The Staircase

Eight years ago, Michael Peterson was found guilty of killing his wife. Now there is only one chance left to appeal his case.

A revelation opens the door for Michael Peterson's appeal. The prosecution's blood spatter expert has been outed as a fraud, and the defense team seeks a retrial.

Should Peterson undergo a second trial (and risk another conviction) or plead guilty? He says he totally rejects the word "guilty," but saying it in a courtroom could be the only way to close the case and ensure his freedom. Peterson's family discusses their relief at his parole, but also their fears at what lies ahead.

The judge in Peterson's original trial rules that, notwithstanding Deaver's misconduct, there will be no dismissal of his conviction. David Rudolf, Peterson's friend and lawyer has declined to represent him at a new trial, but explains that a second jury might be no more equitable than the first. Proposals are advanced for Peterson to plead guilty, but he still refuses to pronounce the word.

After much fraught deliberations, a deal has been negotiated for an "Alford plea," wherein Peterson will plead guilty while still asserting his innocence. He attends the hearing, facing his late wife's sisters, who still believe that he murdered her.