* Steven Harmon: The protagonist of the story. He is a 16-year-old African-American boy living in Harlem. He is arrested and charged with murder and robbery, and the rest of the novel revolves around his legal struggles.
* Mr. Sawicki: Steven's defense attorney. He is a compassionate man who believes Steven is innocent and works hard to prove it.
* Prosecutor: The Assistant District Attorney who is responsible for prosecuting Steven's case.
* James King: A man who is arrested alongside Steven and is also charged with the same crime. However, his case is separate from Steven's, and he is tried and convicted separately.
* Osvaldo Cruz: Steven's close friend and classmate. He is a loyal and supportive friend and often visits Steven while he is in jail.