A despicable client hell-bent on being executed, a vengeful and formidable opponent, and a reluctant Supreme Court, confront Jake Clearwater as he undertakes a daunting and unforgiving challenge.

Clearwater, a law professor and former prosecutor, is urged by a group named the Death Penalty Project to help stem the tide of wrongful death penalty convictions by agreeing to represent Duane Durgeon, a hulking, hard-boiled bad ass, despite Durgeon's demand to be executed. What follows is a riveting tale of courtroom drama, suspense, and the exquisite working of law and ultimately of justice.