I don't believe the trial (possible spoilers)

The writers must have realized that the trial was a major plot hole, so they left it out.

yes, probably, but that's not what the viewer should be focusing on and the film obviously wouldn't go on if pete was acquitted.

Pete had motive, money is always a motive, and Jefty wouldn´t have any reason to steal from himself.

Oh, I bought the trial. Maybe the writers should have explained exactly why Jefty's story was so convincing, but I didn't find it difficult to believe that Jefty had cooked up something good—especially after we learn how really devious he is. Pete certainly had motive, and he certainly would have looked suspicious leaving all of a sudden; but I agree that shouldn't have been enough. Did anyone think to look for the marriage license? That would have proved Jefty wasn't so unconcerned about Lilly.

You'd think the parole would have been impossible, though, without Pete returning the money—which, of course, he couldn't have done since he never took it. But I bought that, too. After all, it was the plaintiff making the plea for mercy.


...Justin

If Pete asked the two women not to testify about the love triangle, then it would be his word against Jeffty's, and the jury would likely convict. What I don't get is: how does finding the crumpled receipts envelope help? Pete could theoretically have stuffed it into the other man's jacket any old time since he got out of jail. It doesn't prove Jeffty is lying--not nearly enough to get Pete off the hook.

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