MY THOUGHTS AND BOOK REVIEWWhat a fascinating read! Bill Jacquettes' s debut novel can keep a reader engrossed at looking deeply into how the Criminal legal system and Washington State Criminal laws works and how they were handled by the Hudson County Public Defenders. From Cindy Baker's charge with first degree trafficking in stolen property, Gilbert Martin's second degree robbery for stealing groceries from safeway, Ray Langus's sentence for a felony, second degree robbery, Lori Lucas's charge with first degree criminal mistreatment, Joe seller's conviction of second degree assault and the most complicated case of Walter for the crime of rape, has brought real life examples through Public defender Steve Cole in these long list of characters.
I found it interesting to learn about the three strikes law in Washington that judge Tibbits handed down in the case of Jeff Harris. Three strikes law means one is convicted of facing three violent felonies goes to prison, where a conviction would be fewer years in prison. The book has captured cross examinations, having a win in a case or disappointments of losing, verdicts of the jury panel, presentations in a detailed manner. Interesting to know about the guilty pleas made in large majority of cases through the court in US criminal system.
The important role of a public defender is clearly evolved in this book. A public defender can be only used by those who cannot afford to hire an attorney. I just reviewed the book Gideon's Grandchildren by Bill Jacquette. Thanks to Bill Jacquette and Netgalley for an advance copy for my honest review.
Book Description
A Compelling Portrait of the Hidden Faces of Justice
Steve Cole is a young public defense attorney with a long list of clients: Among them is Jeff Harris, who is facing a life sentence under a law that Steve believes is cruel and unfair. When Harris is presented with a plea bargain that would spare him a life sentence, Steve urges his client to accept. Steve is shocked when Harris turns down the plea bargain in favor of going to trial.
Steve quickly finds himself in the most difficult case of his career, in addition to all his other clients. Nevertheless, Steve grows to respect Harris and the decision he made, compelling him to work tirelessly for a not-guilty verdict for Harris.
Throughout the novel, author Bill Jaquette weaves his own thirty-plus years’ experience in public defense and provides readers with an intimate look at the day-to-day lives and struggles of public defense attorneys. The result is a compassionate portrayal of some of the most critical figures in the American courts, their clients, and the arduous and complicated role of maintaining justice.
- Publication date : November 18, 2021
- Language : English
- File size : 2942 KB
- Print length : 230 pages
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