The judge at the trial might decide that Ponyboy’s involvement with
the manslaughter case proves that Darry is an unfit guardian. This would mean Sodapop
and Ponyboy would be sent off to a home, rather than live with their brother. It’s
important for them to stay together because they love each other, but it’s also all they
have of family, and part of their identity, since they don’t have much else.
