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Astor Trial Crawls as Lawyers Squabble

Would-be jurors plan for 3-month commitment

By Matt Cantor,  Newser Staff

Posted Apr 6, 2009 11:25 AM CDT

(Newser) – As the second week of jury selection in the Brooke Astor trial began today, with potential jurors being asked if they can sit still for a 3-month trial, the judge upbraided the lawyers for bickering and grandstanding as if they never wanted it to end, the New York Times reports. “I strongly feel that this should have been resolved eons ago, months ago,” he said of a spat over courtroom technology.

The New York socialite’s son, Anthony Marshall, was indicted some 16 months ago over claims that he used her ill mental health to manipulate her will. Since then, the case “has dragged at the pace of a dehydrated turtle,” writes John Eligon. Now, the defendant has faded into the background as the lawyers snipe at each other and recycle arguments as opportunities to show off their wit.

Anthony Marshall, center, arrives at Manhattan criminal court with his wife Charlene, Monday, March 30, 2009, in New York.
Anthony Marshall, center, arrives at Manhattan criminal court with his wife Charlene, Monday, March 30, 2009, in New York.   (AP Photo/ Louis Lanzano)
Anthony Marshall exits Manhattan criminal court with his wife Charlene, Monday, March 30, 2009, in New York.
Anthony Marshall exits Manhattan criminal court with his wife Charlene, Monday, March 30, 2009, in New York.   (AP Photo/ Louis Lanzano)
Brooke Astor is seen in New York in this May 1, 199, file photo.
Brooke Astor is seen in New York in this May 1, 199, file photo.   (AP Photo/Serge J-F. Levy)
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