Episode 5 - The Trial: The fight for justice now begins. Ruby’s perpetrators belong behind bars, but their lawyer will do anything to stop that from happening.

Ruby and the girls from the house are brought to the DSWD for safekeeping while the criminal trial against the perpetrators is prepared.

Ruby’s fierce young lawyer, Attorney Kath of IJM, AKA ‘The Dainty Dragon’ is introduced for the first time, and we learn how her own life story of hardship and injustice impacts her quest for justice.

The trial does not go smoothly. Ruby and Kath are up against a fierce battle as the opposing defense does everything in his power to combat them and protect the perpetrators.

Despite terrible hardship and ongoing trauma, we see Ruby emerge in this episode with a strong voice as a leader and advocate for others.

The episode ends with a crucial key question: will Ruby agree to a plea bargain against her perpetrators?

And the bigger question behind it all: Just what exactly is justice?

Issues this episode explores:

• How an OSEC case is prepared and prosecuted
• The nature of justice
• The psychological effects of waiting and trauma on survivor victims

Show website: fightofmy.life

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CONTENT WARNING: This episode contains descriptions of sexual violence. Listener discretion is advised.

Please seek help if you need to.

To speak to a trained crisis supporter at Lifeline (24-hours): 131 114
To report a crime to the Australian Federal Police: 1800 333 000
For emergency assistance: 000

FOR THE PHILIPPINES:
If you have suspicions about the occurrence of online sexual exploitation of children in your community, immediately report to: www.1343actionline.ph

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Finding Ruby is a production of Cadence Productions.

Show written and edited by Nikki Florence Thompson and Rich Thompson.
Additional production by Lydia Bowden, Anthea Godsmark, and Brendan Ridley.
Sound design and mix by Rich Thompson and Brendan Ridley.
Graphic design and social media by Sayaka Miyashita, Carla Moran, and Alyssa Sheridan.
Director of photography is Brad Conomy.
Matt Tooker is the executive producer.

Show Music
- "Homeland" by Searching for Light, featuring Jenna Carlie.