The morning sun brightened the white stone courthouse steps.
Reporters stood near the entrance holding tall microphones.
Elena walked up the stairs wearing a neat gray coat.
Arthur walked beside her holding his dark leather briefcase.
Vance arrived in a luxury car with two private guards.
He glared at Elena as he stepped past her.
Vance: You are making a huge mistake, girl.
Arthur: Do not speak to my client, Vance.
They entered the large marble courtroom on the second floor.
The judge sat at the tall wooden bench upfront.
The clerk called the case for the Sterling estate trust.
Arthur stood up and presented the photos of the bruises.
Arthur: Your Honor, we have physical evidence of physical abuse.
Defense Lawyer: These photos could be from any injury.
Arthur pulled out the sealed plastic bag from his briefcase.
Arthur: We have DNA evidence from the scene on this towel.
The judge looked down at the defense team with stern eyes.
Judge: This evidence is very clear and convincing.
Vance stood up angrily from his leather chair.
Vance: She is just trying to get my money!
Judge: Sit down sir, or I will hold you in contempt.
Elena took the witness stand with her head held high.
She spoke clearly about everything that happened in the bathroom.
Elena: He thought I was powerless because I am a maid.
Elena: But no one has the right to hurt another person.
The room remained completely silent as she finished speaking.
The judge read through the family trust agreement rules.
Judge: The moral clause in this trust is fully active.
Judge: Vance Sterling is immediately removed from the estate.
Vance turned pale as he heard the final ruling.
Police officers stepped forward with metal handcuffs ready.
Officer: Vance Sterling, you are under arrest for assault.
They placed his hands behind his back in open court.
The news cameras flashed rapidly through the open door.
Elena stepped down from the stand with a deep breath.