2. The Death Zone

Complete story — includes the ending

The author of a book about a Mount Everest expedition is being sued for libel, and Lockhart/Gardner is handling his case. The plaintiff claims that the book makes it look like he let a man die near the top of the mountain to get to the peak and his reputation has suffered ever since. After Will gets the case dismissed in US court, though, the plaintiff decides to re-sue in the British courts. Lockhart/Gardner must defend their case again, this time in an unfamiliar judicial system where the burden of proof lies with the defendant. Eli and Kalinda work together to try and uncover a political scandal before it happens. As part of Peter's duties as the new state's attorney, he must find a law firm to handle the county's civil needs. Diane believes that Lockhart/Gardner has the inside track to win the job, and she is startled when Peter seems to be setting them up by telling her that the firm will need to submit to a voluntary audit if they want to be considered for the contract. For the first time, the partners of Lockhart/Gardner question Alicia's true allegiance.