Page 129 of The Advocate’s Ultimatum

Juvenile delinquency calendars had their own rhythm. They were quieter than criminal court, but no less urgent, and often carrying consequences people underestimated because the voices were softer.

Department Five was already half full when Sabre stepped in. County Counsel shuffled some files. The probation officer sat nearby with his clipboard and practiced fatigue. A deputy stood near the side door watching every move.

Judge Hammouri took the bench precisely at eight-thirty. She was sharp-eyed, efficient, and unimpressed by theatrics.

Sabre slid into the second row. She was there as an observer, not counsel of record. Ethan Vale sat at the table beside Bay.

Bay wore county-issued clothing and looked smaller than she did in interview rooms, though Sabre knew appearances meant little with her.

The clerk called the matter. “On calendar, In re Bay Mercer.”

Vale stood. “Good morning, Your Honor.”

County counsel rose as well.

Judge Hammouri looked down at the file. “This matter returns for placement review and related concerns. I’ve read the reports, and I’m dissatisfied with nearly all of them.”

No one seemed surprised.

She turned to County Counsel. “What is the Department’s recommendation?”

“Continued custody based on the charges, Your Honor. Even if we wanted to send her home, which we don’t, we couldn’t since we have no idea where that is.”

Judge Hammouri looked to Vale.

“Response?”

“Your Honor, Ms. Mercer is a young adult with no known juvenile history before this matter, no established support network, and significant indicators she has lived under unusual isolation and control. We have reason to believe another young woman may be in danger as well. We are requesting release to a less restrictive supervised placement, as well as a continuance to gather more evidence.”

County Counsel rose immediately. “The Department opposes release of any sort. Ms. Mercer has provided virtually no verifiable history, no address, no employment, and no family contact. We do not know where she has been living or with whom.”

Judge Hammouri nodded. “That much is painfully clear.”

She looked at Bay. “Ms. Mercer, you are not required to speak. I’m not inviting you to. But understand that this court cannot place you safely if no one gives us facts.”

Bay said nothing. Her posture stayed still, but Sabre watched the tiny movements others missed. The girl’s eyes darted to the door, then windows, and back to the table.

Hammouri turned again to Vale. “You say control and isolation. By whom?”

Vale chose his words carefully. “By persons not presently before the court.”

County Counsel objected. “That is speculation.”

Hammouri didn’t bother looking over. “So is half your report. You know nothing about this young woman either.”

The courtroom went quiet.

The judge faced Vale again. “Do you have a verified address for release?”

“No, Your Honor.”

“Any responsible adult volunteering placement?”

“Not yet.”

“Employment?”

“No.”