[RoosterRedux]

I might be completely wrong here but I got the impression from O'Mara's summation that the evidence showed without question that the threatening conflict was started by Martin when he hit GZ in the face and nose (and that this overrides any other minor acts such as getting out of the car or even possibly appearing to follow).

I think that was what O'Mara was trying to establish with Witness Root when has asked Root to delineate the increasing stages of appropriate response in acts of violence.

I can't remember how that was spelled out in the jury instructions (I listened to them but cannot remember).

Bottom line, regardless of who initiated the argument, a fear of grievous bodily harm and potential death is a defense against murder 2 and manslaughter.

[Mad Dawgg]

"Bottom line, regardless of who initiated the argument, a fear of grievous bodily harm and potential death is a defense against murder 2 and manslaughter."

You forgot part of it: "Is a defense against murder 2 and manslaughter unless you be a Creepy Ass Cracka attackin a brutha..."