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Quote by Reginald Rose

“Nine of us now seem to feel that the defendant is innocent, but we're just gambling on probabilities. We may be wrong. We may be trying to return a guilty man to the community. No one can really know. But we have a reasonable doubt, and this is a safeguard that has enormous value in our system. No jury can declare a man guilty unless it's sure. We nine can't understand how you three are still so sure. Maybe you can tell us.”

Quote by Reginald Rose

Work

Twelve Angry Men

This compelling narrative follows a jury of twelve men as they deliberate the fate of a young man accused of murder. Set in a claustrophobic jury room, the story delves into the characters' personal biases, moral dilemmas, and the quest for truth amidst a flawed system. more

Author

Reginald Rose
Reginald Rose

Reginald Rose was a renowned film writer known for his profound insight into legal themes and his sharp perception of social issues. His career began in the 1950s, and his works have had a profound impact on the film industry. Rose's scripts have been nominated for multiple Academy Awards. more

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“As a society, we adhere to the belief in a fair trial for a person accused of a serious crime, but some of us struggle when it comes to the business of providing a competent lawyer to guarantee said fair trial. Lawyers like me live with the question “But how do you represent such scum?” I offer a quick “Someone has to” as I walk away. Do we really want fair trials? No, we do not. We want justice, and quickly. And justice is whatever we deem it to be on a case-by-case basis. It’s just as well that we don’t believe in fair trials because we damned sure don’t have them. The presumption of innocence is now the presumption of guilt. The burden of proof is a travesty because the proof is often lies. Guilt beyond a reasonable doubt means if he probably did it, then let’s get him off the streets.”

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