Part 1, Chapter 5 Summary

Elaine and Nathan spend nine weeks in jail before going before Judge Clyne, who people referred to as "Maximum John," or "hanging judge." Elaine's believes because she has no prior record of selling drugs, especially in Albany, that she and Nathan should go to trial rather than plead guilty. Without $250,000 for bond, they cannot afford attorneys either, so are represented by court-appointed attorneys. Turning down an offer to plead guilty and serve five years, Elaine talks Nathan into going to trial with her.

The jury consists of white people. The prosecution makes their opening statement and proceeds to introduce George Deets and Richard Zagorski. George Deets goes first and as Elaine hears George lying about how the cocaine sale was set up by Elaine, she starts to fear the worst. Elaine had no idea up that she was set up by...