Cryptic crossword clue
In case, judge proceeded without King’s evidence at first 8

The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word JACKETED

I've seen this crossword clue in The Times
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The straight part
We know that "In case" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case in case = jacketed.
The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.
This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.

What does JACKETED mean?

JACKETED verb
  1. To enclose or encase in a jacket or other covering.
JACKETED adjective
  1. Dressed in a jacket (of a specified kind).
  2. Encased or enclosed inside a jacket (of a specified kind).

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