We’re given at least two hints about this during the trial
Mind spelling them out for those untutored in the Dark Arts?
IIRC Lucius’ catspaw (perhaps multiple), Dumbledore’s behavior towards Lucius (Lucius rejects it for being too obvious + a gambit to get more out of it rather than compromise early.)
That’s exactly the same behaviour we’d see if he really did just want to put the girl in Azkaban.
brinksmanship doesn’t work if no one believes your threats are actually plausible.
Mind spelling them out for those untutored in the Dark Arts?
IIRC Lucius’ catspaw (perhaps multiple), Dumbledore’s behavior towards Lucius (Lucius rejects it for being too obvious + a gambit to get more out of it rather than compromise early.)
That’s exactly the same behaviour we’d see if he really did just want to put the girl in Azkaban.
brinksmanship doesn’t work if no one believes your threats are actually plausible.