Unexpected 9: Crime Set

Chapter 9: Facing the judge

Alex Sanchez was nervous. He couldn't quite understand why, its not like this was his first rodeo. It could've been the many uncertainties of the case, the factors that all converge in it or just who his client was. For him the kid represented what many of his people suffer as they enter the country. Unfortunately, children's stories most of the time end up in horror and tragedy. However, he set his mind to help this kid the best he could.

 He met with Officer Street and Rubio by the reception area and together they made their way to the assigned court room.

"Docket case number...." called the bailiff as the previous minor was taken out of the room and the parties changed seating.

Rubio, Street and Alex made their way to the front, as a young man made his way to the plaintiffs table.

"Good morning, gentlemen-" the judge began, "My court rules are simple: no shenanigans, answer what you're asked only, go to point and be respectful." the judge said quickly. He then turned to the side, as the bailiff opened the door and an young man dressed in a suit and tie came in, headed to the defendant's table.

When he arrived, the judge continued, "This is Damian Moreno, he's one of the court appointed translators working here. I have taken the liberty to assign him for Mr. Baez. It is important that the young man understand the matters to be discussed today."

 "I'll have the plaintiff for opening statements." called the judge

"Your honor?" the plaintiff interrupted

The judge removed his glasses, annoyed. "What?"

"Could we talk in chambers?" the young man requested

The entire room went quiet as the judge frowned and looked surprised.

"Alright."

All parties exited the room through the side door, following the judge and the bailiff. They landed on a narrow hall, completely vacated of any decoration or seating. They walked down the hall past six doors, until landing the last one. Thry entered and each attorney occupied a seat in front of the big wooden table as the others stood behind them.

"Bailiff, please bring enough seats."

"Yes, your honor!"

After everyone was accommodated and the bailiff closed the door, the judge proceeded.

"Alright, council, why are we here?"

"Last night the body of Mr. Peterson was found strangled in his cell. Preliminary reports indicate suicide."

GASP

Street was in awe, as well as Alex. Damian relayed the information, but Rubio had understood every single word. 

"Good God!"

"Mrs Peterson does not wish to continue, in order to mourn properly her husband's tragic death. Therefore, we are withdrawing the claim. We are presenting a motion to dismiss this case with prejudice." the attorney said taking out a folder and handing it to the judge.

"Yes!" was heard from Rubio as he put a triumphant fist up even before the translator could finish the statement

"Shhh" Street said putting a finger over his lips to hush the celebrating teen, who immediately went quiet.

Judge Rogers ignored the noise and focused on the document he received from the attorney, in which they request the official withdraw of the claim. He read it over, signed it and excused the plaintiff.

"I will however, ask you to stay with your clients. We have separate matters to address." the judge said pointing to Alex.

Once the attorney had left and the door was closed the judge continued.