Front page of CNN.com: "Jackson doc sings from jail"

[hlthe2b]

9. And you are surprised that our justice system if so inperfect?

(in this and all things?)

It is certainly possible that had this particular doctor admitted his responsibility and come across to judge/jury considerably less defiant (and perhaps, arrogant), that he might have avoided the worst consequences.

In general (and as born out by studies of medical malpractice), we can generally "forgive" those who are sincerely contrite and admit their errors--those who do are far less likely to be sued. One might presume (if a study of criminal cases were conducted) that those physicians who admit their negligence--no matter how similarly inexplicable--might fare better as well.