Tuesday, 18 January 2011

The Street Lawyer (1998) - By John Grisham

Set in the chilling streets of Washington DC, the story follows Michael Brock, a high flying lawyer from a top notch law firm, who has a terrifying encounter with a homeless man called "Mister", which reaches a bloody climax. Now everything changes for this young, promising lawyer, who struggles to maintain his previous levels of enthusiasm for his high-powered lawsuits, and finds himself being pulled towards helping the needy. When he discovers a legal clinic, headed by the infamous Mordecai Green, Brock takes up the role of lawyer for the homeless. However, his final days at his old firm Drake & Sweeney, are tumultuous, and the young associate does not leave quietly. Now Brock must take up his new challenge of defending the poor, whilst fighting off one of the most powerful law firms in the city, murderous gangsters, and the intimidating city police.

Grisham is back on form with this powerful legal thriller, a truly entertaining read with a heartfelt message. The characters range from downtrodden low-lifes, to hard-working advocates for the homeless, well-meaning lawyers to inscrupible businessmen. Washington makes for an excellent setting, with the stark contrast of rich and poor, whilst the freezing conditions add a constant sense of danger. The action is fast paced, and the twists and turns will keep you turning pages.

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