Everyone deserves a fair trial, even when the person is Saddam Hussein.

On Wednesday, the former dictator pleaded not guilty to charges actions during his reign as president of Iraq. Saddam and seven of his co-defendents could receive the death penalty for their role in the 1982 massacre in Dujail, which killed 148 people.

It's the first of several charges that will be brought against him.

Saddam's case rests on the legitimacy of the court trying him. He claims he remains the legal president of Iraq and the court has no right to oversee the trial.

The legitimacy or fairness of the court should not have to overshadow this trial. Until the trial resumes on Nov. 28, the court has an opportunity to prove its legitimacy and balance. Outside parties like Amnesty International are also monitoring the trial to ensure a just, legal proceeding.

This trial, although it must be done according to international standards of fairness, remains mostly a formality. Its placement in Iraq is crucial for people to see Saddam face the crimes he has committed. It provides a certain closure that the citizens might not receive if it was held in another country.

With Saddam captured, he should face justice swiftly. He has avoided it for far too long.

Although some might have wished for his end to parallel a movie-like scene of bullets, flames and destruction when he was discovered in a hole more than two years ago, this ending is proper. Justice is what truly matters now.

Unfortunately, the ex-dictator is attempting to delay the inevitable.

Partially because Saddam has no real defense in the case, his legal team is using delay tactics as an obstruction to the final decision against him.

Saddam knows he is not going to win. The evidence is stacked against him.

There are the videotapes of his actions prepared for the world to see, the wars he started documented in the history books and his formerly-captive people testifying against him.

His defiant facade is being used to save face. He knows he will be convicted.

It's a ploy to have the final word. His actions in the courtroom, however dignified they might seem, are an attempt save face and appear powerful.

His adamant position on his innocence. A tussle with the guards in the courtroom during a recess. Claims of being illegally tried. Saddam will never admit his guilt.

He is trying to make a last show of strength while his world crumbles. Unfortunately for Saddam, there's nowhere to hide from a guilty verdict.

For his victims, the day cannot come soon enough.