The Hostage Negotiator — Dan Decker

A new client with a gun...Criminal defense attorney Mitch Turner is sitting at his desk working on a pressing deadline when a man walks in and points a gun at him, saying he needs a lawyer. Mitch tells the man he doesn't work under the gun, and the man becomes more threatening. Mitch starts prodding to figure out what could have brought the man to such a low point, and just when Mitch thinks he has a handle on the situation, the police show up. Thinking fast, Mitch starts a negotiation between his new client and the police officer, trying to come up with a solution to deescalate the situation so he can get back to working on his fast-approaching deadline. If you like legal thrillers, this short story is for you. Mitch Turner is a fast-talking lawyer who takes risks where others might not. Fans of John Grisham, Michael Connelly, and Scott Turrow will enjoy this story. Pick up your copy today!Sneak PeekThe front door to my office opened at the same moment I heard police sirens approaching from outside. I looked out my window and saw an officer pulling into the parking lot with his lights flashing, but thought nothing of it as I returned back to my computer, continuing to work on the motion I was drafting.When I heard somebody walk in through the front of the lobby I figured that Ellie, my receptionist, would handle it so I did not get up to see what was going on. Somebody stuck their head into my office. At first, I thought it was one of my partners or a member of the staff but when I looked up I didn't recognize them. Where is Ellie? A moment later I remembered. That's right she has the afternoon off.Can I help you? I asked the man.Yes, the man stepped inside and pointed a gun at me. I need an attorney.