As it should be but you said justice rarely comes. I disagree. It comes to many. When decisions are made on day one of a trial based on what I believe to be profit motives and an opening statement which can not be viewed as evidence; is the process a level playing field?
No, the law comes to many. True justice is felt by only a few.
As far as your question, it is a fair one. But to mitigate that, that’s what counsel and the judge are for.
If they did not do their job, you are screwed.
The process allows appeal, and that’s is your only hope.