Why must kumalo get a lawyer for absalom? why must kumalo get a lawyer for absalom? john is getting a lawyer to discredit absalom’s story, so kumalo believes he must get a lawyer also to ensure that the truth comes out. kumalo doesn’t think a lawyer can absalom, but absalom asked for one and kumalo wants to respect his son’s wishes. he believes that a lawyer may be able to twist the story, place the blame elsewhere, and get absalom absolved of all charges. kumalo’s brother, john, believes that by obtaining lawyers for both of their sons they can work together to get them freed.