Chapter Sixty-Four (Chapter 63): Justice Served
⚠️ Spoiler Warning: This guide contains detailed spoilers for the entire novel. Proceed only if you've finished reading or are comfortable knowing the plot.
Summary
TJ Devlin sits in the front row of the courtroom gallery with his parents, Gabby, Martin, and several plaintiffs from the Holmesburg case. After three days of deliberation, the jury has reached a verdict. TJ mentally reviews the evidence and reflects on the defense’s expert witnesses who argued the lawsuit did not affect the company’s stock price. He stares at Dr. Bostwick, the CEO, remembering how Bostwick ordered a hit on him. The jury files in with serious expressions. The forewoman, a plain-looking older woman in a denim dress, stands and confirms the jury reached a verdict. The clerk asks if they find Bostwick guilty of criminal conspiracy regarding the attempted shooting of Thomas Devlin. The forewoman answers “Guilty.” TJ’s family and supporters react with joy and relief. The jury is polled and each juror repeats “guilty” for all counts related to TJ, Gabby, and his father. Chuck Whitman whispers encouragement, suggesting TJ should go to law school despite not having finished college.
Key Events
- The jury returns after three days of deliberation.
- Forewoman announces a guilty verdict for Dr. Bostwick on the charge of criminal conspiracy for the attempted shooting of Thomas Devlin.
- Additional guilty verdicts are delivered for charges related to Gabby and TJ’s father.
- The defense attorney requests the jury be polled; all twelve jurors confirm “guilty.”
- TJ and Chuck Whitman share a moment of triumph; Chuck tells TJ justice was served.
- Chuck suggests TJ consider law school, to which TJ replies he didn’t finish college.
Character Development
TJ Devlin: TJ’s arc culminates here. He has evolved from a disgraced former alcoholic to a key witness and survivor. His reaction to the verdict is emotional but not vengeful; he weeps for joy and focuses on the broader meaning of justice. His humility about not having a college degree contrasts with his newfound sense of purpose.
Gabby and Martin: Gabby gasps and Martin quietly comforts her. Their support throughout the trial shows their unwavering loyalty to TJ.
Chuck Whitman: As a Holmesburg plaintiff, Chuck embodies the larger fight for civil rights and dignity. His line “They can slow us down, but they can’t stop us” reveals a seasoned activist perspective. He is the first to acknowledge TJ’s potential beyond the current victory.
Dr. Bostwick: Though he shows no emotion during the verdict, the outcome suggests his downfall. His depravity is underscored by TJ’s reflection on the bullet intended for his own head.
Themes, Symbols, or Motifs
Justice vs. Bullets: The chapter directly contrasts the rule of law with violence. TJ thinks “you could stop justice with a bullet” but concludes it isn’t supposed to happen in America. The guilty verdict reaffirms that the legal system, however flawed, can hold powerful criminals accountable.
The Jury as Everyman: The jurors are described as “everybody else,” emphasizing that ordinary citizens carry the “awesome responsibility” of delivering justice. The forewoman’s strength is likened to that of TJ’s mother, linking personal virtue with civic duty.
The Arc of Struggle and Equality: Chuck’s comment about some men struggling to be considered equal while others try to keep them down echoes the Holmesburg plaintiffs’ fight. The victory in court is a small but significant step in a longer historical struggle.
Why This Chapter Matters
This chapter delivers the long-awaited verdict that resolves the central criminal plot of the novel. It provides emotional closure for TJ and his family while also honoring the Holmesburg plaintiffs’ broader fight. The scene ties together the themes of redemption, legal justice, and community solidarity. It also leaves TJ with a question about his own future: law school suggests he may continue fighting for justice in a new capacity.
Study Questions and Answers
1. Why does TJ think about the defense experts during the wait for the verdict?
TJ recalls the defense’s experts who claimed the lawsuit didn’t affect the stock price. He finds this contrary to common sense, and the prosecutor argued the same in his closing. This reflects TJ’s anxiety that the jury might believe a technical argument over the larger pattern of wrongdoing.
2. What does Chuck Whitman mean when he says “they can slow us down, but they can’t stop us”?
Chuck is referring not only to this case but to the broader fight for civil rights and justice. The “they” includes powerful individuals and institutions that try to suppress marginalized groups. The guilty verdict proves that despite obstacles, justice can prevail.
3. Why does Chuck suggest TJ go to law school, and how does TJ respond?
Chuck sees TJ’s intelligence and determination. He recognizes that TJ has the qualities to become an effective advocate. TJ’s response—that he didn’t even graduate college—shows his insecurity but also hints at his potential to continue growing.