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Presumed Guilty by Baez. Jose ( 2013 ) Paperback
Presumed Guilty exposes shocking, never-before revealed, exclusive information from the trial of the century and the verdict that shocked the nation.When Caylee Anthony was reported missing in Orlando, Florida, in July 2008, the public spent the next three years following the investigation and the eventual trial of her mother, Casey Anthony. On July 5, 2011, the case that captured headlines worldwide exploded when, against all odds, defense attorney Jose Baez delivered one of the biggest legal upsets in American a not-guilty verdict.In this tell-all, Baez shares secrets the defense knew but has not disclosed to anyone until now and frankly reveals his experiences throughout the entire case—discovering the evidence, meeting Casey Anthony for the first time, being with George and Cindy Anthony day after day, leading defense strategy meetings, and spending weeks in the judge’s chambers.Presumed Guilty shows how Baez, a struggling, high-school dropout, became one of the nation’s most high-profile defense attorneys through his tireless efforts to seek justice for one of the country’s most vilified murder suspects.
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First published July 1, 2012
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September 8, 2021
4.5 "unintentionally fascinating" stars !!
2017 Honorable Mention Read
Two days before we were leaving for our country home I had a night where I was having difficulty sleeping. I turned to our Canadian true crime network and there was a new documentary on the Casey Anthony fiasco that happened from 2008 until 2012 in Orlando. At the time, I followed the case, peripherally and like most of us simply accepted the spoon-feeding the media gave us around this tragic case that became a circus and witch hunt. This documentary was able to describe in a bit of detail why Ms. Anthony was found not guilty by trial and the lack of real evidence by the prosecution.
I wanted to find out more about this woman who was a manipulative pathological liar who appeared to be so unlikable, callous and unconcerned about her missing two year old. I wanted to find out if I watched enough news casts, read enough articles and sifted through all the nonsense in the blogsphere if I could determine if she got away with murder or was she just a very difficult woman with personality issues that ran into some very bad luck.
I thought who would know her best but her criminal defense lawyer and decided to read this one instead of the one by the prosecution. I learned very little about Ms. Anthony but I learned so much about this man, his struggles and what it took to defend "the most hated woman in America".
I do not think that this is what Mr. Baez intended but this was my experience. I learned a great deal about the man, his psychological processes, his many blind spots, his narcissism, his defense mechanisms, his fears, his intellect and the high cost he paid in defending this notorious woman.
Do I believe all that he says in this book? Not at all. He contradicts himself, his emotions rapidly fluctuate, his defense mechanisms are revved up and he protests too much about how he was mistreated, maligned, misunderstood, disliked and yet his motivations were totally altruistic, public serving, a savior defending the falsely accused. Yet despite his many character flaws I do believe that he was dedicated, tireless and tenacious. I can see how this case ate up his financial and emotional resources and left little for his wife and children. I can see how his self delusions were helpful to Ms. Anthony and saving her life.
I found this to be a fascinating psychological ride not because of what he says but what he doesn't say, what he exaggerates, who he maligns and how the overarching theme is that he trumpets" that through my intellect and hard work that I am able to get to the heart of the matter." I feel that he may have been a bit obsessed and perhaps a bit in love with Ms. Anthony but that is pure conjecture on my part.
This was a very illuminating and exciting ride and yet I am no closer to understanding Casey Anthony and whether or not she murdered her daughter.
Rest in peace little Caylee and I am sorry that you were born into the most dysfunctional of families.
2017 Honorable Mention Read
Two days before we were leaving for our country home I had a night where I was having difficulty sleeping. I turned to our Canadian true crime network and there was a new documentary on the Casey Anthony fiasco that happened from 2008 until 2012 in Orlando. At the time, I followed the case, peripherally and like most of us simply accepted the spoon-feeding the media gave us around this tragic case that became a circus and witch hunt. This documentary was able to describe in a bit of detail why Ms. Anthony was found not guilty by trial and the lack of real evidence by the prosecution.
I wanted to find out more about this woman who was a manipulative pathological liar who appeared to be so unlikable, callous and unconcerned about her missing two year old. I wanted to find out if I watched enough news casts, read enough articles and sifted through all the nonsense in the blogsphere if I could determine if she got away with murder or was she just a very difficult woman with personality issues that ran into some very bad luck.
I thought who would know her best but her criminal defense lawyer and decided to read this one instead of the one by the prosecution. I learned very little about Ms. Anthony but I learned so much about this man, his struggles and what it took to defend "the most hated woman in America".
I do not think that this is what Mr. Baez intended but this was my experience. I learned a great deal about the man, his psychological processes, his many blind spots, his narcissism, his defense mechanisms, his fears, his intellect and the high cost he paid in defending this notorious woman.
Do I believe all that he says in this book? Not at all. He contradicts himself, his emotions rapidly fluctuate, his defense mechanisms are revved up and he protests too much about how he was mistreated, maligned, misunderstood, disliked and yet his motivations were totally altruistic, public serving, a savior defending the falsely accused. Yet despite his many character flaws I do believe that he was dedicated, tireless and tenacious. I can see how this case ate up his financial and emotional resources and left little for his wife and children. I can see how his self delusions were helpful to Ms. Anthony and saving her life.
I found this to be a fascinating psychological ride not because of what he says but what he doesn't say, what he exaggerates, who he maligns and how the overarching theme is that he trumpets" that through my intellect and hard work that I am able to get to the heart of the matter." I feel that he may have been a bit obsessed and perhaps a bit in love with Ms. Anthony but that is pure conjecture on my part.
This was a very illuminating and exciting ride and yet I am no closer to understanding Casey Anthony and whether or not she murdered her daughter.
Rest in peace little Caylee and I am sorry that you were born into the most dysfunctional of families.
July 19, 2012
What I find incredibly frustrating about this book is on other review sites, people are reviewing the case or taking the opportunity to voice their opinions on the verdict, rather than giving a review based on the merits of the book.
For what this book was, a look at the defense's side of the Casey Anthony trial, it was as enjoyable read as Ashton's earlier released book from the prosecutions point-of-view.
Jose Baez details some of the experiences he had taking on this case - media leaks of discovery before it had reached the hands of the defense, intense media speculation about his personal and professional life, sometimes an uncooperative police department, a client with a history of lies, and dealing with a dysfunctional family - as well as rehashing some of his experiences inside of the court room.
Jose gives a timeline from his involvement in the case, when he was first called in, some attempts to sabotage his involvement, other attempts to question his client without an attorney present, and what it was like dealing with the Anthony family.
I had read the discovery on this case and watched the trial in its entirety, so there were no big surprises here except for the point in which the drowning of Caylee was revealed to him, the fact that all parties involved were made aware of the allegations of sexual abuse before opening statements, and where Casey was those days after the trial. Everything else was pretty much a matter of public record through Florida's Sunshine law dealing with the release of court documents.
If you are interested in law from a strategic point-of-view, you will find this as interesting as Ashton's book. If you are interested in the role media played in this case, I think you will find this book interesting as well. If you are, however, apart of the Nancy Grace crowd, you will hate this book and perceive every word written on the page to be a lie, so don't bother reading - it will just piss you off.
Overall, it was a fast read, pretty interesting, covered a lot of ground that I find particularly fascinating (law, legal defense, legal rule, media's role in high-profile cases) and showed Jose Baez as he is - a defense attorney that won one of the most high-profile cases to date.
For what this book was, a look at the defense's side of the Casey Anthony trial, it was as enjoyable read as Ashton's earlier released book from the prosecutions point-of-view.
Jose Baez details some of the experiences he had taking on this case - media leaks of discovery before it had reached the hands of the defense, intense media speculation about his personal and professional life, sometimes an uncooperative police department, a client with a history of lies, and dealing with a dysfunctional family - as well as rehashing some of his experiences inside of the court room.
Jose gives a timeline from his involvement in the case, when he was first called in, some attempts to sabotage his involvement, other attempts to question his client without an attorney present, and what it was like dealing with the Anthony family.
I had read the discovery on this case and watched the trial in its entirety, so there were no big surprises here except for the point in which the drowning of Caylee was revealed to him, the fact that all parties involved were made aware of the allegations of sexual abuse before opening statements, and where Casey was those days after the trial. Everything else was pretty much a matter of public record through Florida's Sunshine law dealing with the release of court documents.
If you are interested in law from a strategic point-of-view, you will find this as interesting as Ashton's book. If you are interested in the role media played in this case, I think you will find this book interesting as well. If you are, however, apart of the Nancy Grace crowd, you will hate this book and perceive every word written on the page to be a lie, so don't bother reading - it will just piss you off.
Overall, it was a fast read, pretty interesting, covered a lot of ground that I find particularly fascinating (law, legal defense, legal rule, media's role in high-profile cases) and showed Jose Baez as he is - a defense attorney that won one of the most high-profile cases to date.
March 23, 2013
First of all, let me say that I was one of the hundreds of thousands of people who knew...just knew that Casey was GUILTY. Mayby not of killing her on purpose, but killing her on accident and then hiding it.
I read this book to see if Jose would release any sordid secrets we didn't know about...
Well...he did just that. But it wasnt Casey's secrets he revealed.
We all wondered WHY, HOW could the jury vote not guilty, are they idiots?
Didnt they hear what the news was saying?
There are a million things in this book that we did NOT hear! You can read about the evidence that was suppressed by police and prosecution, and testimony that was either objected to or not reported by the media. Trust me...you will ask yourself again ang again "why haven't I heard this before?" Or "did I miss, like 3 weeks of testimony...because this was not something that I remember. "
Thank God that jury was sequestered. We were misled, people. Simple as that. I absolutely now know WHY the jury voted the way they did. Even if after you read this...and you still dont think this was just a horrible accident...then at least you have to come away with the knowledge that the State didn't prove their burden. But I will tell you now, that I really do believe it was as tragic as an accident that could happen to my child. I probably would have handled it alot different, but an accident it was, and it happened to a young woman who was messed up, but loved that baby.
We need to start thinking for ourselves...that is all I am saying.
And thank you to the jury for doing your American duty whether you voted guilty or not...you made us proud. Thank you for all of your sacrifices and for being strong.
And SHAME on anyone who says otherwise.
I read this book to see if Jose would release any sordid secrets we didn't know about...
Well...he did just that. But it wasnt Casey's secrets he revealed.
We all wondered WHY, HOW could the jury vote not guilty, are they idiots?
Didnt they hear what the news was saying?
There are a million things in this book that we did NOT hear! You can read about the evidence that was suppressed by police and prosecution, and testimony that was either objected to or not reported by the media. Trust me...you will ask yourself again ang again "why haven't I heard this before?" Or "did I miss, like 3 weeks of testimony...because this was not something that I remember. "
Thank God that jury was sequestered. We were misled, people. Simple as that. I absolutely now know WHY the jury voted the way they did. Even if after you read this...and you still dont think this was just a horrible accident...then at least you have to come away with the knowledge that the State didn't prove their burden. But I will tell you now, that I really do believe it was as tragic as an accident that could happen to my child. I probably would have handled it alot different, but an accident it was, and it happened to a young woman who was messed up, but loved that baby.
We need to start thinking for ourselves...that is all I am saying.
And thank you to the jury for doing your American duty whether you voted guilty or not...you made us proud. Thank you for all of your sacrifices and for being strong.
And SHAME on anyone who says otherwise.
January 31, 2014
I already read the book written by the prosecutor and clearly Casey Anthony was guilty. Now I have read the book by Mr. Baez about the defense and have changed my mind. I think he laid his case out clearly and convincingly. If only the media had covered this side of the story, many people would not be so hard on Casey. I came away from this book believing that something happened to Caylee when Casey's father was in charge of the child and he held some sway over Casey to keep her quiet about it. She finally told her attorney and I think she was innocent. Thank you, Jose Baez, for this well written book.
September 27, 2012
Very interesting read. Having come from 15 years experience as a criminal law paralegal, for the prosecution, I had to get past some of the defense attorney's natural prejudice against the prosecution and use my bs filter to actually just look at the facts. I have to say, my opinion of the case was drastically changed! It's maddening to see how much we are manipulated by the media and it shows how little responsibility the media has for reporting the truth fairly and accurately. Again, because of my legal experience, I don't think cases should be reported until the facts are known and have been verified. Speculation ruins the justice system...
April 13, 2013
I also read the prosecutor's (one of them, anyway: Jeff Ashton) book on the case, Imperfect Justice, because I have no life; and I read it first, because it came out first. And by the way, I get all my books from the library (with the exception of hand-me-downs and/or gifts from friends), so neither prosecutor Jeff Ashton nor defense attorney Jose Baez made any money off my poor reading habits. Anyway, my thought on Ashton's book, according to what I wrote at the time, was "surprisingly good." I feel the same about Baez's book.
However, I liked Presumed Guilty a lot more than Imperfect Justice, and not for any bias I have regarding the defendant, the case, or the players. Simply by the nature of his position, Baez is better able to weave an interesting story, whether or not it is true. And I don't have an opinion as to whether or not his book is honest. He can say whatever he wants about his personal experiences and feelings, Ashton can say whatever he wants about the same, and there's no way to know what really happened. The facts of the case remain the same, and I'm certainly not checking public records myself to verify any of those. I may read sensational drivel but I don't care THAT much.
But anyway, yes, Baez's inside scoop on Casey Anthony and the media and the crazy way the case was handled is all interesting and readable. One biased comment I will make is I can completely believe the misconduct and duplicity of law enforcement. That doesn't surprise me one bit and I have no doubt that a person can be crucified with little evidence. The cops do what they want.
At the end of the book, Baez states that the defense team's victory champagne toast in the restaurant across the street from the courthouse was to the United States Constitution. I hope that's true. Because whatever did or didn't happen, Casey Anthony was found not guilty by a jury of her peers, and that is the legal system we choose to live in. Reasonable doubt seems to me to be pretty easy to prove. I have nothing but respect for the jurors, and I don't know why the public is so angry at some chick whose kid died. She didn't kill YOUR kid. Move on.
However, I liked Presumed Guilty a lot more than Imperfect Justice, and not for any bias I have regarding the defendant, the case, or the players. Simply by the nature of his position, Baez is better able to weave an interesting story, whether or not it is true. And I don't have an opinion as to whether or not his book is honest. He can say whatever he wants about his personal experiences and feelings, Ashton can say whatever he wants about the same, and there's no way to know what really happened. The facts of the case remain the same, and I'm certainly not checking public records myself to verify any of those. I may read sensational drivel but I don't care THAT much.
But anyway, yes, Baez's inside scoop on Casey Anthony and the media and the crazy way the case was handled is all interesting and readable. One biased comment I will make is I can completely believe the misconduct and duplicity of law enforcement. That doesn't surprise me one bit and I have no doubt that a person can be crucified with little evidence. The cops do what they want.
At the end of the book, Baez states that the defense team's victory champagne toast in the restaurant across the street from the courthouse was to the United States Constitution. I hope that's true. Because whatever did or didn't happen, Casey Anthony was found not guilty by a jury of her peers, and that is the legal system we choose to live in. Reasonable doubt seems to me to be pretty easy to prove. I have nothing but respect for the jurors, and I don't know why the public is so angry at some chick whose kid died. She didn't kill YOUR kid. Move on.
September 3, 2012
Yuck!
This book reads like an ad for Baez's law practice. "I got her off, not only because I'm awesome but also because everyone else sucks."
I couldn't get past the first couple chapters.
This book reads like an ad for Baez's law practice. "I got her off, not only because I'm awesome but also because everyone else sucks."
I couldn't get past the first couple chapters.
September 5, 2012
I should have known going into this book that there was no way I could remain impartial and in turn hear the other side of the story. Told by Casey Anthony's attorney, Baez has made an attempt to get the "truth" out there about Casey Anthony and death of her daughter Caylee.
From the very start this book made all the anger and frustration that I felt during the search for Caylee and trail of Casey come back. Not only come back, but even more anger at the idea of justifying or finding reasoning for what Casey did, or didn’t do if you listen to the defense.
I don’t have much to say about this other than the fact that Baez does not really have an interesting or captivating way with words making it hard to even read what he has to say. I think that if maybe this had been written a little better I would have been more willing to read each and every chapter, but after reading through the first 75 pages, and skimming through the rest I was done. Baez uses chopped and almost stunted sentences, and I found his side notes about his feelings not interesting or helpful (like his anger about the place where his office is located being called a strip mall. That doesn’t reflect on anything that has to do with the Casey Anthony case).
If you are thinking of picking this up to read, you might want to skip it.
From the very start this book made all the anger and frustration that I felt during the search for Caylee and trail of Casey come back. Not only come back, but even more anger at the idea of justifying or finding reasoning for what Casey did, or didn’t do if you listen to the defense.
I don’t have much to say about this other than the fact that Baez does not really have an interesting or captivating way with words making it hard to even read what he has to say. I think that if maybe this had been written a little better I would have been more willing to read each and every chapter, but after reading through the first 75 pages, and skimming through the rest I was done. Baez uses chopped and almost stunted sentences, and I found his side notes about his feelings not interesting or helpful (like his anger about the place where his office is located being called a strip mall. That doesn’t reflect on anything that has to do with the Casey Anthony case).
If you are thinking of picking this up to read, you might want to skip it.
November 25, 2019
Here's a clue about the author: there are over twice as many photos of him in the book than there are of Casey and Caylee COMBINED!
If you can get past disliking José Baez and his relentless bragging on himself -which isn't easy- this is a most interesting read. It made me understand how this attorney demonstrated enough doubt re the case that the jury had to acquit Miss Anthony.
I enjoyed this lively telling more than I did the book by Ashton, the prosecutor, but I admit that I almost gave up at the beginning because this guy is overbearing, annoying, conceited and so forth. Gotta take him with a grain of salt I suppose.
Btw, if you've read and enjoyed David Rosenfelt's "Andy Carpenter Mystery" series, about a winning but obnoxious lawyer you may find some similarities to this over the top lawyer. Lol.
It sure is interesting how the media put such a hateful spin on Miss Anthony and turned the entire country against her much the way they are currently doing with president #45.
And it's working again.
I would definitely recommend this GoodRead.
If you can get past disliking José Baez and his relentless bragging on himself -which isn't easy- this is a most interesting read. It made me understand how this attorney demonstrated enough doubt re the case that the jury had to acquit Miss Anthony.
I enjoyed this lively telling more than I did the book by Ashton, the prosecutor, but I admit that I almost gave up at the beginning because this guy is overbearing, annoying, conceited and so forth. Gotta take him with a grain of salt I suppose.
Btw, if you've read and enjoyed David Rosenfelt's "Andy Carpenter Mystery" series, about a winning but obnoxious lawyer you may find some similarities to this over the top lawyer. Lol.
It sure is interesting how the media put such a hateful spin on Miss Anthony and turned the entire country against her much the way they are currently doing with president #45.
And it's working again.
I would definitely recommend this GoodRead.
July 16, 2012
I think I did well to get through 50% of this gratuitous self-adulation. I just couldn't take any more. Even that might have been tolerable (what was I expecting, after all?), but the book was so poorly constructed, it was impossible to follow a timeline, trace back attribution....very frustrating.
August 4, 2012
I thought the writing could have flowed a little better and there were several grammar mistakes. However, I found it informative and truthful. I would like to say it was shocking to learn how the investigation was conducted but I am not. I think it is a must read if you question how the jurors came to their conclusion and to open your mind about the American Justice system.
January 19, 2019
This book was written by Jose Baez, the defense lawyer in the infamous Casey Anthony murder trial. It's a rebuttal of sorts for a book called Imperfect Justice that was written by one of the prosecution attorneys, Jeff Ashton.
Ironically, I found this book to be more credible.
While much too long, I think Baez eventually gets to the point. Many people believed that Casey had murdered her daughter, primarily because they disliked her, primarily because she was a pathological liar, who failed to even report her daughter missing.
Had the prosecution not been so cocky, they would have seen that their motive sucked. I think we all believe that mothers are capable of killing their babies. But they don't simply do it so they can go out and party. And because the police were so convinced that Anthony had done the deed, they did not fully investigate other possibilities. They assumed that because she was a liar, she must be guilty.
It was interesting to read the case and even the evidence presented from the two sides independently, as I imagine that it sort of reflects what a jury hears. Personally, though I didn't like Casey, I do not think I would have voted to convict either.
My main complaint with this book is that it was about 150 pages longer than it should have been. I also felt at times Baez pursued possibilities that may have introduced reasonable doubt, but that not even he believed to be the truth. He also took quite a few shots at Ashton. Again, having read Ashton's book, I kind of agreed with what he said, but I felt it made him look petty and weakened his argument.
Ironically, I found this book to be more credible.
While much too long, I think Baez eventually gets to the point. Many people believed that Casey had murdered her daughter, primarily because they disliked her, primarily because she was a pathological liar, who failed to even report her daughter missing.
Had the prosecution not been so cocky, they would have seen that their motive sucked. I think we all believe that mothers are capable of killing their babies. But they don't simply do it so they can go out and party. And because the police were so convinced that Anthony had done the deed, they did not fully investigate other possibilities. They assumed that because she was a liar, she must be guilty.
It was interesting to read the case and even the evidence presented from the two sides independently, as I imagine that it sort of reflects what a jury hears. Personally, though I didn't like Casey, I do not think I would have voted to convict either.
My main complaint with this book is that it was about 150 pages longer than it should have been. I also felt at times Baez pursued possibilities that may have introduced reasonable doubt, but that not even he believed to be the truth. He also took quite a few shots at Ashton. Again, having read Ashton's book, I kind of agreed with what he said, but I felt it made him look petty and weakened his argument.
July 10, 2012
Jose Baez dropped a bombshell in his opening statement when he revealed the defense's theory that Caylee Anthony "drowned in her family's swimming pool."
At that point, those of us following the trial were either disgusted or intrigued, but we were unified in our eagerness to hear more. Baez's book provides more in the form of narratives detailing his conversations with Casey, her family, the prosecution team, and even forensic experts. In addition, Baez brings back all the "characters" surrounding the trial to perplex and entertain us: the good ol' boy Cheney Mason; the long-suffering Judge Belvin Perry; and the high drama queen Nancy Grace, to name a few.
On Amazon.com,Presumed Guilty: Casey Anthony: the Inside Story has been getting scathing one-star "reviews" since before it was even released. I suggest reading Baez's account along with the comparatively well-received Imperfect Justice: Prosecuting Casey Anthony by Jeff Ashton, a member of the state's team. Objective discourse on anything surrounding Casey and her trial is non-existent; but then, aren't the biased accounts more fun to read anyway?
At that point, those of us following the trial were either disgusted or intrigued, but we were unified in our eagerness to hear more. Baez's book provides more in the form of narratives detailing his conversations with Casey, her family, the prosecution team, and even forensic experts. In addition, Baez brings back all the "characters" surrounding the trial to perplex and entertain us: the good ol' boy Cheney Mason; the long-suffering Judge Belvin Perry; and the high drama queen Nancy Grace, to name a few.
On Amazon.com,Presumed Guilty: Casey Anthony: the Inside Story has been getting scathing one-star "reviews" since before it was even released. I suggest reading Baez's account along with the comparatively well-received Imperfect Justice: Prosecuting Casey Anthony by Jeff Ashton, a member of the state's team. Objective discourse on anything surrounding Casey and her trial is non-existent; but then, aren't the biased accounts more fun to read anyway?
December 22, 2020
I've always had issues with the Casey Anthony case. For one thing, she was convicted by the media and the court of public opinion long before she stood trial. For another, the case against her relied on demeanour evidence--basically, "This person doesn't act the way we think she should, so she must be guilty." Demeanour evidence has been proven to be unreliable, but that doesn't stop law enforcement, juries, prosecutors, the media, and the public from using it to decide someone is guilty.
Even following the case to the extent I did, I still believed that 1) there was the odour of and proof of decomposition in Casey's trunk; 2) Caylee's face and/or head was wrapped with duct tape; 3) chloroform had played a role in her death.
Báez's account shows that each of those "facts" was not true, and proves why. Some people will have problems with this book because they're convinced, based on little to no evidence, that Casey got away with murder. Also, Báez doesn't come across very well in his own book. He is arrogant. He's egotistical and has a huge martyr complex. He's petty and admits to making fun of one of the prosecutors behind the guy's back, using a real condition people suffer from to have a laugh. Not exactly classy or as "above it all" as he'd like to think.
BUT, to me, this makes the rest of what he says even more credible, because he's not painting himself as perfect. He admits to a lot of mistakes and missteps, and perhaps that was a strategy to make his book seem credible. However, he did strike me as a man without guile, a man who doesn't really know when to keep his mouth shut. He also had a right to be pissed, because he had an incredibly biased judge and media to contend with. His blunders were exaggerated; his triumphs were ignored. That would make anyone defensive after awhile. It astonished me that the judge allowed prosecutor Ashton to openly make faces, laugh, and visibly mock Báez's performance, but then threatened to hold Báez in contempt for calmly referring to it. Say what?
We've seen again and again that our justice system is not just. The wrong people, innocent people, go to jail because they didn't show enough remorse, or they acted differently than the public thought they should, or evidence that would have proven their innocence was kept out of court.
I don't for a second believe Casey killed her daughter. Do I think she acted responsibly when Caylee was "missing?" No, but I can understand why she'd want to live in denial and distract herself from what had really happened. I can understand her being scared, not knowing what to do, and not wanting to betray the family she still lived with. I just hope she was able to get some help, and that whoever lives near her is allowing her to continue her life as someone who was found not guilty. Because she was.
I challenge anyone who's still convinced "Casey did it" to read this book with an open mind. If even one-tenth of it is true, that's more than enough for reasonable doubt.
Even following the case to the extent I did, I still believed that 1) there was the odour of and proof of decomposition in Casey's trunk; 2) Caylee's face and/or head was wrapped with duct tape; 3) chloroform had played a role in her death.
Báez's account shows that each of those "facts" was not true, and proves why. Some people will have problems with this book because they're convinced, based on little to no evidence, that Casey got away with murder. Also, Báez doesn't come across very well in his own book. He is arrogant. He's egotistical and has a huge martyr complex. He's petty and admits to making fun of one of the prosecutors behind the guy's back, using a real condition people suffer from to have a laugh. Not exactly classy or as "above it all" as he'd like to think.
BUT, to me, this makes the rest of what he says even more credible, because he's not painting himself as perfect. He admits to a lot of mistakes and missteps, and perhaps that was a strategy to make his book seem credible. However, he did strike me as a man without guile, a man who doesn't really know when to keep his mouth shut. He also had a right to be pissed, because he had an incredibly biased judge and media to contend with. His blunders were exaggerated; his triumphs were ignored. That would make anyone defensive after awhile. It astonished me that the judge allowed prosecutor Ashton to openly make faces, laugh, and visibly mock Báez's performance, but then threatened to hold Báez in contempt for calmly referring to it. Say what?
We've seen again and again that our justice system is not just. The wrong people, innocent people, go to jail because they didn't show enough remorse, or they acted differently than the public thought they should, or evidence that would have proven their innocence was kept out of court.
I don't for a second believe Casey killed her daughter. Do I think she acted responsibly when Caylee was "missing?" No, but I can understand why she'd want to live in denial and distract herself from what had really happened. I can understand her being scared, not knowing what to do, and not wanting to betray the family she still lived with. I just hope she was able to get some help, and that whoever lives near her is allowing her to continue her life as someone who was found not guilty. Because she was.
I challenge anyone who's still convinced "Casey did it" to read this book with an open mind. If even one-tenth of it is true, that's more than enough for reasonable doubt.
October 24, 2012
I didn't want to read this book, I fought it forever. I was one of those ones that was bound and determined that casey was guilty, she outta be fried with the key thrown away. but I read ashtons book, and I figured i'd give this one a shot, curiosity if nothing else.
Baez himself annoys me. he annoyed me during the trial, and he continued to annoy me almost from the first word in the book. he's very self pompous. he blamed everyone and anything that wasn't himself, on anything that went wrong during the trial. the book was one gigantic bash at everyone who was against him, from the bounty hunter to george anthony to the Judge. his number one bashing target? Ashton of course. he did mention a few favoritism positivity things towards Burdick, but often ininuated that she was crooked too. get off your high horse. its clear this book was written to thumb his nose at all the people who bashed him. unfortunately, to me, he came across as whiney and greater than he was. annoyance! total annoyance with him in this book. i threw the book three times.
that being said, the behind the scenes look at the defense, and Casey, and some things that didn't come out during the trial, and the hidden private conversations, assuming they are true, were pretty eye opening. it gave me pause, and even has me doubting a little if she is guilty or not.
the style of writing was obviously amateur, but i wasn't expecting literary greatness out of someone who's never published anything before. i gave this one 4 stars..it was a mix between 3 and 4, if i had to judge on the author i'd have picked 1 star, but the book kept me reading, and got me thinking, and explained more behind the scenes than Ashtons did, so it got a 4 star.
Baez himself annoys me. he annoyed me during the trial, and he continued to annoy me almost from the first word in the book. he's very self pompous. he blamed everyone and anything that wasn't himself, on anything that went wrong during the trial. the book was one gigantic bash at everyone who was against him, from the bounty hunter to george anthony to the Judge. his number one bashing target? Ashton of course. he did mention a few favoritism positivity things towards Burdick, but often ininuated that she was crooked too. get off your high horse. its clear this book was written to thumb his nose at all the people who bashed him. unfortunately, to me, he came across as whiney and greater than he was. annoyance! total annoyance with him in this book. i threw the book three times.
that being said, the behind the scenes look at the defense, and Casey, and some things that didn't come out during the trial, and the hidden private conversations, assuming they are true, were pretty eye opening. it gave me pause, and even has me doubting a little if she is guilty or not.
the style of writing was obviously amateur, but i wasn't expecting literary greatness out of someone who's never published anything before. i gave this one 4 stars..it was a mix between 3 and 4, if i had to judge on the author i'd have picked 1 star, but the book kept me reading, and got me thinking, and explained more behind the scenes than Ashtons did, so it got a 4 star.
July 25, 2012
My opinion of the Casey Anthony trial did not change after reading Jose Baez's "Presumed Guilty: Casey Anthony the inside Story". I still believe Casey Anthony was involved in her daughter's death however, I also believe the correct verdict of NOT GUILTY was found by the jury based on the evidence presented.
Jose Baez gave further insight into hot topics that were discussed in Jeff Ashton's book “Imperfect Justice: Prosecuting Casey Anthony”; it was interesting to read the two books back-to-back to compare the information and evidence of the case.
It is unfortunate that the hatred Jose Baez and Jeff Ashton felt for each other was so evident in both reads. I can understand the animosity but during parts of each book I rolled my eyes thinking "boys, get over it!” Both books, at points, just felt like a platform for each of Ashton and Baez to bash one another which came across as unprofessional and unnecessary.
I feel Jose Baez's book could have used some better editing. Anytime in this book when Baez wanted the reader to know what he was thinking the writing was shown in italics . That reads as odd as this book was written in the first-person narrative and, therefore, the entire book should have been in italics! The whole book IS Jose Baez's opinion.
I would recommend this book; it was interesting, informative and did provide good insight into the world of a defense attorney during a very intense period of his life.
Happy reading!
Jose Baez gave further insight into hot topics that were discussed in Jeff Ashton's book “Imperfect Justice: Prosecuting Casey Anthony”; it was interesting to read the two books back-to-back to compare the information and evidence of the case.
It is unfortunate that the hatred Jose Baez and Jeff Ashton felt for each other was so evident in both reads. I can understand the animosity but during parts of each book I rolled my eyes thinking "boys, get over it!” Both books, at points, just felt like a platform for each of Ashton and Baez to bash one another which came across as unprofessional and unnecessary.
I feel Jose Baez's book could have used some better editing. Anytime in this book when Baez wanted the reader to know what he was thinking the writing was shown in italics . That reads as odd as this book was written in the first-person narrative and, therefore, the entire book should have been in italics! The whole book IS Jose Baez's opinion.
I would recommend this book; it was interesting, informative and did provide good insight into the world of a defense attorney during a very intense period of his life.
Happy reading!
February 10, 2013
Like millions of others, I followed this case from the start. I had Casey Anthony tried & convicted from the get go. I was shocked & disgusted when the verdict came back not guilty. After reading this book, I'm not 100% sure anymore. I found myself believing the allegations of abuse at the hands of her father & brother, but then I reminded myself that this is a pathological liar and I can't really believe anything she says, even if it makes sense. One thing I know,is that family is all sorts of dysfunctional.
This book did not answer any questions for me,it actually created more. What it did do for me, was made me understand the jury's decision. When it happened, I thought these people must be stupid. Now I think if I was on that jury, I would have probably said not guilty as well. I am very glad I was not on that jury......and not guilty does not mean innocent.
December 4, 2012
This was a total guilty pleasure read but I actually got out of it more than I thought I would. I used to be a total tv trial junkie ... before I had my own real trials to deal with, but I didn't follow this one all that much. But I had pretty much concluded from the media reports that she was guilty and was then appropriately shocked when the jury disagreed. This book (written by Casey Anthony's attorney) does a good job of explaining what was going on behind the scenes that the media was choosing not to cover because it didn't fit their storyline. It also shows how sadly, that is the same approach the police and prosecution took. Hate to say it, but I was convinced that while Casey Anthony is a screwed up chick, she didn't kill her kid. The book still only gets three stars though because it was written in a really obnoxious way - like Baez is writing for an audience that thinks he's a much bigger deal than he actually is. The David v. Goliath thing is cool, but it got old after a while. He tries to pretend like he's humble but he comes across as anything but. Worth the read though and because it's a total guilty pleasure read, it goes fast.
October 29, 2013
The defense side of the Casey Anthony Trial.
I was one of the millions that followed the trial on t.v. and via internet. However, I was one of the few believers that Casey Anthony did NOT murder her daughter Caylee Anthony. After reading this book, I am even more convinced that although she was not given a fair trial, that the jurors made the right decision. I enjoyed finally learning all of the details that weren't brought to our attention via media. I never believe (in any case) what the media says. My heart goes out to little Caylee and may she rest is peace. My thoughts and prayers go out to Casey Anthony for being "a prisoner of her own freedom". Jose Baez did a wonderful job relaying his message in a way that the public would understand.
I would recommend this book for anyone who has a doubt in their mind that Casey Anthony was guilty of murdering her daughter. If you have a mind at all, this book will change it. Also, for anyone who chooses/chose to listen to the media - you'll never believe another word they say, once you've read the truth and how disgusting their quick judgments can be.
I was one of the millions that followed the trial on t.v. and via internet. However, I was one of the few believers that Casey Anthony did NOT murder her daughter Caylee Anthony. After reading this book, I am even more convinced that although she was not given a fair trial, that the jurors made the right decision. I enjoyed finally learning all of the details that weren't brought to our attention via media. I never believe (in any case) what the media says. My heart goes out to little Caylee and may she rest is peace. My thoughts and prayers go out to Casey Anthony for being "a prisoner of her own freedom". Jose Baez did a wonderful job relaying his message in a way that the public would understand.
I would recommend this book for anyone who has a doubt in their mind that Casey Anthony was guilty of murdering her daughter. If you have a mind at all, this book will change it. Also, for anyone who chooses/chose to listen to the media - you'll never believe another word they say, once you've read the truth and how disgusting their quick judgments can be.
August 24, 2014
Another one of my DNF second attempts.
It was an absolute eye opener reading about this case from the defense point of view. Even taken with a grain of salt, and if only a small percentage of what is written in this book about the media, law enforcement, the legal representatives and even expert witnesses is true, they should be ashamed of themselves. I don’t know how some of these people can sleep at night.
It was a long read due to the amount of people involved and the evidence, and at times I struggled with the timeline of events. However, good old Wiki came to the rescue:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Timeline...
The trial itself was interesting and what kept me absolutely riveted was the legal wrangling.
I thought Jose a bit arrogant with a chip on his shoulder, but for all that I liked him well enough. He didn't have an easy job to do.
Although a lot of it was repetitive, it was a still a good read, but it left me with a lot of unanswered questions.
September 22, 2015
One Long Advertisement for best Liar.
Besides the amateur editing & writing, Baez constanly reminding his readers of how brilliant he is & seeking fame from lying, I did my best to keep an open-mind.
Conclusion: Endless eye rolling. Memoir of a narcissistic, immature, wannabe celebrity.
Most disturbing is that people have read this book as FACT. He is a defense attorney.. In other words, a professional liar. His defense strategy was quite
common. When all else fails, blame someone else. Casey Anthony lied to authorities constantly, changed her story multiple times and didn't think her missing daughter was a big deal. Why did she behave this way? According to Jose Baez, because she was so traumatized from her Father sexually abusing her. How convenient. George Anthony was guilty of two things: being in denial, and covering for his daughter after she caused the death of his granddaughter. Caylee Marie.
It blows my mind that Jose Baez has dedicated his life to helping scum get away with murder. I bet he sleeps like a baby every night. What a swell guy!
Besides the amateur editing & writing, Baez constanly reminding his readers of how brilliant he is & seeking fame from lying, I did my best to keep an open-mind.
Conclusion: Endless eye rolling. Memoir of a narcissistic, immature, wannabe celebrity.
Most disturbing is that people have read this book as FACT. He is a defense attorney.. In other words, a professional liar. His defense strategy was quite
common. When all else fails, blame someone else. Casey Anthony lied to authorities constantly, changed her story multiple times and didn't think her missing daughter was a big deal. Why did she behave this way? According to Jose Baez, because she was so traumatized from her Father sexually abusing her. How convenient. George Anthony was guilty of two things: being in denial, and covering for his daughter after she caused the death of his granddaughter. Caylee Marie.
It blows my mind that Jose Baez has dedicated his life to helping scum get away with murder. I bet he sleeps like a baby every night. What a swell guy!
August 21, 2015
This book was interesting and really very eye-opening. I cannot believe that the media and the prosecution were so hell bent on destroying this young girl who in all probability actually had nothing to do with the death of her child.
It really makes you think about all the lies we are being fed on any and every thing.
I had to change my opinion of Casey Anthony.
I hope she has found peace somewhere far away from her disgusting excuse of a family.
It really makes you think about all the lies we are being fed on any and every thing.
I had to change my opinion of Casey Anthony.
I hope she has found peace somewhere far away from her disgusting excuse of a family.
May 24, 2021
The main problem with José Báez’s Presumed Guilty: Casey Anthony: The Inside Story is its misleading title. More apt would have been JOSÉ BÁEZ: How *I* Got Casey Anthony Off, or more succinctly, ME!.
July 23, 2012
Don't judge a book by it's author!
August 6, 2014
Great read!
Eye opener to just how the prosecution works…(in most cases) for the ones who don’t know. I followed the trial….and I was amazed at how cose I came to thinking like Jose Baez…. I was sick of George Anthony from the first minute I heard he was ex-cop….I felt like all the time he was keeping himself out of serving time for not watching Caylee.. When he didn’t tell Cindy where Casey’s car was, meant he was guilty of something to me!
i believe both Casey and Jose have shown GREAT courage, dignity, {which had to of been very difficult at times} and grace. I think of Casey often and i pray for her to have peace and a good life. i wish for her to have a family one day that will love her as her parents should of. Family she can really count on, believe in and depend on.A family of her own. When i think about george and cindy i just cannot imagine parents that would throw theirown daughter under the bus. Who, as parents would not fall on the sword for their own child no matter what.ESPECIALLY when he sword is HIS to own. Her parent’s behavior is at best disgusting. and most certainly to me evidence of some of the shaddiest, sickiest, criminal shit, ever.
Eye opener to just how the prosecution works…(in most cases) for the ones who don’t know. I followed the trial….and I was amazed at how cose I came to thinking like Jose Baez…. I was sick of George Anthony from the first minute I heard he was ex-cop….I felt like all the time he was keeping himself out of serving time for not watching Caylee.. When he didn’t tell Cindy where Casey’s car was, meant he was guilty of something to me!
i believe both Casey and Jose have shown GREAT courage, dignity, {which had to of been very difficult at times} and grace. I think of Casey often and i pray for her to have peace and a good life. i wish for her to have a family one day that will love her as her parents should of. Family she can really count on, believe in and depend on.A family of her own. When i think about george and cindy i just cannot imagine parents that would throw theirown daughter under the bus. Who, as parents would not fall on the sword for their own child no matter what.ESPECIALLY when he sword is HIS to own. Her parent’s behavior is at best disgusting. and most certainly to me evidence of some of the shaddiest, sickiest, criminal shit, ever.
November 12, 2015
His rebuttal ???
I read this book looking for some kind of answers as to why "We" should believe Casey after all the lies she told... What I got were more questions and left with the thought "He wrote a book to defend himself against everything that has ever been said about him!! He wrote a book to attempt a personal attack of all those involved in this case that were not apart of his defense team!!" I shocked myself by actually finishing the book when honestly I wanted to close it and walk away after a couple chapters. Good luck to all those that attempt to read this one, you're gonna need it if you can get passed his need to feel better.
I read this book looking for some kind of answers as to why "We" should believe Casey after all the lies she told... What I got were more questions and left with the thought "He wrote a book to defend himself against everything that has ever been said about him!! He wrote a book to attempt a personal attack of all those involved in this case that were not apart of his defense team!!" I shocked myself by actually finishing the book when honestly I wanted to close it and walk away after a couple chapters. Good luck to all those that attempt to read this one, you're gonna need it if you can get passed his need to feel better.
August 13, 2012
The book is not well written -- but as an avid watcher of the trial, I found it fascinating. Baez makes an important point that Casey Anthony was never given a fair trial. She was deemed guilty immediately by the media -- and therefore, the public. I credit him for his hard work and loyalty, and he tells the story of the Casey Anthony trial in a heartfelt, passionate way. I must admit that after reading this, I do understand the defense's argument.
July 15, 2020
Wow. Wow wow wow. I received this book from a friend and I remember following this case religiously from Texas when I was younger. My mom and I *thought* we knew this case backwards and forwards (thanks, media) and were convinced Casey Anthony was guilty. Jose Baez goes through the evidence chapter by chapter, piece by piece. This book is an extraordinary display of perseverance for Jose Baez. The reasonable doubt seed has been planted in my head.
October 21, 2012
I enjoyed this book for reasons I would've never expected! I had my mind made up in this case as I think most people did but this book completely changed my views and ultimately my opinion on innocent vs guilty…I think this book is a perfect example how dishonesty doesn't automaticaly signal guilt and how media plays a huge role in our opinions rather than facts.
November 8, 2020
I wanted to give this book a fair chance but unfortunately, the writing is horrendous. I feel like I'm reading text messages or Facebook posts the way it's written. I may come back to it later but there are so many better non-fiction books out there, its kinda hard to sit through this one.
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