Why does atticus feel he should defend tom robinson? is it usual for (white) lawyers to do their best for black clients in alabama at this time?

Atticus knows he probably won't win but he does this anyways to uphold his sense of self-respect and justice

it isnt usual for white lawyers to do their best for 2 reasons i believe:

1) black people are usually convicted so its almost possible to defend them even if they are innocent

2) like a lot of people there were also some racist lawyers

Ithink the answer going to be 5. i think. i hope my answer going to you. because i feel number five is the best answer.