The Law: The Longest Trial

Everyone trying to enter the courtroom is scanned by electronic devices; there is a pat-down search by guards who also rummage through purses and briefcases; photographs are taken of each new visitor. All the defendants (except one who is on bail) are shackled at the ankles and wrists and are chained around the waist to chairs that are bolted to the floor—presumably to thwart escape attempts. Three TV cameras monitor everything in the court, and a bulletproof, multilayered, Plexiglas shield separates spectators from judge, jury, lawyers and defendants.

All that security has been...