Pop Quiz Chapter 3

What is the central focus of Chapter 3 in Just Mercy?

• A) The wrongful conviction of Walter McMillian

• B) The history of racial discrimination in the criminal justice system

• C) The impact of mass incarceration on African American communities

• D) The beginning of Bryan Stevenson’s work at the Equal Justice Initiative

In Chapter 3, what is one of the key factors that led to Walter McMillian’s wrongful conviction?

• Lack of physical evidence and false testimonies

• A poorly conducted investigation by the FBI

• An overreliance on forensic evidence

• The prosecutor’s refusal to consider new evidence

Which individual is described as having an influential role in Walter McMillian’s case during Chapter 3?

• The sheriff

• The prosecutor, Tommy Chapman

• A judge named Robertson

• The police officer, Ralph Myers

How does Bryan Stevenson describe the environment in the courthouse during Walter McMillian’s trial?

• Fair and just, with a balanced presentation of evidence

• Tense and racially charged, affecting the trial’s fairness

• A bustling place where justice was guaranteed for all

• Unorganized, with few resources for proper legal proceedings

What was the primary reason Walter McMillian's defense team failed to prevent his conviction?

• Inadequate legal representation and the absence of a strong defense case

• Walter McMillian's own refusal to testify

• The overwhelming evidence against him

• A lack of interest from his family in supporting his defense

In Chapter 3, Bryan Stevenson discusses how racism and prejudice affect the criminal justice system. One way these factors impacted Walter McMillian’s trial was:

• The jury was composed entirely of white members.

• The trial was held in a different state.

• Walter McMillian was not allowed to testify.

• The judge was a close friend of the victim's family.

Bryan Stevenson’s approach to legal defense and justice is different from that of other legal professionals in the book because:

• He focuses on the humanity of his clients and seeks to address systemic injustices.

• He prioritizes winning cases over the well-being of his clients.

• He follows traditional legal practices without questioning them.

• He avoids taking on cases that are difficult or controversial.

Reflect on the emotional and psychological impact that Walter McMillian’s wrongful conviction had on him and his loved ones.

• It caused severe emotional distress and trauma.

• It had no significant impact.

• It led to a positive change in their lives.

• It was a minor inconvenience.

Stevenson's initial experiences as a young lawyer taking on cases like Walter McMillian’s shape his views on the criminal justice system and the work he continues to do today by:

• Making him more empathetic towards the accused

• Strengthening his belief in the need for reform

• Convincing him to leave the legal profession

• Reinforcing his trust in the justice system

The chapter illustrates how systemic issues within the criminal justice system can lead to wrongful convictions. What do you think are some solutions or reforms that could address these systemic problems based on the issues discussed in Chapter 3?

• Implementing more rigorous evidence review processes

• Increasing the use of plea bargains

• Reducing the number of public defenders

• Eliminating jury trials