May 28, 2024, 9:36 a.m. ET

Jonah BromwichReporting from inside the courthouse

Before he summons the jury, the judge offers a word of warning to the lawyers, asking them not to comment on the law in their closings. That is his job, he reminds them, telling them to focus on the facts.

This is REALLY different from Florida state court. Of course you are allowed to comment on the law…in Florida. You’re allowed to read the damn law in Florida! The lawyers and judge have had their charge conference, they know exactly what the judge is going to tell the jury.  I’m shocked at this New York rule.