The evidence had to be considered according to what it actually showed.

Marlene’s attorney challenged whether portions of her statements might have resulted from misunderstanding.

Alvarez acknowledged that possibility where appropriate.

Then explained that the recorded audio could be compared with the accounts given afterward.

I watched the process.

For months, I had expected someone to believe me based on how much I was suffering.

But the court wasn’t deciding which person sounded more hurt.

It was examining records.