Chapter 14 - Clarissa’s criminal case
Clarissa was charged with misdemeanor assault causing bodily injury.
Pregnancy made prosecutors cautious, but they did not inflate the offense without evidence of serious maternal or fetal injury.
She pleaded not guilty.
Defense argued:
She intended to pull the chair away as part of a verbal confrontation.
She did not expect me to fall so hard.
That did not erase intent to yank a chair during sitting.
The video was clear.
Medical records showed:
Bruised hip.
Back strain.
No placental injury identified.
No premature labor.
No lasting fetal harm.
Clarissa eventually accepted a plea.
Misdemeanor assault.
Eighteen months probation.
Community service.
Anger-management counseling.
No contact with me.
Restitution for documented uninsured medical expenses from the fall.
No prison.
Dorian attended sentencing.
I did not.
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My father went with me to a prenatal appointment instead.
That was where I wanted my energy.
