Matriarch Reprimanded After Courtroom Outburst in Dan Markel Murder Conviction

Lead: Donna Adelson, 75, was sternly admonished by Judge Stephen Everett today in Tallahassee after she wept and cried out upon learning of her conviction for orchestrating the 2014 murder of law professor Dan Markel.

Nut Graf: Adelson’s emotional reaction following the jury’s guilty verdict on first-degree murder, conspiracy and solicitation charges underscores the high drama of a decade-long legal saga. The outburst prompted an immediate courtroom recess and highlighted the intense public scrutiny of a case driven by a bitter custody dispute.

Courtroom Confrontation

• Judge Everett halted proceedings and excused the jury after Adelson exclaimed “Oh my god” and sobbed uncontrollably.
• The judge granted a two-minute recess for Adelson to regain composure, warning that further disruptions would not be tolerated.

Background of the Case Donna Adelson was found guilty on September 4 of plotting the fatal shooting of her former son-in-law, Florida State University law professor Dan Markel, after his decision blocked her daughter’s bid to relocate with their children to South Florida.

Custody Dispute Motive Prosecutors argued that Markel’s refusal to allow the move ignited Adelson’s longstanding resentment, motivating her to enlist hit men through family connections.

Next Steps

• Sentencing is scheduled for a later date, with pretrial hearings set for October 14.
• Adelson could face life imprisonment on the murder charge, in addition to decades for conspiracy and solicitation.