Last week, in the wake of the Not Guilty verdict in the prosecution of George Zimmerman, I found myself, probably like everyone, wondering and questioning what this verdict meant to society as a whole. Certainly, the reaction to the verdict has been controversial and heated, to say the least. It seems no matter what you personally think of the verdict, there is someone else with a completely different outlook on the same. Just read your Facebook wall.
My personal views on the verdict are of course tainted by and grounded in my legal training. I am thus probably a lot less emotional than others about the same. As a parent and father, my heart aches for the Martin and Fulton families. If it were my child, I would want justice as well, and I would not rest until I got the same.
Still, the fact remains that a jury heard the evidence, deliberated the evidence and lawfully concluded that Mr. Zimmerman was not guilty of criminal conduct in Mr. Martin’s tragic and untimely death. While Mr. Zimmerman’s criminal charges are over, barring action from the federal government, there is a wave of civil litigation that will and should take place regarding this incident.
First off, Mr. Zimmerman filed suit last year against an NBC company for defamation following a false report as to the language used in his famous 911 call, that was repeatedly played throughout the trial. I am not a defamation expert, but given the notoriety and importance this call had on the racial controversies underlying this case, and the case itself, I personally believe the case has merit and value. It may even have significant and substantial value. I also believe that Mr. Zimmerman acquired the right to sue the State of Florida last Monday night, when the Special Prosecutor went on national TV and called him a “murderer” even following his acquittal. There is a litigation immunity privilege that applies to lawyers and litigants during court proceedings. This statement came after the trial concluded and thus, should fall outside of any privilege. Still, the maximum recovery would be $200,000 as the responsible party is an agent of the State of Florida.
So, Mr. Zimmerman has a potentially very lucrative case against NBC, and a less lucrative, but six-figure potential case against the State. His most valuable asset going forward though are his media rights, i.e., his ability to sell his story to movie or TV studios or publishing companies. Here is where I think Mr. Zimmerman has a very important decision to make. Do you make yourself a permanent and polarizing figure in American history, or, do you start something that turns what has been a negative and hostile conversation and make it into something that can prevent the very same tragedy?
What I propose Mr. Zimmerman is that you never profit off the death of Mr. Martin. Thus, when you settle these lawsuits, or when you go to sell your story for a movie or book deal, you should set aside the money for the establishment of a foundation. This foundation could be used to educate teens in trouble, or to promote changes in our laws which reduce violence in general. I would strongly caution and counsel you against coming out as any type of advocate for self-defense, or stand your ground or gun rights. This again, will only increase the infamy you are certain to live with. Again, like it or not, you are now famous for the rest of your life. Well, not famous, but infamous. You hold the power to change the distinction, but you must carefully use the same. Changing the conversation and the financials of this tragic situation to benefit society may change your distinction as well. One thing is for certain, if you take any money and profit from this, you will forever be public enemy number one.
If and when the family files a wrongful death case against you, and they most certainly will, you should pay them. You should pay them, and then ask that portions of the money go to the establishment of this foundation in their son’s name. I would settle quickly and quietly, and confidentially. These suggested items cannot alter history, or bring back the life you took. But they can start to promote healing, and they could work to make sure that others do not face the same fate.
Lastly Mr. Zimmerman, you need to leave. You should get just enough money from all of these assorted deals, to forever leave Central Florida and start elsewhere. I personally think it is bad taste for you to reacquire your gun. You have a Constitutional right to it, but again, think about the message you are sending. Your life here is over as well, so it is best to do as much right as you can, and then leave, so there can be peace.
I am a firm believer that in all tragedies, you must find some way to take the tragic happening and turn it into a positive for others. Doing the same is often the only way that I have seen folks get through a tragic loss. It is time for all of us to heal and move on.
Here’s to hoping that Mr. Zimmerman’s next choices help this community do the same.
Michael T. Gibson is an Auto Accident Lawyer in Orlando. The law firm of Michael T. Gibson can help you obtain compensation for medical treatment, loss of wages, pain and suffering, etc. that you have incurred as a result of a car accident. Call 407-422-4529 or visit the website at www.autojusticeattorney.com.
