She's played her share of tough-gal film roles with critical acclaim, and now Hilary Swank will take on the justice system in her latest role in 'Betty Anne Waters,' says Variety.

Based on a true story, the film follows the life of a single mother and high school dropout who waits tables and struggles to eventually become a lawyer -- all with the ultimate goal to free her brother from prison after he was wrongfully convicted of murder, says the paper.

The Academy Award winning actress will play the title role in the film, which will be directed by Tony Goldwyn.

"There is a spirit of indomitability that Hilary brings that is a strong match for this character's fierce commitment," Goldwyn tells Variety.

Swank's next film project, 'Amelia,' will be released in October 2009.