JCs are basically a "breaking session", though dressed up in a nice wrapping and a bow on top.
The fear of being dragged before a JC causes the majority of JW sins to be swept under the rug. Sometimes they go on and on for years before someone feels too guilty and spills the beans. So much for a clean 'organization' when people can break JW rules for long periods of time without consequence.
Most people are so afraid of the JC process they just confess and throw themselves on the mercy of the three stooges running the show. But of course there are times when someone isn't guilty or won't confess. A breaking session may erupt, from cultwatch.com
Breaking sessions are when one, two or more cult members and leaders attack the character of another person, sometimes for hours on end. Some cults will not stop these sessions until their victim is crying uncontrollably.
Ever hear of these 3 hour or longer JCs? Its three against one, the one has no support, no lawyer, and no allowable recording.
Interesting the WT rule on allowing a wife to have her husband attend the JC with her. Could it be that if this wasn't allowed a husband would go postal on the elduhs once he heard how she was treated?
I would be interested to hear any ex-elders tell us about JCs where the hubby was there, I'll bet they were over in 25% of the time it normally takes.
More interesting reading on breaking sessions here:
http://changingminds.org/techniques/conversion/breaking_sessions.htm
The DF whip is what makes it all work, they might not break a person down where they are crying uncontrollably in the JC, but they simply DF you, rocking your world to the core. The end goal like the link above states is to "remake them in the shape of a conforming member of the group who is totally obedient to senior group members."