The award-winning bestseller, The Secret Barrister: inspiring, realistic and honest

    An eye-opening and honest depiction of the criminal justice system in England and Wales from a practicing criminal barrister. The ineffable agony of the victims who get reeled in and the everyday struggles of the barristers, who choose the profession passioned with a purpose to keep our streets safe for justice, is palpable. 

    The book briefly includes interesting research comparing various criminal justice systems over the years. The author narrates the reality of how disadvantaged the system is, especially due to issues of competency, bias, lack of sufficient legal aid and the nonchalance of the fixers, but also highlights the positives at the Crown Court stage as some of the brightest and sharpest get recruited as judges. 

    The style of narration is gripping with detailed descriptions of court-room trials and the investigation process. Some of the stories leave us in tears. Many of us may experience the state of mind of the author--who having completed the first decade in the legal field--describes it as being neither idealistic nor cynical. Those with idyllic lives may be shocked to learn about the lives of the victims, the gravity of their pain and the moral struggles of the barristers, who have to give their best, knowing that there are lives at stake—particularly, while defending seemingly guilty accused. 

    The depth of the truth and the passion with which the author narrates would inspire all lawyers and students to appreciate the supreme sublimity in the concept of justice, the rule of law, and the Magna Carta. The author concludes with a critical note that the 'world of law' is yet to rise up to the 'world of justice' as we walk towards light. How very true! This book is one that I would recommend as a must-read. 

Here's my Goodreads link to this review.