The Trial: A Murder in the Family
Season 1
"The Trial" is a brand-new, ground-breaking five-part series to be spread across one week on Channel 4. A fictional crime will be authentically tried by a team that includes eminent practicing QCs, a genuine judge, and a jury of 12 members of the public. The only actors include the accused--a man who is pleading not guilty for the murder of his wife--the deceased, and some of the witnesses. A thrilling hybrid of drama and documentary, "The Trial" aims to both hook viewers with the real twists and turns of a criminal murder trial and reveal the inner workings of the justice system as never seen before. Secrets of what being a juror entails will be revealed when cameras follow them into the deliberation room as they try to reach their verdict. The trial centers around the murder of 38-year-old Carla Davis, who was strangled to death in her own home. The accused is her estranged husband, Simon. The prosecution is led by Max Hill QC with junior barrister Michelle Nelson. Defendant Davis is represented by John Ryder QC and junior barrister Lucy Organ. Presiding is Judge Brian Barker CBE QC--formerly the most senior judge at the Old Bailey. Giving evidence at the trial will be forensic experts, police officers and eye witnesses as well as friends and relatives of both the deceased and the accused.
Where to Watch Season 1
5 Episodes
- Episode 2
E2Episode 2The trial continues with key evidence from Carla and Simon's friends, colleagues and family. They're all subjected to rigorous cross-examination from the defence and prosecution teams. As details emerge of Simon and Carla's personal histories and questionable past behaviour, the jurors begin to form a fuller picture of why they separated and what their relationship was like at the time of Carla's death. Can Simon remain impassive as the emotional testimonies mount up? - Episode 3
E3Episode 3The end of the trial draws near, with two key players still to speak. First up is Lewis Skinner, Carla's boyfriend at the time of her death, who has a few secrets of his own. While the prosecution position him as a man bereaved, the defence argue that, as a potential alternative suspect for the murder, both his presence and actions present sufficient reasonable doubt for Simon to be acquitted. How will he fare on the stand? Meanwhile, a critical decision looms for the accused. - Episode 4
E4Episode 4The final evidence is heard, QCs John Ryder and Max Hill offer their closing speeches and Judge Brian Barker gives his summing-up address, before the jurors are sent down to begin their deliberations. Offering an unprecedented insight into a jury's decision-making process, cameras capture every highly charged debate and dilemma, from the selection of a chairperson to the fate of the defendant.
