In his first interview since client Scott Peterson was convicted of murder, defense lawyer Mark Geragos talked to NEWSWEEK's Karen Breslau. Some excerpts:
You told the jury you'd show Scott was "stone-cold innocent." Where did you go wrong?
There's a multitude of things you wish you could do differently. I don't believe anybody can--after 30 years on this earth without hurting anyone--engage in a coldblooded, precalculated murder and not leave one shred of forensic evidence. I truly believe he's innocent. And if I didn't convince 12 people of that, then I didn't do enough.
There has been a spate of books out about Scott Peterson, all of them damning.
And understandably so. Because that's what sells.
Is he going to tell his version of the story?
I'm sure at some point.
What was it like to represent the most reviled defendant in America?
At least O.J. had his constituency. This guy didn't have any.
Do you have anything to say to Laci's family?
I feel horrible for them. They know that. God, I have children. Who could ever wish for anyone to suffer a loss that would turn their lives upside down?
Taking Scott Peterson's case cost you the Michael Jackson case. Any regrets?
I don't believe in regrets. I wish Michael all the best, and I'm still pulling and fighting for Scott.