Last week, my old colleague and I engaged in a lively text exchange as we closely followed the E. Jean Carroll jury trial. What caught our attention was Donald Trump’s forceful display of alpha leadership throughout the proceedings. Trump’s animated reactions, from vehement headshaking during Carroll’s testimony to passing furious notes to his counsel, created a dramatic courtroom atmosphere.

Expressive Outbursts and Insults

In response to the judge recounting a prior sexual assault verdict against him, Trump audibly expressed his disapproval with a simple “ick.” This visceral reaction was an attempt to refute the earlier verdict and showcase his apparent disdain for any insinuation of inappropriate behavior towards an older woman.

Legal Experience and Financial Implications

Drawing from our combined 50 years of experience in front of civil juries, my texting companion and I couldn’t help but see dollar signs with every caustic remark Trump made. His confrontational attitude, particularly when he walked out during Carroll’s lawyer’s closing argument, signaled, in our opinion, potential financial gains.

Upon Trump’s return and composed demeanor during his own attorney’s closing, my colleague accurately predicted, “Melania’s going to walk.” This foresight underlined the potential impact of Trump’s courtroom theatrics on the trial’s outcome.

Understanding the Power Dynamics of Juries

The plaintiff’s bar, well-versed in human psychology and power dynamics, recognizes the emotional nature of juries. Jurors, dedicated to upholding the American legal system, dislike witnessing the judicial process being insulted. Trump’s childish outbursts, reminiscent of a Chicago case from my past, were a stark reminder of what not to do in a courtroom.

A Chicago Case: Overcoming Disadvantages

In a previous case, our client faced skepticism due to a challenging liability scenario. Despite major law firms rejecting the case, we took it on, armed with determination. With limited resources, our expert used a simple paper model to illustrate the construction defect causing our client’s fall. Opposing counsel’s mockery and disrespect fueled our resolve, leading to a record-breaking verdict.

Trump’s Disregard for the Rule of Law

While E. Jean Carroll’s lawyers presented a compelling case during the recent trial, it wasn’t their legal prowess that secured the $83.3 million verdict. Instead, Trump’s evident contempt for the rule of law played a decisive role. The jury perceived his disregard for established norms and saw him as someone not bound by rules—a validation of E. Jean’s theory. Trump’s insults to the legal process, an institution jurors respected, may have contributed to the substantial outcome.

The Cost of Contempt

Trump’s disrespectful demeanor towards the judicial system, coupled with a perceived disregard for established rules, may have cost him more than just legal battles. As supporters of liberty and freedom, it’s essential to recognize the impact of such behavior on the very foundations of a fair and just society.