Nitrate

The Staircase · S1 · E8

The Verdict

  • TV-MA
  • Oct 28, 2004
  • 49 min
  • 8.6

Is Michael Peterson guilty or not guilty? The jury delivers its verdict regarding the mysterious death of his wife, Kathleen.

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About this episode

Is Michael Peterson guilty or not guilty? The jury delivers its verdict regarding the mysterious death of his wife, Kathleen.

Season 1

13 episodes
  1. 1Crime or Accident?

    47 minOct 7, 20046.8

    Following his wife's suspicious death, Michael Peterson speaks about his version of the events while lawyers and expert witnesses prepare for trial.

  2. 2Secrets and Lies

    45 minOct 7, 20046.1

    As Michael's hidden life comes out into the open, defense experts debate if it will have a significant impact on the coming trial.

  3. 3A Striking Coincidence

    46 minOct 14, 20047.1

    The death of another woman close to Peterson from 17 years earlier sparks a new investigation. She also died on a staircase, casting major doubts over the defense case.

  4. 4A Prosecution Trickery

    44 minOct 14, 20047.4

    As the trial looms and media attention heats up, an autopsy report's wording ruffles the feathers of the defense team.

  5. 5A Weak Case

    47 minOct 21, 20047.4

    The prosecution presents its case while the defense strives to cast a reasonable doubt within the minds of the jury.

  6. 6The Prosecution's Revenge

    47 minOct 21, 20047.4

    A witness brings surprising levity to the stand. The judge rules on an important matter, and Michael's alleged temper comes under scrutiny.

  7. 7The Blow Poke Returns

    50 minOct 28, 20047.7

    Kathleen's sisters pore over Michael's writings. Jurors visit the staircase at Michael's home. A vital piece of evidence reappears.

  8. 8The Verdict

    49 minOct 28, 20048.6Now viewing

    Is Michael Peterson guilty or not guilty? The jury delivers its verdict regarding the mysterious death of his wife, Kathleen.

  9. 9Reopening the Case

    55 minJan 30, 20137.6

    Eight years later, the possibility that a key witness for the prosecution may have misled the jury could prompt the need for a new trial.

  10. 10The Last Chance

    52 minJan 30, 20137.6

    After more experts testify about the questionable conclusions and claims of Duane Deaver, the judge rules on whether a new trial is necessary.

  11. 11Looking for Closure

    52 minJun 8, 20187.6

    Following two and a half years of house arrest, Michael must decide whether to push for a plea or risk his freedom with a new trial.

  12. 12Between Anger and Despair

    46 minJun 8, 20187.5

    Their faith in the justice system forever shaken, Michael and his family discuss what they can hope to achieve by continuing the fight.

  13. 13Flawed Justice

    46 minJun 8, 20188.1

    Michael speaks to a reporter about the reasons behind his plea. Later, Kathleen's sister delivers a statement of defiance in court.