Carl Lee Hailey is a fictional character from the novel "A Time to Kill," written by John Grisham. He is an African American man living in the racially charged environment of Canton, Mississippi. Hailey becomes a central figure in the story after he takes the law into his own hands to seek justice for his daughter, who has been a victim of a violent crime. In the novel, Hailey's actions lead to a high-profile trial that explores themes of race, justice, and morality. His character represents the struggles faced by many in the American South during the 1980s, highlighting the complexities of the legal system and societal prejudices.