Behind closed doors
Szenen aus der Zürcher Justiz
I focus on high-profile cases that the public is eager to see but cannot be photographed due to privacy concerns. Typically, the accused is likely guilty, raising questions about how to mitigate their punishment. My visits evoke mixed emotions, as I document the dynamics within the courtroom, aiming to make the situation comprehensible to the public. I often ponder the true nature of criminality, especially when the accused appears without handcuffs or in an unusual seat. Listening to judges’ questions reveals their backgrounds and experiences, often eliciting sympathy for the accused. While 99% of judges perform admirably, they navigate sensitive inquiries to uncover the reasons behind the offenses. Many judges strive to create a comfortable atmosphere for the accused, fostering a sense of familiarity. This approach sheds light on the circumstances leading to unlawful behavior, as seen in cases like Osterwalder's, where past trauma influenced actions. I also observe the body language of everyone present, from the accused to lawyers and witnesses, noting how attire and physical demeanor can reflect their emotional states. My role is not to identify with victims but to foster understanding. In particularly intense cases, such as the Parkhaus murder in Zurich, I consciously avoid eye contact with the accused, who openly expressed her struggle with aggression, highlighting the complex emotions involved in such close proximity to
