[Logophile]

Why was only one man, Judge Greer, the determinant of the facts in Terri's case? . . . . In most other cases, it is a jury that determines the facts. Certainly the facts in all capital cases are determined by a jury.

I asked a similar question on another thread, hoping that someone could enlighten me. Greer is a probate judge. As I understand it, he normally hears cases concerning the wills and estates of people who are already dead. Terri Schiavo was not dead and did not leave a will. Why was Greer involved in her case in the first place?.

[maryz]

This looks like it could be the explanation. From the Florida Sixth Circuit website:

The Probate and Guardianship Division handles all cases related to estates, trusts, guardianships, and mental health. These include cases in the mental health area such as Involuntary Commitment, Development Disabilities, Drug or Alcohol Abuse and Elder Abuse, Neglect or Exploitation. In calendar year 1998, 10,198 cases were filed in the circuit.