[Karson]

If neither had anything to do with her death, why wouldn't a family tragedy bring them closer together? I can see if either BLAMES the other that this could tear them apart. I had always thought that tragedies such as a death would bring people closer because they realize what they had, how much they really do love each other and their children, and to appreciate what's left even more.

I agree it should work that way but a large percentage of marriages don't survive a tragedy... especially one like this.

[spectre]

The van Dams were self centered, focused on their own needs and gratifications and put them above their childrens welfare..as it turned out.

All of this show-boating in the trial is meant to inflame the jury.

As a juror, I'd be sitting there wondering where the evidence is...linking David Westerfield to the crime? They know the child is dead. The more the prosecution tries to make the van Dams appear "normal" the worse it looks for them, IMO.

sw