A Defendant on Trial For Murder

A defendant was on trial for murder. There was strong evidence indicating guilt, but there was no corpse. In the defense’s closing statement the lawyer, knowing that his client would probably be convicted, resorted to a trick: “Ladies and gentlemen of the jury, I have a surprise for you all,” the lawyer said as he looked at his watch. “Within one minute, the person presumed dead in this case will walk in that door.” He looked toward the door. The jurors, somewhat stunned, all looked on eagerly. A minute passed. Nothing happened. Finally the lawyer said, “I made up the previous statement. But you all looked with anticipation. I therefore say to you that there is reasonable doubt in this case as to whether anyone was killed and insist that you return a verdict of not guilty.” The jury, clearly confused, retired to deliberate. Minutes later, the jury returned and pronounced a verdict of guilty. “But how?” inquired the lawyer. “You must have had doubt, as all of you stared at the door.” The jury foreman replied: “We looked, but your client didn’t.” (Source Unknown)