Most lawyers like to read, when they have the time, which is not as often as they would like. Lawyers are busy reading case notes and researching constantly.  A book must be really worth the investment of time. Here are five compelling books written by lawyers, which could be potentially excellent fodder for aspiring lawyers too. Shakespeare wrote in Henry VI, “The first thing we do, let’s kill all the lawyers”. A sentiment that many on the wrong end of the legal see saw would concur with. However, not all writers have been at such odds with the legal profession

From Legal Clerk To World Famous Author

Charles Dickens worked as a junior legal clerk, before entering the world of journalism. His novel Bleak House is considered one of the greatest books about the law and, possibly, his greatest novel. Dickens new the court system, and, so, could capture the flavour through accurate rendering of the minutiae. Dickens literary thematic mission was ‘social justice’ and this novel captures all the injustice and tragedy inherent in 19C British culture and civilisation. Aspiring young lawyers could learn much from this masterpiece.

A Book About Integrity Under Pressure

Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird, is, probably, the most celebrated 20C novel with a legal theme. It has been made into an iconic film starring Gregory Peck and has been on the school reading lists for countless decades. Harper Lee studied law but did not complete her degree. Her father was a lawyer who, once, defended two African Americans accused of murdering a shopkeeper. Unlike in the novel, these men were hanged for the crime. This is a book about integrity under extreme pressure. A classic tale for all aspiring lawyers to read.

More Great Books for & by Lawyers

Richard Susskind’s End of Lawyers? Rethinking the Nature of Legal Services is well worth a read in light of the rapidly changing legal landscape. It covers how new technologies are transforming the legal profession.

John Mortimer, the creator of Rumpole of the Bailey, is a great writer and a very successful barrister. The books spawned a long-running TV series and they are laugh out loud funny for those dry enough to appreciate the wit.

John Grisham must get a guernsey, I suppose, due to his output, and it featuring, in both prose and film. A good story teller in the legal arena.

I suppose you could encourage them to look over quality legal websites as well as to watch TV shows about lawyers such as Boston Legal, Ally McBeal, Law & Order, Suits & L.A. Law. These programs are what starts a lot of vocational dreams in the first place, I imagine.

I hope that you take the time to explore these Five Compelling Books Written by Lawyers: Potentially for Aspiring Lawyers.