By Cara Miller

Arizona Daily Wildcat

James Hamm wants to be more than just a "good little prisoner" _ he also wants to be a "good little lawyer."

In a speech on campus last night, the convicted murderer whose acceptance into Arizona State University law school stirred up state controversy last year said he now wants to tackle prison reform.

Hamm and his wife, Donna Leonne, addressed questions from University of Arizona students at the College of Law about his experiences in prison and what problems he sees in the system now.

The National Lawyers Guild brought Hamm to the UA as part of diversity week at the law school, said Susan Crawford, an executive committee guild member and a second-year law student.

Hamm was convicted in 1974 for murdering a Tucson man during a drug deal and served 18 years in prison. While behind bars, Hamm met his wife and established Middle Ground, a group that advocates rights for prisoners and their families.

Hamm now speaks to college classes and civic organizations as part of his 15 hours of community service each month.

"Prisons are big business. So many politicians advocate prison reform because they are protecting the public, and the public is grateful. But these are only short-term solutions," Mrs. Hamm said.

Hamm cited prison reform as his main reason for attending law school.

"At first, prison was about survival, then I gained insights into my crime and I am trying to find a contribution to society that is more than being just a good little prisoner," Hamm said.

Hamm said he plans to use his degree to find a more balanced approach to corrections.

"There are so many underlying things in the system that are problematic," he said.

"Our state has the fourth-highest incarceration rate per capita," Mrs. Hamm said.

The pair also addressed reactions to Hamm's student status.

"Legislators are upset because he is going to a state-subsidized school. Does that mean he shouldn't be allowed to use roads or parks or utilities?" Mrs. Hamm said.

Reception from UA students at last night's presentation varied.

"I think it's terrific. He embodies all the qualities of a good lawyer. He's sympathetic and very well-balanced. He's served his time and now he should have his chance," said Alix Kersey, a second-year law student.

Some said they are a little resentful.

"Most people already think of attorneys as criminals and he just compounds that. He's taken a life. A sex offender can't be a sex therapist, so why should (Hamm) be allowed to be a lawyer?" said Ida Wilber, a first-year law student.

Still, Crawford said Hamm provides good input as his life is committed to political change. Read Next Article