Just Mercy (Adapted for Young Adults): A True Story of the Fight for Justice

Stevenson and Michael prepare for the Rule 32 hearing. A date is set, with a new judge to hear the case. Though Stevenson hopes the new judge will be impartial, he proves hostile and gives them only three days to present their witnesses and make their argument. In court, they present evidence, with Ralph Myers admitting on the stand that his original testimony was all lies and that the sheriff coerced him. They also call many other witnesses who poke holes in the case, and present documented evidence of police misconduct.

During the first day of the trial, the court is filled with Walter’s supporters: his family, people from his church, and other Black people from the community. This unnerves the prosecutors and judge. On the second day of the trial, the court security, Tom Chapman, and others contrive to keep most of Walter’s supporters out of the courtroom. After Stevenson complains, the judge allows Walter’s supporters to elect one representative to attend the hearing. They choose Mrs. Williams, an older Black woman.

Mrs. Williams is dignified and graceful, a forceful presence. Yet, when she reaches the metal detectors at the entrance, she freezes. The police have a dog at the entrance and she is terrified.