Is video testimony at trial unfair?

I suspect MJ is allowed to bend the rules, because he is very very rich.I had a friend who was requested to attend a trial by jury as a witness. My friend's buddy had smashed up a bar.My friend was informed that if he did not turn up to the trial in person he would be charged with contempt of court.As far as I know, my friend wasn't given the option of making a video statement. For that matter, he wasn't allowed to give a written statement, either. Different rules apply for rich people, berberry.Mick

well I'm no lawyer, that's for sure, but I don't really see why that should be the case. Seems a bit weird to me.Mickps. I'm probably making a stupid mistake here... I like jury trial, i like the idea of showing up to defend yourself in person. But I don't know much about law. These are just gut reactions, and therefore are likely silly!This message has been edited by mick, 05-12-2005 08:13 PM

I guess video testimony should be allowed, in special cases. If you have a good reason for it, i.e. you're lying in bed dying of cancer, then I guess it's fair enough.What confuses me is why MJ (or anybody else) should want to make use of video testimony in the first place. Personally I'd rather defend myself in person, have accusations made against me directly, and speak for myself.MJ is quite the showman, he could probably win over a jury no problem.This message has been edited by mick, 05-12-2005 08:18 PM