Last Thursday I received the honor of being involved in a reverse proffer. I really never considered such a possibility or even knew of the existence of such a thing. I am studying and learning about the legal system and the individuals that are responsible to uphold the law. I recognize that prosecutors prosecute today. I’ve also realized it’s my job to defend.
My impression is that prosecutors will only prosecute and deliver evidence for a prosecution. My reality is, in my estimation, that one must prove their innocence instead of being innocent until proven guilty. This is not my mental picture. But I do realize the job of a prosecutor is to find error and prosecute it.
I have never realized the reality of the word ‘legal’ in ‘legal system’ today. I was once involved with a legalistic church. It appears the legal system is just the same—it is for law, not for grace. This introduction to the system honestly disgusted me, but I understood it and I am determined to face it with clarity, courage, and resilience.
In that moment—sitting in the reverse proffer—I realized this was my opportunity to listen, to be still, and to understand the case against me as they saw it. But I also realized something deeper: this is not just a process of law, it is a process of power, narrative, and identity. I have the chance not only to respond but to define who I am through how I endure it.
This was a sobering day, but one that I will remember. I want to be part of the reform, even if my only contribution is honesty in the middle of struggle.
