The blowup comes soon after Nottingham has rebuked Stern for summarizing witness testimony, saying "If you've established something; move on, you can do that in your closing argument."

Stern asks Slater if he would be available (for more testimony) in two weeks. Nottingham: "Don't stand in front of the jury and try that stuff, Mr. Stern! I don't care to hear any more of this." Stern is rattled and wonders whether he can continue. Nottingham: "I've invited you to continue, and you've just stood there!" Stern, at 2:35 p.m. and again at 2:50 p.m., asks whether he can take a break. Nottingham: "If you want your recess now, you're going to be dead at 5 (p.m.)!" Stern fiddles as he tries to organize his notes. Nottingham: "You organize your examination before you come to the courtroom."