Jurors began deliberating Tuesday in the corruption trial of former New York state Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver.

In closing statements on Monday, attorneys had conflicting descriptions of Silver, with prosecutors saying he enriched himself through bribery, and defense lawyers countering that he played by the rules.

A defense lawyer says millions of dollars in legal fees collected by Silver was legitimate income.

Prosecutor Andrew Goldstein argued earlier that Silver was motivated by greed and took desperate measures to conceal his windfall.

The 71-year-old lawmaker has pleaded not guilty.

The jury of eight women and four men are already showing signs of strain. One juror sent a note saying she felt pressured and asked to be excused.