” She stared at me for a second and then she said something I’ll never forget.
She said, “I don’t take orders from anyone, including you.
” The courtroom went silent.
Even her attorney looked like he wanted to disappear.
I felt the weight of the gavl in my hand, and I took a slow breath before I responded.
I said, “Miss Caldwell, let me be very clear.
You are in a court of law.
You will follow the rules of this court and you will show respect to everyone in this room, including Mr.
Brennan, who has done nothing wrong except be in the wrong place at the wrong time because of your reckless behavior.
” She crossed her arms and said, “This is ridiculous.
I’m not going to sit here and be lectured by someone who doesn’t understand what it’s like to have real responsibilities.
” I felt my heart rate go up, but I kept my voice steady.
I said, “Real responsibilities.
Mr.Brennan works double shifts to pay for his daughter’s medication.
He served his country.
He’s here asking for basic fairness.
And you think you have real responsibilities.
That’s when Officer Torres stepped forward again and said, “Your honor, there’s something else.
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