Ep 4. Miss Trial

In Designing Women season 5 episode 4, "Miss Trial," the ladies of Sugarbaker's are up against a new challenge. The wealthy chairwoman of the board of a local women's museum, Mrs. Barker, is coming to see their work and potentially hire them for her personal renovation project. But when Jennifer, the museum's curator, reveals that Mrs. Barker is known for her tough-as-nails attitude and has a reputation for disliking women, the Sugarbaker women are hesitant to take on the job.

Meanwhile, Mary Jo is called for jury duty and is initially excited for the opportunity to participate in the legal system. But her enthusiasm quickly fades when she discovers that the trial she's been assigned to is for a man accused of stealing secret military documents. Mary Jo struggles with her own biases and preconceptions as the trial unfolds, ultimately leading her to question the ethics of the justice system.

As the Sugarbaker women prepare for Mrs. Barker's visit, they encounter a number of obstacles. Julia discovers that her ex-husband, Reese, is engaged to a twenty-year-old and struggles to keep her cool as she tries to impress the intimidating Mrs. Barker. Meanwhile, Charlene's artistic vision clashes with Suzanne's flashy taste, leading the two of them to butt heads as they work on the design.

The pressure is on as Mrs. Barker arrives, accompanied by her male assistant who seems to be enjoying the ladies' discomfort a bit too much. As they present their design plans to the chairwoman, tensions rise and the women fear that they've blown their chance. But things take an unexpected turn when one of the museum's exhibits catches Mrs. Barker's eye and she reveals a surprising secret about her past.

Meanwhile, Mary Jo's experience on the jury has a profound impact on her, causing her to reevaluate her own fears and prejudices. She must weigh the evidence and make a difficult decision about the defendant's guilt, ultimately leading her to question the fairness of the justice system itself.

"Miss Trial" is a poignant and timely episode that deals with themes of prejudice, bias, and systemic injustice. The Sugarbaker women once again prove their resilience and resourcefulness as they navigate the challenges of the business world, while Mary Jo's experience reveals the flaws of the legal system and the power of individual perceptions. It's a thought-provoking episode that leaves viewers with much to ponder.