L.A. Law1986

Victor Sifuentes:
And during the trial, evidence was introduced that my client had been a heavy user of methyl green for a period of more than 10 years.

Federal Judge Jackson:
I hope you're not gonna ask us to consider that a mitigating factor.

Victor Sifuentes:
A recent doctoral thesis completed only last month on the long-term effects amphetamines makes it a mitigating factor, Your Honor.

Federal Judge Emmanuel:
Five different psychiatrists were called to the stand, now everyone of them testified about the effects of long-term addiction to amphetamines.

Victor Sifuentes:
Yes, but none of them knew about the results of this research.

Federal Judge Constance Greg:
With all due respect, Counselor, this attempt seems a little desperate.

Victor Sifuentes:
Your Honor, my client is scheduled to die tomorrow. I think an evaluation of this new evidence is warranted before you comment on its legitimacy.

Federal Judge Emmanuel:
Let's do this without the attitude, Counsel.

Victor Sifuentes:
I mean no disrespect to the court. But I grew up with Hector Rodriguez, I know him personally which causes me to take this case personally.

Federal Judge Emmanuel:
Well, don't. Your relationship with him has no relevance here.

Victor Sifuentes:
My relationship with him puts me in a position to recognize his capacity for change and rehabilitation which is directly relevant to death penalty cases, Your Honor.

Federal Judge Constance Greg:
This is not an evidentiary hearing.

Victor Sifuentes:
I knew Hector Rodriguez on drugs. I know him off drugs. He's off of them now, Your Honor.

Federal Judge Jackson:
You're not a character witness, Mr. Sifuentes.

Victor Sifuentes:
That's right, Your Honor. I am a lawyer. The three of you are judges. And we are all here to administer justice. Killing Hector Rodriguez doesn't accomplish that.

Federal Judge Constance Greg:
In your objective opinion.

Victor Sifuentes:
I know him. None if you do. And I respectfully request that until you can be assured as I am, about all of this. Please don't let this man be killed. Please. Thank you, Your Honors.