Trayvon Martin's death was nearly swept under the rug, but after a huge public outcry, justice is close to being served. Close, but not quite. George Zimmerman admits he shot the young man, but offers up a good excuse--self-defense. His defense team is also offering up the Stand Your Ground law. The law is tricky, and it may just keep Zimmerman out of jail. Although it seems ridiculous, the justice system does not always make sense, and this is one of those cases.
Zimmerman's legal team is preparing for a Stand Your Ground hearing. The word hearing is the key. This is not a trial. A trial would mean a judge and jury hear the evidence. In a hearing, a judge is given the sole decision-making rights.
According to a statement posted on Zimmerman's defense website, "The defense asserts that there is a clear support for a strong claim of self-defense...a 'stand your ground' hearing will essentially be a mini-trial." The defense team will be burdened with proving Zimmerman's actions were in accordance with the law. There will not be a jury to hear the prosecution and defense's arguments.
If the judge decides Zimmerman's actions are protected under the law, the case could be dismissed and he will be a free man. If that happens, George Zimmerman will also be immune from any civil action lawsuits the Trayvon Martin's family may be considering.
From day one, many believed Zimmerman would get off without being punished for his crime. Yes, he was jailed and got in some trouble with the law, but he is alive and free to shoot anybody else he thinks deserves it. Will a judge let this man simply walk away?
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Comments: 8
Rapes, stalkings, and robberies are an entirely different matter. Trayvon was technically defending himself. He just can't speak for himself to use that excuse for beating up his attacker.