I was at the sentencing hearing for a man who had been convicted of voluntary manslaughter. I "overheard" the lawyer telling the guy to just sit there, and shut up. You'll only get 6 months and some probation. But when the judge asked the guy if he had anything to say the guy stood up and began a 5-6 minute speech. He started with this: "After having to endure your dog and pony show, it is not only my RIGHT, but my DUTY as an American citizen, to call BS on this charade."
The lawyer had his head in his hands.
The guy didn't get 6 months and some probation. The judge sentenced him to 18 YEARS. The maximum sentence +3 for a weapon enhancement. It was a clear case of self defense. But "hometown" justice bit the guy in the ass.
Was it worth it? Speaking up? I know it was.