Levi Weeks Trial: 1800

Defendant: Levi Weeks
Crime Charged: Murder
Chief Defense Lawyers: Aaron Burr, Alexander Hamilton, Brockholst Livingston
Chief Prosecutor: Cadwallader D. Colden
Judges: John Lansing, Richard Harrison, Richard Varick
Place: New York, New York
Date of Trial: March 1800
Verdict: Not guilty

SIGNIFICANCE: The Levi Weeks trial revolved around one of the nation's first "murder mysteries," sparked a public outcry, and showcased some of the finest legal talent in the United States.

Nlew York, like many other large cities, has a reputation for crime and violence. Even in earlier days, when the city was much smaller than now, it still had its share of criminal activity. In 1800 it was the scene of one of the nation's first great murder mysteries, which culminated in a famous trial.