What Can Sam Bankman-Fried’s Lawyers Do?
The trial of former FTX CEO Sam Bankman-Fried is nearing its verdict stage, with the prosecution having closed its case. Now, Bankman-Fried and his lawyers must decide their next move. They can either open a defense and present witnesses and evidence, or they can waive the case and not put up any defense. However, it would be risky for them to waive the case, considering that the prosecution has already presented substantial evidence against Bankman-Fried.
If they choose to open a defense, they will face limitations on the witnesses and evidence they can present. The defense has already been restricted by Judge Kaplan, who excluded seven expert witnesses proposed by the defense. It is also unlikely that the defense can find witnesses closely involved with FTX who will testify in their favor.
FTX Founder’s Lawyers Must Take a Risk
In their amended proposed request to charge, Bankman-Fried’s lawyers asked the jury to evaluate his testimony just like they would for other witnesses. This request is significant because it suggests that Bankman-Fried may take the stand in his own defense. While it is a gamble, it may be their only chance to change the narrative.
By allowing Bankman-Fried to testify, his lawyers hope to present him as an innocent man who is not the villain portrayed by his former associates. However, the odds are against them, and taking this risk is their best option at this point. The jury must approach Bankman-Fried’s testimony without bias and consider it as an attempt to make his case, rather than an attempt to deceive.
Hot Take: The Crucial Decision Facing Sam Bankman-Fried’s Defense
As the trial of former FTX CEO Sam Bankman-Fried reaches its verdict stage, his defense team faces a crucial decision. They can either open a defense and present witnesses and evidence, or they can waive the case. However, given the strong evidence presented by the prosecution, waiving the case would be a risky move.
If they choose to open a defense, they will face limitations on the witnesses and evidence they can present. The defense has already been restricted by the exclusion of expert witnesses. Additionally, finding witnesses closely involved with FTX who will testify in their favor may prove difficult.
To improve their chances, Bankman-Fried’s lawyers are considering having him take the stand in his own defense. While this is a gamble, it may be their only opportunity to change the narrative and present Bankman-Fried as an innocent man. The jury must evaluate his testimony without bias, understanding that he is simply making his case rather than lying to save face.
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