Spinning the Law by: Kendall Coffey
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Reviewed by: Steve Capell
The journey from arrest to conviction or acquittal often plays out in two different arenas – the court of law, and the media. Spinning the Law takes some of the most publicized cases and documents how trail lawyers utilized the power of the media to sway public opinion. These cases are what could be classified as trials of the century.
Coffey covers a gamut of interesting trials and how media played a central role. The most memorable trial for me that Coffey covers in this book is the acquittal of O.J. Simpson. The trail became a national news story that ran day after day. Judge Ito gave the media the opportunity to bring the trial right into our living rooms day after day. I remember all to well the constant side bar conferences that were called by either the defense or the prosecution. Some days were interesting and others seemed to drag. Some very interesting lines came from the trial. I think the most memorable one for me is “If the glove doesn’t fit you must acquit.”
Coffey entices the reader with some of the juiciest trails: Michael Jackson (acquittal), Martha Stewart (conviction), and Gordon Libby (conviction) to name a few.
I really enjoyed reading this book as it brought back many memories of past cases and also introduced me to some cases that I really did not know that much about. I found the book to be entertaining and at the same time well documented with references. So who should read this book? Anybody that would like to get a better look at how lawyers use the media to “spin” the law will find this book a fascinating read. Readers that would like to revisit some of the highly published cases will also find this book fascinating. I found this book as one that I would recommend if you fall into either of those categories. I am giving this book a 4 rating.
Pub. Date: September 2010 Publisher: Prometheus Books ISBN-13: 9781616142100 ISBN: 1616142103
In accordance with new FTC guidelines regarding endorsements and testimonials for bloggers I am disclosing the following: I was provided this book by FSB Associates and I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
(4/5)
