In a criminal case the plantif (DA) presents their case first. Why would Jack a defense witness be called before Diane Jensen (Kate's mom) who is testifying for the people (plantif)?
She was charged with
- Fraud
Arson
Assault on a Federal Officer
Assault with a deadly weapon
Grand larceny
Grand theft auto
Murder in the first degree
I wonder why the DA folded so easily. Even if she could not get Kate's mother to testify, she had circumstantial effidence. A good DA would even had sought out her father who called the police on her. She confessed to him. There would also be a ton of witness concerning the other offenses plus the assault on a federal officer would be well documented. She could have even served time on being a fugitive.
Ah the beauty of fiction.