Anatomy of a Murder Trial (DRAKE HALL)

Learn how trials really work! This course will give an in-depth look at the criminal jury trial, using as an illustration (and sometimes foil) Scott Turow's classic Presumed Innocent (along with the 1990 movie based on the novel). We will discuss the roles of the prosecutor, the defense lawyer, the judge, the jury, and the defendant, and look at the stages of a trial, including jury selection, direct and cross-examinations, opening and closing arguments, and jury instructions and deliberations. Students will have ample opportunity to ask questions, to consider the pros and cons of jury trials, and to compare how trials actually take place compared to the way they are depicted in TV shows, movies, and novels. 

Devin Odell is a retired state court judge who regularly presided over criminal jury trials in Fort Collins. He is currently working on his own novel featuring a murder trial. 

Notes

• A current OLLI membership is required to register for all courses and lectures. 
• If you do not have a Fall 2025 membership, one will be added to your cart at checkout. 
• OLLI membership fees and course tuition are critical to the Institute's sustainability and are non-refundable. 

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