Season 1 poster
Series SeasonSeason 1 episodes2004

The Staircase

Season 1

No season overview available.

Episodes
Each episode has its own detail page.
Crime or Accident?
Episode 147 min2004-10-07

Crime or Accident?

Following his wife's suspicious death, Michael Peterson speaks about his version of the events while lawyers and expert witnesses prepare for trial.

Secrets and Lies
Episode 245 min2004-10-07

Secrets and Lies

As Michael's hidden life comes out into the open, defense experts debate if it will have a significant impact on the coming trial.

A Striking Coincidence
Episode 346 min2004-10-14

A Striking Coincidence

The death of another woman close to Peterson from 17 years earlier sparks a new investigation. She also died on a staircase, casting major doubts over the defense case.

A Prosecution Trickery
Episode 444 min2004-10-14

A Prosecution Trickery

As the trial looms and media attention heats up, an autopsy report's wording ruffles the feathers of the defense team.

A Weak Case
Episode 547 min2004-10-21

A Weak Case

The prosecution presents its case while the defense strives to cast a reasonable doubt within the minds of the jury.

The Prosecution's Revenge
Episode 647 min2004-10-21

The Prosecution's Revenge

A witness brings surprising levity to the stand. The judge rules on an important matter, and Michael's alleged temper comes under scrutiny.

The Blow Poke Returns
Episode 750 min2004-10-28

The Blow Poke Returns

Kathleen's sisters pore over Michael's writings. Jurors visit the staircase at Michael's home. A vital piece of evidence reappears.

The Verdict
Episode 849 min2004-10-28

The Verdict

Is Michael Peterson guilty or not guilty? The jury delivers its verdict regarding the mysterious death of his wife, Kathleen.

Reopening the Case
Episode 955 min2013-01-30

Reopening the Case

Eight years later, the possibility that a key witness for the prosecution may have misled the jury could prompt the need for a new trial.

The Last Chance
Episode 1052 min2013-01-30

The Last Chance

After more experts testify about the questionable conclusions and claims of Duane Deaver, the judge rules on whether a new trial is necessary.

Looking for Closure
Episode 1152 min2018-06-08

Looking for Closure

Following two and a half years of house arrest, Michael must decide whether to push for a plea or risk his freedom with a new trial.

Between Anger and Despair
Episode 1246 min2018-06-08

Between Anger and Despair

Their faith in the justice system forever shaken, Michael and his family discuss what they can hope to achieve by continuing the fight.

Flawed Justice
Episode 1346 min2018-06-08

Flawed Justice

Michael speaks to a reporter about the reasons behind his plea. Later, Kathleen's sister delivers a statement of defiance in court.

Season Media
Posters and videos for this season.

Videos

No season videos available.

Posters