JKR's Single Biggest Error so far (was: Harry's last 'living' relatives?)

[horridporrid03]

No: HPFGUIDX 123949


>>Alla:
>Well, for the biggest inconsistency in the plot, I guess I have to 
say non-use of Veritaserum at Sirius' trial . Sure, tightly regulated 
drug and all that, but if not at such trial then when exactly is it 
supposed to be used?<

Betsy:
I'm rereading GoF and I ran across this passage: 

"D'you know Crouch, then?" said Harry.

[...]

"Oh I know Crouch all right," [Sirius] said quietly.  "He was the one 
who gave the order for me to be sent to Azkaban -- without a trial."

"*What?*" said Ron and Hermione together.

"You're kidding!" said Harry.

"No, I'm not," said Sirius...

(GoF Scholastic Hardback p. 526)

So without a trial there was no opportunity for Veritaserum to be 
used.  And once Sirius was in Azkaban -- that was it.  No appeals, no 
second chances, and a steady descent into madness.  Sirius didn't 
stand a chance.  (And there was no opportunity for him to claim 
innocence, so no chance of any doubt amongst his friends.  Actually, 
I think JKR was pretty tight with this particular story line.)

Betsy