McBride: Murder Past Midnight (2005) Movie Script
It's you.
Mr. Harriman?
Mr. Harriman?
Mr. Harriman?
Marta? Not now please.
Marta! Later!
Marta!
Sorry to bother you, Mrs.
Harriman.
Who are you?
Detective Hansen, LAPD.
Will you come with me please?
What happened?
The paramedics got a call from
the maid,
at eight this morning that your
husband was unconscious.
What?
They arrived at eight twenty
and they transferred him
to the Angels of Mercy hospital.
Is he okay?
He's in a coma.
You didn't hear the paramedics
arrive?
No. I, I, I took a sedative
last night.
Why didn't Marta wake me up?
Where is she?
She's downstairs giving a
statement.
I don't understand?
Mrs. Harriman.
Why don't you get dressed.
Big day, huh, Claire?
How could you?
Hey, hey, hey, hey.
Wait, wait, wait, wait.
We'll need statements from both
of you.
Detective?
Detective. I am Elena Ashfield,
Mr. Harriman's executive
secretary.
I came over as soon as I heard.
Detective?
- Yes?
Take her downstairs and get
her statement.
Right. Come with me.
Ma'am.
Well!
What have you got?
This was in the dishwasher.
Cook here says all the dishes
were done before he went home.
When was that?
Sometime after ten.
When did he come on duty?
About a half hour ago.
I found it before he got here.
It's consistent with the maid's
story.
Were you in the habit of
taking your husband
a glass of milk late at night?
No.
Then why did you on this
occasion?
He paged me on the intercom
and asked me to.
Why didn't he page the maid?
He said she had gone to bed
early
and she wasn't feeling well.
And he didn't want to disturb
her.
How long had you slept in
separate bedrooms?
Does it matter?
I don't know. How long?
I don't remember.
Would you care to talk about it?
It's personal and I'd rather
not.
Mrs. Harriman, you could help
yourself
if you were more forthcoming.
I just don't think it is any
of your business. That's all.
All right
then I guess this interview is
over.
She's all yours.
Thanks Detective.
Quite a spread huh?
Yeah, you could say that.
You have to put in a little
money to fixing 'er up.
But it will be a real honey when
you are done.
Huh.
How long have you been looking
after the place Russell?
Ever since Mr McNabb started
having his legal problems.
Yeah well. Good thing you
weren't his ex-wife.
Heh. Damn shame about that.
I think he always figured you'd
get him off.
Two people you never lie to
Russell.
Your priest and your lawyer.
He neglected to tell me,
he actually killed his wife.
Heh, heh.
I gotta admit I envy you.
I had my eye on this place for
some time.
Really? Want to buy it?
Can't.
Just bought a bunch of new farm
equipment.
McNabb gave me this place as
my retainer.
Now that he is making thirty
cents a day at San Quentin.
I am never going to my fees.
So this lovely country home is
now mine.
It may not look like much at
first,
but it's got a lot of potential.
Horse is real reliable.
Yeah. You can never have
enough glue huh.
Russell, listen.
Do you want to,
stay on here, take care of the
place,
same deal you had with McNabb?
I'd be honored.
Me too.
So the first thing we do is,
get all of this junk out of here.
I mean everything out of the
house
except maybe the plumbing.
Find a couple of repairmen.
And a good painter. All right?
Yes sir.
Whose dog?
He's yours.
Comes with the property.
Does it have a name?
It's a he.
His name is Jesse.
He's a great dog.
Good. Do you want him?
No. I got six dogs already.
All right.
Jesse?
Come on.
Come on dog.
Get in.
Yeah.
So where are you taking him?
Doggie adoption.
Roberta?
Hi.
- Hey Phil.
What brings you this time?
DUI? Stolen hubcaps?
Shoplifting?
Actually it's kind of
a big case.
What do you mean?
You mean the Harriman case?
Yeah.
I, I've actually never worked on
anything as big as this before.
And Leyton's prosecuting.
Do you have any advice?
Wear heavy shoes.
Thanks.
Mrs. Harriman?
I'm Phil Newberry from the
Public Defender's office.
I've been assigned to represent
you.
Mrs. Harriman. I am just going
to level with you.
I. I've never tried anything
nearly as big as this.
You deserve the best
representation you can get.
So my advice to you is that,
you hire yourself
a defense attorney.
Phil...
That would take several thousand
dollars.
And I don't have several
thousand dollars.
I just assumed that,
someone in your position would
have
substantial financial assets.
I signed a prenuptial
agreement before I was married.
I get an allowance.
What about other members of
the family?
Heh, they are not about to
give me money.
They want to see me get
convicted.
The prenup that you signed
didn't prevent you from
inheriting if your husband was
incapacitated or deceased, did it?
No.
And that would be my motive,
right?
I'd say you could count on
that. Yeah.
Well, Phil.
Looks like you got yourself a
big case.
Hola, qu pasa?
Aquino ms.
Goodbye.
Goodbye.
Keep, keep, keep.
What did I do?
Court is back in session
Mr. Newberry do you want to
continue your voir dire?
Yes your Honor, thank you.
Mr. McBride.
I can see from your
questionnaire here,
You worked as,
a police detective, you have
friends who are police officers,
and you currently work as a
criminal defense attorney.
And you know Mr. Leyton the
Assistant District Attorney
who represents the state in this case.
- That's all true.
And you've represented some high
profile clients in murder cases.
That's also true.
- And you've collected some substantial fees?
You'd be surprised.
Now in your experience as an
attorney,
would you say you have seen
defendants lie?
All the time.
- What about police officers?
I've known a few who have been
less than candid.
And what about Mr. Leyton,
do you think that you will tend to agree
with all of the things he'll say
during trial?
I'm afraid that Mr. Leyton and I
tend to
not agree on most things.
The defense has no objection
to juror number 232.
How would you describe the
relationship
between your father and the
defendant?
It was a disaster.
Objection.
Lack of foundation. Calls for
speculation.
Sustained on the first ground.
Were you familiar with the
relationship between your father
and the defendant, your
stepmother?
Yes.
- And how was it?
It was a disaster.
Could you offer us any
particular examples
of what you saw?
You mean like when she moved
into a separate bedroom,
and had a deadbolt installed on
the door?
Exactly. No further
questions.
Mr. Newberry?
No. No questions.
Did the defendant ever express
any
particular attitude toward your
father?
Well, she told me she couldn't
stand him.
So. From the bed in your
room,
you had a clear view of Mr.
Harriman's bedroom door.
Yes sir.
- And
the door to your bedroom
was partly open, on March 15th?
Yes sir.
Could you tell us, about how
wide?
About two feet?
Are you in the habit of
leaving your door open at night?
Well, in case Mr. Harriman has
a problem.
Well, why would he do that?
Well, he has a heart condition.
Objection your Honor.
This calls for expert testimony.
Sustained.
Isn't it true that you are
also a registered nurse?
Recommended for your position by
Mr. Harriman's personal physician.
Isn't that true?
Yes sir.
On the night of March 15th,
between the hours of eleven PM
and one-thirty AM
did you see anybody enter Mr.
Harriman's bedroom?
Only her.
Indicating the defendant.
Yes sir.
Was she carrying anything?
She was carrying a glass.
It looked like milk.
Nothing further.
Miss Arnack, did you see
anyone else enter the bedroom?
No.
So you were lying in your room
in the dark, awake all that time.
- No.
So how can you be sure no one
else entered the room as well?
Well, there's this squeaky
board outside his door.
And it always wakes me up.
I'm a light sleeper.
And you're sure you saw the
defendant in that darkened hallway?
In the moonlight.
Yes.
Nothing further.
This court stands in recess.
We'll reconvene at one-thirty.
Bailiff?
That seemed to go nicely.
You never know what a jury is
going to do.
I'd say this one didn't much
choice.
Well, the three of us stand to
get the estate if she is convicted.
What are you saying Emily?
- It's just that's,
she's not the only
one that gets around.
Too bad more people can't
say that about you.
Who are you to tell that...
- You are desperate...
Ladies please, let's keep this
one happy family.
Come on.
- Don't lecture me Tony.
Russell, how's it going?
Hey. Everything is fine out
here Mac. Hey by the way...
how'd it go at the animal
shelter with Jesse? - Fine.
Cute dog. I'm sure they won't have
any problem finding a home for him.
Let's hope not.
Although older dogs are harder
to find homes for.
What do you mean, he's not
that old?
You know what to. I think he is
smart.
Maybe I'll just keep
checking with them,
make sure they find a place for
him.
Talk to you later.
- Okay Mac. Anytime.
Sergeant Hansen I draw your
attention to this evidence
marked People's Exhibit J and
ask you if you recognize it.
Yes the evidence bag has my
mark on it.
Would you explain to the jury
the significance of this glass?
Apart from the milk residue,
there is a high concentration of
phenobarbital.
Where was this glass found?
In the dishwasher.
And when was that?
The morning that Mr. Harriman
was taken to the hospital.
Did you also find,
this original prescription
bottle of barbiturates?
Yes. In Mr. Harriman's
nightstand drawer.
People's Exhibit K.
No further questions.
Sergeant Hansen,
were there any identifying
fingerprints on the glass?
No. They were smudged.
No further questions.
Dr. Berman. You are Mr. Harriman's
personal physician. Is that correct?
Yes. For the last ten years.
Have you the opportunity to
test Mr. Harriman's blood
for barbiturates?
We ran a blood panel as soon as
he was admitted to the hospital.
Did you find any traces of
barbiturates?
There was an abnormally high
level in his blood.
Enough to cause Mr. Harriman's
coma?
It would be consistent with
that, yes.
Did anyone from the Harriman
family recently call to order
extra barbiturates for Mr.
Harriman?
Mrs. Harriman ordered an extra
prescription of the barbiturate
Phenobarbital ZM.
When she ordered this extra
prescription,
Did Mrs. Harriman offer any
explanation
why they were refilling the
prescription early?
She said the other one had
gotten lost.
No further questions.
Mr. Newberry?
No, no your Honor.
Guilty.
Guilty.
Guilty.
Guilty.
Guilty.
Guilty.
Guilty.
Guilty.
Not guilty
Guilty.
Guilty.
Guilty.
Okay. We have re-examined the
evidence.
And this is the third ballot.
Now, no one is required...
I'll simplify this for you.
I am the holdout.
I'm telling you this because I
don't see any reason why
you should stay here any longer.
I am not going to change my
mind.
As far as I am concerned the
Public Defender
put up a pretty lame defense.
How's that?
How about the rest of the
family?
They stood to benefit didn't
they?
Why didn't he cross-examine
them?
We've come to a decision here.
You. Have.
Everything hinges on this maid
having seen all of this in the
middle of the night.
Now eyewitnesses are notoriously
unreliable.
The Public Defender was right
about one thing. The Prosecution,
did not prove her guilt beyond a
reasonable doubt.
Madam Foreman, have you
reached a verdict?
No your Honor.
We're hopelessly deadlocked.
Ladies and gentlemen this
court will now adjourn.
Thank you. - I declare these
proceedings as a mistrial.
Mr. McBride?
Yeah?
I guess I have to admit I'm a
big fan.
So um, I'd just like to ask you
if...
I voted for acquittal.
No thanks to you.
Well, I would appreciate
some constructive criticism
if you???
Okay.
Fine. First,
you've got to put the victim on
trial.
If your client didn't do it,
then who did?
There have to be other people
with a motive,
which usually mean that the
victim,
was not such a sterling
character.
You have to keep pointing the
jury to the fact
that someone else could have
done it.
It's up to you to develop a
counter-scenario
that is plausible.
And also don't refer to your
client as the defendant.
She has a name.
She is a person.
Use her name.
You want the jury to think of
her that way.
Besides that, you left the
prosecution off the hook
up and down the line.
Other than that, you did a great
job though.
Serves Leyton right for
letting you on the jury.
You know what? If he hadn't the other jurors
might have wondered more about his case.
He was betting his cards were
strong enough.
If the cops had done a better
job,
who knows, he might have won.
You never know.
Anybody ever tell you,
you can be really, seriously
difficult?
Do you really mean that or is
it just your way
of suppressing pent up desires?
Guess.
I'll call you.
Sure.
I'd like to remind you that
Claire Harriman,
escaped conviction by one vote,
one vote out of twelve.
It is the intention of this
department
to retry this case as soon as
possible.
Because it is our firm belief
that another twelve fair-minded
people will vote for justice.
Excuse me Mr. Leyton...
- Thank you all.
when do you think this will be
retried sir. Mr. Leyton...
Quite a moving speech.
Not funny.
Lunch?
- On you.
Sure.
I knew I shouldn't have let
you on that jury.
You wanted me on because you
know I'm fair.
Yeah. That was my theory.
And you were right.
Right?
You really think she did it?
You don't?
I don't know.
Hi.
Hi.
Where are the flowers?
Nobody sent any.
Not that he'd know if they did
or didn't.
The family, they check in on
him?
Just the wife.
Calls in every day.
Do I know you?
My name is McBride.
I'm an attorney.
It seems like you need one.
Sorry. But I can't afford you.
Your case interests me.
Yeah, me too.
I was on your jury.
I am the one,
who voted for acquittal.
I suppose I should thank you.
I suppose you should.
Thank you.
You're welcome.
Now what?
Have a seat.
A couple of questions.
How did you meet him?
I was a cocktail waitress up
in Santa Barbara.
He was there for the weekend.
What do you do in the evenings
when you are not working?
He asked me out.
I thought,
why not,
he's nice.
Got some money.
Love at first sight?
Look, my family, which was
from nowhere,
were either dead or divorced
and I didn't see much of a
future for myself.
In the beginning he was
wonderful to me.
I tried to be everything he
wanted me to be.
I read books.
Learned how to dress.
I just wanted him to be so proud
of me.
It was like I was a project to
him.
When he was done, he just,
got bored of the results.
Separate bedrooms?
His idea.
Slowly but surely, he just shut
me out of everything.
Why not just divorce him?
I loved him.
I really did.
Didn't give up, and I kept
trying I could win him back.
I could never hurt him.
Got any assets?
Assets, like what?
Art, jewels, cars?
I have a couple of thousand in
the bank. Um...
Some jewelry in a safe deposit
box.
Yeah. I think the car is in my
name.
Make a list I am going to need
it all.
What for?
- I'm trying to get you bailed out of here.
And between now and tomorrow
morning,
I want to make notes on anything
and everything
you can think about this
family that can help your case.
Particularly regarding their
relationship with your husband.
I'll get back to you tomorrow
and try to get you out.
Why are you doing this for me?
I don't like to see anybody
get railroaded.
You don't want,
anything else from me right?
If I win. You get a bill.
In the meantime let's just say
I'm doing it for my karma.
One rule.
Don't lie to me.
Ever.
I won't.
Then I'm on the case.
Substitution of Attorney Your
Honor.
Are we ready to set a trail
date?
Your Honor, the People are fully prepared to
try this case at your earliest convenience.
Mr. Mc Bride? - Yes Your Honor.
Obviously I need some time for preparation,
but a speedy trial does limit the prosecutions
ability to try this case in the media.
Is counsel for the defense
suggesting that's what we're doing?
Lordy no. I just think it's a
good idea
to remove the temptation where
possible.
The court appreciates your
concerns.
How is Wednesday the 26th?
- Fine. - Works for me.
Your Honor at this time also I'd
like to reopen the issue of bail.
This was settled before the
first trial.
People versus McNamara,
the appeals court ruled that
extended incarceration due to a
hung jury
and the People's desire for a
retrial,
makes the question of bail
appropriate.
Your Honor, my client has
pledged to put up her
few remaining assets in order to
gain her freedom so she can
help prepare her defense.
And you have my word she is not
a flight risk.
I'll reduce bail from five
hundred thousand
to one hundred thousand.
Thank you Your Honor.
See you both on the 26th.
Mr. McBride, Mr. Leyton...
I just have one question...
Hi guys, listen I'm not going
to um, take any questions.
But I do have a brief statement.
As you may know,
I sat on the first jury trial of
Claire Harriman.
I thought at that time she was
innocent.
So I not only voted for
acquittal,
so I also offered her my
services to her as legal counsel.
Now I am allowed, under the canon of
ethics, to represent her.
What I know
about this case to date
is all a matter of public
record.
And Mrs. Harriman is entitled to
have anyone she chooses
to represent her.
And I am pleased she selected
me.
As I just want to see justice
done.
That's all for today. Thank you.
Bye.
So much for trying the case in
media.
Shhhh.
I'm just trying to level the
playing field.
I think you've got a serious
thing for this woman,
or a professional death wish.
Come on. I'm feeling lucky.
How big a favor?
I'm disappointed.
You're always complaining about
my lack of romantic gestures.
I heard you took her case.
Damsel in distress sort of
thing.
She's a little past her sell-by
date to qualify as a damsel.
Come on.
Don't take this personally.
Anyway, I'm not here looking for
a favor.
Maybe not.
But you will be.
You know what you're turning
into a cynic.
Which doesn't become you.
Are you okay?
- McBride.
Now a hundred thousand dollars
bond means I need to put up
ten thousand dollars right?
Right.
- And I don't have ten thousand dollars.
Not yet.
We got to get Wingy his ten
grand for bailing you out.
In here let me do the talking.
Let's see the box.
Help yourself.
I do believe that we can
raise what we need with this.
Anniversary present.
Must have been a very good year.
So why did you keep this in a
safety deposit box and not at home.
I was afraid that his charming
daughter Emily would steal it.
There was a couple of pieces
already missing.
Phyliss!
Your lucky day.
Well, look what the cat
dragged in.
I don't know McBride. Most
people are just going
to think this is costume
jewelry.
But you and I know that
setting is antique.
You go to the Jewelry Mart
you'll get more than enough.
He's a smooth talker isn't he?
The smoothest.
How much?
I'll give you ten for the lot.
C'mon do your soul some good.
Twenty Five.
- Fifteen.
Twenty period. You know Harry's
parole hearing is next month.
You promise not to go and I'll
make it fifty.
Just give me the twenty.
Wait here.
So. Wingy got ten for your
bail.
Here is a thousand for you.
The rest goes for expenses.
You'll get an accounting.
Unless of course I lose.
in which case it won't matter.
You always this reassuring?
Now listen.
From now until the trial I want
you to stay put.
You don't talk to anybody about
anything except the weather.
And avoid the press at all cost.
Go to a movie if you get
restless.
But keep yourself inconspicuous.
You've got my cell number if you
need me.
Here's the homework
on the son, the daughter and the
executive secretary.
Good. Now can you think of
anybody else,
who'd want to go after him?
There were people who could do
without him but,
no real grudges or anything to
gain.
What about Marta the maid?
I don't know much about her.
Any reason she would lie about
seeing you?
I don't know. Maybe she saw
Emily or Elena.
Or somebody.
Okay.
Time to go to work.
Yes?
No. No. I'm not interested.
Telemarketers!
Ug. I hope they pass that law.
See ya.
Freeze.
This is a really bad idea.
Seems pretty good to me.
Oo you never change McBride
I want to think you are here for me when
it's most likely for the Harriman case.
You know your problem Detective.
What?
You're such a cop.
Then tell me I'm wrong.
I didn't say you were wrong.
I said you never think we could
have it both ways.
And you think you can.
So. What do you want?
Well..
- On the Harriman case.
All right.
I want to see the interviews you
did with the family members.
You have got a lot of nerve.
It's the nicest thing said
you've said so far.
You know I can't let you look
at those files.
Roberta,
There is something wrong with
this case.
You're too good not
to have sensed it.
No.
- I need your help.
No!
Please ma'am. Please.
I'm gonna get a cup of coffee.
It should take about ten
minutes.
Thank you.
I watched you during the trial.
You couldn't take your eyes off
her.
Just doing my civic duty.
Don't get yourself in too deep
on this one McBride.
Note. More flowers.
Hi yeah. Animal Shelter.
Yes. Hi. My name is McBride.
Um, I brought a dog in. White
dog.
Named Jesse.
Yeah, yeah, yeah that's the one.
Have you found a home for him
yet?
Right. But you'll keep trying?
Wait a minute. Hold on a
second. What do you mean?
How long before you put him...
What?
Well, I guess we are stuck with
each other.
I promise you I didn't know
anything about the neutering stuff.
I would have never taken you there to
begin with if that had been the case.
Could be worse. You could be a
cat.
You and I together? Yeah.
We'll be fine.
Need a hand?
Hi.
Sorry for not knocking.
Odd habit I have when I walk
into my own office.
Listen, I am sorry. But your
door was unlocked.
The super told me about your
break-in so I went out,
and got you this
motion-detector.
I can be a little slow I know.
But last time I looked
you were a Public Defender.
I quit. This morning.
And there's more to this story.
Being a Public Defender is not
why I became a lawyer.
You've got this humongous case
load,
no resources.
I mean witness the Harriman
fiasco
you were absolutely right about
my defense.
It was lame.
So, it got me to thinking.
I should do what you do. Stay focused.
Don't spread myself to thin.
Right. It is easy to do when
you don't have a lot of clients.
Um. What's your name again?
Phil. Newberry.
And I'll be finished up here in
just a minute.
The switch is right over here by the door.
You just turn it on and,
the alarm goes off with the
slightest motion.
That's great.
Great. Turn it off. How much do
I owe you?
It's, It's on me.
All you have to do.
Is let me work for you.
I am not exactly hiring right
now.
But you do need help with the
Harriman defense.
I already know the case.
Look. I've...
I've made a study of you.
I've read a lot of your cases.
You've got a lot to do with why
I didn't go with a big firm.
Maybe you should reconsider.
I can hardly afford to pay
myself.
Okay. Money's not really an
issue with me.
I sort of have a...
you know a...
No I don't.
a trust fund.
That's perfect.
All right, grasshopper.
How do you make a small fortune
as a criminal defense attorney?
Start with a large fortune?
You're hired.
- Did I have the
door open the right amount?
Who are you? What... What are
you doing in my room?
Sorry. My name is McBride.
I'm Claire Harriman's attorney.
In your testimony,
you said that the door,
was open about two feet right?
I'm sorry. I don't know
if I should be talking to you.
Well, here, court, it's really
the same thing.
You said about two feet. Is
that correct?
Um, yes.
Huh.
Would you mind,
showing me how you were on the
bed that night.
Whether you know, on your back,
on your side, however you were.
I don't know...
It will only take a minute I
promise.
Like this.
Okay.
Well, you could definitely
have seen her.
That's what I said.
Bright night too. Now I
checked the Almanac.
Full moon that night.
Yeah, that's right.
The glass of milk she was
carrying.
Was it in her left hand or her
right hand?
Right.
Right.
Of course, she is right-handed.
But then how would she have
opened the door?
I don't understand.
It's simple. Follow me.
She would naturally,
put the glass in her left hand so she
could open the door, but if she did that
the glass would be on the other
side of her body.
Which means you couldn't have
seen her.
You're just trying to trick me.
Marta. No. I am not.
I just have to know exactly how
everything happened.
She probably had it in her
right hand,
and I just didn't think it was
important.
Okay. that's fine. Thanks for
your time.
I heard you were representing
her.
Who gave you permission to come
in here?
Well, until the court says
otherwise,
Claire Harriman still lives
here.
She asked me to pick up a few
things for her.
What have you been telling him?
Nothing Mr. Tony.
You're not trying to obstruct
justice are you,
Mr. Tony?
- You're fired.
And I don't want to hear you've been
talking to anyone about this case.
Do you understand me?
Well, that's putting her in
her place huh?
Why don't you get what you
came for.
And get out.
Good idea.
Hello Mr. McBride.
I've been expecting you.
I'm Elena Ashfield.
Hi. You know I was hoping I
might,
I assumed you'd be coming for
her car.
If you'd just sign this receipt.
Very good.
Wish you were on my side.
Maybe I am.
Anything else?
Who is Lorenzo?
Just a friend.
What of it?
Nothing I am sure. It's
just that Claire
said you and her husband had,
her words, strenuous arguments
about somebody named Lorenzo.
I heard you the first time.
You should at least be
more discreet.
You know what? I wouldn't
worry about it.
I don't think we should be
loaning this Lorenzo money.
He's not the kind of man I want
to associate with,
and I don't trust him.
Well, you don't have to.
You just have to trust me
darling.
Well...
She must have been mistaken.
Well.
People hear things.
Anyway thanks for the keys.
Sorry, I couldn't be more help.
Maybe you'll get another chance.
Just what are you looking for?
Claire said there was a
photograph of you and your father,
in an album she wants.
Anything else?
How do you get along with your
father?
We've had our moments. He is
my father.
Any particular reason you haven't
visited him in the hospital?
The doctors keep me informed.
He wouldn't know if I was there
or not anyway.
Okay. You're probably right
about that huh.
So, how was the bachelor party?
What?
In your statement to the police,
you said you didn't come home
that night,
because you were at a bachelor
party.
Yes, so.
Well, I talked to the
bridegroom.
And he said that you split
around eleven.
With one of the party girls you
provided.
Is that a crime?
No, not at all you know what
though,
I talked to her.
Um,
Jennifer. She said, she
passed out on her couch around
eleven thirty.
So she's a lousy date.
And you didn't get home until
the next morning.
So let me ask you Tony.
If she passed out around eleven
thirty,
what were you doing there the
rest of the night?
Watching videos.
I don't blame you.
Your girlfriend passed out huh?
So,
You know a little something
about drugs don't you Tony?
See you in court.
Roberta?
Hey.
- Hi.
I thought you quit the
department.
I did. Decided to go private.
I wanted just to come by and say
thank you for all the help
you've given me recently. I
really do appreciate it.
I heard an ugly rumor that
you are working with McBride.
Yeah, he's great.
Lincoln was great.
Thoreau was great.
Satchel Paige was great.
We'll have to wait to see where
history puts McBride.
I thought you two were,
you know, good friends.
Well, that depends on what day
you are talking about.
Monday we're pals,
by Wednesday we're going to
Hawaii for a hot weekend,
by Friday who knows where we
are.
Usually not Hawaii.
Don't get me wrong.
When he's good, he's good.
Real good.
What do you think you are doing?
I'm representing Claire.
These are my clothes.
These are my clothes!
Isn't this her room?
Yeah, it was.
Well, well.
Not wasting any time huh?
So you've been shopping your way
through your grief?
How is that any business of
yours?
Depends. It would interesting
say, if you had more money,
to spend now.
Then you did before.
You're old enough to earn your
own money, Emily.
You were never this selfish
before she got here, Dad.
Claire has nothing to do with
this.
Yeah, right. Like she's not
poisoning you against all of us.
Carl. Sit down honey.
Do I have to beg?
Emily, he needs to be left
alone.
Fine.
You make me sound awful.
Well it's just that,
you never know,
how a jury is going to interpret
these things.
What is that supposed to mean?
It doesn't mean anything yet.
So is there anything you can
tell me about that night.
I don't know anything.
Did you hear Tony come in?
I don't remember.
Did you see Elena?
- I don't know.
I don't know. I. Don't. Know.
Okay, I was not feeling good.
I went to bed early.
Okay.
Listen if you do remember
anything,
give me a call, would ya?
Could you, where is Claire's
stuff?
I mean I'd hate to go back
empty-handed.
In a box.
In the garage.
If you want them.
She said you were sweet.
Wow.
You really do have a trust fund
don't you?
Investing in our future.
Where's Jesse?
I left him back at the ranch
with Russell.
Do we really need all of this
stuff?
Welcome to the 22nd century
here.
State of the art and beyond.
Huh.
Where's my typewriter?
It's in the closet.
Whoa. No, no. I'm not giving
up my typewriter.
It's a relic.
Check this out.
It's a three chip video camera.
with a memory card for photos.
Doesn't get any better than
that.
You know what?
This is going to come in handy.
I want you to follow the
daughter.
Emily. Videotape anything
suspicious.
I've never actually tailed
anybody before.
I might need a little guidance.
Don't get caught.
Found these in the waste paper
basket in her room.
Receipts from an ATM.
Same time everyday.
Hi Heather. How's Tim?
- Much better, thanks.
He's really responding to that antibiotic.
- That's great.
Did you get a chance to check on those
calls on the cell number I gave you?
There have only been
three calls today.
But all from the same number.
555-2676
The last one was thirty minutes
ago.
Great, thanks. I'll see you
and Bart at the dog park.
Okay. Love to Jesse. Bye.
Bye, bye.
What is that?
Crisscross directory.
I look up the number Heather
gave me.
It gives me the name and
address.
Who is Heather?
Contact at the phone company.
And that's all you need to know.
I know. I miss you too.
I promise.
We'll be together soon.
Okay?
Yeah?
Claire said to meet her here.
No. You got that wrong.
Well, why don't you set me
straight.
I don't know you.
Hey!
So who is the snake charmer in
the trailer?
Jeez. You always just barge
in?
I remember the room remember?
And I told you never lie to me.
I told you the truth I had nothing
to do with what happened to Carl.
You just neglected to tell me about
the boyfriend at the trailer park.
He has nothing to do with this.
Lady. You're on trial for
attempted murder.
You leave him out of this.
No. I'm sorry. Can't do that.
Last chance. You level with me
or you're on your own.
All right.
He's my brother.
And he's been sick for a long
time.
Paranoid schizophrenic.
That's not exactly a crime.
Why the secrecy?
If Carl would have known, I would have
been out of there. - It can be treated.
Well yeah, if he takes his
medication he can function normally.
I found this on the floor of
the bedroom.
Pills were everywhere.
- You went to his room?
We had a little talk too until
he got too agitated for my taste.
You stressed him out. He
can't handle it.
Where is he now?
- Don't ask me. Where does he live?
I put him in a private clinic.
And you are selling off your
jewelry to keep him there?
I didn't know what else to do.
Yes. This is Tom Manning's
sister.
Is Dr. Eastman there?
I didn't think I had a choice.
Dr. Eastman.
He is there.
Yes. He took himself off the
medication.
Thank you. Thank you.
I'll be by tomorrow.
Subject is approaching.
Subject is just about to enter
Third boutique of the day.
Appears to be a modest purchase.
Perhaps,
Shoplifting maybe.
She's heading into the plaza.
Looks like towards the bank.
And as predicted, her favorite
ATM.
Probably to withdraw a little
bit of Daddy's cash.
Perfect.
Perfect.
Walking.
Sitting.
Well, look who is here.
So I need more this time than
I thought.
What?
- No, I just...
It's not going to happen.
I don't carry much more than I
can handle.
How could you say that?
I'm not staying here another
minute.
Okay. I'll just go to anybody
else.
You gonna do that? You gonna
go to somebody else?
Then do that.
No, no, no. Just wait.
Hey.
I got it. I got it.
Just give me the money.
Give me more... Please.
All right. Relax.
Who's that...
Who is that with the camera?
Excuse me ladies.
Sorry.
Watch out, sorry.
Watch it man. What's up?
Where's the tape?
It's right here.
What did you have to that for
huh?
Stay here. Watch the car.
You know something Vincent?
I could really grow to dislike
you.
There's a tape in your mailbox.
I want it.
Well. Put the knife down
first.
Nah. Tape.
You know something,
your timing couldn't be worse.
I've had a really lousy week.
So. What's on the tape?
What do you care? You're not a
cop anymore.
True.
But you are still a crook huh.
Must be something really
interesting on there.
Let me guess.
Emily Harriman is a client of
yours.
And we have her on tape,
making a buy from you.
How long has she been a client?
Don't push me McBride.
Wow.
It really works.
Psst.
Got a little surprise for you.
What? Have you turned stalker?
Can't this wait until morning?
The elusive Vincent.
Got a little movie here.
Starring Vincent selling drugs.
Hello Roberta.
Nicest thing you've ever given
me.
Go ahead. Process him.
Bye. Vincent.
McBride.
I need a little something else.
How little?
- I've got a name.
First name only. Lorenzo.
Could be important to the case.
And he might have something that's
very embarrassing to the Harrimans.
That's not very much.
I know.
But I need it.
Soon.
Good night McBride.
I have a lot of work to do.
Hi.
Hi.
Just wrapping up the software
program
so we can record every phone call
that comes in here automatically.
Did I get a call from Roberta?
Yes. You did actually.
She called in a name and
address on some guy named
Lorenzo Larson?
Got it right here.
Do me a favor, right it down.
Be radical.
Okay.
The Red Zone?
- It's a club.
She said it might be what you
are looking for.
You know what?
I want you to check this guy
out.
And while you are there. Keep an eye
out for Elena. Harriman's secretary.
I remember her from the trial.
Not much fun.
- Still isn't.
All right. I'll head over to
the club right now.
Phil. You know what?
Maybe a better idea.
Wait until tonight when there
are people there.
Okay.
In the meantime, I want you to
run a full workup on the maid.
Marta Arnack.
Marta Arnack.
Got it.
Yeah. I know, not much of a
life huh Jesse.
No time for ball today.
I want you to know being a
parent is difficult.
I just hope you won't hold it
against me.
I see you got my message.
Yeah. So What's the
emergency?
Come on, come on. It's good
therapy.
I can't help him.
Not for him.
For you.
Why haven't you visited him?
Because,
if it was the other way around,
he probably wouldn't come see me
either.
Hospitals really creep me out.
We have to talk because I
think you know more
about what happened that
night than you are telling
I am sorry. I can't really
hear you from over here.
Close enough?
Has anybody ever told you
that you are seriously cute
I mean like in a mature kind
of way.
Beautiful skin.
Help yourself.
It would be a shame to mess that
up with all those needle marks.
Isn't it.
Heroin? I would guess. That's
Vincent's specialty.
You know what? When you gave him
the money,
you should have burned the ATM
receipts.
That's how we found you.
Get away from me.
Vincent is in jail.
All right. And if you are
lucky.
He's not going to drag you down
with him.
Let me go.
Let me go.
No, no, no. Give me my purse.
Expensive habit isn't it.
Who is giving you money?
To stay quiet about that night?
Tony or Elena?
Huh? Who?
Give me my purse.
Stop it. Let her go!
What's wrong with you?
If you haven't bothered to
notice,
your step-daughter is a junkie.
Emily?
You'd better check her into
rehab,
or she is going to wind up in
jail, all right?
Which is coincidentally just
where she's trying to put you.
I'm sorry.
Members only jack.
How you doin?
How you doin?
- Good.
Hey,
listen I...
Hi there.
Remember me?
Well, well, well.
Is it the boy defender?
Are you lost?
Listen I don't want to spoil
your evening,
so maybe you'd like to keep it
light
and tell me how much you paid
the maid to lie about Claire.
Now why would I want to pay her?
I had no reason to harm Carl.
If he discovered you were
stepping out with Lorenzo here,
that might spoil your fun.
She has a lover. But it isn't
me.
If it is not him, then who is
it?
How 'bout me?
Carl was never really into
bikes.
Look. I didn't want anything to
happen to Carl.
If he is not around, the party
is over.
Wouldn't want that now would we?
I told you. Members only
little man.
This is a little unnecessary
don't you think?
I mean, I don't want to have to
hurt anybody.
Got no steaks.
But this will do.
If Elena was involved in this,
it was for money, it wasn't for
romance.
Here.
Keep it right there.
So did you get a, address on
Marta?
Yeah.
Right here.
I hate these things.
It took me years just to get
used to voicemail.
Do that.
You sure this is the right
address?
Yes.
All right. Here. Just...
- Okay. Okay.
Keep the peas on your chin.
I'll get you some aspirin.
All right.
Mr. Martinez.
How long have you been employed as a
groundskeeper at the Harriman estate?
Little over twelve years.
And in your time there,
have you ever seen a halogen bulb like this?
We have about eight of them.
Are you familiar with the
halogen bulb
that hangs just outside the
second floor bedroom window?
Yes sir.
If that halogen bulb were
illuminated,
would someone standing at the
end of the hallway
appear in silhouette?
Objection, Your Honor,
Speculation.
Sustained.
Nothing further.
So you are absolutely certain,
it was the defendant you saw
that night.
Yes sir.
I'm sure.
Even though you can't be sure,
which hand was carrying the
glass of milk,
I saw the glass.
but she could have changed
hands.
No further questions.
Your Honor I have no questions
at this time.
But I request a short recess to
confer with my client.
Fifteen minutes.
I want to testify.
Miss Harriman.
We have testimony
that states that other than,
Carl and Claire Harriman,
and Marta Arnack
that the house was empty that
night.
After ten PM.
Is that accurate?
No. It's not.
What do you recollect of that
evening?
Well, I came home, around
ten o'clock and,
and there was a light on in the
office.
Don't think I don't know you
are there.
Staying up late. Cooking the
books?
Actually I'm about ready to
leave.
Shouldn't you be out getting
drunk somewhere?
Yeah, I should.
But it's a slow night.
Whatcha doin?
After all I am a stockholder or
whatever,
What you are is very lucky,
that your father doesn't know
how much you spend.
And on what.
But he never will know. Right?
Don't push me dear.
Good night Emily.
What time did you see her
leave the house?
I know it was after midnight,
because she parks her car right
underneath my window.
And I saw her drive off.
Did you see your father going
upstairs to his bedroom that night?
Yes. I did.
Why aren't you in bed?
Didn't meet anyone that
interesting.
That's not what I meant.
Now you could see Claire's
bedroom from there.
Sure.
I even saw her.
I waited up.
Take a sedative dear.
It works for me.
Then you went directly to your
room?
Actually, I was on my way...
What stopped you?
Shhhh.
Quiet.
- What?
You didn't see me, okay?
- Why not?
Because I was supposed to
score this hot chick,
and she flaked on me.
I don't want any of the guys to
know.
You got it?
- You are so lame.
Whatever. Go to bed.
No further questions.
Miss Harriman. Um.
How old are you?
Twenty Four.
And how long have you lived at
home?
All my life.
You never went away to school?
Yeah. I did. Briefly.
Isn't it true Miss Harriman that
you attended two universities,
and you were dismissed from both
of them?
Objection. Relevance.
I am going to demonstrate that
this witness is not very
reliable.
Your Honor.
If the state intends on
impeaching this witness,
because of her scholastic
record,
I would suggest that no court
ever take testimony from several
U.S. senators
not to mention a couple of Presidents.
- Overruled.
But don't try the court's
patience.
I'll do my best Your Honor.
So Miss Harriman.
What can you tell us about why you
were dismissed from these schools?
I wasn't a very good student.
Isn't it true after your last dismissal
you enrolled in a drug rehab program?
Objection. Irrelevant and
prejudicial.
Sustained.
No further questions.
How long ago were you at the
rehabilitation center?
Three years ago. - And have you
been in any programs since then?
No sir.
- And did you enter that program voluntarily?
Yes. I did.
Thank you.
Nothing further.
Due to the hour, court will recess
until nine o'clock tomorrow morning.
That was very brave of you.
Well. It couldn't hurt to do
something decent.
Every once in awhile.
Just don't want to make
a habit of it.
I can help you, you know.
I need to do this on my own.
But um.
Thank you.
Thank you.
Thank you very much.
How did we do?
We made some progress.
Great.
I'll be at the hotel.
Cirque de Soleil.
Yeah, yeah. The trampoline is
outside.
That's all right.
I think we scored some serious
points.
Yeah, maybe.
We did put some things out there
to think about.
Shaky alibis, motives,
casting doubt.
What we don't have,
is a clincher.
Good, good.
We can test out our new
equipment.
This is McBride.
This is Marta Arnack.
I need to speak to you.
Okay. I'll meet you. Anywhere
you like.
There's no time for that,
just no time.
All right. You should know that
I am recording this phone call.
I don't care, I don't care.
Fine, fine.
What's wrong?
She threatened me.
To change my story.
She's on her way to the
hospital.
I don't want to go to prison.
I'm afraid of what she might do.
You have to stop her.
Stop who?
Who threatened...
Phil, make sure we got that
call.
Got it.
Clear.
One, two, three, four
Clear.
One, two, three, four
Charging.
Clear.
Mark it. 9:17.
Hospital called. They told me
that he was dying.
Mrs. Harriman.
Preliminary autopsy report.
Your husband showed a high level
of potassium.
Which in his condition was
lethal.
And there was a significant amount of
potassium missing from the medicine room.
You knew the location of the
medicine room from your trips there,
and you were the last person to
see him alive.
None of the nurses can
corroborate your story
that you were called to go to
the hospital.
Say nothing.
The People are adding the
charge of murder,
to the case of The People versus
Claire Harriman.
The trail will continue
tomorrow.
Until then, Hrs. Harriman will be
remanded to custody without bail.
Court will resume at nine
o'clock tomorrow morning.
Hi.
Hi.
Um. What was the time of
death again?
9:17.
That's exact?
Give or take a few seconds.
Is there anything else I can do?
Yes. As a matter of fact
there is.
Ready?
Ready.
Go.
Got it!
Thank you.
She threatened me.
To change my story.
She is on her way to the
hospital.
I don't want to go to prison.
What are we listening for?
I don't know. Play it again.
She threatened me. To
change my story.
Stop it.
Is there a way that we can hear,
just
what's in the background?
I just want to hear the
background.
Miss Arnack.
Were you at Saint Stevens
Hospital,
the day that Mr. Harriman died?
No. I was not.
But, you had been there on
other occasions.
When he was getting treatment
for his coronary illness. - Yes?
And you have a background in nursing.
- Yes.
You testified earlier that
that's one of the reasons,
that you were initially hired.
- That's correct.
Do you know where the drugs
are kept on Mr. Harriman's floor?
Your Honor. Miss Arnack
is not on trial here.
Your Honor. Miss Arnack's
testimony is central,
to our defense, I would beg the
court's indulgence.
For the time being.
Do you know where the drugs
are located on that floor?
Probably where they keep all
the other medicine.
Miss Arnack where were you when,
you called me the afternoon Mr.
Harriman was murdered.
I was in my apartment.
Are you sure?
Asked and answered.
Sustained.
Just want to make absolutely
sure.
No more questions.
Miss Arnack.
What was the substance of your
call?
Your Honor. I happen to have
a tape of that call made
with Miss Arnack's knowledge and
consent.
And I would be happy to play it
for the court.
Mr. Leyton?
I'm sure we would all be very
interested in its content.
This is McBride.
This is Marta Arnack.
I need to speak to you.
Okay. I'll meet you. Anywhere
you like.
There's no time for that,
just no time.
All right. You should know that
I am recording this phone call.
I don't care, I don't care.
Fine, fine.
What's wrong?
She threatened me.
To change my story.
She's on her way to the
hospital.
I don't want to go to prison.
I'm afraid of what she might do.
You have to stop her.
Stop who?
Hello? Who threatened...
Miss Arnack. Is that a complete
rendition of your conversation?
Yes. It is.
I believe the conversation is
self-explanatory.
I have no further questions.
I call nurse Evelyn Wilson to
the stand.
Nurse Wilson was in the room
when Mr. Harriman died.
And she recorded the official
time of death.
Mrs. Wilson, is there a stairway
near Mr. Harriman's room?
Yes.
How long would it take a person,
someone in a hurry,
to get from his room to the stairwell?
About five seconds.
And you know that because?
Because you timed me while I
made the run.
Your Honor. Where is this
going?
Mr. McBride, I fail to see the
connections here.
Your Honor.
My client's life is at stake.
I would beg the court's
indulgence a little longer.
All right.
I have no more questions of
this witness.
I have no questions.
We call Dr. Reginald Berman.
Just to re-establish sir, how
long were you
Mr. Harriman's physician?
Ten years.
I see. During that time,
you probably had the opportunity
to perform an EKG
examination on Mr. Harriman yes?
Yes.
Doctor, would you explain to
the jury
exactly what an EKG does?
It assesses any abnormalities,
or lack thereof,
by monitoring the patient's
heart with electrodes.
In other words you record the
patient's heart rate, is that correct?
Correct.
Could you recognize Mr.
Harriman's EKG if you heard it?
Yes. I think so.
- How is that?
He had a very distinctive
arrhythmia.
Arrhythmia? - Well, it's an
irregular but distinctive heart beat.
Thank you Doctor.
No further questions.
No questions.
Recall Marta Arnack to the
stand.
Miss Arnack.
The call you made to me the day,
Carl Harriman died was made at 9:15
in the evening. Is that correct?
Objection! Your Honor.
Miss Arnack is not on trial
here.
I am almost finished with this
witness Your Honor.
I'll hold you to that Mr.
McBride.
I'd like you to listen to
something.
We had a sound lab separate your
voice from the background noise
on the phone call you made me.
Dr. Berman is willing to
testify,
that's Carl Harriman's
heartbeat.
No. This isn't true.
This is some of your lawyer
tricks.
I wasn't even there.
- Yes. You were.
You put the potassium in Carl
Harriman's IV drip.
No. I wouldn't do something
like that.
Yes, you did. And then you
ran.
Before you were discovered.
No. You are wrong.
Mr. Clark Parsons, would you
stand please?
Mr. Parson,
works for the security
department at the hospital.
He saw you running.
From the hospital. That night.
You killed Carl Harriman.
Would you care to admit it?
I want to talk to an attorney.
No more questions.
Mr. Foreman, have you reached
a verdict.
We have Your Honor.
How say you?
We find the defendant,
Not guilty.
Ladies and gentleman. That
concludes these proceedings.
Court is adjourned.
How do I thank you?
I'll think of something.
Well. congratulations.
You know what it is not all
bad news.
You've got a slam dunk trying
Marta Arnack
and if you squeeze her just
right,
she'll give you her partner,
Tony Harriman.
Well, look at you.
Setting a precedent?
Just a celebratory dinner.
Let me guess with whom.
Can't figure that one out?
You're fired.
Pay me first, before you can
fire me.
Yeah, well. Don't be such a
lawyer.
I found that under the door.
I recognize the scent.
Bad news?
No. Not entirely.
There's a check in here for
services rendered.
Which means I can pay you.
And fire you.
She's also standing me up for
dinner tonight.
Going back to Pittsburgh with
her brother.
Put him in a clinic there. Going
to be gone the whole weekend.
But she'll call me.
Where have I heard that before?
Probably you.
Ready?
For what?
I'm taking you to dinner.
Wait. Did I miss something?
No. I've just been thinking
about how much I owe you,
for all you help on the Harriman
case.
And I thought I'd take you out
to dinner.
What happened? Your client
cancelled?
Ouch. I love it when you are
sarcastic.
Well then you can have all
night to think about it.
I've got plans.
See ya.
Yeah. Well...
Although, in case I didn't
mention it,
you did a terrific job on this
case.
Well, you didn't mention it.
And thank you very much.
And since, we have a little
money heading towards the bank,
I thought that I would spring
for a lavish dinner. Huh?
Aw. You know that would be
great.
I've. I sort of have plans.
I appreciate it.
Sure.
I'll see you tomorrow?
Tomorrow.
Okay. Good night.
Good night.
You know what?
If you've got other plans,
I'm going to have to reconsider
this entire relationship.
Mr. Harriman?
Mr. Harriman?
Mr. Harriman?
Marta? Not now please.
Marta! Later!
Marta!
Sorry to bother you, Mrs.
Harriman.
Who are you?
Detective Hansen, LAPD.
Will you come with me please?
What happened?
The paramedics got a call from
the maid,
at eight this morning that your
husband was unconscious.
What?
They arrived at eight twenty
and they transferred him
to the Angels of Mercy hospital.
Is he okay?
He's in a coma.
You didn't hear the paramedics
arrive?
No. I, I, I took a sedative
last night.
Why didn't Marta wake me up?
Where is she?
She's downstairs giving a
statement.
I don't understand?
Mrs. Harriman.
Why don't you get dressed.
Big day, huh, Claire?
How could you?
Hey, hey, hey, hey.
Wait, wait, wait, wait.
We'll need statements from both
of you.
Detective?
Detective. I am Elena Ashfield,
Mr. Harriman's executive
secretary.
I came over as soon as I heard.
Detective?
- Yes?
Take her downstairs and get
her statement.
Right. Come with me.
Ma'am.
Well!
What have you got?
This was in the dishwasher.
Cook here says all the dishes
were done before he went home.
When was that?
Sometime after ten.
When did he come on duty?
About a half hour ago.
I found it before he got here.
It's consistent with the maid's
story.
Were you in the habit of
taking your husband
a glass of milk late at night?
No.
Then why did you on this
occasion?
He paged me on the intercom
and asked me to.
Why didn't he page the maid?
He said she had gone to bed
early
and she wasn't feeling well.
And he didn't want to disturb
her.
How long had you slept in
separate bedrooms?
Does it matter?
I don't know. How long?
I don't remember.
Would you care to talk about it?
It's personal and I'd rather
not.
Mrs. Harriman, you could help
yourself
if you were more forthcoming.
I just don't think it is any
of your business. That's all.
All right
then I guess this interview is
over.
She's all yours.
Thanks Detective.
Quite a spread huh?
Yeah, you could say that.
You have to put in a little
money to fixing 'er up.
But it will be a real honey when
you are done.
Huh.
How long have you been looking
after the place Russell?
Ever since Mr McNabb started
having his legal problems.
Yeah well. Good thing you
weren't his ex-wife.
Heh. Damn shame about that.
I think he always figured you'd
get him off.
Two people you never lie to
Russell.
Your priest and your lawyer.
He neglected to tell me,
he actually killed his wife.
Heh, heh.
I gotta admit I envy you.
I had my eye on this place for
some time.
Really? Want to buy it?
Can't.
Just bought a bunch of new farm
equipment.
McNabb gave me this place as
my retainer.
Now that he is making thirty
cents a day at San Quentin.
I am never going to my fees.
So this lovely country home is
now mine.
It may not look like much at
first,
but it's got a lot of potential.
Horse is real reliable.
Yeah. You can never have
enough glue huh.
Russell, listen.
Do you want to,
stay on here, take care of the
place,
same deal you had with McNabb?
I'd be honored.
Me too.
So the first thing we do is,
get all of this junk out of here.
I mean everything out of the
house
except maybe the plumbing.
Find a couple of repairmen.
And a good painter. All right?
Yes sir.
Whose dog?
He's yours.
Comes with the property.
Does it have a name?
It's a he.
His name is Jesse.
He's a great dog.
Good. Do you want him?
No. I got six dogs already.
All right.
Jesse?
Come on.
Come on dog.
Get in.
Yeah.
So where are you taking him?
Doggie adoption.
Roberta?
Hi.
- Hey Phil.
What brings you this time?
DUI? Stolen hubcaps?
Shoplifting?
Actually it's kind of
a big case.
What do you mean?
You mean the Harriman case?
Yeah.
I, I've actually never worked on
anything as big as this before.
And Leyton's prosecuting.
Do you have any advice?
Wear heavy shoes.
Thanks.
Mrs. Harriman?
I'm Phil Newberry from the
Public Defender's office.
I've been assigned to represent
you.
Mrs. Harriman. I am just going
to level with you.
I. I've never tried anything
nearly as big as this.
You deserve the best
representation you can get.
So my advice to you is that,
you hire yourself
a defense attorney.
Phil...
That would take several thousand
dollars.
And I don't have several
thousand dollars.
I just assumed that,
someone in your position would
have
substantial financial assets.
I signed a prenuptial
agreement before I was married.
I get an allowance.
What about other members of
the family?
Heh, they are not about to
give me money.
They want to see me get
convicted.
The prenup that you signed
didn't prevent you from
inheriting if your husband was
incapacitated or deceased, did it?
No.
And that would be my motive,
right?
I'd say you could count on
that. Yeah.
Well, Phil.
Looks like you got yourself a
big case.
Hola, qu pasa?
Aquino ms.
Goodbye.
Goodbye.
Keep, keep, keep.
What did I do?
Court is back in session
Mr. Newberry do you want to
continue your voir dire?
Yes your Honor, thank you.
Mr. McBride.
I can see from your
questionnaire here,
You worked as,
a police detective, you have
friends who are police officers,
and you currently work as a
criminal defense attorney.
And you know Mr. Leyton the
Assistant District Attorney
who represents the state in this case.
- That's all true.
And you've represented some high
profile clients in murder cases.
That's also true.
- And you've collected some substantial fees?
You'd be surprised.
Now in your experience as an
attorney,
would you say you have seen
defendants lie?
All the time.
- What about police officers?
I've known a few who have been
less than candid.
And what about Mr. Leyton,
do you think that you will tend to agree
with all of the things he'll say
during trial?
I'm afraid that Mr. Leyton and I
tend to
not agree on most things.
The defense has no objection
to juror number 232.
How would you describe the
relationship
between your father and the
defendant?
It was a disaster.
Objection.
Lack of foundation. Calls for
speculation.
Sustained on the first ground.
Were you familiar with the
relationship between your father
and the defendant, your
stepmother?
Yes.
- And how was it?
It was a disaster.
Could you offer us any
particular examples
of what you saw?
You mean like when she moved
into a separate bedroom,
and had a deadbolt installed on
the door?
Exactly. No further
questions.
Mr. Newberry?
No. No questions.
Did the defendant ever express
any
particular attitude toward your
father?
Well, she told me she couldn't
stand him.
So. From the bed in your
room,
you had a clear view of Mr.
Harriman's bedroom door.
Yes sir.
- And
the door to your bedroom
was partly open, on March 15th?
Yes sir.
Could you tell us, about how
wide?
About two feet?
Are you in the habit of
leaving your door open at night?
Well, in case Mr. Harriman has
a problem.
Well, why would he do that?
Well, he has a heart condition.
Objection your Honor.
This calls for expert testimony.
Sustained.
Isn't it true that you are
also a registered nurse?
Recommended for your position by
Mr. Harriman's personal physician.
Isn't that true?
Yes sir.
On the night of March 15th,
between the hours of eleven PM
and one-thirty AM
did you see anybody enter Mr.
Harriman's bedroom?
Only her.
Indicating the defendant.
Yes sir.
Was she carrying anything?
She was carrying a glass.
It looked like milk.
Nothing further.
Miss Arnack, did you see
anyone else enter the bedroom?
No.
So you were lying in your room
in the dark, awake all that time.
- No.
So how can you be sure no one
else entered the room as well?
Well, there's this squeaky
board outside his door.
And it always wakes me up.
I'm a light sleeper.
And you're sure you saw the
defendant in that darkened hallway?
In the moonlight.
Yes.
Nothing further.
This court stands in recess.
We'll reconvene at one-thirty.
Bailiff?
That seemed to go nicely.
You never know what a jury is
going to do.
I'd say this one didn't much
choice.
Well, the three of us stand to
get the estate if she is convicted.
What are you saying Emily?
- It's just that's,
she's not the only
one that gets around.
Too bad more people can't
say that about you.
Who are you to tell that...
- You are desperate...
Ladies please, let's keep this
one happy family.
Come on.
- Don't lecture me Tony.
Russell, how's it going?
Hey. Everything is fine out
here Mac. Hey by the way...
how'd it go at the animal
shelter with Jesse? - Fine.
Cute dog. I'm sure they won't have
any problem finding a home for him.
Let's hope not.
Although older dogs are harder
to find homes for.
What do you mean, he's not
that old?
You know what to. I think he is
smart.
Maybe I'll just keep
checking with them,
make sure they find a place for
him.
Talk to you later.
- Okay Mac. Anytime.
Sergeant Hansen I draw your
attention to this evidence
marked People's Exhibit J and
ask you if you recognize it.
Yes the evidence bag has my
mark on it.
Would you explain to the jury
the significance of this glass?
Apart from the milk residue,
there is a high concentration of
phenobarbital.
Where was this glass found?
In the dishwasher.
And when was that?
The morning that Mr. Harriman
was taken to the hospital.
Did you also find,
this original prescription
bottle of barbiturates?
Yes. In Mr. Harriman's
nightstand drawer.
People's Exhibit K.
No further questions.
Sergeant Hansen,
were there any identifying
fingerprints on the glass?
No. They were smudged.
No further questions.
Dr. Berman. You are Mr. Harriman's
personal physician. Is that correct?
Yes. For the last ten years.
Have you the opportunity to
test Mr. Harriman's blood
for barbiturates?
We ran a blood panel as soon as
he was admitted to the hospital.
Did you find any traces of
barbiturates?
There was an abnormally high
level in his blood.
Enough to cause Mr. Harriman's
coma?
It would be consistent with
that, yes.
Did anyone from the Harriman
family recently call to order
extra barbiturates for Mr.
Harriman?
Mrs. Harriman ordered an extra
prescription of the barbiturate
Phenobarbital ZM.
When she ordered this extra
prescription,
Did Mrs. Harriman offer any
explanation
why they were refilling the
prescription early?
She said the other one had
gotten lost.
No further questions.
Mr. Newberry?
No, no your Honor.
Guilty.
Guilty.
Guilty.
Guilty.
Guilty.
Guilty.
Guilty.
Guilty.
Not guilty
Guilty.
Guilty.
Guilty.
Okay. We have re-examined the
evidence.
And this is the third ballot.
Now, no one is required...
I'll simplify this for you.
I am the holdout.
I'm telling you this because I
don't see any reason why
you should stay here any longer.
I am not going to change my
mind.
As far as I am concerned the
Public Defender
put up a pretty lame defense.
How's that?
How about the rest of the
family?
They stood to benefit didn't
they?
Why didn't he cross-examine
them?
We've come to a decision here.
You. Have.
Everything hinges on this maid
having seen all of this in the
middle of the night.
Now eyewitnesses are notoriously
unreliable.
The Public Defender was right
about one thing. The Prosecution,
did not prove her guilt beyond a
reasonable doubt.
Madam Foreman, have you
reached a verdict?
No your Honor.
We're hopelessly deadlocked.
Ladies and gentlemen this
court will now adjourn.
Thank you. - I declare these
proceedings as a mistrial.
Mr. McBride?
Yeah?
I guess I have to admit I'm a
big fan.
So um, I'd just like to ask you
if...
I voted for acquittal.
No thanks to you.
Well, I would appreciate
some constructive criticism
if you???
Okay.
Fine. First,
you've got to put the victim on
trial.
If your client didn't do it,
then who did?
There have to be other people
with a motive,
which usually mean that the
victim,
was not such a sterling
character.
You have to keep pointing the
jury to the fact
that someone else could have
done it.
It's up to you to develop a
counter-scenario
that is plausible.
And also don't refer to your
client as the defendant.
She has a name.
She is a person.
Use her name.
You want the jury to think of
her that way.
Besides that, you left the
prosecution off the hook
up and down the line.
Other than that, you did a great
job though.
Serves Leyton right for
letting you on the jury.
You know what? If he hadn't the other jurors
might have wondered more about his case.
He was betting his cards were
strong enough.
If the cops had done a better
job,
who knows, he might have won.
You never know.
Anybody ever tell you,
you can be really, seriously
difficult?
Do you really mean that or is
it just your way
of suppressing pent up desires?
Guess.
I'll call you.
Sure.
I'd like to remind you that
Claire Harriman,
escaped conviction by one vote,
one vote out of twelve.
It is the intention of this
department
to retry this case as soon as
possible.
Because it is our firm belief
that another twelve fair-minded
people will vote for justice.
Excuse me Mr. Leyton...
- Thank you all.
when do you think this will be
retried sir. Mr. Leyton...
Quite a moving speech.
Not funny.
Lunch?
- On you.
Sure.
I knew I shouldn't have let
you on that jury.
You wanted me on because you
know I'm fair.
Yeah. That was my theory.
And you were right.
Right?
You really think she did it?
You don't?
I don't know.
Hi.
Hi.
Where are the flowers?
Nobody sent any.
Not that he'd know if they did
or didn't.
The family, they check in on
him?
Just the wife.
Calls in every day.
Do I know you?
My name is McBride.
I'm an attorney.
It seems like you need one.
Sorry. But I can't afford you.
Your case interests me.
Yeah, me too.
I was on your jury.
I am the one,
who voted for acquittal.
I suppose I should thank you.
I suppose you should.
Thank you.
You're welcome.
Now what?
Have a seat.
A couple of questions.
How did you meet him?
I was a cocktail waitress up
in Santa Barbara.
He was there for the weekend.
What do you do in the evenings
when you are not working?
He asked me out.
I thought,
why not,
he's nice.
Got some money.
Love at first sight?
Look, my family, which was
from nowhere,
were either dead or divorced
and I didn't see much of a
future for myself.
In the beginning he was
wonderful to me.
I tried to be everything he
wanted me to be.
I read books.
Learned how to dress.
I just wanted him to be so proud
of me.
It was like I was a project to
him.
When he was done, he just,
got bored of the results.
Separate bedrooms?
His idea.
Slowly but surely, he just shut
me out of everything.
Why not just divorce him?
I loved him.
I really did.
Didn't give up, and I kept
trying I could win him back.
I could never hurt him.
Got any assets?
Assets, like what?
Art, jewels, cars?
I have a couple of thousand in
the bank. Um...
Some jewelry in a safe deposit
box.
Yeah. I think the car is in my
name.
Make a list I am going to need
it all.
What for?
- I'm trying to get you bailed out of here.
And between now and tomorrow
morning,
I want to make notes on anything
and everything
you can think about this
family that can help your case.
Particularly regarding their
relationship with your husband.
I'll get back to you tomorrow
and try to get you out.
Why are you doing this for me?
I don't like to see anybody
get railroaded.
You don't want,
anything else from me right?
If I win. You get a bill.
In the meantime let's just say
I'm doing it for my karma.
One rule.
Don't lie to me.
Ever.
I won't.
Then I'm on the case.
Substitution of Attorney Your
Honor.
Are we ready to set a trail
date?
Your Honor, the People are fully prepared to
try this case at your earliest convenience.
Mr. Mc Bride? - Yes Your Honor.
Obviously I need some time for preparation,
but a speedy trial does limit the prosecutions
ability to try this case in the media.
Is counsel for the defense
suggesting that's what we're doing?
Lordy no. I just think it's a
good idea
to remove the temptation where
possible.
The court appreciates your
concerns.
How is Wednesday the 26th?
- Fine. - Works for me.
Your Honor at this time also I'd
like to reopen the issue of bail.
This was settled before the
first trial.
People versus McNamara,
the appeals court ruled that
extended incarceration due to a
hung jury
and the People's desire for a
retrial,
makes the question of bail
appropriate.
Your Honor, my client has
pledged to put up her
few remaining assets in order to
gain her freedom so she can
help prepare her defense.
And you have my word she is not
a flight risk.
I'll reduce bail from five
hundred thousand
to one hundred thousand.
Thank you Your Honor.
See you both on the 26th.
Mr. McBride, Mr. Leyton...
I just have one question...
Hi guys, listen I'm not going
to um, take any questions.
But I do have a brief statement.
As you may know,
I sat on the first jury trial of
Claire Harriman.
I thought at that time she was
innocent.
So I not only voted for
acquittal,
so I also offered her my
services to her as legal counsel.
Now I am allowed, under the canon of
ethics, to represent her.
What I know
about this case to date
is all a matter of public
record.
And Mrs. Harriman is entitled to
have anyone she chooses
to represent her.
And I am pleased she selected
me.
As I just want to see justice
done.
That's all for today. Thank you.
Bye.
So much for trying the case in
media.
Shhhh.
I'm just trying to level the
playing field.
I think you've got a serious
thing for this woman,
or a professional death wish.
Come on. I'm feeling lucky.
How big a favor?
I'm disappointed.
You're always complaining about
my lack of romantic gestures.
I heard you took her case.
Damsel in distress sort of
thing.
She's a little past her sell-by
date to qualify as a damsel.
Come on.
Don't take this personally.
Anyway, I'm not here looking for
a favor.
Maybe not.
But you will be.
You know what you're turning
into a cynic.
Which doesn't become you.
Are you okay?
- McBride.
Now a hundred thousand dollars
bond means I need to put up
ten thousand dollars right?
Right.
- And I don't have ten thousand dollars.
Not yet.
We got to get Wingy his ten
grand for bailing you out.
In here let me do the talking.
Let's see the box.
Help yourself.
I do believe that we can
raise what we need with this.
Anniversary present.
Must have been a very good year.
So why did you keep this in a
safety deposit box and not at home.
I was afraid that his charming
daughter Emily would steal it.
There was a couple of pieces
already missing.
Phyliss!
Your lucky day.
Well, look what the cat
dragged in.
I don't know McBride. Most
people are just going
to think this is costume
jewelry.
But you and I know that
setting is antique.
You go to the Jewelry Mart
you'll get more than enough.
He's a smooth talker isn't he?
The smoothest.
How much?
I'll give you ten for the lot.
C'mon do your soul some good.
Twenty Five.
- Fifteen.
Twenty period. You know Harry's
parole hearing is next month.
You promise not to go and I'll
make it fifty.
Just give me the twenty.
Wait here.
So. Wingy got ten for your
bail.
Here is a thousand for you.
The rest goes for expenses.
You'll get an accounting.
Unless of course I lose.
in which case it won't matter.
You always this reassuring?
Now listen.
From now until the trial I want
you to stay put.
You don't talk to anybody about
anything except the weather.
And avoid the press at all cost.
Go to a movie if you get
restless.
But keep yourself inconspicuous.
You've got my cell number if you
need me.
Here's the homework
on the son, the daughter and the
executive secretary.
Good. Now can you think of
anybody else,
who'd want to go after him?
There were people who could do
without him but,
no real grudges or anything to
gain.
What about Marta the maid?
I don't know much about her.
Any reason she would lie about
seeing you?
I don't know. Maybe she saw
Emily or Elena.
Or somebody.
Okay.
Time to go to work.
Yes?
No. No. I'm not interested.
Telemarketers!
Ug. I hope they pass that law.
See ya.
Freeze.
This is a really bad idea.
Seems pretty good to me.
Oo you never change McBride
I want to think you are here for me when
it's most likely for the Harriman case.
You know your problem Detective.
What?
You're such a cop.
Then tell me I'm wrong.
I didn't say you were wrong.
I said you never think we could
have it both ways.
And you think you can.
So. What do you want?
Well..
- On the Harriman case.
All right.
I want to see the interviews you
did with the family members.
You have got a lot of nerve.
It's the nicest thing said
you've said so far.
You know I can't let you look
at those files.
Roberta,
There is something wrong with
this case.
You're too good not
to have sensed it.
No.
- I need your help.
No!
Please ma'am. Please.
I'm gonna get a cup of coffee.
It should take about ten
minutes.
Thank you.
I watched you during the trial.
You couldn't take your eyes off
her.
Just doing my civic duty.
Don't get yourself in too deep
on this one McBride.
Note. More flowers.
Hi yeah. Animal Shelter.
Yes. Hi. My name is McBride.
Um, I brought a dog in. White
dog.
Named Jesse.
Yeah, yeah, yeah that's the one.
Have you found a home for him
yet?
Right. But you'll keep trying?
Wait a minute. Hold on a
second. What do you mean?
How long before you put him...
What?
Well, I guess we are stuck with
each other.
I promise you I didn't know
anything about the neutering stuff.
I would have never taken you there to
begin with if that had been the case.
Could be worse. You could be a
cat.
You and I together? Yeah.
We'll be fine.
Need a hand?
Hi.
Sorry for not knocking.
Odd habit I have when I walk
into my own office.
Listen, I am sorry. But your
door was unlocked.
The super told me about your
break-in so I went out,
and got you this
motion-detector.
I can be a little slow I know.
But last time I looked
you were a Public Defender.
I quit. This morning.
And there's more to this story.
Being a Public Defender is not
why I became a lawyer.
You've got this humongous case
load,
no resources.
I mean witness the Harriman
fiasco
you were absolutely right about
my defense.
It was lame.
So, it got me to thinking.
I should do what you do. Stay focused.
Don't spread myself to thin.
Right. It is easy to do when
you don't have a lot of clients.
Um. What's your name again?
Phil. Newberry.
And I'll be finished up here in
just a minute.
The switch is right over here by the door.
You just turn it on and,
the alarm goes off with the
slightest motion.
That's great.
Great. Turn it off. How much do
I owe you?
It's, It's on me.
All you have to do.
Is let me work for you.
I am not exactly hiring right
now.
But you do need help with the
Harriman defense.
I already know the case.
Look. I've...
I've made a study of you.
I've read a lot of your cases.
You've got a lot to do with why
I didn't go with a big firm.
Maybe you should reconsider.
I can hardly afford to pay
myself.
Okay. Money's not really an
issue with me.
I sort of have a...
you know a...
No I don't.
a trust fund.
That's perfect.
All right, grasshopper.
How do you make a small fortune
as a criminal defense attorney?
Start with a large fortune?
You're hired.
- Did I have the
door open the right amount?
Who are you? What... What are
you doing in my room?
Sorry. My name is McBride.
I'm Claire Harriman's attorney.
In your testimony,
you said that the door,
was open about two feet right?
I'm sorry. I don't know
if I should be talking to you.
Well, here, court, it's really
the same thing.
You said about two feet. Is
that correct?
Um, yes.
Huh.
Would you mind,
showing me how you were on the
bed that night.
Whether you know, on your back,
on your side, however you were.
I don't know...
It will only take a minute I
promise.
Like this.
Okay.
Well, you could definitely
have seen her.
That's what I said.
Bright night too. Now I
checked the Almanac.
Full moon that night.
Yeah, that's right.
The glass of milk she was
carrying.
Was it in her left hand or her
right hand?
Right.
Right.
Of course, she is right-handed.
But then how would she have
opened the door?
I don't understand.
It's simple. Follow me.
She would naturally,
put the glass in her left hand so she
could open the door, but if she did that
the glass would be on the other
side of her body.
Which means you couldn't have
seen her.
You're just trying to trick me.
Marta. No. I am not.
I just have to know exactly how
everything happened.
She probably had it in her
right hand,
and I just didn't think it was
important.
Okay. that's fine. Thanks for
your time.
I heard you were representing
her.
Who gave you permission to come
in here?
Well, until the court says
otherwise,
Claire Harriman still lives
here.
She asked me to pick up a few
things for her.
What have you been telling him?
Nothing Mr. Tony.
You're not trying to obstruct
justice are you,
Mr. Tony?
- You're fired.
And I don't want to hear you've been
talking to anyone about this case.
Do you understand me?
Well, that's putting her in
her place huh?
Why don't you get what you
came for.
And get out.
Good idea.
Hello Mr. McBride.
I've been expecting you.
I'm Elena Ashfield.
Hi. You know I was hoping I
might,
I assumed you'd be coming for
her car.
If you'd just sign this receipt.
Very good.
Wish you were on my side.
Maybe I am.
Anything else?
Who is Lorenzo?
Just a friend.
What of it?
Nothing I am sure. It's
just that Claire
said you and her husband had,
her words, strenuous arguments
about somebody named Lorenzo.
I heard you the first time.
You should at least be
more discreet.
You know what? I wouldn't
worry about it.
I don't think we should be
loaning this Lorenzo money.
He's not the kind of man I want
to associate with,
and I don't trust him.
Well, you don't have to.
You just have to trust me
darling.
Well...
She must have been mistaken.
Well.
People hear things.
Anyway thanks for the keys.
Sorry, I couldn't be more help.
Maybe you'll get another chance.
Just what are you looking for?
Claire said there was a
photograph of you and your father,
in an album she wants.
Anything else?
How do you get along with your
father?
We've had our moments. He is
my father.
Any particular reason you haven't
visited him in the hospital?
The doctors keep me informed.
He wouldn't know if I was there
or not anyway.
Okay. You're probably right
about that huh.
So, how was the bachelor party?
What?
In your statement to the police,
you said you didn't come home
that night,
because you were at a bachelor
party.
Yes, so.
Well, I talked to the
bridegroom.
And he said that you split
around eleven.
With one of the party girls you
provided.
Is that a crime?
No, not at all you know what
though,
I talked to her.
Um,
Jennifer. She said, she
passed out on her couch around
eleven thirty.
So she's a lousy date.
And you didn't get home until
the next morning.
So let me ask you Tony.
If she passed out around eleven
thirty,
what were you doing there the
rest of the night?
Watching videos.
I don't blame you.
Your girlfriend passed out huh?
So,
You know a little something
about drugs don't you Tony?
See you in court.
Roberta?
Hey.
- Hi.
I thought you quit the
department.
I did. Decided to go private.
I wanted just to come by and say
thank you for all the help
you've given me recently. I
really do appreciate it.
I heard an ugly rumor that
you are working with McBride.
Yeah, he's great.
Lincoln was great.
Thoreau was great.
Satchel Paige was great.
We'll have to wait to see where
history puts McBride.
I thought you two were,
you know, good friends.
Well, that depends on what day
you are talking about.
Monday we're pals,
by Wednesday we're going to
Hawaii for a hot weekend,
by Friday who knows where we
are.
Usually not Hawaii.
Don't get me wrong.
When he's good, he's good.
Real good.
What do you think you are doing?
I'm representing Claire.
These are my clothes.
These are my clothes!
Isn't this her room?
Yeah, it was.
Well, well.
Not wasting any time huh?
So you've been shopping your way
through your grief?
How is that any business of
yours?
Depends. It would interesting
say, if you had more money,
to spend now.
Then you did before.
You're old enough to earn your
own money, Emily.
You were never this selfish
before she got here, Dad.
Claire has nothing to do with
this.
Yeah, right. Like she's not
poisoning you against all of us.
Carl. Sit down honey.
Do I have to beg?
Emily, he needs to be left
alone.
Fine.
You make me sound awful.
Well it's just that,
you never know,
how a jury is going to interpret
these things.
What is that supposed to mean?
It doesn't mean anything yet.
So is there anything you can
tell me about that night.
I don't know anything.
Did you hear Tony come in?
I don't remember.
Did you see Elena?
- I don't know.
I don't know. I. Don't. Know.
Okay, I was not feeling good.
I went to bed early.
Okay.
Listen if you do remember
anything,
give me a call, would ya?
Could you, where is Claire's
stuff?
I mean I'd hate to go back
empty-handed.
In a box.
In the garage.
If you want them.
She said you were sweet.
Wow.
You really do have a trust fund
don't you?
Investing in our future.
Where's Jesse?
I left him back at the ranch
with Russell.
Do we really need all of this
stuff?
Welcome to the 22nd century
here.
State of the art and beyond.
Huh.
Where's my typewriter?
It's in the closet.
Whoa. No, no. I'm not giving
up my typewriter.
It's a relic.
Check this out.
It's a three chip video camera.
with a memory card for photos.
Doesn't get any better than
that.
You know what?
This is going to come in handy.
I want you to follow the
daughter.
Emily. Videotape anything
suspicious.
I've never actually tailed
anybody before.
I might need a little guidance.
Don't get caught.
Found these in the waste paper
basket in her room.
Receipts from an ATM.
Same time everyday.
Hi Heather. How's Tim?
- Much better, thanks.
He's really responding to that antibiotic.
- That's great.
Did you get a chance to check on those
calls on the cell number I gave you?
There have only been
three calls today.
But all from the same number.
555-2676
The last one was thirty minutes
ago.
Great, thanks. I'll see you
and Bart at the dog park.
Okay. Love to Jesse. Bye.
Bye, bye.
What is that?
Crisscross directory.
I look up the number Heather
gave me.
It gives me the name and
address.
Who is Heather?
Contact at the phone company.
And that's all you need to know.
I know. I miss you too.
I promise.
We'll be together soon.
Okay?
Yeah?
Claire said to meet her here.
No. You got that wrong.
Well, why don't you set me
straight.
I don't know you.
Hey!
So who is the snake charmer in
the trailer?
Jeez. You always just barge
in?
I remember the room remember?
And I told you never lie to me.
I told you the truth I had nothing
to do with what happened to Carl.
You just neglected to tell me about
the boyfriend at the trailer park.
He has nothing to do with this.
Lady. You're on trial for
attempted murder.
You leave him out of this.
No. I'm sorry. Can't do that.
Last chance. You level with me
or you're on your own.
All right.
He's my brother.
And he's been sick for a long
time.
Paranoid schizophrenic.
That's not exactly a crime.
Why the secrecy?
If Carl would have known, I would have
been out of there. - It can be treated.
Well yeah, if he takes his
medication he can function normally.
I found this on the floor of
the bedroom.
Pills were everywhere.
- You went to his room?
We had a little talk too until
he got too agitated for my taste.
You stressed him out. He
can't handle it.
Where is he now?
- Don't ask me. Where does he live?
I put him in a private clinic.
And you are selling off your
jewelry to keep him there?
I didn't know what else to do.
Yes. This is Tom Manning's
sister.
Is Dr. Eastman there?
I didn't think I had a choice.
Dr. Eastman.
He is there.
Yes. He took himself off the
medication.
Thank you. Thank you.
I'll be by tomorrow.
Subject is approaching.
Subject is just about to enter
Third boutique of the day.
Appears to be a modest purchase.
Perhaps,
Shoplifting maybe.
She's heading into the plaza.
Looks like towards the bank.
And as predicted, her favorite
ATM.
Probably to withdraw a little
bit of Daddy's cash.
Perfect.
Perfect.
Walking.
Sitting.
Well, look who is here.
So I need more this time than
I thought.
What?
- No, I just...
It's not going to happen.
I don't carry much more than I
can handle.
How could you say that?
I'm not staying here another
minute.
Okay. I'll just go to anybody
else.
You gonna do that? You gonna
go to somebody else?
Then do that.
No, no, no. Just wait.
Hey.
I got it. I got it.
Just give me the money.
Give me more... Please.
All right. Relax.
Who's that...
Who is that with the camera?
Excuse me ladies.
Sorry.
Watch out, sorry.
Watch it man. What's up?
Where's the tape?
It's right here.
What did you have to that for
huh?
Stay here. Watch the car.
You know something Vincent?
I could really grow to dislike
you.
There's a tape in your mailbox.
I want it.
Well. Put the knife down
first.
Nah. Tape.
You know something,
your timing couldn't be worse.
I've had a really lousy week.
So. What's on the tape?
What do you care? You're not a
cop anymore.
True.
But you are still a crook huh.
Must be something really
interesting on there.
Let me guess.
Emily Harriman is a client of
yours.
And we have her on tape,
making a buy from you.
How long has she been a client?
Don't push me McBride.
Wow.
It really works.
Psst.
Got a little surprise for you.
What? Have you turned stalker?
Can't this wait until morning?
The elusive Vincent.
Got a little movie here.
Starring Vincent selling drugs.
Hello Roberta.
Nicest thing you've ever given
me.
Go ahead. Process him.
Bye. Vincent.
McBride.
I need a little something else.
How little?
- I've got a name.
First name only. Lorenzo.
Could be important to the case.
And he might have something that's
very embarrassing to the Harrimans.
That's not very much.
I know.
But I need it.
Soon.
Good night McBride.
I have a lot of work to do.
Hi.
Hi.
Just wrapping up the software
program
so we can record every phone call
that comes in here automatically.
Did I get a call from Roberta?
Yes. You did actually.
She called in a name and
address on some guy named
Lorenzo Larson?
Got it right here.
Do me a favor, right it down.
Be radical.
Okay.
The Red Zone?
- It's a club.
She said it might be what you
are looking for.
You know what?
I want you to check this guy
out.
And while you are there. Keep an eye
out for Elena. Harriman's secretary.
I remember her from the trial.
Not much fun.
- Still isn't.
All right. I'll head over to
the club right now.
Phil. You know what?
Maybe a better idea.
Wait until tonight when there
are people there.
Okay.
In the meantime, I want you to
run a full workup on the maid.
Marta Arnack.
Marta Arnack.
Got it.
Yeah. I know, not much of a
life huh Jesse.
No time for ball today.
I want you to know being a
parent is difficult.
I just hope you won't hold it
against me.
I see you got my message.
Yeah. So What's the
emergency?
Come on, come on. It's good
therapy.
I can't help him.
Not for him.
For you.
Why haven't you visited him?
Because,
if it was the other way around,
he probably wouldn't come see me
either.
Hospitals really creep me out.
We have to talk because I
think you know more
about what happened that
night than you are telling
I am sorry. I can't really
hear you from over here.
Close enough?
Has anybody ever told you
that you are seriously cute
I mean like in a mature kind
of way.
Beautiful skin.
Help yourself.
It would be a shame to mess that
up with all those needle marks.
Isn't it.
Heroin? I would guess. That's
Vincent's specialty.
You know what? When you gave him
the money,
you should have burned the ATM
receipts.
That's how we found you.
Get away from me.
Vincent is in jail.
All right. And if you are
lucky.
He's not going to drag you down
with him.
Let me go.
Let me go.
No, no, no. Give me my purse.
Expensive habit isn't it.
Who is giving you money?
To stay quiet about that night?
Tony or Elena?
Huh? Who?
Give me my purse.
Stop it. Let her go!
What's wrong with you?
If you haven't bothered to
notice,
your step-daughter is a junkie.
Emily?
You'd better check her into
rehab,
or she is going to wind up in
jail, all right?
Which is coincidentally just
where she's trying to put you.
I'm sorry.
Members only jack.
How you doin?
How you doin?
- Good.
Hey,
listen I...
Hi there.
Remember me?
Well, well, well.
Is it the boy defender?
Are you lost?
Listen I don't want to spoil
your evening,
so maybe you'd like to keep it
light
and tell me how much you paid
the maid to lie about Claire.
Now why would I want to pay her?
I had no reason to harm Carl.
If he discovered you were
stepping out with Lorenzo here,
that might spoil your fun.
She has a lover. But it isn't
me.
If it is not him, then who is
it?
How 'bout me?
Carl was never really into
bikes.
Look. I didn't want anything to
happen to Carl.
If he is not around, the party
is over.
Wouldn't want that now would we?
I told you. Members only
little man.
This is a little unnecessary
don't you think?
I mean, I don't want to have to
hurt anybody.
Got no steaks.
But this will do.
If Elena was involved in this,
it was for money, it wasn't for
romance.
Here.
Keep it right there.
So did you get a, address on
Marta?
Yeah.
Right here.
I hate these things.
It took me years just to get
used to voicemail.
Do that.
You sure this is the right
address?
Yes.
All right. Here. Just...
- Okay. Okay.
Keep the peas on your chin.
I'll get you some aspirin.
All right.
Mr. Martinez.
How long have you been employed as a
groundskeeper at the Harriman estate?
Little over twelve years.
And in your time there,
have you ever seen a halogen bulb like this?
We have about eight of them.
Are you familiar with the
halogen bulb
that hangs just outside the
second floor bedroom window?
Yes sir.
If that halogen bulb were
illuminated,
would someone standing at the
end of the hallway
appear in silhouette?
Objection, Your Honor,
Speculation.
Sustained.
Nothing further.
So you are absolutely certain,
it was the defendant you saw
that night.
Yes sir.
I'm sure.
Even though you can't be sure,
which hand was carrying the
glass of milk,
I saw the glass.
but she could have changed
hands.
No further questions.
Your Honor I have no questions
at this time.
But I request a short recess to
confer with my client.
Fifteen minutes.
I want to testify.
Miss Harriman.
We have testimony
that states that other than,
Carl and Claire Harriman,
and Marta Arnack
that the house was empty that
night.
After ten PM.
Is that accurate?
No. It's not.
What do you recollect of that
evening?
Well, I came home, around
ten o'clock and,
and there was a light on in the
office.
Don't think I don't know you
are there.
Staying up late. Cooking the
books?
Actually I'm about ready to
leave.
Shouldn't you be out getting
drunk somewhere?
Yeah, I should.
But it's a slow night.
Whatcha doin?
After all I am a stockholder or
whatever,
What you are is very lucky,
that your father doesn't know
how much you spend.
And on what.
But he never will know. Right?
Don't push me dear.
Good night Emily.
What time did you see her
leave the house?
I know it was after midnight,
because she parks her car right
underneath my window.
And I saw her drive off.
Did you see your father going
upstairs to his bedroom that night?
Yes. I did.
Why aren't you in bed?
Didn't meet anyone that
interesting.
That's not what I meant.
Now you could see Claire's
bedroom from there.
Sure.
I even saw her.
I waited up.
Take a sedative dear.
It works for me.
Then you went directly to your
room?
Actually, I was on my way...
What stopped you?
Shhhh.
Quiet.
- What?
You didn't see me, okay?
- Why not?
Because I was supposed to
score this hot chick,
and she flaked on me.
I don't want any of the guys to
know.
You got it?
- You are so lame.
Whatever. Go to bed.
No further questions.
Miss Harriman. Um.
How old are you?
Twenty Four.
And how long have you lived at
home?
All my life.
You never went away to school?
Yeah. I did. Briefly.
Isn't it true Miss Harriman that
you attended two universities,
and you were dismissed from both
of them?
Objection. Relevance.
I am going to demonstrate that
this witness is not very
reliable.
Your Honor.
If the state intends on
impeaching this witness,
because of her scholastic
record,
I would suggest that no court
ever take testimony from several
U.S. senators
not to mention a couple of Presidents.
- Overruled.
But don't try the court's
patience.
I'll do my best Your Honor.
So Miss Harriman.
What can you tell us about why you
were dismissed from these schools?
I wasn't a very good student.
Isn't it true after your last dismissal
you enrolled in a drug rehab program?
Objection. Irrelevant and
prejudicial.
Sustained.
No further questions.
How long ago were you at the
rehabilitation center?
Three years ago. - And have you
been in any programs since then?
No sir.
- And did you enter that program voluntarily?
Yes. I did.
Thank you.
Nothing further.
Due to the hour, court will recess
until nine o'clock tomorrow morning.
That was very brave of you.
Well. It couldn't hurt to do
something decent.
Every once in awhile.
Just don't want to make
a habit of it.
I can help you, you know.
I need to do this on my own.
But um.
Thank you.
Thank you.
Thank you very much.
How did we do?
We made some progress.
Great.
I'll be at the hotel.
Cirque de Soleil.
Yeah, yeah. The trampoline is
outside.
That's all right.
I think we scored some serious
points.
Yeah, maybe.
We did put some things out there
to think about.
Shaky alibis, motives,
casting doubt.
What we don't have,
is a clincher.
Good, good.
We can test out our new
equipment.
This is McBride.
This is Marta Arnack.
I need to speak to you.
Okay. I'll meet you. Anywhere
you like.
There's no time for that,
just no time.
All right. You should know that
I am recording this phone call.
I don't care, I don't care.
Fine, fine.
What's wrong?
She threatened me.
To change my story.
She's on her way to the
hospital.
I don't want to go to prison.
I'm afraid of what she might do.
You have to stop her.
Stop who?
Who threatened...
Phil, make sure we got that
call.
Got it.
Clear.
One, two, three, four
Clear.
One, two, three, four
Charging.
Clear.
Mark it. 9:17.
Hospital called. They told me
that he was dying.
Mrs. Harriman.
Preliminary autopsy report.
Your husband showed a high level
of potassium.
Which in his condition was
lethal.
And there was a significant amount of
potassium missing from the medicine room.
You knew the location of the
medicine room from your trips there,
and you were the last person to
see him alive.
None of the nurses can
corroborate your story
that you were called to go to
the hospital.
Say nothing.
The People are adding the
charge of murder,
to the case of The People versus
Claire Harriman.
The trail will continue
tomorrow.
Until then, Hrs. Harriman will be
remanded to custody without bail.
Court will resume at nine
o'clock tomorrow morning.
Hi.
Hi.
Um. What was the time of
death again?
9:17.
That's exact?
Give or take a few seconds.
Is there anything else I can do?
Yes. As a matter of fact
there is.
Ready?
Ready.
Go.
Got it!
Thank you.
She threatened me.
To change my story.
She is on her way to the
hospital.
I don't want to go to prison.
What are we listening for?
I don't know. Play it again.
She threatened me. To
change my story.
Stop it.
Is there a way that we can hear,
just
what's in the background?
I just want to hear the
background.
Miss Arnack.
Were you at Saint Stevens
Hospital,
the day that Mr. Harriman died?
No. I was not.
But, you had been there on
other occasions.
When he was getting treatment
for his coronary illness. - Yes?
And you have a background in nursing.
- Yes.
You testified earlier that
that's one of the reasons,
that you were initially hired.
- That's correct.
Do you know where the drugs
are kept on Mr. Harriman's floor?
Your Honor. Miss Arnack
is not on trial here.
Your Honor. Miss Arnack's
testimony is central,
to our defense, I would beg the
court's indulgence.
For the time being.
Do you know where the drugs
are located on that floor?
Probably where they keep all
the other medicine.
Miss Arnack where were you when,
you called me the afternoon Mr.
Harriman was murdered.
I was in my apartment.
Are you sure?
Asked and answered.
Sustained.
Just want to make absolutely
sure.
No more questions.
Miss Arnack.
What was the substance of your
call?
Your Honor. I happen to have
a tape of that call made
with Miss Arnack's knowledge and
consent.
And I would be happy to play it
for the court.
Mr. Leyton?
I'm sure we would all be very
interested in its content.
This is McBride.
This is Marta Arnack.
I need to speak to you.
Okay. I'll meet you. Anywhere
you like.
There's no time for that,
just no time.
All right. You should know that
I am recording this phone call.
I don't care, I don't care.
Fine, fine.
What's wrong?
She threatened me.
To change my story.
She's on her way to the
hospital.
I don't want to go to prison.
I'm afraid of what she might do.
You have to stop her.
Stop who?
Hello? Who threatened...
Miss Arnack. Is that a complete
rendition of your conversation?
Yes. It is.
I believe the conversation is
self-explanatory.
I have no further questions.
I call nurse Evelyn Wilson to
the stand.
Nurse Wilson was in the room
when Mr. Harriman died.
And she recorded the official
time of death.
Mrs. Wilson, is there a stairway
near Mr. Harriman's room?
Yes.
How long would it take a person,
someone in a hurry,
to get from his room to the stairwell?
About five seconds.
And you know that because?
Because you timed me while I
made the run.
Your Honor. Where is this
going?
Mr. McBride, I fail to see the
connections here.
Your Honor.
My client's life is at stake.
I would beg the court's
indulgence a little longer.
All right.
I have no more questions of
this witness.
I have no questions.
We call Dr. Reginald Berman.
Just to re-establish sir, how
long were you
Mr. Harriman's physician?
Ten years.
I see. During that time,
you probably had the opportunity
to perform an EKG
examination on Mr. Harriman yes?
Yes.
Doctor, would you explain to
the jury
exactly what an EKG does?
It assesses any abnormalities,
or lack thereof,
by monitoring the patient's
heart with electrodes.
In other words you record the
patient's heart rate, is that correct?
Correct.
Could you recognize Mr.
Harriman's EKG if you heard it?
Yes. I think so.
- How is that?
He had a very distinctive
arrhythmia.
Arrhythmia? - Well, it's an
irregular but distinctive heart beat.
Thank you Doctor.
No further questions.
No questions.
Recall Marta Arnack to the
stand.
Miss Arnack.
The call you made to me the day,
Carl Harriman died was made at 9:15
in the evening. Is that correct?
Objection! Your Honor.
Miss Arnack is not on trial
here.
I am almost finished with this
witness Your Honor.
I'll hold you to that Mr.
McBride.
I'd like you to listen to
something.
We had a sound lab separate your
voice from the background noise
on the phone call you made me.
Dr. Berman is willing to
testify,
that's Carl Harriman's
heartbeat.
No. This isn't true.
This is some of your lawyer
tricks.
I wasn't even there.
- Yes. You were.
You put the potassium in Carl
Harriman's IV drip.
No. I wouldn't do something
like that.
Yes, you did. And then you
ran.
Before you were discovered.
No. You are wrong.
Mr. Clark Parsons, would you
stand please?
Mr. Parson,
works for the security
department at the hospital.
He saw you running.
From the hospital. That night.
You killed Carl Harriman.
Would you care to admit it?
I want to talk to an attorney.
No more questions.
Mr. Foreman, have you reached
a verdict.
We have Your Honor.
How say you?
We find the defendant,
Not guilty.
Ladies and gentleman. That
concludes these proceedings.
Court is adjourned.
How do I thank you?
I'll think of something.
Well. congratulations.
You know what it is not all
bad news.
You've got a slam dunk trying
Marta Arnack
and if you squeeze her just
right,
she'll give you her partner,
Tony Harriman.
Well, look at you.
Setting a precedent?
Just a celebratory dinner.
Let me guess with whom.
Can't figure that one out?
You're fired.
Pay me first, before you can
fire me.
Yeah, well. Don't be such a
lawyer.
I found that under the door.
I recognize the scent.
Bad news?
No. Not entirely.
There's a check in here for
services rendered.
Which means I can pay you.
And fire you.
She's also standing me up for
dinner tonight.
Going back to Pittsburgh with
her brother.
Put him in a clinic there. Going
to be gone the whole weekend.
But she'll call me.
Where have I heard that before?
Probably you.
Ready?
For what?
I'm taking you to dinner.
Wait. Did I miss something?
No. I've just been thinking
about how much I owe you,
for all you help on the Harriman
case.
And I thought I'd take you out
to dinner.
What happened? Your client
cancelled?
Ouch. I love it when you are
sarcastic.
Well then you can have all
night to think about it.
I've got plans.
See ya.
Yeah. Well...
Although, in case I didn't
mention it,
you did a terrific job on this
case.
Well, you didn't mention it.
And thank you very much.
And since, we have a little
money heading towards the bank,
I thought that I would spring
for a lavish dinner. Huh?
Aw. You know that would be
great.
I've. I sort of have plans.
I appreciate it.
Sure.
I'll see you tomorrow?
Tomorrow.
Okay. Good night.
Good night.
You know what?
If you've got other plans,
I'm going to have to reconsider
this entire relationship.