The Lincoln
The Lincoln town car featured prominently in the novel is symbolic of Mickey Haller (who drives it around). It is also symbolic of Haller's itinerant life and work style. Throughout the novel, Haller uses his Lincoln to drive around Los Angeles to clear his head and uses his Lincoln to get to courthouses around Los Angeles and surrounding cities.
Painkillers
Painkillers are symbolic of Mickey's demons and his struggle to remain clean, sober, and productive. In the novel, Connelly describes Mickey's habits and how they have negatively impacted his life and his law practice. They are also symbolic of the struggles of a number of people in society, including Patrick, whom Mickey represents.
Police Badge
Harry Bosch's police badge is symbolic of law, order, and the Los Angeles Police Department, which Bosch represents. Bosch is a lawman who aims to deliver swift justice to those who commit crimes and justice for those who are falsely accused of crimes.
Second Chances
The Brass Verdict is an allegory for the importance of giving people second chances in life and in the law. In the public, people are often considered to be guilty until proven innocent. Walter Elliott is presumed guilty until proven innocent. In a courtroom, however, Elliott has a second chance to prove his innocence.
Bosch's Discovering Important Things
A common motif in The Brass Verdict involves Bosch discovering important things, including jury tampering and the involvement of the judge in jury tampering and giving Haller Jerry Vincent's old practice. This motif advances the plot forward.
