When Law Goes Pop!: Important Points

1) American culture is influenced by poplar media.
Americans are constantly influenced by what they see on T.V., and this carries over into the court room. Americans expect information more quickly, they are not as willing to wait around and dig for it in a lengthy opening statement and the quick images of television also make jurors more comfortable with visual aids than with simple explanations. Lawyers can us popular topics to connect to the jury.

2) Law affects and is affected by popular culture.
Americans have preconceived stereotypes and beliefs that they bring into the court room as jurors. Lawyers must be aware of this to be successful, and they use these beliefs to their advantage when presenting their case. The findings in each case can set precedents which can affect the culture and beliefs of Americans, such as the segregation laws eventually leading to racism being culturally unacceptable (in the United States as a whole).

3) Communication is important in law.
The way lawyers communicate with the jury is very important. A great example that Sherwin talks about in chapter three is storytelling. Attorneys can use their knowledge of the local mindset and beliefs along with the facts to spin a tale that, although it contains the right facts, may lead the jury to lean more in their favor. Take for example the story that Mr. Spence told about Randy Weaver. He took the facts and presented them to the jury in such a way that it made them sympathetic towards his client.

In looking at these three points, I agree with them all. American culture is affected not only by television but all forms of media. This is true as we see it everyday, especially with the prominence of the internet in today's society. Law is of course affected by culture and, in some ways, Law also affects American life. Finally, communication is extremely important in law; the way one presents his evidence will undoubtedly win or lose him a case.