No comments about Supreme Court Justices: A Biographical Dictionary (Facts on File Library of American History).

No comments about The Chief Justiceship of Charles Evans Hughes, 1930-1941 (Chief Justiceship of the United States Supreme Court).

3 comments about Melvin Belli: King of the Courtroom.

1. This is a fun and easy-to-read inside look at the life and times of the legend of the plaintiff's bar. Full of great tidbits and anecdotes.



2. Author Mark Shaw has gathered a lifetime of curious incidents and facts about a diverse character and assembled a delightful and informative biography. Regardless of your knowledge or interest in the practice or history of law, you will be captivated by the antics of Melvin Belli and his tremendous accomplishments that changed the American legal scene. From the fight against tobacco companies to the defense of Jack Ruby, from his charitable work to his sexual escapades, from his childhood to his sixth marriage, the man hiding behind the celebrity emerges in a colorful, riotous, and somewhat "larger than life" portrayal.



3. Mark Shaw's revelatory tale about Melvin Belli is a page turner and fodder for movie . He was an American original who left an indelible mark on how law is practiced in the USA. Only in America could such a colorful and unorthodox person be produced and Mark Shaw's book paints his indelible portrait.
   
   Leda Sanford

2 comments about William M. Kunstler: The Most Hated Lawyer in America.

1. I don't support many of Kunstler's views, outrageous statements and his representation of many of his criminal clients. The courage of civil rights movement lawyers was beyond powerful and Kunstler got involved with the Freedom Rider's case which ignited his fiery passion to be a radical lawyer . Author David J. Langum is a smart story teller because I was entertained when I wasn't being shocked. I had to laugh when he writes about the amount of mail the Chicago 7 received including a letter with some pot which Kunstler and his clients smoked together. Kunstler had unconventional boundaries with clients and Langum has some interesting theories on why. This book did not turn me into a Kunstler admirer but Langum made me think hard about "conveying a message/education to the public" using "movement law". I live in the East Village and we have been mega dormed to death by NYU and even NY Law with a zone busting mega dorm "with balconies" for law students on 3rd St. and my point is these law students seem to care more about their balcony views than what is going down in the communities that are being gobbled up by their Universities. I would like the zone busting part of NY Law dorm removed and everyone of those students to do volunteer work for the evictions and struggles caused by their Universities and other greedy landlords exploiting our neighborhoods. I doubt the NY Law students would do so and those balconies are more enticing but it would be interesting to hear what Kunstler might have said about all this since Langum mentions that he taught at NY Law and William M. Kunstler, I am guessing, also loved our neighborhood with all the texture and characters (although we are losing both every day). I would like to think he would have tried to help. P342 Langum does write, "Kunstler worried especially about the young people, their materalism and lack of social activism." I would add "institutions of higher learning" like NYU and NY Law with their community crushing mega dorms are encouraging anything but students with passion for social activism.
   I am surprised Oliver Stone hasn't made one of his three hours long films from this book but I wouldn't go see the film; the book was enough and "fair" with lots of grey tones that would not make it into the movie version. There are many ironic notes in this book and for me the most ironic is the back cover which says New York University Press.



2. Stand-up comedy is not in the index of this book, but it gets mentioned. Along with a list of Kunstler's film credits is a note that when he tried a comedy routine, he got his biggest laugh for a lawyer joke. I was interested, a long time ago, in what Chapter 6 of this book calls Circus in Chicago. Back when I was contemplating what I might like to do in a career in law, I would have enjoyed the opportunity to generate the number of laughs that are contained in this book. Then I actually found a case that said "Resort to the courts is futile." That was such a change from my expectations that an element of humor creeps into my appreciation of the outrageous nature of that truth. As evidence that the author of this book is aware of the potent nature of that form of humor, picture this: "Kunstler objected. The United States attorney jumped up and argued, 'This is outrageous. This man [Kunstler] is the mouthpiece for these defendants. The Government protests this man's attitude.'" (p. 124) I thought that the best legal point in the book was that Bobby Seale could not be retried on the conspiracy charge after the jury found that the other seven defendants were not guilty of conspiracy. Seale hadn't been charged with anything else, so further proceedings in his case would have been pointless. If there is a fine line between legal logic and the quirks of the system, check this book for the side of the line where the quirks are, and maybe you have already seen bits and pieces of this story on TV. It sure made the newpapers when it was going on.

3 comments about Justice of Shattered Dreams: Samuel Freeman Miller and the Supreme Court During the Civil War Era (Conflicting Worlds: New Dimensions of the American Civil War).

1. This book does a superb job of placing the legal decisions of the Civil War era within the complex and exciting times in which they took place. Samuel Freeman Miller is a fascinating and important figure.



2. The appointment of Supreme Court Justice Samuel Freeman Miller by President Lincoln was perhaps his best decision before the Civil War. Miller's life story is well written by Dr. Ross and perhaps will be the definitive study of the man for generations to come.
   Ross provides new insights into Supreme Court cases, such as the Slaughter House rulings and other important judicial issues of the Civil War and Reconstruction. But perhaps what is Ross's finest work is his ability to articulate Miller's character. The author's background on the Justice fully prepared the reader for understanding why Miller voted on a certain issue. In doing so, the reader can clearly comprehend the various court decisions of that era.
   Clearly, the judicial system of the Civil War is one of the few areas of that time period with insufficient attention. Ross's book will hopefully ignite a spark to this unknown subject of American history.



3. Justice of Shattered Dreams is a well-balanced blend of history, law, economics and biography. The author provides a succinct and well-written summary of such topics as popular sovereignty, the tension over the Kansas/Nebraska issue, the recalcitrance of the South during Reconstruction, and the legal battles between capitalist bondholders and small town populists. Ross, who has a J.D. from Duke, provides insightful legal summaries of Dred Scott, Ex Parte Merryman, the Prize cases, Ex parte Milligan, the Legal Tender cases, as well as the Slaughterhouse cases for which Miller is most remembered. Ross's analysis of Ex Parte Milligan resonates today vis-a-vis the legal arguments over the status of the internees at Guantanamo Bay. There is just enough legal analysis to explain the theory of the decisions without overpowering the non-lawyer reader, and just enough facts to convey the essence of the case and its background.

   The book is interesting because it is not a true biography of a Supreme Court justice. It blends the economic background and the societal tensions that were present during Miller's lifetime. Additionally, Ross makes some very good points on Reconstruction and reinforces why Reconstruction, in some ways, was just as decisive as slavery in fracturing the country - a legacy that continues today much to the dismay of the modern Democratic party. Ross's analysis of how railroads and railroad bridges destroyed the small western towns is very informative; again, Ross provides a good, cogent synopsis of an economic issue. Overall, this is an interesting and informative book that ties together divergent strands of history and presents a cohesive snapshot of our country between the 1850's and 1870's.

5 comments about A Million Reasons: Why I Fought for the Rights of the Disabled.

1. I do not know many people who would turn down three million to maintain ones integrity. As one who serves persons with disabilities, I was so moved and inspired and motivated by the book as I seek to advocate for my clients. Marilyn J. Trechter



2. This book touched me on a very personal level, because I too have suffered discrimination. I would recommend it to anyone wishing to understand the difficulties facing those with disabilities, especially how the perception of soceity is often worse than the disability. The book does a good job at showing the many obstacles facing someone who does want to fight for their rights and how frustrating it can be. I applaude Mr. LaBonte for refusing to settle so that a precedent has been set and also for then telling his story.



3. An outstanding example of the philosophy of Viktor Frankl (author of "Man's Search for Meaning" and others). In essence, Frankl believes that we can transcend any adversity if we find the meaning that makes us unique.
   
   This story was gripping as any suspense fiction, not only because it was filled with the tension of David v. Goliath coupled with serious illness and more--a legal system that too often re-victimizes the victims--but Alan Labonte epitomizes the philosophy of Frankl. He rose above a frightening and seriously disabling disease to become a champion for infinite numbers of others. That gave meaning to the disease--an opportunity to do something for others.
   
   He would not have succeeded in this quest if not for a wonderful lawyer, David Rappaport of Boston, who clearly is a very special person as well as an extraordinary attorney.



4. Put on a pot of coffee. "A Million Reasons: Why I Fought for the Rights of the Disabled" will leave you burning the midnight oil. Set against a backdrop of the Boston skyline and the ritzy offices of a prestigious Boston law firm, "A Million Reasons" has it all - drama, intrigue, adventure, and ultimately the triumph of the human spirit.
   
   In this gutsy tell-all, Alan Labonte and co-author Brock Brower aptly weave the compelling narrative of Labonte's valiant fight against his former employer, its unexpected protraction into a 5-year legal battle, and its culmination into a precedent setting case defending the rights of the disabled.
   
   From the top executive floors of 101 Federal Place, to the paneled courtrooms of Beacon Hill, a gripping cast of characters peppers this account, but you will find yourself rooting for Labonte's legal counsel, David Rapaport, who proves to be the superhero of employment lawyers. Rapaport's dedication, loyalty, and friendship to Labonte is remarkable, and his cool and effectual trial demeanor leave him a force to be reckoned with in the courtroom.
   
   Other hidden jewels within this chronicle include Labonte's spiritual renewal (in pilgrimages to the mystical village of Medjugorje, Bosnia) and the humanitarian efforts that brought him closer to understanding God's plan for him. Labonte recounts memories - some strangely foreshadowing - of his childhood growing up in a catholic, blue collar family in Worcester, MA, and of the beginnings of his enduring love with his wife, Lora.
   
   "A Million Reasons" recounts not only a legal stronghold for the rights of the disabled (or in Labonte's case, the "abundantly abled",) but is also pure inspiration that will renew your faith in the pursuit of justice, even under the worst of circumstances, and the indomitable power of love, loyalty, and courage, that even MS could not shake.



5. "A Million Reasons" describes in often fascinating detail how Alan Labonte, the general manager of a Boston law firm who was fired after he developed multiple scleroris, fought the good fight against his remarkably arrogant employers and, despite the long odds and with the tenacious support of his lawyer, won, even when the case was appealed. It was never a sure thing, and Labonte even turned down a settlement offer of $3 million because he knew that by accepting it he would be agreeing to never speak publicly about his case. When the long court fight was over, he wound up with an award of closer to $2 million, so basically he forfeited $1 million in damages.
   
   "What I have kept is my freedom to speak out, and what I gained was even more precious," Labonte explained. "I've now got a million reasons to tell it like it really is and to join in the continuing fight across the country for the rights of Americans with disabilities."
   
   This is an inspirational tale told by a man who had deep reserves of ethics, determination and pride. And it's a good read, too.

No comments about Justice Oliver Wendell Holmes: Free Speech and the Living Constitution.

1 comments about Justice Lewis F. Powell: A Biography.

1. Biographies, especially judicial biographies, are typically centered around gossip, amateur psychology, political "message," or numbing minutiae. Dean Jeffries avoids those vices by using the late Justice Lewis Powell as the backdrop for an expert analysis of the gripping issues of Powell's tenure on the Court: the death penalty, privacy rights, poverty law, criminal jurisprudence, race and affirmative action, the First Amendment, etc. He tackles each of them with artful prose and persuasive logic.
   
   By depicting these developments as a panorama rather than a series of close ups, Dean Jeffries offers the educated reader invaluable insights into issues that still dominate our own times. Through the prism of events, we easily come to appreciate the extraordinary skills, energy, and intellect of Justice Powell himself. (We are also drawn to reflect on how hateful the present system of "confirmation by ordeal" truly is.)
   
   This book is perfect as a gift for lawyers and anyone truly interested in understanding the law as the environment in which social policy dwells.

5 comments about "Ready for the People": My Most Chilling Cases as a Prosecutor.

1. ...of the L.A. justice system. I won't repeat the other reviews, but two or three things deserve note. First, Johnnie Cochran wrote the introduction...high praise indeed. Second, the appendix - "Twenty-five rules for giving effective testimony" - is interesting reading in itself. Overall, the book is not compelling reading, not forcing you to read it in one sitting, but it's interesting and varied. I consumed it in three sittings if memory serves. The pace is generally good, although I felt the Buddhism dragged a bit, but that was only a couple of instances. So - recommended - *especially* if you are a fan of mysteries set in Los Angeles! I await Marissa Batt's next work with more than a little interest.



2. What makes this book so compelling is that you get to hear the perspective of the actual prosecutor in the cases described. Through Marissa Batt's words, you get a virtual tour of the way the Los Angeles legal system works, or in some cases doesn't work. You are introduced to characters that actually inhabit Los Angeles, who actually went through the situations described - cases that are so intense and bizarre, they seem unbelievable. Through it all, you get a comprehensive version of the legal system mirroring human lives and decisions, as seen through the eyes of a person who does their job with integrity, intensity, and strength of character. READ THIS BOOK! It is a thorougly enjoyable read though shocking and extremely upsetting at times.



3. Marissa is erudite, quick, fun, funny, committed to social justice and truth, and and an acute observer of human behavior. Her friend Johnnie Cochran describes her (in the introduction!) as "a prosecutor's prosecutor. She is full of zeal for her profession and possesses an insider's knowledge of the criminal justice system." She's also devoted herself to Buddhism for over 30 years, as well as to the mastery of the culinary arts. All of these elements figure in her very unusual book.

   Besides telling three compelling and hair-raising tales, Marissa shares aloud the unspoken rules of the courtroom, and offers appreciative and insightful looks into the lives of law enforcement professionals, and denizens of South Central LA and the gay demimonde of Hollywood.

   As a skillful storyteller, she is compassionate without becoming maudlin, and righteous without losing her sense of humor.

   I am looking forward to her next book, which I understand is under way!




4. Marissa has the heart of a warrior. Her stories are classic story telling with spell binding revelations of what the truth is when it comes to crimes and the criminal mind. Her attention to detail, coupled with a sense of the world of the victim, allows the reader to be a prosecutor seeking justice for the people. The criminal procedural aspects of the criminal courts are cleanly explained with no chance of misunderstanding that lawyering is still an art when done with a heart. Marissa injects the calmness of her buddhist philosophy into the psyche of the reader to allow a deeper appreciation of the law and the victim equation.



5. As a criminal defense attorney, I usually avoid "true accounts" written by prosecutors as they tend to be one-sided, self-serving renditions of cases that could be won by a first year law student. The usual story involves a clear cut case where the District Attorney is representing the forces of right (the good people of the State) while the defense is usually some bad dude who deserves a long vacation in Prison. Of course the good guys prevail and the prosecutor is the hero. Good and Evil, Right and Wrong are clearly defined and everybody leaves happy. Not so with Ms. Batt's book. Besides her personal disappointment at the result of one of her cases, she manages to show that all is not black and white - urban life and particularly the criminal justice system present a myriad of situations where the lines become blurred. Her cases are interesting in that there are victims - individuals who by virtue of their own life choices are often viewed as not deserving of protection by the law and the system. Besides showing the underside of life, Batt also manages to forcefully demonstrate the maxim that "no man is above the law and no man is below it."
   A great read, colorful, fast paced and real...I loved it.

No comments about Henry Clay the Lawyer.