Murder One (1995–1997): Season 1, Episode 18 - Chapter Eighteen - full transcript
The murder.
All the evidence points
to a perpetrator...
...who knew the victim and had rough
sex with her prior to her murder.
the suspect:
Drug-addicted movie star. Neil Avedon.
We arrested Neil off the semen
in Jessica Costello...
...and his inconsistent statements
to the police.
You're hip-deep
in a rape homicide.
The trial.
I don't think I can get through this.
Now you're gonna depend on me
and put your faith in me.
And you will come out
on the other side.
Richard makes Justine an offer.
He wants me to fly to Amsterdam
to buy some painting.
He made a big show
of wanting it to be all right with you.
It's not.
Tell Richard you aren't interested.
Do we have something to celebrate?
-Excellent.
Only, about Ted.
I'd like to choose
the right time to tell him.
Richard calls in a favor.
I was beginning to feel
we had an understanding.
Because you gave me
a $75,OOO piece of art?
I can't discuss Julie's testimony.
I would like to know in advance if Julie
intends to do any permanent damage.
It's not because you fear
she might implicate you in the murder?
What are you doing here?
-Richard wanted to talk.
I thought it'd be all right.
Julie shows up in court
to bury the defense.
Are you acquainted with an individual
named Richard Cross?
Yes.
But isn't there some law about testifying
against your husband?
Richard and I were married
night before last in Reno.
A new suspect.
This is your second arrest for rape.
lt was not rape.
Do your 20 years
as a homicide detective...
...give you a strong sense that
Eduardo Portalegre...
...could be responsible
for Jessica's death?
If you're asking me if I think
he's capable of a rape-murder...
...the answer is yes.
Ted.
-Lorraine, hello.
I hope you don't shoot the messenger.
Depends. What's the message?
Our latest jury survey.
The results aren't very encouraging.
Okay, folks, let's get started.
Lorraine's got some poll results.
Okay, folks, let's get started.
Lorraine's got some poll results.
A survey of 525 adults...
...matched to the demographics
of our current jury...
...indicates that if the trial ended today,
59 percent would vote to convict.
-Only 18 percent think Neil's innocent.
-Thanks.
Fifty-nine percent?
That's almost no movement at all.
Even less comforting are the reasons
given by those voting.
Despite our assault on
Susan Dominick...
...24 percent still cite Dr. Lester's
contention that Neil confessed.
Sixteen percent cite the presence
of his semen in Jessica...
...and a disturbing 47 percent
believe Neil is the type of person...
-...who would commit such a crime.
-lt comes down to character.
More precisely, the perception
of Neil's character.
Toward that end,
Neil's mother arrives today.
Besides dishing up some mom and apple
pie, what are we hoping to accomplish?
Along with other witnesses,
a more sympathetic portrait of Neil.
Dragging my mother from Indiana--
It's a hell of a way to get it done.
You and your mother aren't close?
Try we haven't spoken in years.
I'm here for one reason, Mr. Hoffman.
Because my son needs me.
And Neil appreciates that,
Mrs. Rennick.
Neil. It's so hard for me to remember
that's what he calls himself now.
lt was always James back home.
-Are you settled in at your hotel?
-Yes. It's very nice.
Noisy, but nice.
-lf there's a problem, Mrs. Rennick--
-No, it's fine.
l've never been one to complain.
Our best estimate is that you'll be
testifying the day after tomorrow.
-Chris will be helping you prepare.
-Fine.
We'll be asking you about
Neil's childhood, the kind of boy he was.
We will have to get into his relationship
with Mr. Rennick.
I expected as much.
Neil and my late husband had
their share of difficulties.
That's one way to put it.
There's no need
to go into that here, Neil.
Yeah, right.
Just as long as you're clear on what
we're expecting, Mrs. Rennick.
You ask the questions, Mr. Hoffman,
I'll answer them.
I thought we'd start reviewing
your testimony over dinner tonight.
-ls there any type of food you prefer?
-Whatever you choose.
Neil, you're welcome to come along
if you'd like--
No. I can't.
I don't go out much anymore.
You don't need to explain.
It's been a pleasure meeting you,
Mrs. Rennick.
And you, Mr. Hoffman.
Mr. Docknovich.
Not exactly the Brady Bunch.
How'd it go with Mrs. Rennick?
I took her to dinner at Houston's.
lt may not be easy, but I think
she'll give us what we want.
Whatever your problems
with your mother...
...her testimony only helps us
if the jury sees a loving son.
You'll see it when she gets up there,
Ted. It's called acting.
All rise.
ln the Superior Court of Los Angeles...
...the Honorable Judge
Elizabeth Bornstein presiding.
We're on the record
in People v. Avedon.
ls there some reason why Ms. Grasso
and Mr. Washington are not present?
None that I know of, Your Honor.
Bailiff, will you check the hallway?
Begging your pardon, Your Honor.
Mr. Washington, sessions begin
promptly at 9:30.
Last time I checked,
the elevators were in running order.
I apologize for my tardiness, Your Honor.
May I approach?
Ms. Grasso's husband died of a massive
heart attack at 6:30 this morning.
Your Honor, in light of this tragedy...
...the defense would have
no objection...
...to a request from the people
for a continuance.
It's yours for the asking,
Mr. Washington.
Appreciated, but on Grasso's
instructions, I'm prepared to go forward.
Very well. Step back.
Bailiff, please bring in the jury.
Would you please state
your name for the record?
Karen Lockwood.
Were you acquainted
with Jessica Costello?
Yes, I was her sponsor over
at the West Hollywood chapter...
-...of Cocaine Anonymous.
-Approach, Your Honor?
Your Honor, the people object
to this witness...
...and fail to see her relevance.
She knew the deceased two weeks
and barely knew Mr. Avedon.
She observed their relationship.
The people have put on witnesses
who allegedly observed Avedon...
...on a single occasion. Are they now
seeking to deny our right...
...to rebut testimony through someone
with greater knowledge?
People's witnesses observed
Mr. Avedon's tendency to violence.
People's witnesses observed
Mr. Avedon's tendency to violence.
That Ms. Lockwood did not
is hardly probative.
If that's your point, Mr. Washington,
make it on cross-examination.
Your objection is overruled.
Miss Lockwood, how long
before her death did Jessica Costello...
...begin attending meetings
of Cocaine Anonymous?
About two weeks.
How did you happen to become
her sponsor?
We started talking
after one of the meetings.
I think she liked the fact
that I was young too.
She asked me to sponsor her,
I said okay.
-How was she doing?
-lt was a struggle for her...
...but I think she really wanted
to get clean.
During this time,
did you ever meet Neil Avedon?
Several times.
He'd drop her off and pick her up,
that sort of thing.
Would you say he was supportive
of her efforts to get clean?
Very. The first time that she slipped,
he insisted that she call me.
Please describe this incident.
About a week into
the program, Jessica began using again.
Neil went over and found her strung out.
He made her call me.
When I got there, you could just
see the concern in his eyes.
Jessica became abusive,
she started lashing out at him.
Neil just held her until she
calmed down.
So despite the fact Jessica became
physically abusive to him...
-...Neil didn't respond in kind?
-Like I said, he just held her.
In all the times
you saw them together...
...did Neil ever act as anything
but a loving boyfriend?
-Never.
-Thank you. Nothing further.
Are you aware that up until several
weeks after Ms. Costello's death...
...the defendant himself
used drugs and alcohol?
l've read that, yes.
-Did you ever see him high?
-Objection.
Calls for a medical conclusion.
The witness is a former drug user,
Your Honor. She's qualified to answer.
Overruled. The witness will answer.
Well, a couple of times I saw him,
he may have been on something.
Cocaine?
-I couldn't say.
-Come on, Miss Lockwood.
Weren't you in C.A.
for your own coke problem?
-Yes.
Then I repeat...
...did the defendant ever
demonstrate behavior...
...consistent with what you know
to be cocaine abuse?
-I guess he did.
Are you aware...
...that cocaine in sufficient quantities
can lead to paranoia, even violence?
I'm aware.
So it's entirely possible...
...that on other occasions...
...Mr. Avedon became violent with
Miss Costello after using cocaine.
It's possible.
He could've killed her
in such a state, correct?
-Objection. Calls for speculation.
Withdrawn.
I have no further questions
for this witness, Your Honor.
Get through to Miriam?
I left a message. She's with her family.
I didn't know her husband.
Did he have heart disease?
I saw him at a Bar Association dinner
three months ago.
He seemed to be the picture of health.
Ted. Chris.
I wasn't sure if I should come over,
in case you were still mad.
I was never mad at you, Julie.
Please sit down.
Thank you.
I just want you to know the decision
not to testify against Dr. Lester...
...was mine as much as Richard's.
Forgive me, but Richard seems to be able
to summon up your amnesia at will.
What happened at lephyr House,
his role in your sister's murder--
Ted, Richard had nothing
to do with Jessica's death.
Thanks to Justine, that's one
of the things we cleared up.
-Come again?
-The night we flew to Reno...
...Richard was at Justine's house
when I arrived.
After she went to bed,
Richard and I got coffee.
We talked everything out.
He asked me to marry him right there,
at Starbucks.
Over a decaf espresso. How romantic.
It's not moonlight and champagne,
but a girl takes what she can get.
I wish I could be as convinced of
Richard's innocence as you are, Julie.
But I do wish you happiness. After all
you've been through, you deserve it.
And we're still friends?
Of course.
You don't know how happy
that makes me.
Well, I should let you get to your lunch.
I'd like to think Justine
can explain this.
-You wanted to see me, Ted?
-Yes.
-You wanted to see me, Ted?
-Yes.
Shut the door. Sit down.
I ran into Julie Costello...
-...at lunch today.
-Mm-hm?
Anything else you'd like to tell me
about the night she disappeared?
Such as?
Such as the fact Richard Cross
was in your apartment that night.
Such as the fact Richard Cross
was in your apartment that night.
-I'm pretty sure I mentioned that.
-That he was there?
I don't think that's something
I'd forget.
Ted, I admit I was flustered
that morning...
...but I told you Richard dropped by.
All I remember you saying is that
Julie's bed hadn't been slept in.
That's not my recollection, but....
Ask the other associates.
If I'm wrong, it was an oversight.
However you characterize it, Justine...
...it was poor judgment to allow Richard
to have access to her.
He demanded to speak to her.
Should I have called the police?
You're a lot smarter than that, Justine.
Richard Cross arrives the night
before Julie is about to deliver...
...potentially damaging testimony
against him...
...and you suspect nothing?
There are 1000 ways you could have
refused him...
...short of dialing 911 .
Then you're right.
I made an error in judgment.
Which I trust you won't
Iet happen again.
Ted, I promise.
My Richard Cross radar
is on extra alert.
Miriam.
-Hi, Teddy.
-I'm so sorry about Harry.
-Thank you.
-lf there's anything I can do...
-...if you need a delay in the trial?
-No, that's the last thing I need.
-No, I'd much rather be here.
-Whatever helps.
The funeral will be Sunday. All
arrangements haven't been made yet...
...but I'll inform your office.
Mr. Strick, would you tell us
what you do for a living?
I'm an apartment manager for the
Carlton Apartments in Hollywood.
Did you ever meet Neil Avedon?
About 10 years ago. His uncle
used to live in the building.
When Neil moved here from Indiana,
that's who he moved in with.
How old was Neil then?
Maybe 15.
What were your impressions of him?
A real charmer. Good-looking as hell.
He hadn't gotten his big break
on All for One yet...
...but you could tell
he was going places.
-How well did you come to know him?
Pretty well.
Living in Hollywood,
I knew a lot about the old days.
Stewart Granger used to live
in the building.
Neil liked hearing the old stories.
I liked telling them.
He'd come home after being rejected
for some part, and I'd remind him...
...every one of those stars
on Hollywood Boulevard...
...was rejected 100 times
before they made it.
And when he got his role in All for One,
did Neil change?
Not toward me.
Even after he moved out to Malibu,
he'd still come back to see me.
When my wife died two years ago,
Neil gave me some money...
...to tide me over.
I tried to pay him back,
but he wouldn't accept it.
He said he owed me more than that
for encouraging him...
...back when he was nobody.
I'll tell you...
...it really touched me.
When you hear Neil described
in this courtroom as a violent...
...self-centered drug addict...
-...do you recognize that person?
-No.
That's not the Neil I know.
My first acting class, Neil was there.
He had already gotten the part
on All for One...
...but I guess they thought
he should still take classes.
Uh, our teacher was a screamer.
He was a real tyrant.
And I was given a scene to do
with Neil.
I was petrified.
And the first run-through,
I just screwed up royally.
And the teacher just unloaded on me.
And Neil came to my defense.
He said that he was the one
who had screwed up...
...by not giving me enough to play off
of, which was totally untrue, of course.
But I appreciated him saying that.
-Did you see him after that?
We went for coffee...
...and he gave me tips
on acting and agents.
We became pretty good friends.
Even though my career never took off.
Subsequently, Miss Reese,
did you work with Neil professionally?
Yeah, a couple of years later, I was
visiting Neil on the set of All for One.
He was really big then.
He was in all the teen magazines.
And I mentioned to him that I could
really use a day part...
...to keep my health insurance.
And he called his producer over, and
they gave me a guest role on the show.
I played this girl that Neil's character
gets stuck in an elevator with.
I got a lot of work off of it too.
Did Neil ask for anything in return?
If you mean did he come on to me, no.
Neil helped me for only one reason...
...the goodness of his heart.
Your Honor, defense calls
Jeannette Rennick to the stand.
Mrs. Rennick, where do you reside?
Franklin, Indiana.
Prior to coming here, when was the last
time you saw your son, Neil Avedon?
About five years ago.
Why so long?
I think James...
...l mean Neil, blames me for things
that happened during his childhood.
Am I correct in assuming
one of these things...
...was his relationship
with his late father?
Yes.
What did your husband do?
He worked for Bendix Brake
Linings in Bloomington...
...on the production line.
-Hard work?
-Very.
When Neil was a young boy...
...what kind of a relationship
did he have with him?
A normal father-son relationship.
They'd play catch in the backyard,
go fishing, that sort of thing.
Did this change at some point?
-Gradually, over the years.
Lou began having less time for Neil.
Any particular reason?
I don't think he got the promotions
he wanted.
lt made him bitter.
Did he change in any other way?
He began to drink...
...and take his frustrations out on Neil.
...and take his frustrations out on Neil.
In what way?
We'd sit at the dinner table...
...and no matter what Neil did,
it was wrong.
How he held his fork...
...how quickly or slowly he ate his food,
Lou criticized everything.
If Neil talked back,
Lou would start yelling.
And when Lou yelled,
you didn't want to get in his way.
You were likely to get
a smack across the face.
So he would hit Neil with his hands?
Or his belt. Yes.
And when this was happening,
what would you do?
Nothing.
Mrs. Rennick, what kind
of a student was Neil?
Outside of the school plays,
not much of one.
He had the ability,
he just never applied himself.
Why do you think that was?
-His father's criticism.
And in his freshman year in high school,
he started drinking.
Neil's sophomore year, did something
happen following a play...
...in which he appeared?
Yes.
Would you describe that for us?
Neil played Danny in a production of
Grease. He was quite good, even then.
Opening night,
his father never showed up.
Neil hid his disappointment,
but I could tell he was crushed.
When we got home, there was Lou,
on his fifth Scotch.
Did Neil ask him
why he missed his performance?
No.
But Lou started yelling at him anyway.
He told Neil that he'd never
amount to anything...
...that acting was for sissies.
Neil said something back...
...and Lou just started hitting him.
Of all the beatings I saw Neil take...
...that one was the worst.
What happened the next day?
Neil ran away from home.
Went to live with my brother
in Los Angeles.
He and his father never spoke again.
Did you have any further contact
with him?
After he got the part on All for One,
he'd send me money.
Sometimes with a brief letter.
About five years ago...
...he came back home to do a photo
shoot about where he grew up.
After he left...
...l found out he'd paid off
our mortgage.
Despite everything that had happened?
Yes.
Thank you, Mrs. Rennick.
Your witness.
Mrs. Rennick...
...did you give an interview to TV Guide
in March of 1991 ?
-Yes.
-You remember telling the interviewer:
"Neil had a happy childhood.
He had everything a boy
could possibly want"?
Yes. But I wasn't being truthful.
-Then or now?
-Then.
And what you're telling us now, ma'am,
isn't this the "abuse" excuse?
Neil isn't responsible because
his father disciplined him.
This wasn't discipline. This was abuse.
Well, let's see how this so-called
abuse has affected his life.
He's rich, he's famous...
...he's living out in Malibu. We should all
be so abused, wouldn't you say?
I wouldn't wish my son's childhood
on anyone, Mr. Washington.
-Because you love him.
-Yes.
Because you love him,
wouldn't you say or do anything...
...to keep your son from prison?
I wouldn't lie.
-You lied to TV Guide.
-That was different.
-With all due respect...
...haven't you concocted this story...
...to play on the jury's sympathies?
To get them to excuse your son's crime?
The crime is mine, Mr. Washington.
For 20 years, I've lived with guilt...
...of what I allowed Neil's father
to do to him.
l've seen my son's bitterness, the anger
in his eyes when he looks at me.
If I could take his place right now,
I'd do it.
I'd do it.
Maybe then he wouldn't hate me
for my weakness...
...for the terrible way I failed him.
I'm sorry, Neil.
I'm so sorry.
Please forgive me.
The prince of darkness.
Richard. Thanks for coming by.
I must admit, Teddy,
given our recent relations...
...l was surprised by your invitation.
Well, whatever our differences...
...l assume we share a common interest
in helping Neil.
Always.
In that regard...
...what can you tell me
about Eduardo Portalegre?
Besides the fact that he's handsome,
arrogant and cheats at doubles tennis?
Very little.
Very little.
Are you aware
that he was seeing Jessica?
Teddy, does this mean you suspect
young Eduardo in Jessica's death?
I thought that particular ring
of hell was reserved for me.
I try to remain flexible
on that point, Richard.
No offense, but that's
the first time I've heard...
...paranoia described as flexibility.
Then you won't mind indulging
my paranoia on another subject.
When did Justine Appleton's duties
for you expand to include matchmaking?
-I beg your pardon?
-When she asked to do work for you...
...it was my understanding
that she'd be buying paintings.
Now I'm informed that she arranged
the meeting which led to your marriage.
Teddy, I want you to know,
in all her activities on my behalf...
...Justine scrupulously avoided any
conflict of interest between us.
-Did she?
-Absolutely.
And as far as my marrying Julie goes...
...there's no way she could have
possibly anticipated that.
I barely anticipated it myself.
Somehow, Richard, impetuosity isn't
a characteristic I associate with you.
Well, I'm changing, Teddy.
A new marriage, a new life.
And if I'm not being too presumptuous,
a return to some civility...
...in our relationship.
I feel truly blessed.
You should.
So then we understand each
other regarding Justine?
Perfectly.
Paul Carter. with the case in recess...
...how badly has the prosecution
been hurt by Mark Washington's...
...overly aggressive questioning
of Neil Avedon's mother?
Well. Dean. any time you reduce
members of the jury to tears...
...those tears better be working
to your advantage.
ln this case. they weren't.
Well. we all know that Miriam
Grasso's husband died yesterday morning.
Should the prosecution have asked
for a delay rather than depend on...?
-Justine.
-Ted.
I was watching Law TV. We caught
a major break with Neil's mother.
I'm not here to talk about that.
I had a conversation with Richard Cross
this morning.
He informs me that you've
been working for him.
We had discussions.
I told you about them.
You told me that he wanted you
to buy a painting for him.
Now, I want to know...
...did you or did you not contravene
my instruction to turn him down?
-Ted, let me explain.
-Did you buy the painting?
-Yes.
-Did you deliberately mislead me...
...by failing to mention you arranged
for Richard to meet with Julie...
...on the night she disappeared?
I wouldn't characterize it as
deliberately misleading you.
But no, I didn't tell you
the entire truth.
-You're fired.
-Excuse me?
I can't have you working for me
anymore. I can't trust you.
Good morning.
Good morning.
For those of you who aren't aware,
Justine was terminated yesterday.
I'm not going to get into the details.
With all due respect, some of
us would like the details.
-Can you tell us it's final?
-Absolutely final.
As for further discussion,
we really haven't got time for it.
Lorraine Vitale did a phone poll last
night. Off Neil's mother's testimony...
-...we made a big dent in "not sure"--
-Excuse me, Chris.
Don't you think Justine
deserves a second chance?
If I thought she deserved a second
chance, I would have given her one.
I hope you're aware that
I don't fire people lightly.
Therefore, you can assume I did
what I did with justification.
If any of you want to take it up
with me...
...you can do it individually
in my office at a later date.
As I was saying, Lorraine likes
the numbers coming off...
...Mrs. Rennick's testimony,
and the jury...
...who bought into it big time.
When do we get her paperwork?
Full breakdown with matched
demographics in a day or so.
When the material comes, look for areas
where our numbers are weak.
We'll need strategies to shore them up.
Ted?
-Yes.
Miriam Grasso on the phone.
She'd like to see you
at your earliest convenience.
Tell her I'm on my way.
Sorry to haul you down here
like this, Ted.
Not a problem.
How are you doing?
I'm doing fine.
Thank you for the flowers.
The offer still stands, Miriam.
Anything I can do, anything at all,
consider it done.
Actually, I think I've got things
pretty much under control.
The will, notifying people....
The funeral, by the way, will be at
10 a.m. at Forest Lawn in Glendale.
Did you know that they call themselves
"bereavement counselors"...
...and they offer packages?
Just like booking a cruise.
Well, to the business at hand.
I thought we would explore
your client's future...
-...look at some alternatives.
-A deal?
-...look at some alternatives.
-A deal?
One, I take it, that would not
contemplate life imprisonment for Neil?
Well, before this trial began,
I told you I was willing...
...to look at involuntary manslaughter
with four years served.
Taking another look.
What, Teddy? It can't be that shocking.
I know we hurt you
with Neil's mother, Miriam.
But frankly, I'm more than a little
surprised you're offering terms...
-...at this stage of the proceedings.
-I can get you water if you like.
I still think that your client
is guilty of murder.
But there is the possibility
that one or two of the jurors...
...might have been swayed,
Iogic and evidence to the contrary.
This is uncharacteristic
of you, Miriam...
...this sudden loss of faith
in the jury system.
This is Los Angeles, Ted.
We both know how difficult it is
to convict a celebrity in this town.
It's a simple equation, really.
If I can put your client away
for four years, it beats a hung jury.
So can I assume that you'll take
this offer to your client?
-We'll decide by the end of the day.
-Good.
Ted.
I have to say, I feel I've been
terribly manipulated.
Really, Richard? Why is that?
Well, frankly, when we spoke yesterday,
I assumed that you...
...understood and sanctioned
my relationship with Justine.
ln the light of recent events,
I realize you pretended...
...to know more than you did.
We complement each other, since you
pretend to know so much less.
Ted, Justine is a very intelligent
and capable person.
I don't think she deserves
this draconian punishment.
Justine is a grownup.
She did what she did
with her eyes open.
Look, Ted, wait. Maybe
she was a little wide-eyed.
Perhaps even dazzled.
ln which case, it was her judgment
that was at fault, not her ethics.
Why don't you make me the snake
in the Garden of Eden?
Don't blame the victim.
Make no mistake, Richard,
I'm aware of your role in this affair.
You set out to corrupt one of my
associates, and you succeeded.
What could I possibly have to gain?
What you have to gain is access
to my private deliberations...
...and the opportunity to injure me.
Please don't insult my intelligence
any more than you already have.
I can see you're
becoming overwrought.
Actually, I'm fine. The harm you've
done to me is temporary.
It's nowhere near the harm
you've done to Justine.
Then acknowledge that fact
and reinstate her.
Are we done, Richard?
No. But I sense that you're
done, Teddy.
I'm never one to overstay my welcome.
I will accede to your desire for
closure. At least temporarily.
I hope that when the dust settles...
...you'll reconsider.
Goodbye, Teddy.
-Hey.
-Did I miss something this morning?
What would that be?
That would be your support
for Justine when her friends...
-...tried to fight to keep her employed.
-Uh-huh.
Yeah, you missed that.
So you agree with this
summary execution?
That's a--
That's a little extreme, isn't it?
I mean, you go out in the lobby,
that's Ted's name up there on the door.
-He's got the right to let her go.
-But not the justification.
-She screwed up, Lisa.
-Chris, she was your friend.
She's still my friend. But that doesn't
change the fact she screwed up.
Ted's got to be able to trust
the people that work for him.
I hope I never screw up.
Meaning?
We have to be able to trust
each other too, don't we?
What would you do if something
like this happened to me?
You wouldn't let it happen.
But hypothetically, what would you do
if I screwed up?
Would you back me or your boss?
ls this your version of a loyalty check?
I'm sorry, am I getting
a little too personal?
Don't make this into a war between
my ambition and my devotion to you.
Very cleverly put.
You should be a lawyer.
Look, we don't have to think the same
way just because we share a bed.
Bottom line, I agree with Ted.
lt doesn't make me a hypocrite,
doesn't make me a disloyal friend...
...and it doesn't make me a
future traitor to our relationship.
If you think that, then you
don't know me at all.
-Chris? Neil Avedon's in Ted's office.
-Okay.
Four years.
Which means I'll be out before I'm 30.
Neil, Miriam Grasso made
this offer for a reason.
The reason is, her side of the case
isn't going as well as she'd hoped.
How great is our side going, Ted?
Your mother was an extremely
effective witness.
A strong impression on the jury.
She got up and exposed to the world
how my father...
...used to beat the crap out of me.
A couple jurors misted up.
You think that gets me home free?
lt was very powerful testimony.
ls it going to wipe out
what those people said...
...about my violent nature?
How I choke women?
When the tears dry, they're still going
to hear Graham Lester's voice...
...saying I confessed to murder.
Neil, we've damaged Lester's testimony
by undermining his credibility.
Same with Susan Dominick.
When we get Richard Cross
back up on the stand...
...we'll position him, very credibly,
as the killer of Jessica Costello.
So that's what my freedom depends on?
Convicting Richard?
This is not about him. It's about
establishing a reasonable doubt for you.
I think we have a very good chance
of doing that.
So does Grasso, or she wouldn't
be making this offer.
I don't know.
When you look at what I've got
to gain against what I'm risking....
What you have to gain is your freedom.
If you want me to tell you there's
no risk, I can't do that.
What I can tell you is that
if you accept this offer...
...you'll be admitting that you
killed Jessica Costello.
And that'll follow you
for the rest of your life.
Hi.
Hello, Neil.
All packed and ready to go?
The hotel checkout was 11 :OO.
Mr. Hoffman said I could
wait here until....
Well, my flight leaves in three hours.
Oh, well, that's quite a while.
I have a magazine crossword puzzle.
You know what? Why don't
I drive you to the airport.
No, you really don't have to.
Mr. Docknovich said that...
...he would get someone
to take care of that.
Well, this will be better.
It'll give us some time together.
What your father did...
...l never wanted any of that
to happen.
I know.
Do you think my testifying
helped you, Neil?
I mean, do you think
the jurors understood?
Yeah, I do.
You know, sometimes a person...
...gets forced into a place
and they can't get out.
They get blamed...
...but it's not their fault.
Did you kill that girl, James?
No, Mom.
No, I did not.
My car's downstairs.
Let's get something to eat.
Bill Weingart called requesting a session
with you to review fees and charges.
The Bar Association luncheon has
been moved from Friday at noon...
...to Monday the 8th, same time.
And a Pepper Ladinsky called
with a problem.
-I'll call him in a few.
-One more item.
Justine is outside.
She'd like to have a moment.
Louis, I have nothing more
to say to Justine.
-Maybe she has something to say?
-I can't conceive of what that would be.
Should I tell her you're unavailable?
Show her in.
I know you're busy, Ted.
Thanks for seeing me.
Look, I understand why you fired me.
I probably would have fired me too.
-Justine--
-Wait.
I'm not gonna get down on my knees.
What I am going to do,
though, is crouch a little...
...own up to what I did
and try to explain.
I want you to know my purpose was
never to harm the Avedon case...
...or to harm this firm. I took a risk,
and it turned out to be a poor one.
I guess playing Mata Hari
isn't my strong suit.
ls that what you're claiming?
That you saw yourself as a
spy against Richard Cross?
lnitially, yes. I saw that possibility.
But you abandoned it, Justine.
Even if it had been a legitimate approach
in the first place, you dropped it.
lnstead, you directly contravened my
instructions against working for Richard...
...you revealed confidential information
which hurt our case...
...and then you lied about it.
Ted, if in firing me, your aim is to teach
me a lesson, I want to assure you...
...I'll never forget the lesson.
I didn't fire you
for instructional reasons.
There were very practical
considerations.
Well, then consider this.
Consider that I've spent four years
working for this firm.
That should count for something,
if not friendship or compassion.
lt should earn recognition
I'm a damn good lawyer...
...who can do a great deal
for this firm.
I don't question, and never have
questioned, your ability, Justine.
I made a mistake, Ted.
That's what it was.
A mistake.
I think you know I'm not
an unethical person.
But you did unethical things.
You left me no choice
except the one I made.
And I'm standing by it.
Well...
...you've said many times
all we can do is plead our case.
-Goodbye, Ted.
-Goodbye, Justine.
Louis...
...would you get Mr. Ladinsky
for me, please?
It's ringing.
To loyalty.
Which Ted Hoffman
could use a great big dose.
Ted Hoffman could use
a great many things.
Point is, he's not worth thinking about.
He's irrelevant to the only part
of your life that matters...
...your future.
I know that I should move on.
It's just that I had so much
going for me, and I blew it.
I mean, I can say goodbye
to being a partner anywhere.
Partner?
Justine, I think you're missing
the big picture.
When Chris Docknovich
is made a partner...
...he'll be working for you.
You didn't think I'd abandon my
friend in her time of need, did you?
Quite frankly, I didn't know
what to think.
Why don't you think about gambling.
I have a casino in Aruba that requires
a strong managerial hand.
I don't know.
Another adventure in the art world?
Richard, the only experience
I have is in litigation.
You learn fast, and you're loyal.
Those are the only two qualities
that I require.
To loyalty.
Do you have a moment, Miriam?
Welcome, Teddy.
I was beginning to wonder
if I was going to see you today.
We are gonna pass on the offer.
Remember, it's a one-time sale.
You pass now,
it's off the table for good.
I understand.
And your client understands?
We're gonna take our chances.
Why don't you try one of these.
For the past few days...
...people have been plying me
with all kinds of food...
...the universal sign of condolence.
-Very good.
-I used to shove this stuff at Harry.
Always nonfat, low-cholesterol.
He'd shove it right back,
say it tasted like dirt.
Your husband always had
a way with words.
Six months.
That's how long he had been
having chest pains.
And no matter how much I begged him,
he wouldn't do a damn thing about it.
And then...
...a couple of weeks ago...
...he had some numbness in his arm.
I said I was going to call the paramedics
if he didn't do something.
He said I was a pain in the ass,
but he would...
...he'd go to the doctor.
Just as soon as he finished this
SEC filing he had in New York.
Just as soon as he finished this
SEC filing he had in New York.
So I let him off the hook.
You did everything you could, Miriam.
But Harry was his own man.
The night before he was
to go to New York...
...he went downstairs,
and he got out his tape recorder...
...and he dictated a message to me.
Laid out where the insurance
policies were...
...the extra key to the safe
deposit box, stuff like that.
Then he wrote a letter to his brother
in Omaha, patching up an old feud.
And then the next morning...
...when he got out of the shower...
...before he could dry himself off...
...he was dead.
He was gonna retire in four years...
...and we were gonna travel,
just the two of us.
Maybe take a trip around the world.
Miriam...
...you can't let 25 years be defined
by what you didn't have.
I know what we had, Teddy,
and I'll always love him for it.
But I can't help it.
I'm having a hard time forgiving him.
I know that sounds stupid,
resenting a man for dying.
Wanting to yell at him...
...because he skipped out
on a chance...
...to wear the tie I bought him
for his birthday?
Oh, God, Teddy!
What am I gonna do?
Subtitles by
SDl Media Group
OCR extraction
by D.Lauper
All the evidence points
to a perpetrator...
...who knew the victim and had rough
sex with her prior to her murder.
the suspect:
Drug-addicted movie star. Neil Avedon.
We arrested Neil off the semen
in Jessica Costello...
...and his inconsistent statements
to the police.
You're hip-deep
in a rape homicide.
The trial.
I don't think I can get through this.
Now you're gonna depend on me
and put your faith in me.
And you will come out
on the other side.
Richard makes Justine an offer.
He wants me to fly to Amsterdam
to buy some painting.
He made a big show
of wanting it to be all right with you.
It's not.
Tell Richard you aren't interested.
Do we have something to celebrate?
-Excellent.
Only, about Ted.
I'd like to choose
the right time to tell him.
Richard calls in a favor.
I was beginning to feel
we had an understanding.
Because you gave me
a $75,OOO piece of art?
I can't discuss Julie's testimony.
I would like to know in advance if Julie
intends to do any permanent damage.
It's not because you fear
she might implicate you in the murder?
What are you doing here?
-Richard wanted to talk.
I thought it'd be all right.
Julie shows up in court
to bury the defense.
Are you acquainted with an individual
named Richard Cross?
Yes.
But isn't there some law about testifying
against your husband?
Richard and I were married
night before last in Reno.
A new suspect.
This is your second arrest for rape.
lt was not rape.
Do your 20 years
as a homicide detective...
...give you a strong sense that
Eduardo Portalegre...
...could be responsible
for Jessica's death?
If you're asking me if I think
he's capable of a rape-murder...
...the answer is yes.
Ted.
-Lorraine, hello.
I hope you don't shoot the messenger.
Depends. What's the message?
Our latest jury survey.
The results aren't very encouraging.
Okay, folks, let's get started.
Lorraine's got some poll results.
Okay, folks, let's get started.
Lorraine's got some poll results.
A survey of 525 adults...
...matched to the demographics
of our current jury...
...indicates that if the trial ended today,
59 percent would vote to convict.
-Only 18 percent think Neil's innocent.
-Thanks.
Fifty-nine percent?
That's almost no movement at all.
Even less comforting are the reasons
given by those voting.
Despite our assault on
Susan Dominick...
...24 percent still cite Dr. Lester's
contention that Neil confessed.
Sixteen percent cite the presence
of his semen in Jessica...
...and a disturbing 47 percent
believe Neil is the type of person...
-...who would commit such a crime.
-lt comes down to character.
More precisely, the perception
of Neil's character.
Toward that end,
Neil's mother arrives today.
Besides dishing up some mom and apple
pie, what are we hoping to accomplish?
Along with other witnesses,
a more sympathetic portrait of Neil.
Dragging my mother from Indiana--
It's a hell of a way to get it done.
You and your mother aren't close?
Try we haven't spoken in years.
I'm here for one reason, Mr. Hoffman.
Because my son needs me.
And Neil appreciates that,
Mrs. Rennick.
Neil. It's so hard for me to remember
that's what he calls himself now.
lt was always James back home.
-Are you settled in at your hotel?
-Yes. It's very nice.
Noisy, but nice.
-lf there's a problem, Mrs. Rennick--
-No, it's fine.
l've never been one to complain.
Our best estimate is that you'll be
testifying the day after tomorrow.
-Chris will be helping you prepare.
-Fine.
We'll be asking you about
Neil's childhood, the kind of boy he was.
We will have to get into his relationship
with Mr. Rennick.
I expected as much.
Neil and my late husband had
their share of difficulties.
That's one way to put it.
There's no need
to go into that here, Neil.
Yeah, right.
Just as long as you're clear on what
we're expecting, Mrs. Rennick.
You ask the questions, Mr. Hoffman,
I'll answer them.
I thought we'd start reviewing
your testimony over dinner tonight.
-ls there any type of food you prefer?
-Whatever you choose.
Neil, you're welcome to come along
if you'd like--
No. I can't.
I don't go out much anymore.
You don't need to explain.
It's been a pleasure meeting you,
Mrs. Rennick.
And you, Mr. Hoffman.
Mr. Docknovich.
Not exactly the Brady Bunch.
How'd it go with Mrs. Rennick?
I took her to dinner at Houston's.
lt may not be easy, but I think
she'll give us what we want.
Whatever your problems
with your mother...
...her testimony only helps us
if the jury sees a loving son.
You'll see it when she gets up there,
Ted. It's called acting.
All rise.
ln the Superior Court of Los Angeles...
...the Honorable Judge
Elizabeth Bornstein presiding.
We're on the record
in People v. Avedon.
ls there some reason why Ms. Grasso
and Mr. Washington are not present?
None that I know of, Your Honor.
Bailiff, will you check the hallway?
Begging your pardon, Your Honor.
Mr. Washington, sessions begin
promptly at 9:30.
Last time I checked,
the elevators were in running order.
I apologize for my tardiness, Your Honor.
May I approach?
Ms. Grasso's husband died of a massive
heart attack at 6:30 this morning.
Your Honor, in light of this tragedy...
...the defense would have
no objection...
...to a request from the people
for a continuance.
It's yours for the asking,
Mr. Washington.
Appreciated, but on Grasso's
instructions, I'm prepared to go forward.
Very well. Step back.
Bailiff, please bring in the jury.
Would you please state
your name for the record?
Karen Lockwood.
Were you acquainted
with Jessica Costello?
Yes, I was her sponsor over
at the West Hollywood chapter...
-...of Cocaine Anonymous.
-Approach, Your Honor?
Your Honor, the people object
to this witness...
...and fail to see her relevance.
She knew the deceased two weeks
and barely knew Mr. Avedon.
She observed their relationship.
The people have put on witnesses
who allegedly observed Avedon...
...on a single occasion. Are they now
seeking to deny our right...
...to rebut testimony through someone
with greater knowledge?
People's witnesses observed
Mr. Avedon's tendency to violence.
People's witnesses observed
Mr. Avedon's tendency to violence.
That Ms. Lockwood did not
is hardly probative.
If that's your point, Mr. Washington,
make it on cross-examination.
Your objection is overruled.
Miss Lockwood, how long
before her death did Jessica Costello...
...begin attending meetings
of Cocaine Anonymous?
About two weeks.
How did you happen to become
her sponsor?
We started talking
after one of the meetings.
I think she liked the fact
that I was young too.
She asked me to sponsor her,
I said okay.
-How was she doing?
-lt was a struggle for her...
...but I think she really wanted
to get clean.
During this time,
did you ever meet Neil Avedon?
Several times.
He'd drop her off and pick her up,
that sort of thing.
Would you say he was supportive
of her efforts to get clean?
Very. The first time that she slipped,
he insisted that she call me.
Please describe this incident.
About a week into
the program, Jessica began using again.
Neil went over and found her strung out.
He made her call me.
When I got there, you could just
see the concern in his eyes.
Jessica became abusive,
she started lashing out at him.
Neil just held her until she
calmed down.
So despite the fact Jessica became
physically abusive to him...
-...Neil didn't respond in kind?
-Like I said, he just held her.
In all the times
you saw them together...
...did Neil ever act as anything
but a loving boyfriend?
-Never.
-Thank you. Nothing further.
Are you aware that up until several
weeks after Ms. Costello's death...
...the defendant himself
used drugs and alcohol?
l've read that, yes.
-Did you ever see him high?
-Objection.
Calls for a medical conclusion.
The witness is a former drug user,
Your Honor. She's qualified to answer.
Overruled. The witness will answer.
Well, a couple of times I saw him,
he may have been on something.
Cocaine?
-I couldn't say.
-Come on, Miss Lockwood.
Weren't you in C.A.
for your own coke problem?
-Yes.
Then I repeat...
...did the defendant ever
demonstrate behavior...
...consistent with what you know
to be cocaine abuse?
-I guess he did.
Are you aware...
...that cocaine in sufficient quantities
can lead to paranoia, even violence?
I'm aware.
So it's entirely possible...
...that on other occasions...
...Mr. Avedon became violent with
Miss Costello after using cocaine.
It's possible.
He could've killed her
in such a state, correct?
-Objection. Calls for speculation.
Withdrawn.
I have no further questions
for this witness, Your Honor.
Get through to Miriam?
I left a message. She's with her family.
I didn't know her husband.
Did he have heart disease?
I saw him at a Bar Association dinner
three months ago.
He seemed to be the picture of health.
Ted. Chris.
I wasn't sure if I should come over,
in case you were still mad.
I was never mad at you, Julie.
Please sit down.
Thank you.
I just want you to know the decision
not to testify against Dr. Lester...
...was mine as much as Richard's.
Forgive me, but Richard seems to be able
to summon up your amnesia at will.
What happened at lephyr House,
his role in your sister's murder--
Ted, Richard had nothing
to do with Jessica's death.
Thanks to Justine, that's one
of the things we cleared up.
-Come again?
-The night we flew to Reno...
...Richard was at Justine's house
when I arrived.
After she went to bed,
Richard and I got coffee.
We talked everything out.
He asked me to marry him right there,
at Starbucks.
Over a decaf espresso. How romantic.
It's not moonlight and champagne,
but a girl takes what she can get.
I wish I could be as convinced of
Richard's innocence as you are, Julie.
But I do wish you happiness. After all
you've been through, you deserve it.
And we're still friends?
Of course.
You don't know how happy
that makes me.
Well, I should let you get to your lunch.
I'd like to think Justine
can explain this.
-You wanted to see me, Ted?
-Yes.
-You wanted to see me, Ted?
-Yes.
Shut the door. Sit down.
I ran into Julie Costello...
-...at lunch today.
-Mm-hm?
Anything else you'd like to tell me
about the night she disappeared?
Such as?
Such as the fact Richard Cross
was in your apartment that night.
Such as the fact Richard Cross
was in your apartment that night.
-I'm pretty sure I mentioned that.
-That he was there?
I don't think that's something
I'd forget.
Ted, I admit I was flustered
that morning...
...but I told you Richard dropped by.
All I remember you saying is that
Julie's bed hadn't been slept in.
That's not my recollection, but....
Ask the other associates.
If I'm wrong, it was an oversight.
However you characterize it, Justine...
...it was poor judgment to allow Richard
to have access to her.
He demanded to speak to her.
Should I have called the police?
You're a lot smarter than that, Justine.
Richard Cross arrives the night
before Julie is about to deliver...
...potentially damaging testimony
against him...
...and you suspect nothing?
There are 1000 ways you could have
refused him...
...short of dialing 911 .
Then you're right.
I made an error in judgment.
Which I trust you won't
Iet happen again.
Ted, I promise.
My Richard Cross radar
is on extra alert.
Miriam.
-Hi, Teddy.
-I'm so sorry about Harry.
-Thank you.
-lf there's anything I can do...
-...if you need a delay in the trial?
-No, that's the last thing I need.
-No, I'd much rather be here.
-Whatever helps.
The funeral will be Sunday. All
arrangements haven't been made yet...
...but I'll inform your office.
Mr. Strick, would you tell us
what you do for a living?
I'm an apartment manager for the
Carlton Apartments in Hollywood.
Did you ever meet Neil Avedon?
About 10 years ago. His uncle
used to live in the building.
When Neil moved here from Indiana,
that's who he moved in with.
How old was Neil then?
Maybe 15.
What were your impressions of him?
A real charmer. Good-looking as hell.
He hadn't gotten his big break
on All for One yet...
...but you could tell
he was going places.
-How well did you come to know him?
Pretty well.
Living in Hollywood,
I knew a lot about the old days.
Stewart Granger used to live
in the building.
Neil liked hearing the old stories.
I liked telling them.
He'd come home after being rejected
for some part, and I'd remind him...
...every one of those stars
on Hollywood Boulevard...
...was rejected 100 times
before they made it.
And when he got his role in All for One,
did Neil change?
Not toward me.
Even after he moved out to Malibu,
he'd still come back to see me.
When my wife died two years ago,
Neil gave me some money...
...to tide me over.
I tried to pay him back,
but he wouldn't accept it.
He said he owed me more than that
for encouraging him...
...back when he was nobody.
I'll tell you...
...it really touched me.
When you hear Neil described
in this courtroom as a violent...
...self-centered drug addict...
-...do you recognize that person?
-No.
That's not the Neil I know.
My first acting class, Neil was there.
He had already gotten the part
on All for One...
...but I guess they thought
he should still take classes.
Uh, our teacher was a screamer.
He was a real tyrant.
And I was given a scene to do
with Neil.
I was petrified.
And the first run-through,
I just screwed up royally.
And the teacher just unloaded on me.
And Neil came to my defense.
He said that he was the one
who had screwed up...
...by not giving me enough to play off
of, which was totally untrue, of course.
But I appreciated him saying that.
-Did you see him after that?
We went for coffee...
...and he gave me tips
on acting and agents.
We became pretty good friends.
Even though my career never took off.
Subsequently, Miss Reese,
did you work with Neil professionally?
Yeah, a couple of years later, I was
visiting Neil on the set of All for One.
He was really big then.
He was in all the teen magazines.
And I mentioned to him that I could
really use a day part...
...to keep my health insurance.
And he called his producer over, and
they gave me a guest role on the show.
I played this girl that Neil's character
gets stuck in an elevator with.
I got a lot of work off of it too.
Did Neil ask for anything in return?
If you mean did he come on to me, no.
Neil helped me for only one reason...
...the goodness of his heart.
Your Honor, defense calls
Jeannette Rennick to the stand.
Mrs. Rennick, where do you reside?
Franklin, Indiana.
Prior to coming here, when was the last
time you saw your son, Neil Avedon?
About five years ago.
Why so long?
I think James...
...l mean Neil, blames me for things
that happened during his childhood.
Am I correct in assuming
one of these things...
...was his relationship
with his late father?
Yes.
What did your husband do?
He worked for Bendix Brake
Linings in Bloomington...
...on the production line.
-Hard work?
-Very.
When Neil was a young boy...
...what kind of a relationship
did he have with him?
A normal father-son relationship.
They'd play catch in the backyard,
go fishing, that sort of thing.
Did this change at some point?
-Gradually, over the years.
Lou began having less time for Neil.
Any particular reason?
I don't think he got the promotions
he wanted.
lt made him bitter.
Did he change in any other way?
He began to drink...
...and take his frustrations out on Neil.
...and take his frustrations out on Neil.
In what way?
We'd sit at the dinner table...
...and no matter what Neil did,
it was wrong.
How he held his fork...
...how quickly or slowly he ate his food,
Lou criticized everything.
If Neil talked back,
Lou would start yelling.
And when Lou yelled,
you didn't want to get in his way.
You were likely to get
a smack across the face.
So he would hit Neil with his hands?
Or his belt. Yes.
And when this was happening,
what would you do?
Nothing.
Mrs. Rennick, what kind
of a student was Neil?
Outside of the school plays,
not much of one.
He had the ability,
he just never applied himself.
Why do you think that was?
-His father's criticism.
And in his freshman year in high school,
he started drinking.
Neil's sophomore year, did something
happen following a play...
...in which he appeared?
Yes.
Would you describe that for us?
Neil played Danny in a production of
Grease. He was quite good, even then.
Opening night,
his father never showed up.
Neil hid his disappointment,
but I could tell he was crushed.
When we got home, there was Lou,
on his fifth Scotch.
Did Neil ask him
why he missed his performance?
No.
But Lou started yelling at him anyway.
He told Neil that he'd never
amount to anything...
...that acting was for sissies.
Neil said something back...
...and Lou just started hitting him.
Of all the beatings I saw Neil take...
...that one was the worst.
What happened the next day?
Neil ran away from home.
Went to live with my brother
in Los Angeles.
He and his father never spoke again.
Did you have any further contact
with him?
After he got the part on All for One,
he'd send me money.
Sometimes with a brief letter.
About five years ago...
...he came back home to do a photo
shoot about where he grew up.
After he left...
...l found out he'd paid off
our mortgage.
Despite everything that had happened?
Yes.
Thank you, Mrs. Rennick.
Your witness.
Mrs. Rennick...
...did you give an interview to TV Guide
in March of 1991 ?
-Yes.
-You remember telling the interviewer:
"Neil had a happy childhood.
He had everything a boy
could possibly want"?
Yes. But I wasn't being truthful.
-Then or now?
-Then.
And what you're telling us now, ma'am,
isn't this the "abuse" excuse?
Neil isn't responsible because
his father disciplined him.
This wasn't discipline. This was abuse.
Well, let's see how this so-called
abuse has affected his life.
He's rich, he's famous...
...he's living out in Malibu. We should all
be so abused, wouldn't you say?
I wouldn't wish my son's childhood
on anyone, Mr. Washington.
-Because you love him.
-Yes.
Because you love him,
wouldn't you say or do anything...
...to keep your son from prison?
I wouldn't lie.
-You lied to TV Guide.
-That was different.
-With all due respect...
...haven't you concocted this story...
...to play on the jury's sympathies?
To get them to excuse your son's crime?
The crime is mine, Mr. Washington.
For 20 years, I've lived with guilt...
...of what I allowed Neil's father
to do to him.
l've seen my son's bitterness, the anger
in his eyes when he looks at me.
If I could take his place right now,
I'd do it.
I'd do it.
Maybe then he wouldn't hate me
for my weakness...
...for the terrible way I failed him.
I'm sorry, Neil.
I'm so sorry.
Please forgive me.
The prince of darkness.
Richard. Thanks for coming by.
I must admit, Teddy,
given our recent relations...
...l was surprised by your invitation.
Well, whatever our differences...
...l assume we share a common interest
in helping Neil.
Always.
In that regard...
...what can you tell me
about Eduardo Portalegre?
Besides the fact that he's handsome,
arrogant and cheats at doubles tennis?
Very little.
Very little.
Are you aware
that he was seeing Jessica?
Teddy, does this mean you suspect
young Eduardo in Jessica's death?
I thought that particular ring
of hell was reserved for me.
I try to remain flexible
on that point, Richard.
No offense, but that's
the first time I've heard...
...paranoia described as flexibility.
Then you won't mind indulging
my paranoia on another subject.
When did Justine Appleton's duties
for you expand to include matchmaking?
-I beg your pardon?
-When she asked to do work for you...
...it was my understanding
that she'd be buying paintings.
Now I'm informed that she arranged
the meeting which led to your marriage.
Teddy, I want you to know,
in all her activities on my behalf...
...Justine scrupulously avoided any
conflict of interest between us.
-Did she?
-Absolutely.
And as far as my marrying Julie goes...
...there's no way she could have
possibly anticipated that.
I barely anticipated it myself.
Somehow, Richard, impetuosity isn't
a characteristic I associate with you.
Well, I'm changing, Teddy.
A new marriage, a new life.
And if I'm not being too presumptuous,
a return to some civility...
...in our relationship.
I feel truly blessed.
You should.
So then we understand each
other regarding Justine?
Perfectly.
Paul Carter. with the case in recess...
...how badly has the prosecution
been hurt by Mark Washington's...
...overly aggressive questioning
of Neil Avedon's mother?
Well. Dean. any time you reduce
members of the jury to tears...
...those tears better be working
to your advantage.
ln this case. they weren't.
Well. we all know that Miriam
Grasso's husband died yesterday morning.
Should the prosecution have asked
for a delay rather than depend on...?
-Justine.
-Ted.
I was watching Law TV. We caught
a major break with Neil's mother.
I'm not here to talk about that.
I had a conversation with Richard Cross
this morning.
He informs me that you've
been working for him.
We had discussions.
I told you about them.
You told me that he wanted you
to buy a painting for him.
Now, I want to know...
...did you or did you not contravene
my instruction to turn him down?
-Ted, let me explain.
-Did you buy the painting?
-Yes.
-Did you deliberately mislead me...
...by failing to mention you arranged
for Richard to meet with Julie...
...on the night she disappeared?
I wouldn't characterize it as
deliberately misleading you.
But no, I didn't tell you
the entire truth.
-You're fired.
-Excuse me?
I can't have you working for me
anymore. I can't trust you.
Good morning.
Good morning.
For those of you who aren't aware,
Justine was terminated yesterday.
I'm not going to get into the details.
With all due respect, some of
us would like the details.
-Can you tell us it's final?
-Absolutely final.
As for further discussion,
we really haven't got time for it.
Lorraine Vitale did a phone poll last
night. Off Neil's mother's testimony...
-...we made a big dent in "not sure"--
-Excuse me, Chris.
Don't you think Justine
deserves a second chance?
If I thought she deserved a second
chance, I would have given her one.
I hope you're aware that
I don't fire people lightly.
Therefore, you can assume I did
what I did with justification.
If any of you want to take it up
with me...
...you can do it individually
in my office at a later date.
As I was saying, Lorraine likes
the numbers coming off...
...Mrs. Rennick's testimony,
and the jury...
...who bought into it big time.
When do we get her paperwork?
Full breakdown with matched
demographics in a day or so.
When the material comes, look for areas
where our numbers are weak.
We'll need strategies to shore them up.
Ted?
-Yes.
Miriam Grasso on the phone.
She'd like to see you
at your earliest convenience.
Tell her I'm on my way.
Sorry to haul you down here
like this, Ted.
Not a problem.
How are you doing?
I'm doing fine.
Thank you for the flowers.
The offer still stands, Miriam.
Anything I can do, anything at all,
consider it done.
Actually, I think I've got things
pretty much under control.
The will, notifying people....
The funeral, by the way, will be at
10 a.m. at Forest Lawn in Glendale.
Did you know that they call themselves
"bereavement counselors"...
...and they offer packages?
Just like booking a cruise.
Well, to the business at hand.
I thought we would explore
your client's future...
-...look at some alternatives.
-A deal?
-...look at some alternatives.
-A deal?
One, I take it, that would not
contemplate life imprisonment for Neil?
Well, before this trial began,
I told you I was willing...
...to look at involuntary manslaughter
with four years served.
Taking another look.
What, Teddy? It can't be that shocking.
I know we hurt you
with Neil's mother, Miriam.
But frankly, I'm more than a little
surprised you're offering terms...
-...at this stage of the proceedings.
-I can get you water if you like.
I still think that your client
is guilty of murder.
But there is the possibility
that one or two of the jurors...
...might have been swayed,
Iogic and evidence to the contrary.
This is uncharacteristic
of you, Miriam...
...this sudden loss of faith
in the jury system.
This is Los Angeles, Ted.
We both know how difficult it is
to convict a celebrity in this town.
It's a simple equation, really.
If I can put your client away
for four years, it beats a hung jury.
So can I assume that you'll take
this offer to your client?
-We'll decide by the end of the day.
-Good.
Ted.
I have to say, I feel I've been
terribly manipulated.
Really, Richard? Why is that?
Well, frankly, when we spoke yesterday,
I assumed that you...
...understood and sanctioned
my relationship with Justine.
ln the light of recent events,
I realize you pretended...
...to know more than you did.
We complement each other, since you
pretend to know so much less.
Ted, Justine is a very intelligent
and capable person.
I don't think she deserves
this draconian punishment.
Justine is a grownup.
She did what she did
with her eyes open.
Look, Ted, wait. Maybe
she was a little wide-eyed.
Perhaps even dazzled.
ln which case, it was her judgment
that was at fault, not her ethics.
Why don't you make me the snake
in the Garden of Eden?
Don't blame the victim.
Make no mistake, Richard,
I'm aware of your role in this affair.
You set out to corrupt one of my
associates, and you succeeded.
What could I possibly have to gain?
What you have to gain is access
to my private deliberations...
...and the opportunity to injure me.
Please don't insult my intelligence
any more than you already have.
I can see you're
becoming overwrought.
Actually, I'm fine. The harm you've
done to me is temporary.
It's nowhere near the harm
you've done to Justine.
Then acknowledge that fact
and reinstate her.
Are we done, Richard?
No. But I sense that you're
done, Teddy.
I'm never one to overstay my welcome.
I will accede to your desire for
closure. At least temporarily.
I hope that when the dust settles...
...you'll reconsider.
Goodbye, Teddy.
-Hey.
-Did I miss something this morning?
What would that be?
That would be your support
for Justine when her friends...
-...tried to fight to keep her employed.
-Uh-huh.
Yeah, you missed that.
So you agree with this
summary execution?
That's a--
That's a little extreme, isn't it?
I mean, you go out in the lobby,
that's Ted's name up there on the door.
-He's got the right to let her go.
-But not the justification.
-She screwed up, Lisa.
-Chris, she was your friend.
She's still my friend. But that doesn't
change the fact she screwed up.
Ted's got to be able to trust
the people that work for him.
I hope I never screw up.
Meaning?
We have to be able to trust
each other too, don't we?
What would you do if something
like this happened to me?
You wouldn't let it happen.
But hypothetically, what would you do
if I screwed up?
Would you back me or your boss?
ls this your version of a loyalty check?
I'm sorry, am I getting
a little too personal?
Don't make this into a war between
my ambition and my devotion to you.
Very cleverly put.
You should be a lawyer.
Look, we don't have to think the same
way just because we share a bed.
Bottom line, I agree with Ted.
lt doesn't make me a hypocrite,
doesn't make me a disloyal friend...
...and it doesn't make me a
future traitor to our relationship.
If you think that, then you
don't know me at all.
-Chris? Neil Avedon's in Ted's office.
-Okay.
Four years.
Which means I'll be out before I'm 30.
Neil, Miriam Grasso made
this offer for a reason.
The reason is, her side of the case
isn't going as well as she'd hoped.
How great is our side going, Ted?
Your mother was an extremely
effective witness.
A strong impression on the jury.
She got up and exposed to the world
how my father...
...used to beat the crap out of me.
A couple jurors misted up.
You think that gets me home free?
lt was very powerful testimony.
ls it going to wipe out
what those people said...
...about my violent nature?
How I choke women?
When the tears dry, they're still going
to hear Graham Lester's voice...
...saying I confessed to murder.
Neil, we've damaged Lester's testimony
by undermining his credibility.
Same with Susan Dominick.
When we get Richard Cross
back up on the stand...
...we'll position him, very credibly,
as the killer of Jessica Costello.
So that's what my freedom depends on?
Convicting Richard?
This is not about him. It's about
establishing a reasonable doubt for you.
I think we have a very good chance
of doing that.
So does Grasso, or she wouldn't
be making this offer.
I don't know.
When you look at what I've got
to gain against what I'm risking....
What you have to gain is your freedom.
If you want me to tell you there's
no risk, I can't do that.
What I can tell you is that
if you accept this offer...
...you'll be admitting that you
killed Jessica Costello.
And that'll follow you
for the rest of your life.
Hi.
Hello, Neil.
All packed and ready to go?
The hotel checkout was 11 :OO.
Mr. Hoffman said I could
wait here until....
Well, my flight leaves in three hours.
Oh, well, that's quite a while.
I have a magazine crossword puzzle.
You know what? Why don't
I drive you to the airport.
No, you really don't have to.
Mr. Docknovich said that...
...he would get someone
to take care of that.
Well, this will be better.
It'll give us some time together.
What your father did...
...l never wanted any of that
to happen.
I know.
Do you think my testifying
helped you, Neil?
I mean, do you think
the jurors understood?
Yeah, I do.
You know, sometimes a person...
...gets forced into a place
and they can't get out.
They get blamed...
...but it's not their fault.
Did you kill that girl, James?
No, Mom.
No, I did not.
My car's downstairs.
Let's get something to eat.
Bill Weingart called requesting a session
with you to review fees and charges.
The Bar Association luncheon has
been moved from Friday at noon...
...to Monday the 8th, same time.
And a Pepper Ladinsky called
with a problem.
-I'll call him in a few.
-One more item.
Justine is outside.
She'd like to have a moment.
Louis, I have nothing more
to say to Justine.
-Maybe she has something to say?
-I can't conceive of what that would be.
Should I tell her you're unavailable?
Show her in.
I know you're busy, Ted.
Thanks for seeing me.
Look, I understand why you fired me.
I probably would have fired me too.
-Justine--
-Wait.
I'm not gonna get down on my knees.
What I am going to do,
though, is crouch a little...
...own up to what I did
and try to explain.
I want you to know my purpose was
never to harm the Avedon case...
...or to harm this firm. I took a risk,
and it turned out to be a poor one.
I guess playing Mata Hari
isn't my strong suit.
ls that what you're claiming?
That you saw yourself as a
spy against Richard Cross?
lnitially, yes. I saw that possibility.
But you abandoned it, Justine.
Even if it had been a legitimate approach
in the first place, you dropped it.
lnstead, you directly contravened my
instructions against working for Richard...
...you revealed confidential information
which hurt our case...
...and then you lied about it.
Ted, if in firing me, your aim is to teach
me a lesson, I want to assure you...
...I'll never forget the lesson.
I didn't fire you
for instructional reasons.
There were very practical
considerations.
Well, then consider this.
Consider that I've spent four years
working for this firm.
That should count for something,
if not friendship or compassion.
lt should earn recognition
I'm a damn good lawyer...
...who can do a great deal
for this firm.
I don't question, and never have
questioned, your ability, Justine.
I made a mistake, Ted.
That's what it was.
A mistake.
I think you know I'm not
an unethical person.
But you did unethical things.
You left me no choice
except the one I made.
And I'm standing by it.
Well...
...you've said many times
all we can do is plead our case.
-Goodbye, Ted.
-Goodbye, Justine.
Louis...
...would you get Mr. Ladinsky
for me, please?
It's ringing.
To loyalty.
Which Ted Hoffman
could use a great big dose.
Ted Hoffman could use
a great many things.
Point is, he's not worth thinking about.
He's irrelevant to the only part
of your life that matters...
...your future.
I know that I should move on.
It's just that I had so much
going for me, and I blew it.
I mean, I can say goodbye
to being a partner anywhere.
Partner?
Justine, I think you're missing
the big picture.
When Chris Docknovich
is made a partner...
...he'll be working for you.
You didn't think I'd abandon my
friend in her time of need, did you?
Quite frankly, I didn't know
what to think.
Why don't you think about gambling.
I have a casino in Aruba that requires
a strong managerial hand.
I don't know.
Another adventure in the art world?
Richard, the only experience
I have is in litigation.
You learn fast, and you're loyal.
Those are the only two qualities
that I require.
To loyalty.
Do you have a moment, Miriam?
Welcome, Teddy.
I was beginning to wonder
if I was going to see you today.
We are gonna pass on the offer.
Remember, it's a one-time sale.
You pass now,
it's off the table for good.
I understand.
And your client understands?
We're gonna take our chances.
Why don't you try one of these.
For the past few days...
...people have been plying me
with all kinds of food...
...the universal sign of condolence.
-Very good.
-I used to shove this stuff at Harry.
Always nonfat, low-cholesterol.
He'd shove it right back,
say it tasted like dirt.
Your husband always had
a way with words.
Six months.
That's how long he had been
having chest pains.
And no matter how much I begged him,
he wouldn't do a damn thing about it.
And then...
...a couple of weeks ago...
...he had some numbness in his arm.
I said I was going to call the paramedics
if he didn't do something.
He said I was a pain in the ass,
but he would...
...he'd go to the doctor.
Just as soon as he finished this
SEC filing he had in New York.
Just as soon as he finished this
SEC filing he had in New York.
So I let him off the hook.
You did everything you could, Miriam.
But Harry was his own man.
The night before he was
to go to New York...
...he went downstairs,
and he got out his tape recorder...
...and he dictated a message to me.
Laid out where the insurance
policies were...
...the extra key to the safe
deposit box, stuff like that.
Then he wrote a letter to his brother
in Omaha, patching up an old feud.
And then the next morning...
...when he got out of the shower...
...before he could dry himself off...
...he was dead.
He was gonna retire in four years...
...and we were gonna travel,
just the two of us.
Maybe take a trip around the world.
Miriam...
...you can't let 25 years be defined
by what you didn't have.
I know what we had, Teddy,
and I'll always love him for it.
But I can't help it.
I'm having a hard time forgiving him.
I know that sounds stupid,
resenting a man for dying.
Wanting to yell at him...
...because he skipped out
on a chance...
...to wear the tie I bought him
for his birthday?
Oh, God, Teddy!
What am I gonna do?
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