Gideon's Grandchildren
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.
Still Rowing on the Snohomish
Reflections on Rowing the Snohomish
Bill Jaquette’s passion for rowing began in the days of law school at the University of Washington. From the shores of Lake Washington, he would gaze out beyond the shore, watching the campus crews glide through the lake. Beckoned by the tranquil call of nature, he purchased a shell. Out on the water, he found a welcome respite from his studies, and soon rowing became his enduring passion.
This book is a stunning account of one man’s adventures rowing on Washington’s Snohomish River. Highlighting the physical benefits of rowing as exercise, this book also explores rowing in solitude, and the motivation and camaraderie that rowing can bring.
In this extended edition of Rowing on the Snohomish, Jaquette reflects on the seven years since the first publication of the book, taking the reader along on his adventures throughout the seasons, exploring environmental changes and the inexorable passage of time. Through his eloquent narrative, he captures the ever-evolving Snohomish river, and his deepening connection to its waters.
About Bill
Bill Jaquette practiced law for over forty years. During that time, he served as a deputy prosecuting attorney and was also in private practice. A substantial part of his career, however, was as a public defender, including thirty years with the Snohomish County Public Defender Association, of which he was also director.
In addition to his JD from the University of Washington, Bill holds a PhD in philosophy from the University of Missouri and, prior to his career in law, served as a tenured member of the philosophy faculty at Southwest Missouri State University.
Still Rowing on the Snohomish is his second novel.