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John Grisham’s “A Time to Kill” Chapter 8

Chief Deputy Moss Junior Tatum and Jake waited in Sheriff Ozzie’s office for Carl Lee’s arrival.  The press was there anxiously waiting for Carl Lee’s arrival and for someone to give them more news of the shooting.  Moss was agitated with the news reporter and requested that they move their vans so the deputies would have room when they arrived with Carl Lee.  Moss answered general questions about the shooting but did not mentioned specifically that they had “Carl Lee” in custody.  Jake had called Carla and told her to record all the news media for him.

Carl Lee arrived.  The jailer took all of Carl Lee’s personal possession.  Sheriff Ozzie made a statement to the reporters that Carl Lee Hailey was in custody and certified that he was Tonya’s father. 

Jake spoke to his client.  Carl Lee admitted that he killed Cobb and Willard.  They discussed the fee agreement.  Jake agreed to represent Carl Lee for $7500.  Carl Lee indicated that he would sign a note for his land.  They discussed some of the details of what took place in a trial.  Jake then left and Carl Lee was taken to a cell next to some state prisoners.

Jake gave a statement to reporters that he was representing Carl Lee.  He gave no other details.  Jake went home and saw the news.  He was pretty impressed with himself.  The phone was ringing like crazy.  He received a phone threat for defending a black murderer and one who would not live if Carl Lee walked.

Do you think that everyone is entitled to an attorney and a proper defense even Carl Lee?  Now Jake’s life has been threatened.  Should he take the warning seriously and not take Carl Lee’s case?  What would you do?  It’s time to read along together the next chapter of the book and find out.

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