you have to keep it simple for the jury, not because they are not smart, but because for this to be a complete sell it has to be simple.  If you were the prosecutor what would be your theme? 

Susan Filan: Michael Jackson molested this boy.  Michael Jackson molested other boys.  He did it now and he did it before, now don’t let him get away with it again.

Daniels: (Jackson defense attorney) Tom Mesereau, he does not have the burden of proof, so what is his message to the jury?

Filan:  This is a bunch of baloney, it’s all made up lies, The only conspiracy here is against Michael Jackson. This family is out for money and don’t let them get away with it.  If anyone should be going to jail here it should be them, not Jackson.

Before starting her broadcasting career, was an associate with the New York law firm Davis Polk & Wardwell. She graduated cum laude from Harvard Law School.