In Enron Trial, a Calculated Risk - New York Times

In Enron Trial, a Calculated Risk - New York Times: "Now the trial has moved to what may be the make-or-break moment for both sides: the testimony of Jeffrey K. Skilling and Kenneth L. Lay. Mr. Skilling could take the stand as early as Wednesday.

If history is any guide, the words and even the attitudes of the two polished corporate chieftains, both of whom built their careers on persuasively marketing their business and themselves, could determine whether they leave the courtroom as free men or spend time in prison.

The testimony is fraught with peril. Often in white-collar cases, former corporate executives have taken the stand hoping to explain away the government case, only to demonstrate an arrogance and evasiveness that allowed the jurors to think that the defendants were knowing participants in crimes."