3 Sessions for Justice System Junkies
- By Website Editor
- •
- 26 Apr, 2018
I credit Marcia Clark with my true crime fascination. I was an impressionable young(ish) girl growing up in the Midwest when my entire family gathered around the television to watch her sock it out with the Scheme Team during the OJ Simpson trial. It kicked off what would be a lifelong interest in the justice system and legal process. I wish I’d had the fortitude to go through law school, but I’m happy admiring the work of prosecutors, defense attorneys, and investigators from afar. Which is why I’m looking forward to these sessions at CrimeCon 2018!
Watching Johnnie Cochran’s dramatic courtroom displays was captivating. He made it look easy, even fun at times. But if you think being a defense attorney is all glamour and glory, think again.
In this session, veteran criminal defense attorney Sara Azari presents an eye-opening look into the real life of a defense attorney. On television, we see trials decided with a shocking piece of proof that comes in the last second, or a flashy finish to the jury. In reality, it is all about the grind -- which starts at 3:30. In the morning. A.M. Every day. One of many reasons why this was not the job for me.
Sara's passion and dedication to defending her clients is palpable. As she discusses some of her most colorful cases and the bizarre, exciting, and challenging aspects of her day. Come prepared with questions! Sara will also have some questions for you, too -- and if you answer correctly, you might win one of several fabulous prizes!
Last year, we were joined by “happily disbarred” defense attorney Kirk Nurmi, who defended convicted murderer Jodi Arias. Now, we’ll hear the other side of the story from the prosecutor who helped put her behind bars for life.
Juan Martinez is a Maricopa County prosecutor and is counted amongst the top death-penalty prosecutors in Arizona. His intense, hard-hitting courtroom manner made the trial one of the most dramatic and intense in recent memory. Trial watchers won’t soon forget the grueling eighteen days he spent cross-examining the flippant defendant.
Martinez will also host a meet-and-greet where he will sign copies of his bestselling book Conviction: The Untold Story of Putting Jodi Arias Behind Bars.
When Ryan Ferguson was convicted of murder in 2005, CBS News and 48 Hours correspondent Erin Moriarty asked the one question nobody else was asking: "Is it possible that co-defendant Charles Erickson falsely confessed to murder when he implicated Ferguson?"
Prosecutor Kevin Crane shrugged off the question at the time, but Moriarty's tireless investigative efforts over the next decade resulted in Ferguson walking free when his accuser admitted to lying on the stand.
Ferguson credits Moriarty and 48 Hours for his freedom--and CrimeCon attendees will get to see the two of them reunite onstage to share their experience. The session, "Journalism and Justice: The Ten-Year Battle to Clear Ryan Ferguson's Name," is sure to be a jaw-dropping, white-knuckle ride through the tangled flaws of the justice system and the ever-increasing importance of journalism in the pursuit of justice.
CrimeCon Returns to London on 7th and 8th June 2025: A Must-Attend Event for True Crime Enthusiasts
Exciting news for true crime aficionados – CrimeCon is making its much-anticipated return to London on 7th and 8th June 2025! As the biggest UK event for those with a passion for the true crime genre, this is an unmissable opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of crime, justice, and investigation, all set in the heart of the UK capital.
CrimeCon UK has built a reputation as the ultimate true crime experience, where enthusiasts, experts, educators and professionals come together to explore high-profile cases, delve into forensic science, and hear from those at the forefront of criminal investigation. 2025 promises to be the best event yet - being more captivating than ever before.
What to Expect at CrimeCon 2025
Building on the enormous success of past years, CrimeCon London 2025 will once again offer attendees exclusive access to leading criminal experts, investigative journalists, detectives, and true crime content creators. With a packed schedule of live panels, interactive discussions, and real-life case studies, this year's event is guaranteed to leave attendees with insights into some of the most talked-about cases and topical true crime themes. Not only this, CrimeCon UK puts victims and advocacy for justice at the heart of the event - making sure that CrimeCon is a platform for every story that needs to be told.
Here's a glimpse of what awaits attendees at CrimeCon 2025:
- Exclusive Interviews and Case Debriefs: Hear directly from those involved in some of the UK’s most intriguing and infamous criminal cases, hearing from those that were directly impacted by criminality.
- Meet Your Favorite True Crime Content Creators: The digital world has revolutionised the true crime genre, and CrimeCon will be bringing top content creators together to discuss their platforms, methods, and deep dives into unsolved mysteries.
- Interactive Exhibits and Forensic Workshops: Put your sleuthing skills to the test as you take part in immersive activities, which have, in the past, included forensic analysis and criminal profiling.
- Q&A Sessions with Experts: Get the chance to ask burning questions to investigators, criminologists, and legal professionals.
Who Should Attend?
Whether you're a die-hard true crime fan, a criminal justice professional, or just someone curious about the world of crime-solving, CrimeCon is perfect for you. The event brings together a diverse community of people who share a passion for exploring the darker side of humanity while discussing critical issues of justice and victim advocacy.
For those already familiar with popular crime podcasts, books, and documentaries, this is your chance to engage with the experts and learn more about the complexities behind these stories. CrimeCon offers an unparalleled opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals in a friendly, inclusive atmosphere.
Secure Your Spot
Tickets for CrimeCon London 2025 are expected to sell out fast, so be sure to grab yours soon. Various ticket packages are be available, offering different levels of access, from basic admission to VIP and Platinum experiences, where you can enjoy perks such as exclusive sessions with speakers, early access to certain events and enhanced event benefits.
To find out more and to book your tickets, click here. Don't miss out on being part of the most thrilling true crime event of the year!
Now is your chance to ensure your favourite true crime content from 2023 is recognised in the TCAs!
VIEWERS' CHOICE: Whether it's your favourite series, documentary film or influencer - make sure you submit your thoughts on your favourite on-screen true crime content today! Remember - only content released in 2023 is eligible and will be counted.
LISTENERS' CHOICE: All True Crime podcasts (that released content that is available in the UK during 2023) are eligible to be nominated so be sure that your go-to true crime podcast is recognised!
READERS' CHOICE:
Which true crime book caught your attention in 2023? As long as it was first published last year then it's eligible to be nominated, so cast your vote today!
Voting is now open and closes on 31st March 2024.
Those with the most votes will be recognised and awarded at the True Crime Awards which is scheduled to take place on 25th April 2024.
SERIES 5 EPISODE 2
AVAILABLE NOW
Damian Barr is joined by Shetland and Vera author Ann Cleeves to discuss her new novel, The Raging Storm. Lauren Lyle, star of the series Karen Pirie, reveals how she brings the Val McDermid character to life, and, on the 30th anniversary of Trainspotting, Irvine Welsh talks about the ITV crime series and his latest novel, The Long Knives. True crime podcasters (and our very own Nancy Baughen) rate Truman Capote classic In Cold Blood, and crime readers at the Shetland Noir Festival in Lerwick recommend their favourite reads.
If you'd like to catch up and watch this incredible episode of The Big Scottish Book Club, click here.
