I've been told that I've already been charged, indicted, convicted, and sentenced. What would I need with a lawyer?
Ah, Mister O'Brien, if it seems immodest of me, I apologize, but the role of Public Conservator is key to the productive functioning of our courts. I'm here to help you concede the wisdom of the state, to prepare you to accept the inevitable with equanimity. There is an old Cardassian expression: “Confession is good for the soul.” But it's also good for the populace to see people like you confess. It makes them feel better about themselves. It makes their lives more bearable.
So that's what this is all about? Make the people of Cardassia feel better, huh?
No, no, no, but that's not a bad side effect.
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