In the following blog assignment I will be prosecuting against Mr. Hyde:
One night, Sir Danvers Carew was sauntering down the street, when he might Mr. Hyde. Carew then politely greeted Hyde, ever so innocently, not even imagining to be attacked. However, the honorable man was wrong, as Hyde merclessly assaulted Carew with a cane. This attack later lead to Carew's pointless and horrifying death, caused by no one other than Mr. Edward Hyde. This type of murder is not only prohibited and completely uncalled for, but is also ruthless and cold-blooded. After such deeds, such a man should not be allowed to walk this earth as a free man any longer, for he may show what he is able to do yet again. This murder can be argued as high treason, as Sir Danvers Carew was a prominent figure in Parliament. Mr. Hyde's preposterous choices have awed both Carew's family and his country. Your honor, ladies and gentleman of the jury, this type of disgraceful and inhumane behavior cannot proceed without receiving dire consequences.
You have some really interesting reasons going on here! First and foremost, the point of view appropriate for this assignment is you (the prosecuting attorney) speaking directly to your audience (the jury of Victorian citizens). Keep this perspective in mind as you continue on in your writing. This initial attempt displays some great effort in reasoning the prosecution however, this writing/speech needs some effort in organizing your thoughts. Remember, any writing/speech needs a distinct beginning, middle, and ending. These should be separated into paragraphs when written formally. Your beginning and ending should address your audience and be powerfully worded and captivating so as to sway the jury. The middle should be separated into distinct paragraphs according to your particular reasons for prosecuting Hyde. Your first reason and of course the most obvious would be the details of the murder including the evidence, witnesses, and events as discovered and uncovered by the police. Next, you seem to be commenting on Hyde's ruthless character. Spend a little time elaborating on this in the same manner with facts, actions, eyewitness quotes, etc. Your final reason (I find most intriguing) is your case that he seems to threaten the upper class with his choice to murder a member of Parliament. This is a great point because it shows that you are really considering your audience (the Victorian jury) and what they would care about most. Use your knowledge of the Victorian morals, values, fears, etc. to help you expand on this point. What other actions on behalf of Hyde demonstrate his attack on this area of society? This will help you seal this point. One last hint: watch some courtroom TV drama or youtube clips that will demonstrate some of the legal language/phrases common in the courtroom and serve to enhance your writing's authenticity. Best of luck.
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