Jake Brigance, the novel’s protagonist, is a 37-year-old lawyer who cares about his reputation and wants to be known for taking risks and winning difficult court trials. He is six feet tall and has a receding hairline. He lives in a large, historical house a few blocks from Clanton’s town square with his wife, Carla, and his daughter, Hanna. Jake likes to be the center of attention and in the spotlight, especially in a courtroom. He’s also ambitious and wants to improve his practice, even if it means involving himself in demanding, high-profile cases like Hailey’s and Drew’s.

Although Jake is relatively young in the profession, he has a good reputation and is known for following the rules. He feels he thrives under pressure, especially in the courtroom, but he hesitates when confronted with public opinion that contradicts what he thinks is right. Jake’s biggest court case prior to Drew’s was defending Carl Lee Hailey, which is the focus of A Time to Kill. Because of this case’s notoriety, Jake hoped that his popularity would increase, as would the work coming into his office. Unfortunately, being lead counsel for one of Ford County’s most prominent civil cases five years ago hasn’t resulted in more business and popularity.