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Introduction:
When it comes to depicting court proceedings in series and movies , the question arises as to how realistic these depictions really are. While they may provide entertainment value , it is important to consider whether justice can be accurately represented within the confines of the medium. This article explores the limits of the depiction of legal proceedings on screen and whether these portrayals lean more towards seriousness or caricature.
The disproportionate length of legal proceedings:
One of the main reasons justice cannot be fully served in a television series is the compressed timeline of court proceedings. In reality, a single day of hearing or questioning can last much longer than what is generally described. While a TV episode can encompass an entire trial, in real life court cases can span days, weeks, or even months. This time lag can create an unrealistic perception of the progress of legal proceedings.
The fictionalized nature of legal dramas:
Although legal series and films often strive for precision, they tend to embrace fictional elements for dramatic effect. Characters can engage in intense cross-examination or deliver impassioned speeches that captivate the audience but diverge from the reality of legal practice. The purpose of these fictional elements is to increase entertainment value and maintain viewer engagement. Therefore, while these depictions are not entirely misleading, they tend to be more cartoonish than serious.
The role of simplification and dramatization:
To accommodate the constraints of a limited runtime, legal scripts for series and movies often simplify complex legal concepts. In reality, legal processes involve complex procedures, extensive research and nuanced arguments. However, on screen these aspects are streamlined and condensed to make them more accessible to a wider audience. This simplification can contribute to an unrealistic perception of the justice system and oversimplify the challenges faced by lawyers and judges.
The impact of creative licensing:
Another factor that affects the realism of legal representations is the creative license taken by writers and directors. While they can draw on real cases and consult legal professionals for guidance, there is still room for artistic interpretation. This creative freedom allows storytelling elements that may deviate from reality to create compelling narratives. Therefore, the end product may sacrifice some authenticity for engaging storytelling.
Conclusion:
While series and films featuring lawyers, judges and courts provide entertainment and insight into the legal world, it is crucial to approach them with a critical eye. The compressed timelines, fictional elements, simplification, and creative license employed in these depictions contribute to a more cartoonish depiction rather than a serious depiction of the justice system. While they can still be enjoyable and engaging, viewers should be aware of the inherent limitations and deviations from reality in these fictional accounts of court proceedings.
