How does John Grisham depict the events taking place in Clanton as carnival-like?

Some of the means the author uses to reflect as a carnival-like atmosphere include the judge being a heavy drinker while meting out justice. He shows the sheriff sharing meals and playing cards with the very individual he will be testifying against in court. Also contributing to a circus-like atmosphere is the media's gullibility, which is being manipulated by Jake.