Does the fact that a judge asks a question the purpose of which is not so limited will not always require reversal?

The fact that a judge asks a question the purpose of which is not so limited will not always require reversal. Judges are human, and it is inevitable that in the course of long, complex, and hotly contested trials, a judge may on occasion react intemperately. A defendant is not entitled to a perfect trial, only a fair one. United States v. Robinson, 635 F.2d 981, 984 (2d Cir.1980), cert. denied, 451 U.S. 992, 101 S.Ct. 2333, 68 L.Ed.2d 852 (1981). Our ability to discern from a cold record whether particular statements of a trial judge rendered the trial unfair is quite limited. "[I]t is difficult to glean tone of voice, whether sarcastic or neutral, facial expression, whether reflecting disbelief or sober thoughtfulness, or physical demeanor, whether self-contained or expressing opinion and emotion. Therefore, it is only after

Page 906