2 of 13

Write now Article Tools

Page 2 of 10

years as he peered out at the snow. Its significance didn't occur to me - it was Sam who pointed it out as we sat together in the witness waiting room before he was called to the stand:

"Snow is a sign of innocence."

I marvelled at those few words of wisdom from one small child with keen perception and a noble sense of justice who wanted the real truth to be heard.

We didn't know which one of us would be called first so when the usher came for Sam I said "Don't be afraid just tell them the way it is... you're very brave and I'm very proud of you." He was cross-examined for a full twenty minutes. No screen or video link as your accusers had requested for themselves - ashamed to look you in the eye I suspect... no, ashamed is the wrong word - people like that are incapable of a feeling as profound as shame.

When Sam returned he was hopeful of the outcome and still his usual happy self after his ordeal. I gave him a big hug and told him again how proud I was of his keenness to defend you

"When will they call me?" I enquired of the usher.

"I'll let you know." But he didn't return. Time passed as I waited patiently then at 11.50 that morning he came in again. "The defence are winding up," he said, quite casually after I'd been waiting for nearly two hours.

"What! But I don't understand... I haven't been called. Could you go and find out what's happening please? Have they forgotten me?"

He went away and again did not return. I tried to think logically, but everything logical in my world was fast disappearing in a haze of confusion. They couldn't have forgotten me surely? Perhaps Sam had tipped the balance in your favour and I was no longer needed but part of me wanted to barge into that courtroom and demand to be heard.

Afterwards I was permitted to go into the public gallery for the summing up. Sam remained with Josie. He wasn't allowed to accompany me since he was under sixteen, even though he had just given evidence! Another illogical quirk of the antiquated British justice system that law-abiding citizens like us put our trust in.

Sitting distraught, as wooden echoes reverberated around the vast courtroom; I was unimpressed with the whole scenario. Both barristers were busily dashing to and fro, papers flying everywhere as they held onto their wigs. Instead of the reverend process I'd anticipated, it was more like the performance of an amateur dramatic society with the Jury for an audience. I wished then that I'd attended a court case before. I'd have bought you a one

• << previous page
• 1
• 2
• 3
• ...
• 10
• next page >>

Add your voice

Know something about Novel excerpts: Lies?
We want to hear your view. Write now!