Judging the Lawyers explores a paradox: Americans engage in widespread public bashing of lawyers while at the same time we employ them in ever-greater numbers. Most people have heard the jokes and the negative opinions of lawyers, but are they informed? Using a trial format that balances both sides of the argument, the critics’ case against lawyers is made in six counts that explore the primary complaints that the public has against lawyers. The trial explores the realities of lawyers’ practices, the costs to the public and the vast benefits that lawyers provide, making the point that a critical but balanced assessment of attorneys and the civil justice system is essential.

Judging the Lawyers is written for the general public in a manner designed to promote better understanding of lawyers. It pulls no punches in exploring the charges against lawyers, but counters each such charge with the lawyers’ reply. The reader is summoned to stand in the position of a juror, and is thus given an opportunity to actively think through each issue.

The book’s web site, www.judgingthelawyers.com, provides an opportunity for each individual to fill out and submit a jury verdict form, organized with reference to each count. For a book group, there is a great opportunity to have a "jury deliberation", and then a vote on each of the issues presented for the jury’s verdict.