Mashburn, 50, was in court for her slain domestic partner, police Officer Lois Marrero.

Athan was there to represent the only defendant in Marrero's death - Paula Gutierrez, who faces trial on charges of first-degree murder, robbery and burglary.

But Athan and Mashburn hugged anyway.

Mashburn said she wants Gutierrez, 25, to be convicted and serve life in prison. She knows Gutierrez didn't shoot Marrero. She also knows the accusation: Gutierrez took part in a bank robbery and during the getaway, Gutierrez's boyfriend, Nester DeJesus, shot and killed Marrero, 40.

Gutierrez is accused of picking up Marrero's gun, breaking into an occupied apartment, then giving up to police after DeJesus committed suicide.

Mashburn said she separated her feelings about Gutierrez from her respect for Athan.

``I know she has a job to do. I know she will fight for her client. I respect that, especially with the job I have,'' Mashburn said.

Minutes later, 60 potential jurors filed into the courtroom.

Of the first 16 questioned, each had heard about the case.

The images from July 6, 2001, were hazy in the minds of some, clear in others.

Some said they recognized Mashburn. Some said they recognized Marrero's name. Some said they recognized Gutierrez.

On that day, Gutierrez wore a green camouflage T-shirt during the Bank of America holdup, according to police records and photos. In court Monday, she wore a blue blouse with matching sweater, blue slacks, black pumps and a silver cross like the one Athan wore.

Athan told the jurors they would hear evidence Gutierrez took part in the robbery because she was afraid of DeJesus, who Athan claimed beat and sexually assaulted Gutierrez.

Hillsborough State Attorney Mark Ober told the jury pool that any robber is just as responsible for a murder during a holdup or getaway attempt as a fellow robber who pulls the trigger.

Jury selection continues today.

Reporter Joshua B. Good can be reached at (813) 259-7638.