“Two,” I repeated. “And in those two cases, what was the issue?”
She hesitated for a moment. “New evidence came to light.”
“Do you mean new evidence or a flawed analysis of what really happened?” I asked.
“Objection! Argumentative.”
“Overruled. Answer the question, Dr. Carter,” the judge said.
I saw her jaw tighten as nervousness swept over her.
“As you put it, Mr. Hamilton. A flawed analysis.”
“Let’s talk about this case.” I turned, and Roman handed me a photo. “This is the kitchen, correct?” I held up the photo in front of Dr. Carter.
“Yes.”
“This is where you claim the fire originated.”
“Yes.”
“You claim you’re a burn pattern expert. And the patterns you see in this photo are due to the use of an accelerant.”
“Yes.”
“And being the expert, you claim to be, I’m sure you know a fire can reach a point where everything ignites at once, creating patterns that look identical to arson.”
“Objection, Your Honor!”
“This is established fire science 101, Your Honor,” I said.
“Overruled.”
“Yes. That can happen,” Dr. Carter said, staring at ADA Jacobs.
“And did you test that probability?” I asked.
“No.”
“Excuse me, Your Honor.” Roman stood from his chair. “I need to speak with my brother for a moment. It’s very important.”
“It better be, Mr. Hamilton. You know I don’t like disruptions in my courtroom.”
I walked over to the table. “What are you doing?”
“Morgan just texted me. Paige is in labor. They’re on their way to the hospital now.”
“What? She’s not due for another two weeks.”
“Babies don’t play by our timelines, brother.” He placed his hand on my shoulder. “You go. I got this.”
I walked up to the judge. “I was just informed my wife is in labor. My brother is going to take over if it’s okay, Your Honor.”
“Of course. Congratulations, Mr. Hamilton. Do you know if it’s a boy or a girl?”
“It’s a boy.” I smiled.
“Then I expect to see the future Mr. Hamilton in my courtroom one day.”